Hit the family holiday trail this summer and make the most of the school holidays in Victoria. Discover lush rainforests and epic shipwrecks, relax on golden beaches and explore waterways on kayaks and standup paddleboards – and don’t forget there are also deals where kids under 12 can stay at accommodation for free.
Lakes Entrance
Perched on the northern edge of Ninety Mile Beach, where the Gippsland Lakes meet the Southern Ocean, Lakes Entrance has long been a family favourite destination for the VIC school holidays. A 4-hour drive east of Melbourne, Lakes Entrance is part of a network of sparkling inland waterways ideal for waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding.
Cross the wooden footbridge to Ninety Mile Beach, a pristine stretch patrolled by lifesavers during the summer months and safe for families. You can also explore the lakes and lagoons on a scenic boat cruise or hire a kayak or paddle boat.
Explore the Lakes Entrance waterfront and see the WWI memorial sculptures carved from Cypress trees, with views over the Mitchell River. Stroll along The Entrance Walk, a scenic 5 km-return track along the shores of Lake Cunningham to the actual entrance to the Gippsland Lakes. Keep an eye out for dolphins and seals frolicking in the waters at The Entrance.
Need somewhere to stay?
The Comfort Inn & Suites offers relaxing lakefront accommodation at Lakes Entrance within easy walking distance to local shops, restaurants and the beach.
Apollo Bay
A popular stop on Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road, 2.5 hours’ drive west of Melbourne, the picturesque seaside town of Apollo Bay is another great summer holiday spot for families. It’s also the perfect base for exploring Australia’s famed Shipwreck Coast, which stretches from the historic Cape Otway lighthouse to the fishing village of Port Fairy. From the spectacular Twelve Apostles to atmospheric Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson’s Steps, there are plenty of natural wonders to be found along this rugged stretch of coastline.
In the nearby Otways National Park, discover lush tree-fern gullies and 300-year old moss-covered trees on the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk. Further inland, you’ll find The Redwoods, an enchanting forest of giant Californian Redwoods planted in the 1930s. Enjoy a tranquil picnic beneath the swaying giants and take in nearby tumbling waterfalls, the Hopetoun Falls and Beauchamp Falls, on boardwalk trails.
If lazing on a beach is more your style, roll out a towel on the crescent-shaped Apollo Bay Beach, across the road from the shops and patrolled in the summer months. For an aquatic adventure, have fun kayaking out to the Marengo Marine Sanctuary (kids must be 12 or older) for a thrilling close encounter with the resident fur seal colony.
Need somewhere to stay?
The Comfort Inn International offers spacious and comfortable rooms, centrally-located right across from the beach and close to pubs, restaurants and shops in Apollo Bay.
Warrnambool
Further along the Great Ocean Road is the historic former port city of Warrnambool. Packed with fascinating heritage, natural wonders and beautiful beaches, there’s plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained this summer.
A great place to start is the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, a historic village and museum set around the heritage-listed Warrnambool Lighthouse built in 1858. The museum houses Australia’s largest collection of shipwreck artefacts and at dusk, you can hear stories of Australia’s maritime history in Tales of the Shipwreck Coast, a dramatic sound and light show.
Enjoy the coastal breezes on a scenic bike ride along the Pertobe Road beach ride, a 4km circuit that starts at Cannon Hill with spectacular views across Lady Bay to the Breakwater. Along the way, stop at the Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground and let the kids loose on the giant slides, flying foxes and maze. Next door you’ll find the popular Mini Golf by the Sea with its famous jumping pillow.
Need somewhere to stay?
Close to the beach and city centre, the Comfort Inn™ on Raglan has spacious and modern rooms for a relaxing stay, while the award-winning Comfort Inn™ Western offers charm and cosy comfort within walking distance of local attractions and shops.
Travelling with kids under 12?
Join Choice Privileges today for the Lowest Price Gauranteed when you book direct with Choice Hotels, ass well as 4c/Litre off petrol at United Petroleum.*
Plus, Kids Under 12 Stay Free at family friendly Choice Hotels when you Book Direct.* (**T&Cs apply).
