As we plan our summer getaways and look forward to soaking up the sun with the kids from December to February, it’s easy to forget that some Aussie beaches can be a little unruly when it comes to planning holidays with our younger family members.
With Queenslanders planning their last holiday in the state before borders reopen, it’s the perfect time to make the most of beach weather in sunny Queensland.
Discover Queensland has done the work for you, so you can save time planning your next holiday, and make the pre-travel prep as simple as possible!
Here are the best family-friendly beaches to check out.
Noosa Main Beach, Sunshine Coast
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Noosa is iconic for its clean breaks, calm conditions and of course, amazing shopping and dining. The Main Beach is situated at the end of Hastings Street and is ended by Noosa National Park. Swimming conditions are always near perfect and with an array of activities and eateries within walking distance, Noosa is a great spot to set up your Cool Cabana, grab a smoothie and chill out with the family.
Top Tip: Drive down the far end of Hastings Street and park in the National Park – it’s unlimited parking so you can set up all day with the family.
Tallebudgera Creek Inlet, Gold Coast
The Tallebudgera Creek Inlet provides a safe swimming spot for little ones without the rough waves Gold Coast beaches can sometimes experience. The calm stretch of water is patrolled and makes for a great location for the kids to splash in the shallows and make sandcastles. Plenty of space for water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding as well!
Currumbin Creek, Gold Coast
Similar to Tallebudgera, Currumbin Creek offers a safe inlet for families to relax on the sand without the rough surf. The area is a paddle border’s paradise and a great location for your pawed pals as well. With some fabulous local cafes and restaurants along the beach, pick up your morning coffee, babycino, and breaky burger on your way down to the sand.
Top Tip: Get there early, weekends and holidays are super busy!
Agnes Waters, Town of 1770 Agnes Waters is an idyllic spot perfect for young families to swim and explore the local natural wonders. The beach is patrolled during peak periods and is known for its safe swimming and lack of rough surf. A great spot for intermediate surfers and longboard riders with camping and glamping available for a fabulous holiday experience.
Sea World Drive Main Beach, Gold Coast
Close to the Gold Coast Spit, and of course iconic theme park Sea World, this calm beach is always full of families and is a great option for those travelling from Brisbane – on a clean run, you can get to the beach in an hour.
Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
As the name suggest, this is one of Australia and the world’s most beautiful beaches. Iconic for its white sand, flat surf and turquoise waters, so visiting here is something like a dream. With incredible water activities, day tours and experiences available, a visit to Whitehaven Beach is a must-do for your family holiday bucket list.
Cylinder Beach, North Stradbroke Island
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Hop on the water flyer or drive on the barge to one of QLD’s most gorgeous island destinations. Featuring a number of incredible swimming spots, Cylinder beach is a family favourite, sitting between two headlands, which provides protection and coverage from the rough or windy conditions. If you’re lucky, conditions will be perfect for a surf too!
Top Tip: Take your binoculars! You can often see whales and dolphins if you’re looking in the right spots
Marcoola, Sunshine Coast
Marcoola Beach sits between Yaroomba and Mujimba, only a few minutes’ drive from Mt Coolum. As one of the less built-up areas along the Sunshine Coast, the beach is quieter than neighbouring Coolum and Mujimba, making it an easy choice when keeping an eye on the kids is a priority. There’s a children’s park with a grass and shaded tree area to set up for a picnic or fish and chip lunch with plenty of great local restaurants, cafes and accommodation close by.
Whether you’re going for the day or for the whole summer break, you’re bound to have a great time at these beaches, while enjoying calmer conditions the kids will love too. If you’re looking to save money and time, Discover Queensland has an incredible range of accommodation and activity packages to suit your budget and family including theme parks, resorts, guided tours and the best places to visit across Queensland.
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