Best Family-Friendly Day Trips From Melbourne

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An Australia road trip from Melbourne is the ideal way to enjoy a family holiday. There are loads of incredible destinations less than a few hours drive from this vibrant city. Not a local? Even better! Fly into the shopping mecca of Melbourne and pick up your pre-booked Britz camper from our Melbourne branch. Spend time checking out the sights and sounds of this popular city, then head off on your road trip together to create some magical family memories. 

Ready to plan your trip and create the ultimate travel itinerary? To help you on your way, we’ve listed some of the best things to do on five great family-friendly Australian road trips from Melbourne. 

Oysters Family at the beach Salad

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Yarra Valley

Distance from Melbourne: 78 km

Travel time: 1.5 hours

Home to the Dandenong ranges, characterful villages, and loads of beautiful walks, Yarra Valley is packed full of fun for families. We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that it’s also recognised as one of the world’s premier wine-making regions. There are some great child-friendly wineries that make for a relaxing, fun day out for the whole family. Here are a few more attractions to add to your travel itinerary:  

 

Image: Visit Victoria 

 

Family-friendly attractions in Yarra Valley

Healesville Sanctuary

If you’re keen to meet some of the local wildlife, head along to Healesville Sanctuary. There are some unique animal encounters on offer, including close-ups with platypus, koalas, emus and more. While you’re there, visit the Australian Wildlife Health Centre to meet the vets and nurses as they look after wildlife in need of care.

Yarra Valley Railway

All aboard the Yarra Valley Railway! Step back in time aboard the fully restored 22RM Walker Railmotor. You’ll cross the Watts River, head under the Donovan’s Road overbridge, and travel through the historic brick tunnel at Tarrawarra. The train then changes direction with passengers staying on board and returns to Healesville. There is plenty to see along the way.

Blue Lotus Water Gardens

Spanning over 14 acres, the tropical-themed Blue Lotus Water Gardens is home to more than 40 different ponds, lakes, and water features. The result is the biggest display of lotus and waterlily flowers in the Southern Hemisphere. This beautiful spot also has some stunning displays of exotic plants as well as fountains, waterfalls, floral sculptures, and great walks to enjoy. The kids will love exploring the Fairy Garden and Dragons Trail followed by a picnic or barbecue lunch. 

PEACE Farm

Experience the beauty and stillness of nature at PEACE farm. PEACE stands for Permaculture, Education, Arts, & Community Enterprise. Children can feel connected to the seasons, nature, farm animals, and learn how food is grown. This small and vibrant permaculture farm is a hive of activity with a busy market garden, an organic heirloom plant nursery, an events space, and a yoga studio. 

 

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Where to stay in Yarra Valley

BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park

Immerse yourself in the peace and quiet of natural bushland at BIG4 Yarra Valley Park Lane Holiday Park. This fantastic holiday park is well set up for a memorable family holiday. Enjoy a barbecue, toast marshmallows on the fire pit, or have a picnic at picturesque Lake Piccaninny. The kids will love cooling off the pool and burning off energy on the adventure playground. For the grownups, there’s a coffee bar and licensed kiosk onsite. 

 

Phillip Island

Distance from Melbourne: 142 km

Travel time: 2 hours

With its captivating coastlines, unique wildlife, and fun family activities, Phillip Island offers an idyllic island experience. The kids will love seeing little penguins and cute koalas in their natural habitat. Spend the day soaking up the sun on the beach, or head out on the water on a cruise, a kayak, or surfboard. 

 

Family-friendly attractions on Phillip Island

A Maze N Things

This unique, award-winning theme park will keep the whole family busy for hours on end. Head to A Maze N Things and let yourself get lost in Australia’s largest 3D timber maze. Have a family challenge on the Maxi Mini Golf course. There’s even a time machine and a disappearing room! 

Phillip Island Penguin Parade

One of the best things to do in Phillip Island is to see the penguin parade. Take a walk across the boardwalks after dark to see a spectacle of little penguins waddling home across the sand. Keep an eye out for other resident wildlife including swamp wallabies, eastern barred bandicoots, Cape Barren geese and short-tailed shearwaters.

The Koala Conservation Reserve

A visit to Phillip Island isn’t complete until you’ve been up close with a cuddly koala. And you can do exactly that at the Koala Conservation Reserve. Walk along the elevated boardwalk to see the koalas eating, sleeping, and looking incredibly cute. 

The Antarctic Journey at Nobbies

Take a journey of scientific discovery with an Antarctic Journey experience at Nobbies Phillip Island. This great attraction is packed with fun activities designed to entertain and educate kids of all ages. Explore the underwater world through interactive games, identify sea creatures under a microscope, and learn the sights and sounds of Antarctic wildlife.

 

Where to stay on Phillip Island

BIG4 Phillip Island

Park your campervan up in the ultimate beachfront location at BIG4 Phillip Island. Located in a peaceful setting of trees and gardens in Newhaven Beach, this awesome holiday park is just a few minutes walk from shops, cafes, and restaurants. The kids will have a ball with the jumping pillow, adventure playground, pedal go-kart hire, and games room. 

 

The Grampians

Distance from Melbourne: 289 km

Travel time: 3.5 hours

With its endless natural beauty, awe-inspiring landscapes, and rich Aboriginal heritage, visiting the Grampians is rated by many as one of the best road trips from Melbourne. This special spot is the ideal family holiday destination. See spectacular waterfalls and breathtaking spring wildflower displays, sample the local produce, and take one of the world-class walks. 

 

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Family-friendly attractions in The Grampians

Grampians National Park

An Australian road trip to the Grampians National Park tops the destination wish list for many motorhome travellers. The park is home to the largest number of significant and ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings and shelters in southern Australia. The kids will love seeing the array of wildlife that live here, including kangaroos, wallabies, emus and native birds. If you’re a family who loves to cycle, bring your bikes (or hire bikes when you book your Britz camper) and soak up the scenery as you explore the park’s tracks and trails. 

Halls Gap Zoo

A visit to the zoo tops the wish list for many kids. And there’s no better place than Halls Gap Zoo. The largest regional zoo in Victoria, you’ll find over 160 species of animals making themselves at home. Take the opportunity to have a close encounter with your favourite animals – hand-feed a giraffe, hold a reptile, or have a meerkat sit in your lap! 

Redbank Alpacas

Alpacas are curious, intelligent animals that have a real affinity for humans. One of the best places to meet them is at Redbank Alpacas. Book in for an alpaca experience where you’ll get to pat and feed one of these friendly fellows. You’ll also learn a bit about the history of alpacas in Australia and the uses of their fleece.

Adventure Golf

If the kids think golf is boring, here’s your chance to prove them wrong. Grampians Adventure Golf is set in two acres of beautiful bushland within Grampians National Park. It’s like playing golf in a botanical garden. With four waterfalls and five ponds, there is a unique adventure on every hole. Once you’ve finished your game, visit the art gallery, and enjoy lunch at the café. 

 

Where to stay in the Grampians

NRMA Halls Gap Holiday Park

There’s no better feeling than parking up your camper in a scenic spot after a day of adventure. And NRMA Halls Gap Holiday Park is the ultimate campground to do just that. This family-friendly campsite is nestled in the foothills of the national park and mountain ranges. It’s just minutes to the country town of Halls Gap and has all the facilities families need for a comfortable stay. 

 

Wilsons Promontory National Park

Distance from Melbourne: 237 km

Travel time: 3 hours

A motorhome road trip to Wilsons Promontory National Park (often referred to as ‘The Prom’) is a must-do adventure for families. This 50,000-hectare reserve is home to spectacular scenery, incredible walks, and pristine beaches. It’s also a refuge for an array of native wildlife including kangaroos, emus, wombats, echidnas, and vividly plumed birds like rosellas.

 

Family-friendly attractions in Wilsons Promontory National Park

Wilsons Prom Lighthouse

If your family is keen to take the ultimate overnight hike, you can’t beat the walk to Wilsons Promontory Lightstation. A bucket-list destination for many visitors to the park, the walk to the lighthouse is 19.1 km and takes approximately six hours (each way) to complete. Book an overnight stay in one of the lightstation’s historic cottages. While you’re there, wander through the museum and take in the fascinating history of this special spot.

Squeaky Beach

The most photographed beach of Wilsons Prom, Squeaky Beach is a must-do for families. Kids will love running their feet through the squeaky sand. The sound is made as the rounded grains of quartz rub together. While you’re there, head to the north end of the beach and check out the large granite boulders that create a maze of cool passages to explore. 

Sealers Cove

If you’re looking for a spectacular day walk or overnight hike, Sealers Cove Walk is a great choice. The 10 km walk takes about three hours each way. But the reward is worth it. Sealers Cove Beach is a picture-perfect golden sand beach surrounded by ancient rainforest. Bring your swimming gear and a picnic and enjoy peace and quiet away from the crowds. 

 

Where to stay in Wilsons Promontory National Park

Tidal River Campground

Wilsons Prom’s most popular camping spot for families is Tidal River Campground. The site has 484 camping sites with all the must-haves to make your stay comfortable. Make use of the hot showers, laundry facilities, dishwashing stations, picnic tables, and free gas barbecues. And if you need to stock up on supplies or fancy a takeaway, pop into the Tidal River General Store. 

 

Daylesford

Distance from Melbourne: 112 km

Travel time: 1.5 hours

In need of some rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation on your family campervan trip? Daylesford is famous for its natural mineral springs, relaxing atmosphere, and healing holiday vibe. Unwind with a spa treatment then take the kids exploring along the main street with its vibrant galleries and antique shops. Head down to Lake Daylesford and paddle in a kayak, or take an invigorating walk to the top of Wombat Hill. Here are a few more top things to do in Daylesford while you’re here:

 

Image: Visit Victoria 

 

Family-friendly attractions in Daylesford

Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens

Set atop an extinct volcano, Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens is a local gem. Spend a magical afternoon exploring the meticulously landscaped gardens. Wander through the fernery, enjoy a picnic, and take in the fantastic views from the huge lookout tower. Children will love finding the cute animal sculptures dotted throughout the park. 

Hanging Rock Discovery Centre

A road trip to Daylesford isn’t complete without visiting the hauntingly beautiful Hanging Rock. Visitors from around the world flock here to see the site made famous in the film, Picnic at Hanging Rock. Learn about the history, mystery, and geology of this 6-million-year-old volcanic formation at the Hanging Rock Discovery Centre. There are also some great walking paths and trails which allow you to explore the rock and surrounding reserve at your own pace.

Daylesford Market

Happening every Sunday from 8 am – 3 pm, the Daylesford Sunday Market is the perfect place to stock up on fresh produce and artisan goodies. The stalls sell everything from books to bric-a-brac, so keep your eyes open for a bargain.  

 

Where to stay in Daylesford

Daylesford Holiday Park

Set in a spacious, tranquil park, Daylesford Holiday Park is an unbeatable spot for families to park up the campervan. All of Daylesford's great attractions are nearby, and you’ll find everything you need for comfort and enjoyment onsite. This holiday park welcomes dogs so you can bring along the furry family members (Britz campervans are also dog-friendly!).

 

Image: Visit Victoria 

 

Make the most of your family getaway with Britz

From fairy gardens and adventure golf to penguins and koalas, these family-friendly road trips from Melbourne have it all. And there’s no better way to experience one for yourself than with the comfort and convenience of a Britz campervan hire

With a range of sizes, from 2-6 berth, to suit all budgets and travel styles, your Britz camper has everything needed for a fantastic family holiday. Pick up your pre-booked Britz camper from our Melbourne branch and let the adventure begin!