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A weekend guide to Ballarat with Kids

Ballarat: A perfect place for little explorers

A perfect destination to spend a weekend with kids, Ballarat is a short drive from Melbourne and with some incredible enriching attractions for the whole family. Learn about history when Ballarat was the centre of the gold rush era in the 1850s by exploring Sovereign Hill, riding the vintage tram or strolling through the manicured botanical gardens. Check out the guide below on the best things to do in Ballarat with Kids.

Getting to Ballarat

Just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Ballarat is easily accessible by car and by regional train from the centre of Melbourne. V-Line trains depart every hour from Southern Cross station and take 1.5 hours to reach Ballarat Station. It’s the perfect close enough destination from Melbourne to spend a weekend with kids!

Ballarat station
Ballarat Station

Why choose Ballarat for a family weekend trip

  • Short easy drive from Melbourne or an easy commute via regional train
  • A town steeped in history, with interesting historical attractions like the Ballarat Tramway Museum & Sovereign Hill to learn about the gold rush era in Australia
  • A stunning lake with manicured gardens for a picnic and plenty of fun activities for the little ones
Lydiard St Ballarat
Lydiard Street, the main grand street in Ballarat

Top 5 Attractions to see when in Ballarat with Kids

Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill, a must see attraction when visiting Ballarat with kids
Sovereign Hill

For everyone that comes to visit Ballarat, especially from interstate and overseas, Sovereign Hill is THE MUST see attraction in Ballarat. Experience a fully living museum showing what life was like in the 1850s during the gold rush era in the Ballarat area.

Walk the streets of the old town (where everyone who works there is also dressed in traditional clothing), pan for gold in the river or check out the mines to look for some gold. There is so much more too! A place where you can easily spend the whole day. During the winter school holidays in June / July, Sovereign Hill comes alive for its Winter Wonderlights.

You can read my full review of Sovereign Hill coming soon HERE. Entry to Sovereign Hill is 49.50 AUD for Adults and 31 AUD for kids ages 5 and above. Open daily 10 am to 5 pm, except for mondays outside holidays.

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

The Ballarat Wildlife Park is a must for animal lovers and beaming with native Australian animals! You can hand-feed the free-roaming kangaroos and see many other animals like koalas, wombats, meerkats, reptiles, crocodiles and even tigers.

Presentation and talks run throughout the day so check ahead the schedule so you don’t miss out! Close-up encounters with the animals are also available at an additional cost. Entry to the Ballarat Wildlife Park is 40 AUD per adults and 20 AUD for kids 5 yrs and above. Family tickets are available at a discounted rate for 95 AUD for 2 adults and up to 4 children.

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Ballarat Botanical Gardens

These beautiful gardens located opposite Lake Wenduree are a wonderful spot for a walk-through or picnic! The shaded grassed areas are plentiful and there is heaps of space to run around for the kids. The 40-hectare garden also has lots of fountains, gazebos and a beautiful conservatory to explore.

The gardens come alive in March for the Ballarat Begonia Festival which is when floral displays and the festival take over the gardens and parts of the city. More information at the Ballarat Begonia Festival Website. The Festival is set to run from 8 to 10 March 2025.

Ballarat Tramway Museum

Ballarat vintage tram and museum, a perfect attraction to visit when visiting Ballarat on a weekend with kids
Ballarat Tram & Museum

A fun and affordable outing for a family is the Ballarat Tram Museum. The museum has a large collection of beautifully restored late 1800s’ trams and play areas for children. The tram ride is run by volunteers who beautifully explain the history of the tramways in Ballarat and how the trams used to operate.

The entry includes access to the museum as well as a tram ride on the historic trams along the 3.2 km track from the museum along Lake Wenduree and back. A real hit with the kids! Entry to the museum and 1 tram ride is 40 AUD for 2 adults and 2 children. Open most days 11 am to 4 pm, check website as some days they have closures.

Lake Wenduree Apex Adventure Playground & Paddle Boats

Lake Wenduree adventure playground
Lake Wenduree Adventure Playground

This is a must-see when visiting Ballarat with Kids and is guaranteed to be lots of fun for the little ones. Lake Wenduree Adventure playground is huge and in a great location facing Lake Weduree and is surrounded by grassed areas, which makes for a perfect spot for a picnic too. A Tram ice cream van is also on-site during the holidays.

Another fun thing to do over on the lake too not far from the playground (walking towards the Botanical Gardens just before Pipers by the Lake), families can also hire pedal boats for a paddle on Lake Wenduree. Note the pedal boats operate subject to weather conditions, 22 AUD for 20 minutes, cash or PayID only.

Family friendly dining in Ballarat

Bakery window at 1816 Ballarat
Croissaints at 1816 Bakery in Ballarat

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating in Ballarat, these are some family favourite places to eat in Ballarat:

  • 1816 Bakehouse: A sourdough artisanal bakery, it’s must try stop for all deliciously freshly baked goods, think croissants, pastries, pies, bread, pizza and more. Perfect to pick up some yummy treats for a picnic! 1806.com.au
  • The Forge Pizzeria: A longstanding traditional italian pizzeria dishing out amazing thin-crust pizza from the woodfire oven. They also recently added a second location in Ballarat! theforgepizzeria.com
  • Hideaway Coffee Bar: Perfect for a tasty breakfast & brunch, 10 AUD Kids menu options available. hideawayballarat.com
  • Eclectic Tastes Cafe & Pantry: Not far from the lake and another great spot for breakfast/brunch, an extensive kids menu is available. eclecticstastes.com.au
  • Golden Point Hotel: Located close to Sovereign Hill, this family-friendly bistro offers pub classics, as well as pizza and some international options. Kids menu available and a huge indoor Kids Planet playground! goldenpointhotel.com.au

Where to stay in Ballarat with Kids

Best Budget Accommodation in Ballarat – Sovereign Park Motor Inn

Sovereign Park Motor Inn Indoor pool – Image courtesy of Expedia

Check Prices and Availability for Sovereign Park Motor Inn on Expedia HERE

Conveniently located close to Sovereign Hill (10 minute walk), the Sovereign Park Motor Inn is perfect for families looking for good value and great facilities in one place.

The Motor Inn has an indoor pool as well as an indoor pickleball court, table tennis and pool tables available for guests to use. The rooms have all the amenities you need for a short stay and family rooms as well as larger 2 bedroom suites are available. It’s a great option if you need a place to stay in Ballarat with Kids!

Check Prices and Availability for Sovereign Park Motor Inn on Expedia HERE

Mid Range, Spacious Accommodation in Ballarat – Quest Ballarat Station

The modern interiors of Quest Ballarat Central -Image Courtesy of Expedia

Check Prices and Availability for Quest Ballarat Station on Expedia HERE

This recent addition by Quest Apartments offers modern accommodations in studios and larger apartments equipped with all the best amenities. The location is central to the city just a short walk from Ballarat Station.

Check Prices and Availability for Quest Ballarat Station on Expedia HERE

Trendy Accommodation in Ballarat – The Provincial Ballarat

One of the stylish rooms at the Provincial Ballarat – Image courtesy of Expedia

Check Prices and Availability for The Provincial Boutique Hotel Ballarat on Expedia HERE

This beautifully restored, historic pub now has individually decorated rooms and suites. 1 & 2 Bedroom stylish apartments are available for families. The property also has a trendy onsite restaurant and bar called Lola, that serves up modern European dishes with locally sourced produce. A kids menu is also available.

Check Prices and Availability for The Provincial Boutique Hotel Ballarat on Expedia HERE

Want to read more about Ballarat?

You can read more about Ballarat in my other post on Sovereign Hill coming soon.

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Australia

Top 8 Family Attractions in Phillip Island

This tiny island just 90 minutes from Melbourne packs so many attractions that everyone in the family can enjoy. From seeing the biggest fairy penguin colony in the world at the Penguin Parade to venturing to the many amazing beaches, Phillip Island has something to do for the whole family! Read on to find out more on the Top 8 Family Attractions in Phillip Island.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

Why choose Phillip Island for a family holiday

This little island is a fantastic destination for a family holiday. Let me tell you why:

How to get to Phillip Island

Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne by car, Phillip Island is close enough to be popular for day trippers, or people travelling there for the weekend or holiday. To get to the island, you will need to cross a road bridge from San Remo. Plan ahead during busy times or holiday periods as it can get busy or stop off in San Remo for some lunch or to see the Pelican Feeding!

You can reach Phillip Island also by ferry from the Mornington Peninsula from Stony Point. There are sailings every 3-4 hours from around 8 am to 4 pm, so check ahead on their website for exact times. Sailing to Cowes one way is around 40 minutes.

By bus – V/Line Buses connect Southern Cross to Phillip Island, with an interchange in Koo Wee Rup then heading to Cowes (approx 2.5 hours travel time).

By Train & Bus – Metro service to Dandenong connecting with V/line bus to Cowes (approx 3.20 hours travel time).

The best time to visit Phillip Island

Cape Woolamai Beach in Phillip Island

Phillip Island is best enjoyed when the weather is warm, from late spring (November) till March. It’s an island full of wildlife and in summer is when you can see an abundance of it.

Waiting for the Penguins at the Penguins Parade

A thing to keep in mind is that the island can get very busy during school holidays, weekends and event periods (like the international Moto GP). If you are visiting during these times, you will need to book ahead for most things including events, attractions and accommodation, and allow for extra time when travelling to the island.

There is just one road in, and out road out of Phillip Island, and the bridge from San Remo to Cowes can get very congested. Get out early or travel outside of peak times for less crowds.

Top 8 Family Attractions in Phillip Island

Penguin Parade

Penguin Parade Visitor Centre

The top attraction for families and visitors to Phillip Island is without doubt seeing the fairy penguins at the Penguin Parade. The fairy penguin colony in Phillip Island is the biggest in the world! Every night the little penguins come out from the sea and back to their burrows in the Summerland Peninsula.

The Penguin Parade operates every day of the year. The time varies depending on the season, outside of summertime they come to shore earlier (5.30-6.30 pm) compared to the later time of 8 pm onwards in summer. You can check the Penguin arrival calendar HERE. Make sure to book ahead as ticketing is capped and it does book out during school holidays. More info on the website.

Churchill Island Farm

Highland Cows. Image by Michael Drummond from Pixabay

The tiny island just off Phillip Island, Churchill Island is a green oasis to check out some farm animals and see what a historical farmhouse looked like. Little ones will enjoy the demonstrations of milking the cows, sheep shearing and more. Wagon rides are also available during the school holidays for an additional 7 AUD per ticket (not included in the 3-park pass). Open Daily 10 am to 4 pm. More info on their website.

Are you planning to visit Churchill Island as well as the Penguin Parade? To save some money, you can also purchase a 3 Park Entry Pass, which includes entry to the Penguin Parade, Churchill Island & the Koala Conservation Centre. You can check it out on the link below on Klook.

Klook.com

Koala Conservation Reserve

The Koala Conservation Reserve is incredible to see the fluffy koalas in their natural surroundings. You can learn more about these beautiful native animals here and see them when walking through the purpose-built boardwalks. It’s not your typical zoo, more like an open reserve, where each day the rangers estimate how many koalas you can see while exploring the park. Open daily 10 am to 5.30 pm, more info on website.

Amaze N Things

Amaze N Things

This quirky theme park in Phillip Island has been around for over 30 years! It’s a great day out for families visiting Phillip Island! Our kids (4 & 6 years) had a ball here but it is also suitable for older ages too. It’s unlike any other theme park and is magic & illusion-themed. It also has a large maze, minigolf and sky trail rope course all within the same location.

The Giant Maze

General entry to Amaze N Things includes access to Puzzle Island, Magic Manor and the Maze, the Minigolf course and Sky Trail are extra. Facilities onsite include a coffee shop, Ice cream and lolly store & gift shop. Outside there is also access to the playground (which is part of the attached Park Lane Holiday Park). Entry is 50% off if staying the Holiday Park. Amaze N Things is open daily 10 am to 5 pm, Prices starting from 42 AUD per adults and 28 AUD for kids, FREE under 3. More info on website.

Grumpys Crazy golf

The big cow at the front doesn’t go unnoticed as you walk or drive past Grumpys Crazy Golf on the main street in Cowes. A perfect place to spend an hour or so in on a rainy or too sunny day, this is a fully undercover 18 hole minigolf course. Open daily 10 am to 5 pm and later in the evening during holiday periods. More info on website.

National Vietnam Veteran War Museum

Tank in a War Museum – Image by Rudy and Peter Skitterians from Pixabay

You can’t miss this museum as you drive through in Phillip Island as it has big war planes outside! This incredible museum in Newhaven has a large display of planes, tanks and memorabilia and is a fantastic place to learn about Australian history and the war. Open Daily 10 am to 4 pm. More info on their website.

Pannys Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Image by Дарья Яковлева from Pixabay

Panny’s Chocolate Factory is for all the chocolate lovers! It’s a museum, shop and cafe. There are chocolate displays, and a huge fountain, and you can see how the chocolate is made right from the bean harvesting to final packaging. Open Daily 10 am to 4 pm. Fee to enter museum of 22 AUD for Adults, 14 AUD entry fee for kids and FREE under 3. More info on their website.

Go-Karting in a Miniature Moto GP track

Image by Günther Mayrwöger from Pixabay

For older children and teens seeking some thrills, right near the Moto GP Grand Prix track, you can drive on Go-Karts on a miniature GP Track! Younger kids aged 5-12 yr that are over 100 cm can drive in tandem with a grown up too. Open 10 am to 4 pm daily, More info on the website.

Nearby, you can also visit the History of Motosport Display to learn everything about the world-famous annual Moto GP that usually runs mid-October each year.

Family Friendly Dining in Phillip Island

Check out my other post here on Where to eat in Phillip Island with Kids!

Where to Stay In Phillip Island

Phillip Island Apartments

Modern, spacious apartments located just a few minutes walk away from all the shops and restaurants of Cowes. There are 1,2 and larger 3 bedroom apartments with balconies or patios fully self-contained, and an outdoor pool, heated spa & BBQ area to relax in.

Check Prices and Availability for Phillip Island Apartments HERE

Phillip Island Apartments – Image courtesy of Expedia

Silverwater Resort

Another popular resort with families visiting Phillip Island is actually just before the bridge crossing in San Remo!

Silverwater Resort is a large complex with resort rooms and many spacious 1,2 & 3 bedroom apartments. The resort also has a full restaurant, bar and many facilities that the whole family can enjoy during their stay like the indoor and outdoor pool, gym, spa and tennis court.

Check Prices and Availability for Silverwater Resort HERE

Silverwater Resort outdoor pool – Image courtesy of Expedia

Want to read more?

You can read more about Phillip Island in my other post on 5 Free Things to do in Phillip Island with Kids and Where to eat in Phillip Island with Kids.

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Australia

5 Free Things to do in Phillip Island with Kids

This tiny island just 2 hours from Melbourne has soo many things to do for a fun weekend or holiday with the family. There are of course the Penguins to see, as well as a small theme park, farms and incredible nature parks too! But if you are after some FREE fun in Phillip Island, there are also so many things to explore here that are completely FREE! These are my Top 5 Free Things to do in Phillip Islands with kids.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

5 Free Things to do in Phillip Island with kids

Antartic Journeys and Boardwalks at the Nobbies

Boardwalk at the Nobbies overlooking Seal Rock

Without a doubt one of the most scenic places to see on Phillip Island. Located right on the south-western tip of Phillip Island, just a few minutes away from the Penguin Parade (the Top Attraction to see in Phillip Island!), the Nobbies can’t be missed!

The name ‘Nobbies’ comes from the dome-shaped rocks, which you can see from the view-point near the car park, called Seal Rock.

The Nobbies Centre

The main standout feature of the Nobbies is the long boardwalk that you can walk across to a few parts of the area. It’s almost a chilometer long and worth the walk for the incredible views.

Here, you can also spot a lot of wildlife. Fur seals make an appearance on the rocks (hence the name, Seal Rock), especially during the summer months of December to March, which is peak breeding season.

Cape Barren Geese

The area also has a lot of birds that nest here, so many seagulls and the beautiful Cape Barren Geese can be seen along the drive there.

You may also see little fairy penguins in the man-made borrows along the boardwalk! Kangaroos, wallabies and even whales can also be seen during the winter when they are migrating.

A fairy penguin hiding in the burrows at the Nobbies

The Nobbies Centre, next to the car park is also worth a visit. Antarctic Journeys is a cool place to learn more about conservation and sustainability, and the kids will enjoy the interactive displays.

Interactive and hands-on displays at the Antarctic Journeys exhibit inside the Nobbies centre

There is also a gift shop and a coffee shop. The views are incredible and make it a great spot for lunch, no matter the weather!

View from the cafe’ overlooking Seal Rock

Forrest Caves

The sea cave at Forrest Caves

A popular spot especially during the holidays and weekend is Forrest Caves. Just off the main road near Cape Woolamai, these stunning rock formations and caves sure are worth a visit!

Reaching the top of the dune overlooking Forrest Caves Beach

The rocks are a red & black colour originating from volcanic eruptions and wave erosions. The beach is endless and pristine, with walls of sand dunes alongside it.

Rockpools at Forrest Caves

Once you reach the car park, follow the steep stairs to reach the top of the sand dunes and see Forrest Caves Beach.

Continue walking on the left side for about 500 mt to reach Forrest Caves and explore the red caves, rocks and crystal clear rockpools.

Forrest Caves

NOTE: Swimming is NOT advised at this beach due to strong waves and rip currents. This beach is stunning but it is not patrolled and can get extremely rough! As it’s part of a conservation area, dogs are also not allowed here.

Pelican feeding in San Remo

Pelicans getting their lunch

An amazing activity to do either when going or leaving Phillip Island, is seeing the Pelican Feeding! This takes place daily in San Remo, near the jetty, just before crossing over the bridge to Phillip Island.

Every day at 12 o’clock, crowds gather to see the pelicans gobble down some fish from the nearby Fisherman’s Co-Op (which also does a great fish & chips).

The Fishermen’s Co-Op in San Remo

This daily feeding has been going on for over 30 years, started by local fishermen feeding the wild pelicans their fish offcuts. The pelicans now come here daily to get their lunch! The fishermen also provide insightful information about the pelicans and how to look after the environment for them too. It was one of my favourite Free things to do in Phillip Island with Kids!

Pelicans patently awaiting their daily feed

The numbers of pelicans vary from groups of 5 up to about 35. It has become quite a popular attraction for visitors coming to the area! Expect quite a few people during the holidays and get there 10-15 minutes early to get a good view.

Phillip Island Beaches

Cowes beach

There are so many beaches on Phillip Island! The island has volcanic origins so many of the beaches have black and red-toned rocks. The list below is just of SOME of the many beaches on the island:

  • Cowes Beach is a popular beach with families that is shallow and protected from the surf. Nearby Erehwon Point Playground is located west of the jetty too.
  • Smiths Beach is 10 minutes south of the island, another popular one with its gorgeous crescent-shaped beach.
Cowes beach and pier

Both these beaches have facilities and are next to food outlets. There is car parking and are both generally patrolled in summer, but they do get busy during peak periods!

Cape Woolamai Beach

For some quieter beaches, head over to Kitty Miller Bay or Sunderland Bay. These do not have facilities but are more secluded than the other beaches if you are after some more peace!

Sunderland Bay

Sunderland Bay is similar to Forrest Caves (minus the crowds) with the rock formations in a red colour and lots of rock pools. We also found so many sea sponges here that the kids loved.

Sea sponge

Sandboarding at Cape Woolamai

Cape Woolamai Surf Beach

A fun thing we did on our last trip to Phillip Island was sandboarding the steep sand dunes at Cape Woolamai.

It’s a bit of hard work to reach the sand dunes and to climb up them but it was 100% worth it! The kids loved the adventure so if you have bodyboards, bring them with you here.

‘Norman Hill’ is located on a tucked away path just before you access the car park at Woolamai Surf Beach. You can only access this place by walk and it is a bit tucked away!

Climbing the sand dunes at Norman Hill

How to get to Norman Hill:

  • Park at the Woolamai Beach car park
  • Walk back for a few minutes on the road you came from to access the path
  • The path has a map pointing to Cleeland Bight Track. The sandy path is around 300 mt till you reach the beach.
  • Once at the beach, take a right for a few minutes and you will see the huge hill. Climb up and have fun!

Budget Friendly Accommodation in Phillip Island

BIG4 Ingenia Phillip Island

Located in Newhaven, just across the bridge from San Remo, BIG4 Ingenia Holiday Park has everything you need for a family-friendly holiday. The park has a variety of cabins to suit all budgets, from basic to fully renovated cabins. The park also has a playground, BBQ facilities and beach access.

Check Prices and Availability for BIG4 Ingenia Phillip Island HERE

Renovated Cabin at BIG4 Ingenia Phillip Island – Image Courtesy of Expedia

Check Prices and Availability for BIG4 Ingenia Phillip Island HERE

Want to read more on Phillip Island?

I hope you enjoyed this post on 5 Free Things to do in Phillip Island with Kids!

Want to read more about Phillip Island? Check out my other post on the Top 8 Things to do with the family in Phillip Island as well as recommendations on Where to eat in Phillip Island.

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Hotel Reviews

Brisbane Hotel with a view: Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Review

If you are looking for a Brisbane hotel with a view, Meriton Suites is the place to go! Meriton Adelaide Suites is located in one of the tallest towers in the city offering comfortable serviced apartment accommodation. The standout? Staying on a high floor for the most incredible 360-degree views over Brisbane and the Brisbane River!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

A Brisbane Hotel with a view: Things to love about Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

  • Incredible, uninterrupted views over the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge
  • Fantastic location a few minutes from the river and only 15 minutes walk from the city centre
  • Comfortable and Spacious Apartments fitted with everything you need!
Views of the Brisbane Story Bridge from Howard Smith Wharves
Views of the Brisbane Story Bridge from Howard Smith Wharves

To check out Prices and Availability For Meriton Suites Adelaide Street in Brisbane, click HERE

Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Overview

Brisbane hotel view a view: Meriton Suites Adelaide Street
View over the Brisbane River and Story Bridge from the Altitude Apartment

Opened in 2012, the towering 243 mt, 74 floors skyscraper that is the Meriton Suites Adelaide Street is one of the tallest towers in all of Brisbane, and was at one point, the tallest building in Brisbane!

Part residential and part serviced apartments, the building can’t be missed! It has enviable views of the nearby Story Bridge (and is one of the only 5 bridges IN THE WORLD that you can climb!).

Check prices for the Story Bridge Climb HERE

Story Bridge Climb

Meriton Adelaide Suites is located near Fortitude Valley, which luckily is not an area filled with skyscrapers. That gives this building the advantage of having uninterrupted views over the city, river and beyond.

The comfortable apartments are fitted with everything you need. Read on below to find out more about Meriton Suites Adelaide Street and why this hotel is one with the best views in Brisbane!

Rooms: Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Review

The Meriton has several apartments on offer, these vary by different number of bedrooms and on which floor the apartments are.

Bedroom in Meriton Suites Adelaide Street
  • Studio Luxury Suites: Studio-style accommodation for 2 people on the lower floors (2-4)
  • 1 Bedroom Luxury Suites: Self Self-contained apartment accommodation for 2 people on the lower floors, up to level 42.
  • 2 Bedroom Luxury Suites: Self Self-contained apartment accommodation with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms for 4 people from level 6 up to level 58.
  • 2 Bedroom Altitude Suites: To have a guaranteed, amazing hotel room with a view in Brisbane, the Altitude apartments are on high floors from level 63 up to level 74. Self Contained Apartment accommodation with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms for 4 people.
  • 3 Bedroom Altitude Suites: This is the largest apartment type measuring at just over 100 SQM. This popular apartment type is perfect for wedding parties and for checking out the amazing views of the New Year fireworks over the city. Apartments are located on the top floors from levels 64 to 74.

2 Bedroom Altitude Suite Review: The Best hotel views over Brisbane!

On our trip to Brisbane, we stayed in a 2-bedroom Altitude suite that was located on level 69. First entering the room all you see is the view!

Floor-to-ceiling windows wrap around the whole lounge and bedrooms and have the most epic views over the river. On a clear day, at sunset or nighttime, the views are incredible!

Lounge Room at Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Altitude Suite, one of the best Brisbane hotels for a view!
Lounge Room in the Altitude Suite

To check out Prices and Availability For Meriton Suites Adelaide Street in Brisbane, click HERE

The rooms are extremely comfortable and suit perfectly for long stays too. The bedrooms are spacious with plenty of storage. In the 2-bedroom apartments, you will find a full-sized kitchen, 3 A/C units (in each bedroom and the open plan lounge) and 3 large flat-screen TVs with in-built Chrome Cast for easy streaming.

Room Amenities – Kitchen / Dining

The Altitude Apartment was well fitted with everything we needed including a full kitchen with dishwasher, microwave, full-size fridge/freezer.

Full Kitchen in the Altitude Suite

In the kitchen, you can also find an espresso machine with pods, a kettle and a toaster.

A small laundry cupboard had a washer and separate dryer too.

Laundry Cupboard Meriton Suites Adelaide Street
Laundry Cupboard in the Altitude Suite

A 4 seater, round marble top table in the main dining table.

Dining Area Meriton Suites Adelaide Street
Dining Area

Amenities such as dishwashing tablets & washing detergent are replenished every 3rd day or weekly depending on the rate purchased.

Room Amenities – Bedrooms

In the bedrooms, King-size beds are provided in the 2 bedrooms. At the time of booking, you can also request to have these set up as single beds or 1 king and 2 singles.

The rooms are of generous size with blackout curtains and full-size wardrobes. There was A LOT of storage space with hanging space as well as shelves and drawers. Perfect for longer stays!

Bedroom view by night Altitude Suites
Views from the Altitude Suite Bedroom, level 69

A safe is provided in the master bedroom as well as a laundry service slip (provided by the property at an additional cost).

Safe and Wardrobe in the Altitude Suite
Safe & Wardrobe

A/C Unit in each of the bedrooms for cooling/heating.

A flat-screen TV fitted with Chrome Cast is provided in each of the bedrooms making it super convenient for easy streaming!

Room Amenities – Lounge Room

As you enter the Altitude Suite the lounge room has a small 2 seater couch, and 2 armchairs facing the sweeping views from the high floor.

Lounge Room

A flat-screen TV fitted with StayCast (Chrome Cast) is provided for convenient streaming. Large desk/workstation as you enter the lounge too. A/C for heating and cooling.

Unlimited WIFI is provided during the stay.

Workspace Altitude Suite at Meriton Adelaide Street
Workstation in the apartment

Room Amenities – Bathrooms

The Altitude Apartment has 2 bathrooms. One central bathroom with vanity, toilet & shower, and the second bathroom is an ensuite – with a bath and separate shower. Hairdryer & Kevin Murphy Toiletries provided.

Bathroom with shower in the Altitude Suite
Central Bathroom with Shower in the Altitude Suite

The bathrooms are spacious, but I did find them a bit dated eg. the vanities had some cracks in the porcelain and the showers were not as sparkling as a new hotel.

Hotel Facilities: Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

In addition to 24-hour reception/guest services, Meriton Adelaide Suites also has parking and fitness facilities located on level 5. These are open from 5 am to 10 pm, every day.

Lobby Lounge Meriton Adelaide Street
Lobby – Meriton Adelaide Street

Car Parking at Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

If driving into Meriton Suites, convenient onsite undercover car parking is available at the property. Note that this is limited and subject to availability, with the rate per night at 40 AUD. Entry is via Arch Lane, located at the rear of the property.

Swimming Pool, Hot Tub & Sauna

On level 5, guests and residents can access the fitness facilities.

The pool area is very spacious, with some bench space to sit and store belongings. Towels are NOT provided so you must bring your own. The pool is heated all year round, and the depth is 1.2 metres on the deepest end.

A large in-ground hot tub is also in the same area as the pool.

Hot Tub & Pool Area at Meriton Adelaide Suites – Image courtesy of Expedia

Unfortunately the the time of our stay the Sauna was not operational. We enquired with reception and they explained it was a long-term issue. I was a bit disappointed that this was not advised at the time of booking, as we chose the hotel based on the facilities too!

Pool at Meriton Adelaide Street
Pool Area

Gymnasium

Large gymnasium with workout equipment and weights.

Gymnasium at Meriton Adelaide Street
Gymnasium

Family Friendly Facilities

Children are welcome at the hotel and the kids were given activity packs at check-in too which was a nice touch. If travelling to Meriton for a special occasion for a birthday, it’s worth mentioning too! The room was set up with balloons, bubbles and a card as we arrived.

The pool was very enjoyable for them and there were lots of other children using it too, especially during the weekend.

Cots can be arranged in advance for a cost of 10 AUD per night and include a baby amenities pack.

Location of Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

Hotel entrance at Meriton
Hotel Entrance from Adelaide Street

The Meriton Suites Adelaide is located at 485 Adelaide Street in Brisbane.

A Foodworks to buy essential items is also located on the ground floor of the building which was very handy as we arrived late on the first day! A larger supermarket (Woolworths Spring Hill) is located just a 5-minute walk away too.

We found the Meriton to be in a very good location as you can reach the river and city centre very easily on foot. To reach South Bank, it is a longer walk so we generally opted to take an Uber or the ferry!

  • Brisbane River Boardwalk (restaurants/dining) – 5 minutes walk
  • Queen Street Mall (main shopping district) – 15 minutes walk
  • Riverside Ferry Terminal (to board the free CityHopper Ferry to South Bank) – 10 minutes walk
  • Howard Smith Wharves (for dining with incredible views of the Story Bridge) – 5-minute walk
  • Roma Street Parklands (amazing gardens!) – 25-minute walk
  • South Bank (dining/entertainment precinct) – 35 minutes walk
Brisbane Sign in South Bank

Final Thoughts – Meriton Adelaide Street

Although the building and some of the facilities do show that they are 10 years old, we overall had a good stay at Meriton. The location was great for us as we ventured out for walks every day and the ferry access at Riverside was so handy. Would I stay again? Yes. The views from the 69th floor were unlike anywhere I have ever stayed before!

BOOK Meriton Suites Adelaide Street

Hope you enjoyed reading this Meriton Suites Adelaide Street Review, of the the best Brisbane Hotels with a view!

To check out Prices and Availability For Meriton Suites Adelaide Street in Brisbane, click HERE

Still looking for Brisbane Hotels?

Still looking for a hotel? Check out all the hotels in Brisbane HERE!

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Top 7 Things to do around Healesville with Kids

Healesville is a fantastic destination perfect for a weekend away. Kids and nature lovers coming to Healesville will fall in love with the peaceful surroundings of Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary, the ample green spaces and even it’s own vintage railway. A thriving dining and café scene and a short drive away from many other small towns like Marysville and Warburton, make Healesville a perfect country escape with kids.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

Where is Healesville?

The quaint town of Healesville is nestled in the Yarra Ranges, just over an hour drive north of Melbourne, and a short 15 drive from the rolling hills of the Yarra Valley vineyards. The nearby popular town of Marysville is 30 minutes drive from Healesville.

Top attractions for kids in Healesville

Healesville Sanctuary

This park has a different feel from your average zoo and showcases the distinctive Australian wildlife and vegetation!

Located just a 5 minute drive from the centre of Healesville, Healesville Sanctuary is a wildlife park surrounded by natural bushland. Full of Australian wildlife, be ready to see koalas, kangaroos, emus, platypus, dingoes and more!

There is a strong focus on conservation especially on koalas, which you can see so many of at the sanctuary in the Koala Forest section. Don’t miss the Keeper Talks at 11 am and 2 pm to find out everything you need to know about this beautiful native animal.

There are also other Keeper Talks throughout the day at different times and about different animals. You can view the full schedule here.

Spirits of the Sky bid show at the Arena in Healesville Sanctuary

The other highlight of Healesville Sanctuary is the Spirits of the Sky bird show in the Flight Arena, one not to be missed when visiting the sanctuary, on daily at 12 o’clock. The 30 minute presentation showcases a number of native birds like eagles, owls and parrots, who are flown over the crowds by the birdkeepers. It was truly amazing and a hit with the kids. A must do when in Healesville with the kids!

DETAILS: Open daily 9 am to 5 pm , 53 AUD per adult, 26.50 AUD for kids 4-15 yrs. Free under 3 years old. All Kids are FREE during weekends and public/school holidays. More info on the website for up to date times on Keeper Talks and what’s on.

Yarra Valley Railway

Yarra Valley Railway

This incredible vintage train station can be easy to miss (it’s tucked away off the main street) but it’s a must visit if you happen to be in Healesville on a Sunday.

The original 1950’s single carriage train takes you on a 4 km journey through the vineyards towards Yarra Glen and back. The scenery is fantastic and the highlight is going through a 100 year old tunnel. The trip all up is just under an hour so it’s perfect for the kids to enjoy!

The volunteers running this railway are also extremely knowledgeable and will explain some interesting facts about the railway and the history of the area. The train driver will also let the kids in the drivers area too.

DETAILS: Open Sundays Only 9 am to 3 pm , 50 AUD for a family ticket or individual tickets 18 AUD per adult, 12 AUD for kids 4-16 yrs. Free under 3 years old. Trains run every 45 min – 1 hour. Entirely volunteer run so they do also operate on other days occasionally. More info on the website.

Apex Park Playground

Located just beside the Yarra Valley Railway, this cute little playground is of course, all train themed! Perfect for younger children, this park has slides. Along side the playground, there is also the Healesville Labyrinth Garden which was great for the kids to run around in!

DETAILS: Open everyday – FREE

Queens Park

Queens Park Grounds

Located right in the centre of Healesville this playground and park is amazing. Surrounded by nature and built using a lot of wood and reclaimed logs, it blends in seamlessly with the beautiful surroundings.

There are plenty of things to do for the kids to be entertained for a while! With a smaller toddler playground, larger climbing structure, swings, slides, a double flying fox and and much more. The garden itself very spacious, with lots of shaded areas & picnic tables. Grab something to eat from nearby Beechworth Bakery and the morning is sorted!

DETAILS: Open everyday – FREE

Other places to visit with kids near Healesville

Marysville

Drive just 30 minutes from Healesville and take the incredibly scenic Black Spur drive (an attraction in itself!) to Marysville. This gorgeous little town is surrounded by mountains and has soo many things to do! The now thriving town was almost all completely rebuilt after the devastating 2009 Black Saturday Fires and is now a popular weekend destination in the Yarra Ranges.

Don’t miss visiting Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden, to see this enchanting forest filled with a myriad of hand made (and many full sized) clay, wood & brass sculptures. Bruno himself is usually around too!

Nearby, Gallipoli Park, has a wonderful playground as well as a a memorial built by Bruno, called New Life to represent the rebuilding of life in Marysville after the fires.

Steavensons Falls is a must see attraction in Marysville and a very easy trail to do with little ones. Located just 15 minutes drive out of town, the 700 mt walk is very accessible, fenced and takes you to the lookout of the waterfall.

In winter time from Marysville, you can also easily access to Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, to see the snow and do some tobogganing. More on that below!

Warburton

The Warburton Redwood Forest

About 40 minutes drive from Healesville, you will find the quaint town of Warburton, surrounded by green and lush forest. A must see attraction is the Warburton Redwood Forest. Huge Californian Redwoods are planted in perfect rows and you can wonder in the forest, which also takes you to a river covered in ferns.

The forest in Autumn

It really is a magical place to visit and the kids will love wondering and exploring the tree art scattered everywhere!

Heads up, this place gets BUSY especially on weekends, holiday periods and during summertime as it’s now a popular spot for day-trippers. If you can, head there early (before 10 am) or out of peak periods.

Lake Mountain

If you are heading to Healesville in wintertime and want to see some snow, Lake Mountain is just 1 hour away by car from Healesville and 30 minutes from Marysville.

Lake Mountain Alpine Resort is set up with 3 tobogganing tracks, cross country skiing and lots of snow play areas. You can read more about Lake Mountain Alpine Resort with kids on my other post here.

In the summer time and outside the snow season, you can access the mountain to go for bushwalks and hikes too.

Where to stay in Healesville

There are several accommodation options to stay in and near Healesville, here are some of my favourites:

Yarra Gables

The Lodge – Renovated accommodation at Yarra Gables – Image Courtesy of Expedia

Check Availability and Prices for Yarra Gables HERE

Centrally located just a 10 minute walk from the main area of Healesville, Yarra Gables offers modern accommodation in rooms and self contained cottages. Family rooms are also available.

Balgownie Estate

Pool at Balgownie Estate – Image Courtesy of Expedia

Check Availability and Prices for Balgownie Estate HERE

Just 10 minutes drive away from Healesville surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Balgownie Estate has had extensive renovations in recent years and now has some beautiful renovated suites and restaurant. 2 Bedroom Suites are perfect for families and the restaurant caters for children also. A pool, hot tub, gym and full spa are also available in this resort.

Family Friendly dining in Healesville and the Yarra Valley

Bee Sting Cake at Beechworth Bakery in Healesville

There are so many great places to eat in Healesville so you will be spoilt for choice! These are just some of the places:

  • Beechworth Bakery: A classic country bakery which is the perfect stop for a pie (they have a very extensive menu!) or baked goods. My personal favourites, Sri-Lankan Beef Curry & the Bee Sting cake (Open 6.30 am to 5.30 pm everyday)
  • Innocent Bystander: spacious restaurant and cellar door, serving wood fire pizzas. Kids menu available (Open 11 am to 4 pm everyday, open till 9 pm on weekends).
  • The Bodhi Tree: family friendly dining with pizzas and modern australian classics in charming setting
  • Chachi: A quirky little spot tucked between the shops on the main street. Pizzas and homemade pastas. Open for breakfast and freshly baked cookies too (Open Fri-Sun only).
  • Four Pillars Gin Distillery: for any gin-lovers, no trip to Healesville is complete without a stop at Four Pillars. They have a bar with tasting paddles and small snacks as was a store to purchase any of the full range of gins they produce (Open 10.30 am to 5.30pm everyday, open till 9 pm on weekends).

The wine region of the Yarra Valley is located just at the doorstep of Healesville, just within 15-20 minutes drive. There are plenty of family friendly dining options for a winery lunch that the whole family can enjoy:

Zonzo Estate

Want to read more?

Hope you enjoyed reading this post on the Top 7 Things to do in and around Healesville. If you want to read more about country escapes for families in Victoria, check out my post on Visiting the Grampians with kids and Lake Mountain Alpine Resort with Kids.

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A weekend guide to Portarlington with Kids

This once sleepy little seaside village is now a bustling town and loved by families! Only 1.5 hours from Melbourne, with a shallow calm beach and kid-friendly attractions, Portarlington is a fantastic weekend escape destination with kids!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

Portarlington: A popular family destination on the Bellarine Peninsula

Located in the middle of Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, Portarlington has always been well known as a popular fishing destination and famous especially for it’s fresh Portarlington Mussels.

Mussels: Image by Stefan Schweihofer from Pixabay

It has in recent years gained more popularity with families holidaying and day-trippers. The town centre in the last 10-15 years has expanded, there are lots of dining options, family friendly caravan parks and a fantastic shallow beach. The popular Mussel Festival (January) and Celtic Festival (June) are extremely popular events that run once a year and defenitely put this town on the map!

Getting there

You can reach Portarlington by car in just over 1.5 hours drive from Melbourne. The nearby city of Geelong is just 30 minutes away, and historic Queenscliff just 20 minutes away, also worth a visit!

Ferry Crossing from Docklands to Portarlington

Walking the long breakwater on Portarlington Pier

In recent years with the main pier re-development, there is also now a passenger (no cars) ferry connection to Melbourne Docklands direct to Portarlington, and is popular for day-trippers. The ferry crossing takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes and runs once or twice per day depending on the day of the week.

Prices for the 1 way crossing start are 18.50 AUD per Adults and 11 AUD for kids. Kids under 3 travel FREE but must still hold a ticket. Check on the Port Phillip Ferries Website for more information and updates.

Top 5 Things to do in Portarlington with Kids

Portarlington Park

Portarlington Park

This amazing playground had a major upgrade in recent years and looks AMAZING. It’s very spacious and has amazing wood-carved sea creatures scattered throughout the park.

Portarlington Park

Perched at the top of a hill with fantastic view over the sea, it’s a firm favourite every time we visit Portarlington, There are heaps of climbing structures, as well as a small water play area with a pump and river, swings, slides, trampolines and a flying fox too!

Tuckerberry Hill Blueberry Picking

Blueberries: Image by Jan Temmel from Pixabay

If you are planning to go to Portarlington over the summer holidays, a favourite place to visit near Portarlington with kids is Tuckerberry Hill to pick the freshest and juiciest berries!

Located only 10 minutes away by car from Portarlington just outside Drysdale, here you can eat fresh berries straight off the tree and pick your own blueberries and strawberries.

Strawberries: Image by Robson Veneziani from Pixabay

Eat away as you pick and you pay per kilo for what you take home (around 20 AUD per kilo) before leaving. Tuckerberry Hill is Open 26 December to late January, 9 am to 5 pm, check on their website for opening days and times, café on site also.

Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway

Portarlington Miniature Railway

This cute miniature railway is located just outside the caravan park in Portarlington is one of the most popular attractions for young children. It’s been running for over 20 years and a favourite with locals and tourist visiting the area.

Entry to the Railway

Rides start from 4 AUD per person, kids under 2 ride FREE. There is also the option to purchase a Family Pass for 35 AUD (2 adults and up to 3 children) for unlimited rides! It’s a 10 minute ride that does 2 laps of the parklands riding the miniature train.

Playground onsite

Onsite, a café and BBQ area selling cold drinks and sausages & burgers starting from 3-4 AUD each make visiting this miniature railway a very affordable outing with the family. There is also a little playground, plenty of seating areas outdoor and undercover, as well as toilets and a giftshop.

Outside of school holidays it runs on Sundays only usually – but do check their website for opening times and days as they vary depending of the time of year.

Fishing

Fishing on Portarlington Pier

Portarlington is a really popular place for fishing and a great place to introduce fishing to young kids! Walk along the pier at any time of day or night and you will see sooo many people having a go at catching something! The updated pier has plenty of spots to fish from, some also gated making it safer for younger children.

Portarlington beach – right side of the pier

Popular catches in the area include Australian salmon, flathead and snapper. In the evening you will also see people trying their luck to catch flatheads directly from the beach too.

Portarlington Beach

Portarlington Beach

This beach directly across from the main caravan park is very popular with families as it’s a shallow, calm beach with no big waves, making it perfect for little ones. With easy access to the town centre and Portarlington Park, it’s popular over the summer months especially. There is plenty of parking right near the beach on both sides of the pier and closer to the park too.

Another nice beach nearby with lots of shaded areas for the little ones is Indented Head, just 7 minutes drive from Portarlington and has facilities and a small playground too.

Where to stay in Portarlington with Kids

Budget Accommodation – Dylene Caravan Park

Located just outside the main town centre towards St Leonards off the esplanade, Dylene Caravan Park offers basic cabin accommodation as well as some upgraded cabins. The facilities at this caravan park include a small playground, BBQ area, games room and a small outdoor pool.

Check Availability and Prices for Dylene Caravan Park HERE

Dylene Caravan Park: Image courtesy of Expedia

Midrange Accommodation – Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park

On an enviable location right in the centre of town and right on Portarlington Beach, this caravan park is a popular choice for travellers. Offering self contained cabin style accommodation ranging from standard to spacious family cabins, as well playgrounds, games room, camp kitchens and plenty of outdoor seating and BBQ areas.

Check Availability and Prices for Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park

Bellarine Bayside Holiday Park: Image courtesy of Expedia

Luxury Accommodation – Oxley Estate

Only 3 minutes from the centre of Portarlington near the golf course, Oxley Estate is set on 10 acres of land among manicured gardens, orchards and farmland with animals. The estate offers a total of 5 accommodation options that include rooms, as well as cottages that are fully self contained. A small playground as well as an outdoor pool looking over the gardens will keep the kids entertained!

Check Availability and Prices for Oxley Estate HERE

Oxley Estate: Image courtesy of Expedia

Where to eat in Portarlington

There are lots of options on places to eat or have an afternoon treat in Portarlington with kids. Our favourites are these:

  • Pier Front Pizzeria: Traditional woodfire Pizzeria
  • Pier St (recently renovated): Modern Brunch, Lunch & Mussel restaurant on the water, kids menu available!
  • The Bakehouse Portarlington: Classic country bakery
  • Devils Donuts: Look for the van (and the queues!) on the left side of the car park facing Portarlington pier. THE most delicious, classic hot jam donuts, dusted in abundant sugar. A firm favourite when visiting Portarlington.
  • Portarlington Food Park: Permanent rotating food trucks set up with a variety of foods, ice-cream and coffee. Seasonally opened for lunch and dinner, has outdoor seating.
  • Staple Eatery and Deli: Deli-style café with italian style gourmet sandwiches & pizza.
Devils Donuts near Portarlington Pier

Want to read more about Portarlington?

Looking for more kid friendly adventures near Portarlington? Adventure Park Geelong is only 20 minutes away!

Hope you enjoyed reading my post on Portarlington with Kids! You can read more about Portarlington and the renowned Portarlington Mussels and where to get them from HERE!

If you want to explore more on seaside destinations in Victoria, you can check out my other post on Warrnambool with Kids HERE.

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7 of the Best things to do in and around Merimbula

Nestled halfway between Melbourne and Sydney – the town of Merimbula is perfect for a week’s escape along the NSW coast. Breath-taking scenic hikes, fishing and sampling the freshest oysters are some of the best things you can do in this fabulous town. These are my Top 7 Best Things to do in and around Merimbula.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking, I make a small commission. This is at absolutely NO additional cost to you and helps me keep the site running!

Reasons why to love Merimbula

  • Beautiful, unspoilt expansive beaches and shallow boardwalks along the lake to explore.
  • A great dining scene with lots of choice of restaurants and eateries specialising in fresh seafood and of course, OYSTERS!
  • A proper town centre well equipped with everything you need and with things to do for the whole family.
Merimbula Main Beach
Merimbula Main Beach

These are 7 Best Things to do in and around Merimbula

Merimbula Boardwalk

Located alongside Merimbula lake, walking the Boardwalk is a must do activity. The walk runs along the water from Market Street, all along a wooden boardwalk through oyster farms, mangroves and gum tree forests. The boardwalk is shallow and great to explore and see what is in the water too! Signs along the way explain how the oysters are farmed too.

The walk is about 3.4 km return so allow 1.5 hours. At the end of the boardwalk, Sunny’s Kiosk is perched over the lake and a great place to stop for breakfast / lunch.

Merimbula Boardwalk

This is also an easy walk to do with strollers or kids and they can spot the oysters on the open/shallow boardwalk. You can read more about the Best Things to do with kids in Merimbula in my other post HERE.

Try the local Oysters

If there is something you have to try in Merimbula – it’s the seafood! This town is especially well known for producing plenty of Sydney Rock Oysters. These are a MUST TRY when visiting Merimbula and readily available to purchase from local fishmongers and a staple menu item across restaurants and cafés in town.

Oyster farms along the Boardwalk at Merimbula lake
Oyster Farms along the Boardwalk in Merimbula

Look around the water in Merimbula and you will notice the Oyster farms are everywhere. Millions of Oysters are harvested here each year, with the peak producing months from October to June. You can read more about Merimbula Oysters and where to get the BEST ONES in my post HERE!

Go Fishing

No matter if you are a beginner or a pro, this is the place to give a go at fishing! Merimbula is a renowned fishing destination – recreational fishing as well as game fishing are a popular thing to do in the area. Several fishing charters organize fishing trips starting from AUD 100 per person for a half day of fishing.

Tathra wharf, an ideal spot for fishing in Merimbula
Tathra Wharf

Some popular catches include flatheads (from Merimbula Lake) as well as salmon, whiting, bream, trevally, tailor and kingfish. Mitchies Jetty & Merimbula Wharf are where most people fish from. The nearby town of Tathra is also a popular fishing location on the historic, heritage listed wooden pier, the Tathra Wharf. Fabulous views to look at too!

Whale Watching

Another drawcard for the area is seeing the whales during migration season. Huge Humpback Whales make their way down from the Barrier Reef to Antarctica with their baby whales and they can be seen splashing around the water! Taking a charter will give you an even closer look at the whales as well as other animals like dolphins. Prices from AUD 75 per person for 2 hours of whale watching.

Eden lookout to spot some Whales
Eden Lookout

The best time to view these beautiful animals is September to November and can be seen during other times also, but not as frequently and can be harder to spot. The nearby town of Eden also has a long running history with whales and runs a yearly Whale Watching Festival.

The best spots to view the whales during migration season are Short Point Beach in Merimbula, Eden lookout and Tathra Wharf.

The Pinnacles Loop

An incredible, and easy scenic walk nearby Merimbula that is an absolute standout is the Pinnacles Loop. Tucked away off the main road in the Beowa National Park the scenery when you get to the Pinnacle lookout, with its incredible rock face in bright red and orange colours, is amazing to see.

The Pinnacles, one of the best things to do in Merimbula
The Pinnacles

The easy walk is just 1.1 km and takes around 30 minutes. It’s a loop walk from the carpark through pine and gum forest to reach the Pinnacle viewpoint and you can also venture down to the stunning unspoilt Pinnacle beach. A must-see and only 25 minutes drive from Merimbula.

Pinnacle Beach
Pinnacle Beach

Take a day trip to Eden

A short 20-minute car ride away from Merimbula and you can reach Eden, and this little town has a mighty history of whales and whale hunting. For many years in the 1800′ local whalers had a working relationship with killer whales (Orcas) to hunt other whales for their blubber to use as oil and for some ‘interesting’ experimental medical treatments, such as curing arthritis when standing inside a whale carcass. Yes, you read correctly!

Skeleton of Old Tom, one of the most famous killer whales in Eden
Old Tom – One of the most famous Killer Whales in Eden

The Eden Killer Whale Museum in Eden is definitely worth a visit to learn about the whaling history of the town. It has been operating for over 80 years and showcases many artefacts as well as full-scale skeletons of some of the killer whales. A great way to spend the morning / afternoon while in Eden.

A short drive from the museum in Eden is also the incredible Aslings Beach and Rockpool. The natural landscape and rock formations change from golden to pink depending on the time of day, are a photographer’s dream. Park near Bass Street, head down to the beach and walk about 200 metres to reach the rockpool. You will need to climb over a few rocks to reach it but It’s incredible with amazing views over the coast.

Aslings Rockpool, one of the best natural attraction to see not far from Merimbula
Aslings Rockpool in Eden

Visit the Bega Heritage Centre

With a long history of dairy making dating back to the 1850’s, Bega is the home of course, of popular Bega Cheese, a staple dairy and cheese readily available in all Australian supermarkets. Only 30 minutes drive from Merimbula and you are transported from sandy beaches to a scenery of rolling green pastures that never seem to end.

Bega Lookout over the hills
Bega Valley Lookout

Head to the Bega Valley Lookout for great views, then head to the Bega Heritage Centre, onsite where the Bega Factory is to see the wonderfully recreated farmhouse and machinery, eat some Bega cheese toasties at the in-house buzzing café or stock up on local goodies and cheese for a picnic.

Where is Merimbula

Merimbula is located in NSW, 75 km from the Victorian Border, and approximately 7 hours drive from Melbourne. From Merimbula, you can reach Sydney in 6 hours drive, and Canberra in a 3 hours drive.

Merimbula is also served by Merimbula Airport that has local and charter flights operating across regional cities as well as Melbourne and Sydney (just one 1 hour flight time).

Merimbula Wharf
Merimbula

Where to stay in Merimbula

Accommodation is plentiful in Merimbula and with lots of different types of places to stay to suit different budgets.

Luxury

Coast Resort Merimbula is a great accommodation option for couples & families. The resort offers luxury townhouses and apartments with its own private parking, as well as 2 swimming pools and a tennis court. The resort is also in an enviable location right next to the main beach in Merimbula and a short stroll from the centre of town. You can read my full review HERE.

Check out prices and availability for Coast Resort Merimbula HERE

Coast Resort Merimbula
One of the pools at Coast Resort Merimbula

Midrange

Pelican Motor Inn offers quality motel style accommodation located right in the centre of town. The rooms are comfortable, clean and within walking distance to the shops and dining in the centre of Merimbula.

Budget

Chapman Holiday Units offers basic apartment style accommodation in the Fishpen area, a short walk from Merimbula main beach.

Want to read more about Merimbula?

Hope you enjoyed this post on 5 of the best things to do in and around Merimbula!

Travelling with kids? Check my other post on the Top 8 things to do in Merimbula with Kids

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Visiting Mount Gambier with kids

Mount Gambier is jam-packed with natural attractions that the whole family will enjoy! Wander through limestone caves or marvel in the hidden gardens inside sinkholes or head for the white pristine sands and rugged coastline along the Limestone Coast. These are the top attractions to see in Mount Gambier with kids.

Umpherston Sinkhole a popular attraction in Mount Gambier with kids
The gardens in Umpherston Sinkhole

Why Choose Mount Gambier for a family holiday?

These are my top reasons of why Mount Gambier is a great place to take the kids:

  • Lots of impressive Natural Wonders like sinkholes & caves all over town. The kids will love venturing inside the sunken gardens and exploring the limestone caves!
  • Beautiful beaches close by at Port MacDonnell and further north along the Limestone Coast. You can read about Port MacDonnell on my other post HERE.
  • Family-friendly: Many accommodation options are suitable for families. These include farm stays, motels, apartments and caravan parks to suit all budgets, as well as updated, accessible playgrounds and family-friendly pubs
beaches in Port Macdonnell
White limestone sand at Port MacDonnell

Where is Mount Gambier

Mount Gambier is in the state of South Australia, and the 3rd largest city of the state. It’s a 4.5 hour drive from Melbourne if coming from Victoria and roughly the same distance from Adelaide. Mount Gambier is a popular stopover destination on the way to and from Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road.

How long to stay in Mount Gambier

People generally stop in Mount Gambier for 1-2 nights. But if you want to see more of the sights even outside Mount Gambier, 3-4 days is perfect!

Umpherston Sinkhole
Umpherston Sinkhole

Top Attractions to see in Mount Gambier with kids

Mount Gambier is the 3rd biggest town in South Australia and with so many things to see, these are my top picks when visiting with kids, and if you want to read more about Mount Gambier you can also check out my other post with a comprehensive list on the Most Popular Sinkholes and Volcano craters to see and snorkelling spots too!

Umpherston Sinkhole

Umpherston Sinkhole a popular attraction

An absolute must-see when visiting Mount Gambier with kids. Travel down the steep stairs that go 20 mt below the road to these beautiful manicured gardens & tall palm trees.

In the evening, the kids will enjoy seeing the local wildlife come into the sinkhole. Lots of local possums come out at night in the sinkholes and you can feed them too (fresh fruit only)!

More info at: southaustralia.com Cost: FREE

Cave Garden Sinkhole

Cave gardens sinkhole
Cave Gardens

Another smaller sinkhole located right in the middle of Mount Gambier is Cave Gardens.

Cave Gardens is a bit smaller than Umpherstom Sinkhole with a depth of around 30 mt. It has gardens around it, and stairs to travel down the sinkhole and a viewing platform over the lowest point.

The viewing platform over Cave Gardens

Opposite Cave Gardens is the main library, which is very well equipped for children and has a cave-inspired area for kids too!

More info at: southaustralia.com Cost: FREE

Mount Gambier library apposite Cave Gardens in the city centre

Engelbrecht Cave

Engelbrecht cave a popular attraction in Mount Gambier with kids
The underground lake

A must-see attraction to see in Mount Gambier with kids is Engelbrecht Cave. This large sinkhole and the caves beneath it can be explored by guided tour only. The tour takes you through to visit an impressive crystal clear underground lake, as well as the western cave located alongside it.

The fully guided tour takes around 1 hour. The knowledgeable guides take you through the very interesting history of the cave, and lots of fun facts kids will enjoy.

Cave shaft

There are some steps down to access the caves and not too much walking so it’s suitable for young children also. The temperature in the cave is at around 16 degrees. It’s a great thing to visit Mount Gambier with kids on a hot or rainy day! Just be mindful of the rules when entering the cave, they are quite strict about them.

More info at: www.engelbrechtcave.com Cost: AUD 15 per Adult, AUD 9 per Child, Free under 4 yrs

Blue Lake

Blue Lake in Mount Gambier
Blue Lake views

This dormant volcano crater has the most beautiful shades of blue, unfortunately, the day we visited we did not have the best visibility but on a clear day the lake is a bright blue colour.

Even thought you cannot swim in there (it’s Mount Gambier’s water supply) you can hike/walk all along the crater. The popular Blue Lake Circuit walk is around 3.5 km long, and is pram friendly too!

If you just want to take a look and not hike, there are lots of viewpoints. The Blue Lake lookout has a small carpark and has a convenient viewing spot accessible via a tunnel below the road for photos or you can also go up a set of steep stairs to see the lake from higher up.

More info at: southaustralia.com Cost: FREE

Echo farm

A popular attraction for families. Echo Farm is a historic 1920′ farmhouse where you can see farm displays and see and feed lots of different animals like ducks, chickens, alpacas, sheep, guinea pigs and rabbits.

More info at: echofarm.com.au Cost: AUD 21 per Adult, AUD 18 per Child, Free under 2 yrs

Little Blue Lake 

Little Blue Lake
Sunbathe area and pontoon

Very popular with families and teenagers, this sinkhole that you can swim in is called Little Blue Lake. Located about 15 minutes from Mount Gambier, in nearby Mount Schank. The Little Blue Hole is stunning, and worth a visit even if you don’t plan to swim in it.

Little Blue Lake in Mount Gambier is a popular swimming spot

Heads up, it’s as deep as a 15th storey building (47 metres) so the water is quite cool and it’s not easy to float as it’s freshwater. Lots of people had inflatables for easier floating.

Note: Although the Little Blue Hole is a very popular attraction for families and teenagers, due to the steep stairs, depth and access to the sinkhole, in my opinion this place is NOT suitable for swimming for toddlers and very young children (under 6).

More info at: southaustralia.com Cost: FREE

Other things to see with kids near Mount Gambier

Hop in the car and a short drive from Mount Gambier there are many other great towns to explore with kids along the Limestone Coast.

Port MacDonnell

Beach at Port MacDonnell

Port MacDonnell and its stunning white Limestone beaches is just 30 minutes away! Also the known as the Rock Lobster Capital of South Australia, it’s a great half day trip from Mount Gambier. You can read about Visiting Port MacDonnell on my other post HERE.

Millicent

Just 40 minutes drive north from Mount Gambier is Millicent. Famous for its local museum that displays historical farm machinery and artefacts, it also has a fantastic, toddler friendly swimming lake, Millicent Swimming Lake.

Millicent Swimming Lake
Millicent Swimming Lake and playground

This large, half moon shaped man-made lake has a sandy ‘beach’ and lots of shaded areas. There is also a small playground facing the lake as well as a cafe/takeaway shop on side also. For picnics, a large grass area is very well maintained. The shallow end with the sand make it ideal for toddlers and young children, and the maximum depth of the lake is 1.8 metres. Note: entry to the lake is free and open only during swim season, no lifeguard on duty

Sandy, shallow shore at Millicent Swimming lake

Closer to town, the Millicent Domain Playground and Skate Park and Nature Playground are also great for children. One part of the park is a bit older, but extremely well maintained and completely fenced. Some of the facilities include tunnel slides, tractor bouncy rides, a flying fox, a liberty swing & gym equipment. This article offers free shipping on qualified products, https://www.fakewatch.is/product-category/richard-mille/ or buy online and pick up in store today at Medical Department.

Domain Playground in Millicent

Just outside the fenced park, a new nature playground has recently been added with a tall tunnel slide as well as tunnels underneath that the kids loved. A skate park is also just outside the playground with a spacious shaded grass areas, BBQs and toilet.

Nature Playground just outside Domain Playground

Naracoorte caves

Another popular cave that the children will enjoy is Naracoorte Caves – located 1.5 hours drive from Mount Gambier. This dry/wet cave is most famous for its fossils and is South Australia’s only World Heritage Site. More information on Naracoorte caves can be found HERE.

Family Friendly Dining in Mount Gambier

These are some popular dining spots in Mount Gambier:

South Eastern Hotel: Fantastic bistro serving Australian food, very family friendly with a large indoor playground. Kids meals are offered at AUD 15 per child, and Adult meals range from AUD 25-45 and include with each main a salad buffet, which has hot and cold salads, sides as well as fruit and bread rolls. More info at www.southeasternhotel.com.au

Play Area at the South Eastern Bistro

Other popular dining options in Mount Gambier:

Accommodation in Mount Gambier

Blue Lake Holiday Park Pool

Stop points from Melbourne

Travelling from Melbourne? Here are some great stops in Regional Victoria to stretch your legs with kids:

Lismore in Regional Victoria is a good quick stopover point to recharge
Lismore Train display
  • Lismore – Playground located next to the local outdoor pool. It has a large old steam train on display at the front and historical farm machinery.
  • Mortlake – Roadhouse with a display room of die cast models of HUNDREDS of trucks for the little truck lovers!
  • Heywood – Heywood Bakery – Cozy country bakery with freshly baked goods & Vietnamese coffee.
  • Portland – Portland All Abilities PlaySpace playground is wonderful and in a great location in town facing the sea.
Mortlake Roadhouse Truck display
Die cast trucks display at Mortlake Roadhouse

Want to read more about Mount Gambier?

You can read more about Mount Gambier in my other post on the Most Popular Sinkholes and Volcano Craters to visit in Mount Gambier and Visiting Port MacDonnell on the Limestone coast.

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Asia

Top 5 Free Attractions in Singapore with Kids

Singapore may be expensive but there are also so many FREE things that are guaranteed to keep the kids entertained, and cool! Check out 5 of the most popular and FREE attractions to see in Singapore with kids.

Top 5 Free Attractions in Singapore with Kids

Marvel through Gardens By the Bay & Marina Bay Sands

Alongside Marina Bay, you can stroll for hours in Gardens By the Bay where you can walk under the incredible supertrees.

gardens by the bay one of the popular free attractions to see in Singapore with kids
Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay – Image by Scott Bentley from Pixabay

There is a fantastic playground and waterplay area for kids at Far East Organization Children’s Garden open Wednesday to Sundays till 6.30 pm. Pack your swimmers parents – you will get absolutely soaked!

waterpark at gardens by the bay
Waterplay at Gardens By the Bay

It’s just paid entry is if you want to walk across the skybridge or enter the domes, you can book tickets for those with tour provider Klook Singapore HERE.

NEW!: Currently on display FREE at Gardens by the Bay till the end of May 2024 – a beautiful art display of 62 bronze live-sized animal sculptures called ‘Love the Last March’ which is a real hit with little ones!

love the last march , free art attraction in singapore
‘The Last March’ Art Sculpture display at Gardens by the Bay

There are also free lightshows every evening that are fun to enjoy with the whole family!

  • Click HERE to find out more about Spectra at Marina Bay Sands – 15 minutes every evening from 8 pm.
  • Click HERE to find out more about Garden Rapsody at Gardens By the Bay – 15 minutes every evening from 7.45 pm and 8.45.
light show of the supertrees
Gardens by the Bay by night – Image by Suyash Dixit from Pixabay

How to get there

Nearest MRT Stations to Gardens by the Bay: Bayfront (Downtown, Circle Line) & Gardens by the Bay (Thomson-East Coast Line)

Visit the Unesco World Heritage Singapore Botanical Gardens

singapore botanical gardens
Singapore Botanical Gardens

A Unesco World Heritage site – the Singapore Botanical Gardens is one of the must-see FREE attractions to see in Singapore with kids!

This British tropical colonial-style garden was established over 160 years ago. It’s meticulously landscaped making it one of the best botanical gardens to see in the world!

Beautiful historical buildings are dotted throughout the grounds of the gardens to explore.

ponds at the Singapore Botanical Gardens
Ponds at Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is the area of the park dedicated to young children and the largest children’s garden in Asia!

Complete with lots of separate sections to explore, it includes a forest, ponds, an orchard, and a farm, with of course lots of adventure play and a flying fox. Suited for children up to 14 years old.

National Orchid Garden
National Orchid Garden

Although entry to the most of grounds of the Botanical Gardens of Singapore is free – the only paid section is the National Orchid Garden (SGD 15 pp). This section of the garden boasts an impressive collection of 2000 types of orchids.

How to get there

Botanic Gardens MRT (Downtown, Circle Line)

See the world largest indoor waterfall at Jewel in Changi Airport

Labelled as one of the best airports in the world, Changi is not only an airport, It’s a destination in itself!

Jewel at Changi (located in Terminal 2) is a shopping and entertainment precinct and the key attraction is the HSBC Rain Vortex – which is the largest indoor waterfall in the world!

You can see this amazing attraction for FREE as well as the Light and Sound light show that is on every evening from 7.30 pm.

Rain Vortex, the largest indoor waterfall in the world and a free attraction to see in singapore with kids
Indoor waterfall at Changi – Image by VacacionesPagodasBlog from Pixabay

Within Jewel there are also playgrounds, dining options and promotions for children that are posted frequently on the Jewel website.

There are also several paid attractions within Jewel. Canopy Park includes a Mirror Maze, a Hedge Maze, a sky bridge over the waterfall, a bouncing net and more!

You can book attractions at Jewel through Klook Singapore HERE.

Canopy bridge
Canopy Bridge at Changi – Image by Time from Pixabay

Located just outside Changi Airport is also the new bike path that is called Jurassic Mile. This is also a FREE attraction to see in Singapore with kids and features 20 full-size dinosaurs over a mile of the cycle/jogging path that connects Changi to popular East Coast Park.

All you need is to hire a bike – Changi Airport sometimes will have some deals HERE too with Bike Hire company GoCycling.

How to get there

Changi MRT Station or 15 minutes in a Taxi from the city centre of Singapore

Visit the palm lined Sentosa Beaches

Over in Sentosa, one of the most popular FREE attractions to see with kids is to visit its fabulous palm-lined beaches.

Palawan Beach is one of them and it also has a footbridge to cross to tiny Palawan island for some great sea views.

Palawan beach in Singapore, The beaches in Singapore are a popular free attraction to see in Singapore
Palawan Beach in Sentosa

A 7-Eleven is located right on the beach for an ice cream or cold drink, or you can head to many of the popular beach clubs (Paid entry) all along the beaches of Sentosa.

Other popular beaches for families visiting Sentosa include Siloso and Tanjong Beach that are located on either side of the island.

Big Bridge crossing to palawan island
The Big Bridge across from Palawan Beach to Palawan Island

How to get there

Sentosa Express from VivoCity Mall in Singapore to Beach Station

Stroll along Chinatown and Visit the Tooth Relic Temple

One of the largest historical districts of Singapore, visiting Chinatown is a must-see FREE attraction to see. Start by checking out the largest Hawker Centre in Singapore. The Chinatown Complex Hawker Centre is one of the best in Singapore and has over 200 food stalls.

Hawker centre
Chinatown Complex Hawker Centre

In this popular hawker centre you can try all sorts of Unique hawker dishes as well as some of the Classic hawker dishes.

On the basement of this complex there is also one of the largest wet markets in Singapore. Here you you can see a traditional working market with lots of live animals like seafood and frogs too!

Shophouses in Chinatown
The colourful Chinatown Shophouses

Venture outside and take a walk along the lined streets of souvenir shops. Look up to see the colourful shophouses that still retain a lot of charm as some date back as far as the the 1840s.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
The golden interior of the Tooth Relic Temple

Located also in the heart of Chinatown is the beautiful golden interiors of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. A must see FREE attractions to see in Singapore with kids to learn more about the culture of Buddhism and a popular place of worship.

Proper attire is required to enter the temple (covered shoulders and legs) and coverings are provided upon entry as needed.

How to get there

Chinatown MRT (Downtown, North East line)

Looking for Discounted tickets to popular attractions in Singapore?

Planning to head to other attractions in Singapore like Universal Studios Singapore or the S.E.A. Aquarium? Choose in advance the key paid attractions you want to visit, read reviews to see if an attraction is suitable for your family and shop around for discounted entries!

Universal Studios Singapore, a popular paid attraction in Singapore
Universal Studios Singapore – one of the most popular paid attractions on the island of Sentosa

Entry tickets can sometimes be purchased on discounted rates on a site like Klook in Singapore. If you are wanting to visit several attractions, a Klook Multi Attraction Pass is worth it to save some money rather than buying individual tickets.

Best Family – Friendly Accommodation in Singapore

Singapore

Shangri-La Singapore – Click HERE to Check Prices

Holiday Inn Express Clarke Quay – Click HERE to Check Prices

Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen – Click HERE to Check Prices

Sentosa Island

Village Hotel Sentosa – Click HERE to Check Prices

Shangri – La Rasa Sentosa – Click HERE to Check Prices

Hard Rock Hotel Sentosa – Click HERE to Check Prices

Village Hotel Sentosa Pool
Family Movie Nights by the pool at Village Hotel Sentosa

Want to Read More?

I hope you enjoyed this post on The Top 5 Free Attractions to Visit in Singapore with Kids. You can read more of my Singapore post in my posts here!

11 Unique Hawker Dishes to Try In Singapore

11 Best Known Hawker Dishes you have to try in Singapore

Village Hotel Sentosa Review

9 Tips on How to Save Money when Travelling to Singapore with kids

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Travel Tips

How to Save Money when travelling to Singapore with Kids

Heading to Singapore with the family and don’t want to break the bank? Check out these 9 Tips on How to Save Money when Travelling to Singapore with kids.

How to Save Money when travelling to Singapore with kids

Singapore is one of those places that has it all when it comes to family travel. A bustling city that is very safe, kid-friendly and easy to get around. A huge array of food options. Amazing kid-friendly resorts, world-class attractions to suit kids of all ages. Shopping in malls that never end.

Singapore is one of the most expensive cities to travel to
View over Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion

But, it is also costly, and saying yes to doing everything in this place also makes it for one very pricey holiday. Read on to learn more and on 9 Tips on How to Save When travelling to Singapore with kids.

Is Singapore expensive?

If you compare it to other cities in South East Asia, the answer is yes.

A taxi ride in Singapore will set you back more than double what a taxi will cost you in Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur.

resort world Sentosa, one of the priciest places in Singapore
Resorts World Sentosa

A burger in a decent family-friendly restaurant will cost you around SGD 25 per person. A small glass of wine will also cost as much as that burger. Yes, you read correctly.

Hop over to the glitzy island of Sentosa and an ice cream can set you back a whopping SGD 9 per scoop and paid entry to pretty much everything you see, including playgrounds.

But, a bit of research and planning can go a long way, and save you HUNDREDS, while still having an amazing holiday with the kids.

Lau Pas Sat, one of the popular Hawker centres in Singapore and a great place to check out for an inexpensive meal
Lau Pas Sat – The most popular Hawker Centre in Singapore

9 Tips on How to Save Money when Travelling to Singapore with Kids

Head to convenience stores for snacks, ice creams and drinks

If you are out for the day and need a cold drink, snacks, or ice creams, head to many of the local convenience stores like 7-Eleven that are all over Singapore to buy what you need with prices as little as SGD 2-3 per ice cream or drink. Most of these also sell light lunch options, and in some, some hot food to-go that you can heat up in-store.

Convenience stores like 7-Eleven are great places to refuel on drinks and snacks and one of the best ways to save money when travelling to Singapore with kids
7-Eleven on the beach in Sentosa

Top Tip: There is No need to buy any water! Tap water is SAFE to drink in Singapore so take your water bottle and fill up at the hotel before you head out to do sightseeing.

Skip the Breakfast Buffet and check out the local malls & supermarkets

Unless the breakfast is already included in your room package – paying for the buffet for a whole family can be expensive. Most family resorts charge around SGD 35-40 per adult and SGD 15-20 per child which can add up to over SGD 100 for the average family of 4.

Croissants from a bakery
Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Instead, Stock up at a local supermarket or bakery for your breakfast foods. There are several FairPrice, Cold Storage, Giant & Market Place throughout all of Singapore that have a vast variety of baked goods and pre-cut fruit, snacks, and drinks.

Popular bakery chain BreadTalk also has stores around of Singapore selling a huge range of freshly made pastries for SDG 3-4 per piece.

Local supermaket in Singapore, a great place to check out and re-stock on essentials to save money while travelling to Singapore
One of the many FairPrice Supermarkets across Singapore

If staying in Sentosa, head over for anything you need to VivoCity – it’s the largest shopping mall in the whole of Singapore.

It’s just a short few stops away on the monorail (ViVoCity Station on the Sentosa Express or HarbourFront stop on the MRT) – it has over 100 food stalls, as well as supermarkets, and was our go-to to stock up on anything we needed as a fraction of the price of what you can buy from Sentosa.

Use Public transport

Local taxis and the now widely used ride-sharing service Grab are popular options to get around and still quite affordable compared to other countries – but if want to travel on a budget and avoid the traffic jams – use the MRT (Underground Metro of Singapore). It’s clean, fast, and a very efficient way to get around in Singapore.

Travelling with the MRT is Singapore is cheap and efficient
The efficient MRT in Singapore. Image by Jason Goh from Pixabay

All the stations have easy access to the platforms for strollers and children below a height of 0.9 m (or 7 years old), can travel with their parents for FREE on the MRT.

To access the MRT, just tap your credit card on and off at your last stop. Depending on how far your are travelling each trip costs between SGD 1.50-2.50 per person.

Cut back on alcohol

Alcohol is taxed heavily in Singapore so the cost of any alcoholic beverage is pricey compared to other countries. Beers and wine can be purchased for cheaper from the supermarkets. A good alternative is also to head over to a hawker centre, which usually has beers for sale at SGD 7-8 which is just over half the price of the average beer in restaurants and bars in the city.

Alcohol is very expensive in Singapore

Plan your visits and shop around for discounted entries to key attractions

There are of course some attractions that are must-see in Singapore with kids, like Universal Studios, and are indeed paid – but well worth the money. Do your research before your trip, read reviews, and see if it is indeed an attraction that is worth it and suitable for the ages of the children.

Universal studios Singapore, one of the key attractions to visit with kids
Universal Studios Singapore

Entry tickets can sometimes be purchased at discounted rates on a site like Klook in Singapore or if you want to visit several attractions on your visit, a Klook Multi-Attraction Pass is worth it to save some money rather than buying individual tickets!

Connect to many of the Free Internet Hotspots

Free Wifi is widely available all over Singapore and you can easily connect to public wifi (Wireless@SGx) at malls, MRT stations, museums and many more places. This can save you lots rather than spending money on expensive overseas roaming charges! You can find more information on how to stay connected in Singapore on the Visit Singapore Tourism Page.

Wifi Hotspots can be found for free all over Singapore
Image by LEEROY Agency from Pixabay

Use a Coin Laundry instead of the Hotel Laundry

Laundry Service the resorts/ hotels in Singapore can be extremely expensive – the items washed are usually charged per item, and when travelling with kids the reality is that the washing doesn’t stop.

Using coin laundries is a very good way to save money when travelling with singapore with kids
Image by マサコ アーント from Pixabay

If you can manage to wash your own items in the room, or even better have a communal laundry you can use that’s great.

If not, a very affordable option is to find a coin laundry. The cost to wash and dry a large load of laundry is around SGD 10. Ideally, find a laundrette that is near your accommodation, a lunch stop or something to visit so you can easily drop off and collect the laundry when done. There is a handy guide HERE on the popular coin laundry stores in Singapore.

Eat at hawker centres

Hawker centers are absolutely fantastic places to try the amazing food that Singapore has to offer. Very popular with locals and tourists, you are bound to find dishes that everyone in the family will love as there are many stalls selling a variety of dishes all under one roof.

Hawker centres in Singapore are everywhere and a great place to get cheap authentic meals
Hawker Centre

At prices as little at 4 SGD per dish, the food is very affordable and extremely tasty. It’s defenitely a top tip on How to Save money when travelling to Singapore with kids.

You can check out my other posts on some of the most popular and unique dishes to try in Singapore, Here on Unique and Classic Dishes you have to try at hawker centers!

one of the many hawker dishes in Singapore, tasty, authentic and cheap
Hawker Food

Visit and cool off at some of the many free attractions in Singapore

Sightseeing and visiting some of the popular attractions in Singapore like Universal Studios or Singapore Zoo is not cheap – but there are several things that you can do that are completely free too!

Take advantage of the free attractions in Singapore like the waterpark at Gardens by the bay
Free Waterpark at Gardens by The Bay

Take a stroll around Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay and cool off at the huge splash park. Visit the pristine beaches at Sentosa or wander in the manicured Botanical Gardens. Admire the shophouses in China Town and wonder in the many souvenir shops. The Tooth Relic Temple around the corner is a must-see and also free.

Read more on the Top 5 Free Attractions to see in Singapore Coming Soon.

The Sentosa Beaches are free and can be explored by everyone when in Sentosa
Palawan Beach in Sentosa

Best Family – Friendly Accommodation Options in Singapore

Singapore

Shangri-La Singapore – Click HERE to Check Prices

Holiday Inn Express Clarke Quay – Click HERE to Check Prices

Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen – Click HERE to Check Prices

Sentosa Island

Village Hotel Sentosa – Click HERE to Check Prices

Shangri – La Rasa Sentosa – Click HERE to Check Prices

Hard Rock Hotel Sentosa – Click HERE to Check Prices

Village Hotel Sentosa , a family friendly hotel on the island
Village Hotel Sentosa

Want to Read More?

I hope you enjoyed this post on How to Save Money when Travelling to Singapore with Kids. You can read more of my Singapore post in my posts here!

11 Unique Hawker Dishes to Try In Singapore

11 Best Known Hawker Dishes you have to try in Singapore

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