Bay Of Fires

Bay Of Fires

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Bay of Fires

Tasmania

Traveling to the Bay of Fires as a family offers a truly unforgettable experience. Immersing you in one of Australia’s premier nature regions. With exceptional beaches, river systems, forests, waterfalls, and mountains, this area is a haven for nature lovers. We stayed at the Tasman Caravan Park in St Helens, which proved to be a fantastic base for all our adventures in the region.

Discovering The Gardens

Our journey began with a visit to The Gardens, the northernmost part of the Bay of Fires. This remote wilderness meets a stunning coastline, offering pristine beaches and captivating walks. The untouched beauty of this area made it a highlight of our trip, and we highly recommend spending time exploring its natural wonders.

Beach Bliss at Binalong Bay

Next, we headed to Binalong Bay, a charming small town with unreal beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores provided a picturesque setting for a family day out. The kids loved splashing in the waves, and we enjoyed the serene ambiance of this coastal gem.

The Fascinating Little Blue Lake

Located at South Mount Cameron, Little Blue Lake is a geological marvel worth visiting. The lake’s hyper blue color is due to abnormal mineral levels, creating a mesmerizing sight. Although swimming is not advised, the fun walk around half the lake provided plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at its unique beauty.

Mountain Biking in Derby

For a change of pace, we visited Derby, a small town dedicated to mountain biking. With several world-class trails, driving into town felt like stepping into a mountain biking movie. We also indulged in a visit to the floating sauna, a truly exceptional and unique experience that left us refreshed and rejuvenated.

Culinary Delights and Natural Wonders

No trip to the Bay of Fires is complete without a visit to the Pub in the Paddock and Pyengana Dairy Company. The pub, one of Australia’s oldest, served exceptional food, and the dairy company offered live cow milking presentations and some of the most incredible ice cream we’ve ever tasted. Just up the road, St Columba Falls, one of Tasmania’s premier waterfalls, provided a spectacular sight. Ella found a small water hole near the falls for a refreshing dip.

Surfing and Sand Dunes

Beerbarrel Beach was a great spot for a surf, and Ella caught a couple of waves in the afternoon. However, be mindful of the tricky currents. We also visited Peron Dunes, an exceptional spot for the kids to slide down on bodyboards and have fun running around the massive dune system right on the beach.

Surf Village Vibes at Beaumaris Beach

Our adventure continued to Beaumaris Beach, a little surf village where we spent fun mornings chatting with locals and watching surfers. The open beach, with its left break off a small headland, provided an exciting surfing experience.

Navigating St Mary’s Pass

On our way to St Helens, we drove through St Mary’s and down St Mary’s Pass. After our experience with Bulli Pass, we were initially apprehensive, but we found this pass manageable if you take your time. Set your brakes right and enjoy the scenic drive without too much fret.

Traveling to the Bay of Fires as a family was a remarkable experience filled with adventure, natural beauty, and memorable moments. We can’t wait to return and explore even more of this incredible region.

Boat Harbour

Boat Harbour

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Locations, Tasmania

Exploring
Boat Harbour

Tasmania

Boat Harbour is one of the most incredible beaches, not just in Tasmania but in all of Australia. Nestled down a steep hill, this hidden gem offers a slice of paradise. This contrasts the usual rocky, uneven coastline typical of Northern Tasmania. Traveling to Boat Harbour as a family promises a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery.

The Hidden Gem of Tasmania’s North

Unlike much of the Northern Tasmanian coastline, which can be rugged and less inviting, Boat Harbour stands out with its pristine sands and clear waters. The small town of Boat Harbour is tucked away, providing a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While you’ll need to do your grocery shopping down the road at Burnie, once you’re settled in, you might find it hard to leave this coastal haven.

Activities and Adventures

Boat Harbour isn’t just about stunning views; it also offers a range of activities to keep the whole family entertained. We enjoyed mostly flat, beautiful days perfect for snorkeling and fishing. However, the area is also known for its surf, with waves rolling in when conditions are right.

The beach features a great café and a playground, providing a perfect spot for a relaxing day out. For those seeking more adventure, a trip to Sisters Beach offers more exploration opportunities. If you visit during the right time of year, the Tulip Farm at Table Cape, about 20 minutes east of Boat Harbour, is a must-see with its vibrant blooms.

Staying at Boat Harbour Beach Holiday Park

Our stay at the Boat Harbour Beach Holiday Park was a highlight of our trip. Although getting onto our site required some tricky driving and reversing our caravan up a hill. The stunning views made it all worthwhile. For those less inclined towards such challenges, easier sites are available. The park’s facilities were good, and it was a short walk down the hill to the beach. However, the steep walk back up led us to drive down most of the time.

Getting There

Reaching Boat Harbour involves a scenic drive down the highway, followed by a turn-off and a steep descent into the town. The road narrows significantly, so it’s important to take it easy and drive carefully.

Traveling to Boat Harbour as a family was an unforgettable experience, combining the serenity of a hidden beach paradise with various activities and adventures. Whether it’s snorkeling in calm waters, catching a wave, or exploring nearby attractions, Boat Harbour offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to create lasting memories in one of Tasmania’s most beautiful coastal towns.

Robe

Robe

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Locations, South Australia

Exploring
Robe

South Australia

Robe, situated as the primary town on the Limestone Coast, is an attractive destination for families traveling for a few key reasons. With its charming small-town atmosphere, Robe offers some of the best bakeries, cafes, and serene beaches. The town’s population more than quadruples during holiday periods due to its allure of peaceful living, so it’s best to head to Robe outside of school holidays for a more relaxed experience. We have made traveling to Robe as a family a little easier with the below suggestions.

Staying at Sea Vu Caravan Park

When it comes to accommodation, Robe has several caravan parks to choose from. We opted for Sea Vu Caravan Park, which provided us with easy walking access to shops, the beach, and the main playground in town. The convenience of this location made our stay enjoyable and stress-free, allowing us to explore the area without the need for extensive driving.

Beach Adventures and 4WD Fun

If you have a 4WD, heading down to Long Beach for some beach driving is a must. The beach was remarkably calm during our visit, making it perfect for swimming and surfing. The thrill of driving on the sand added an adventurous twist to our beach day.

Robe’s rugged coastline is dotted with intriguing features like the Obelisk and the lighthouse. These landmarks are perfect for a family exploration, providing both historical context and stunning views. For an added dose of adventure, 4WD down Evans Creek Road to navigate the dunes and check out the Southern beaches of Robe.

Savoring Local Flavors

No trip to Robe is complete without a visit to the local bakery, which has been running since 1884. Grabbing a pie here is not just a treat but a way to support a piece of Robe’s history. The bakery’s offerings are a testament to the town’s enduring charm and culinary tradition.

Navigating the Roads

The drive to Robe from Mt Gambier, and when leaving to head west, requires some caution. The roads are tight, which made us a little apprehensive at first. However, they aren’t too busy, which is a relief. It’s important to stay alert, especially since we almost had an encounter with a moose on our way from Robe.

Traveling to Robe as a family was an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and delightful discoveries. From the charming Sea Vu Caravan Park to the thrilling beach drives and historic landmarks, Robe offers a perfect blend of activities that cater to all ages. As you plan your visit, remember to savor the local flavors and stay cautious on the roads, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road

by | Jul 28, 2024 | Locations, Victoria

Exploring the
Great Ocean Road

Victoria

Traveling to the Great Ocean Road as a family is an experience filled with breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and unforgettable memories. Stretching along the southeastern coast of Australia, this iconic drive offers a wealth of activities and attractions that cater to all ages. Our family embarked on this journey, relishing the sights and sounds of this spectacular region.

Where to Stay

Finding the perfect accommodation is essential when exploring the Great Ocean Road. We chose to stay at the NRMA Park Port Campbell after spending a week in Torquay. Torquay served as an excellent base for exploring the eastern section of the road up to Lorne. From Port Campbell, we were perfectly positioned to enjoy the western half of this magnificent drive.

Lorne, Marengo, and Port Campbell are just a few of the fantastic spots worth spending a few nights. Each town has its unique charm and offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

Must-See Attractions

No trip along the Great Ocean Road would be complete without visiting its most famous landmarks. The Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps, and London Bridge are truly awe-inspiring. Despite the crowds, these sites are a must-see. Although Loch Ard Gorge was closed during our visit, the other attractions more than made up for this disappointment.

An unexpected gem we discovered was Marcus Point. This secluded spot was magic, providing a tranquil escape from the busier tourist areas. We enjoyed exploring the coastline here, taking in the stunning views.

Unique Experiences

Timboon is a delightful town that should not be missed. We spent a lovely afternoon indulging in Timboon Ice Cream and wandering through the town’s charming streets. Another highlight was the Bay of Martyrs, where Ella braved the cold for a refreshing swim in a picturesque setting.

Our adventure also took us to the Redwood Otways, a breathtaking forest that left us in awe. The towering trees and serene atmosphere made it a highlight of our trip. While in the area, we visited Hopetoun Falls. Although swimming is not allowed, the walk to the falls is well worth it for the stunning views.

Off-Grid Camping

For those seeking a more rustic experience, Johanna Beach offers a fantastic off-grid camping option. This spot holds special memories for us, especially when I had the chance to photograph world-renowned surfer John-John Florence here. It remains one of my favorite surf photography moments.

Memories of Marengo

Reflecting on our previous trip in 2017, we fondly remember our stay at the Marengo Family Caravan Park. Nestled on the headland, it provided a stunning backdrop for our Great Ocean Road adventure.

Travel Tips

Traveling the Great Ocean Road as a family requires some preparation, especially if you’re towing a caravan. The road is incredibly beautiful but also narrow and busy, so take care while driving. Despite the challenges, the journey is worth every moment for the unforgettable experiences and memories you’ll create.

All things considered, traveling to the Great Ocean Road as a family is an adventure that combines natural beauty, exciting activities, and quality time together. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this trip promises something special for everyone.

Torquay

Torquay

by | Jul 28, 2024 | Locations, Victoria

Exploring
Torquay

Victoria

Torquay, the first stop on your Great Ocean Road adventure, is a picturesque surf village about 20 minutes south of Geelong. With all the necessities available closer to Geelong and world-class beaches at your doorstep,  traveling to Torquay as a family is an excellent idea.

Staying at Breamlea Caravan Park

We chose to stay at Breamlea Caravan Park, located just five minutes east of Torquay. Our ten-day stay was perfect for its central location, allowing easy access to my work in Geelong and trips to Torquay, Anglesea, and Lorne. Additionally, the park was significantly cheaper than those in the nearby towns, making it an economical choice for families.

Surfing and Beach Fun

Torquay, Anglesea, and Lorne are renowned for their incredible surfing spots. We enjoyed hitting the waves at Point Impossible, Main Beach Torquay, and the iconic Bells Beach. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner, these beaches offer something for everyone.

Playground Adventures

Our kids had a blast at the playgrounds in both Torquay and Lorne. These massive free-play style parks provided endless entertainment, with new friends to meet and adventurous games to play. The playgrounds were a highlight of our trip, offering a perfect blend of fun and relaxation.

The Australia National Surfing Museum was an absolute treat and had lots of interactive opportunities for the kids to experience and learn through action.

Scenic Lookouts and Waterfalls

One of the most beautiful spots we visited was Point Addis, which boasts a raw and stunning lookout and beach to explore. Another highlight was Erskine Falls, located west of Lorne. The walk to the falls was enjoyable and gave us a chance to immerse ourselves in nature and explore with the kids.

The Great Ocean Road Drive

Driving along the Great Ocean Road is a marvel in itself. The route passes through multiple charming villages, with numerous lookouts and beaches to explore. The scenic beauty of this drive is unparalleled, making it a must-do for anyone visiting the area.

Nearby Towns Worth Exploring

Barwon Heads is another beautiful town close to Torquay that’s worth exploring with the family. We also spent an afternoon at Queenscliff Jetty, soaking in the rich history of this part of Victoria. These towns offer additional attractions and experiences that complement the Torquay adventure.

Traveling to Torquay as a family offers a perfect blend of surf, sand, and scenic beauty. With its world-class beaches, adventurous playgrounds, and breathtaking lookouts, Torquay and its surrounding towns provide plenty to see and do for those looking to experience some of Australia’s best coastal and natural attractions.