Probably depends on when you want to stay in and explore Australia or do you want to go oversees closer or further away. Personally I don’t think the holiday feel depends on the place and has more to do with breaking the pattern of normal life, stop the race and relax, a different scenery, do fun activities together and truly connect with your family; this can be anywhere.
I prefer a holiday house above anything else and found this cost effective

We loved the Whitsundays. But generally if you’re travelling with young kids, can I suggest serviced apartments as an accommodation option? They’re cost effective and often more convenient.

Maybe look up family holiday sites too – they may have some good suggestions? NRMA have family holiday ideas, might be worth a look?

First thing is to work out what you want – beach, mountains, theme parks, peace and quiet or hustle and bustle. Once you have worked that out, check out something like travel auctions – you can get a great idea of what an area is like and what attractions there are. If it is the first time travelling with all the kids, I would suggest something not too far away!

I would definitely not recommend Fiji at the moment. The islands have suffered a lot of damage, part of it practically wiped out. We heard water supply has been contaminated by flood waters. We aren’t going there on a crusie until next Jan. but we have already been advised thar part of our itinerary may be amended. It takes considerable time for them to clear damaged buildings, trees, equipment etc. before they start replacing roads, buildings, facilities etc. I understand the airport was safe to do evacuations but I don’t know if they are flying tourists in at all. There was talk of Aust. offering assistance but never heard the outcome.

That is great idea. I find when kids are small, its best to travel simply and close destinations without too much hassles. I would opt for Australia as it is easy to travel and you know where you going with facilites es easy reached . We went to Terrigal and Central coast area numerous times because the kids loved it and it out of our suburb . When they are older travelling overseas is easier and safer unless you already have family there. That is my opinion .

Look out for some cruise specials. Sometimes they have deals like the third and fourth pays half. Lots of activities to do on board and all food inclusive… Kids playgroup that you can drop them off (kids older than 3).
We had a cruise with our dd then 1 year old, and she loved exploring the ship, dancing during the shows, doing all sort of activities they provide on board. Just be aware that to use the pool the kids have to be toilet trained. Have fun!

Holidays are fantastic! I don’t have multiple children but I do have a toddler. Could you drive up the cost and hire a house? Some houses are decently setup for babies. See the beach or bushwalk or tourists stuff like museums or mini-golf or a zoo.
Hope you find some where to go!

Agree, Fiji is fantastic for a family. I have also heard Penang (Malaysia) is great for a resort style holiday.

Thanks soooo much for suggestions everyone. I guess Fiji is the top pick so far but I too am worried about the impact of the cyclone. We’ve been to Gold Coast about 5 times so it’s like second home fur the kids, hubby and I and now we’re after a new exciting adventure. Thanks again and I’ll definetly be checking back for more suggestions.

FiJi is fantastic and the flight time is just long enough for kids. Find a family friendly resort and one that offers a special. You’ll find that at times you can get a stay 6 nights and pay for 3 nights special and also look for resort credit. It’s basically a daily dollar amount the resort give you to spend on food and beverage. The people there love kids and you’ll find that most offer a kids club with plenty of activities for children of all ages. At night they may have movie or disco nights for the kids.

Singapore is a wonderful place to go with loads of family activities.

It really does depend on the activities your family enjoy. Do you like adventure? being active? lazy days? Choose something that everyone will enjoy and when they are younger choose a destination that allows for access to everything you will need for them and has plenty of rest areas. Holidays within Australia are good when they are younger, ease and transport.

A couple of friends have taken children to Fiji & say it’s be wonderful. Also Cairns has been suggested a few times for the child friendly (& free) activities. (These are the 2 places I’ve been thinking about so have been asking around) Good luck!

We did the Gold Coast with our four, the youngest was 4 at the time. The theme parks were great for all ages, plus we went to the beach, aqua duck, mini golfing, Etc. Our next family holiday will be to Fiji, have t been but have been told it is great for families.

The most beautiful holiday we had was in Fiji. My daughter was 7 years old at the time. The place was gorgeous, cheap, very family-friendly. The weather was fantastic. In the resort there were plenty of activities for the kids. And so incredibly quiet.
But well, after the cyclone I don’t know how things have changed over there.