by Loreena Walsh | NSW Destinations & Activities, Slider Features
If you’ve been following our hunt for the best family activities in Sydney, you’ll know we had a great time exploring Sydney things to do with kids, and experience things we’d never had the chance to do before. Something we hadn’t considered doing before was bike riding in Sydney with kids. We were really excited to visit the awesome people at Manly Bike Tours who provided us with the perfect bike setup, so every family member could have a great time.
I’ll be truthful, I don’t think I’d really ridden a bike since school and I felt pretty wobbly when we started out. Matt and the kids were really confident, and Byron was tucked nicely behind Matt’s bike on a tag-along bike so that he could enjoy the ride, but not get too tired or have an accident. He enjoyed being on the tag-along, but something tells me he would have been a better rider than his poor mum :).
Anyway, wobbles were soon forgotten and we headed off along the Manly Esplanade, and WOW! It was gorgeous! I soon forgot that it had been years since I’d enjoyed the freedom of bike riding and started to navigate my way amongst the walkers, joggers, couples and children scattered along the esplanade enjoying the warm, sunny afternoon. I was really surprised at how relaxing the experience was, and to be honest got totally disappointed when the couple of hours we’d allocated to spending here was coming to an end.
We chose to stick to the Esplanade, which is a safer option with the kids, rather than navigating streets and crossings. When you pick your bike up from Manly Bike Tours, it’s a short walk through the corso over to the esplanade. It’s important to note that you need to walk your bikes through the corso as no bikes are allowed to be ridden in there. Helmets are provided, and you can see by our photos that little carry packs are located on the front of the bikes that allow you to carry items such as your mobile phone etc.
The Where and How of Bike Riding with Kids in Manly
Our bikes were provided by Manly Bike Tours. They offer a huge range of bikes for adults and kids including tag-alongs and bike trailers for littlies. The team provide maps and will give you a run down on where is the best track to take based on how challenging you’d like your ride to be and the ages of your kids.
Enjoy Manly with Kids
While this wasn’t something I’d considered doing before, hiring a bike and exploring Manly was a really special way to experience the Manly Esplanade, and show the kids another side to Sydney. I totally fell in love with Manly while we were there, as it had been years since we’d visited. We stayed there the night and enjoyed an evening wander through the corso, had dinner down on the wharf and despite being exhausted by a morning at Taronga Zoo, we took the time to soak up the warm, salt filled evening, and finished up with a treat of Ben and Jerry’s Ice cream when we wandered home to our hotel and then relaxed in the spa!
Next time your looking for Sydney things to do with kids, then be sure to head over to Manly, hire a bike and explore the amazing area, we promise you won’t be disappointed, even if you start out a bit wobbly on the bike like me 🙂
by Loreena Walsh | NSW Destinations & Activities, Slider Features
If you’re looking for the best family attractions in Sydney so you can have a great day out with the kids, then we absolutely must recommend Taronga Zoo. We recently visited Taronga as part of our 2 day holiday exploring the best family activities in Sydney and wow did we have fun!
Our Family Day Out at Taronga Zoo.
The day started with excitement and suspense with an early morning start and drive down the highway to Sydney. As we approached the grand entrance, the kids couldn’t control their excitement, trying their hardest to guess what animals they might see inside. The kids spotted the sky-lift first up just outside the main gate, so we jumped aboard and did the round trip “WOW” the view was breathtaking and gave us a good idea of where we wanted to go first, with views over the harbour and over the zoo. The sky-lift is used for ferry access too and from the zoo.
After taking in the view, we headed straight for the seal show which was amazing!
Here’s an insider tip, if you’re going to sit down in the front row, you might want to bring a towel with you 🙂
The keepers are really great with these amazing animals. The seals showed off their amazing speed and acrobatic abilities whilst simulating their hunting techniques and teaching us about the man-made threats they encounter in the wild, with one of the biggest threats being ocean pollution.
Next on the list was the mountain Gorillas, who were active, especially the babies, as feed time was approaching. The overwhelming size of the male demanded respect and the way they interacted with each other was humorous and cheeky.
The keeper gave an informative talk about their natural habits and environmental dangers affecting them which shocked us when we heard that the biggest threat to these amazing animals is coltan mining, a substance that is used in all mobile phones!
This information left us with a great message to recycle our old mobiles, something we all need to remember.
A short stroll up the hill was the Giraffes exhibit where they enjoy one of the greatest views of the harbour ,the kids spotted the reptile section which was amazing then we headed down to grab some lunch at the food court which had a great variety of food and over looked the majestic elephants . After lunch we headed down to see the penguins and leopard seals , another amazing exhibit with under water viewing .
There’s just way too many animals to list but it was an a day we won’t forget .
How to Get to Taronga Zoo Sydney
Taronga Zoo is located in Mosman on the North Shore of Sydney. To add some fun to your day out, you can consider taking a ferry from the city which is a super exciting family experience, and a great way to see the harbour. Buses are also available, but will take longer, and if you prefer, there’s plenty of parking and finding your way there via car is pretty easy, using either your own GPS or maps on your phone which is what we did. The car park is an easy walk to the entrance, there is a parking fee, so remember to take your ticket with you so you can pay on your way out back to the car park.
Tips for Visiting Taronga Zoo Sydney with Kids.
- Spending the day out at the zoo with kids is a HUGE day, and we mean HUGE!! There is so much to see, that you’ll be kept busy for an entire day. Here’s our tips for making sure you have a great day out.
- Good, comfortable walking shoes are essential
- Be sure to pack a hat and sunscreen
- Pack plenty of bottled water, there are cafe’s there if you forget, but you’ll need to keep hydrated.
- Pack your own lunch and snacks if you’re on a budget. Again, there is food available, and there’s a good variety of choices for what to eat, but as any parent will know, eating out with kids can be expensive and packing your own will save money.
- For young children a stroller would be a good idea (The zoo offers them for hire if you need to borrow one).
- Download the free iphone app for a bit of extra fun.
- Buy your tickets online before you arrive to save time.
- Plan your day, but be flexible, The map provided is a great resource and the show times will all be provided, plan accordingly so not to miss the informative keeper talks.
- Allow yourselves plenty of time so you have time to stop, relax and enjoy.
Do Something for the Benefit of the Planet.
Remember, that by visiting the zoo, you’re doing great things to contribute toward research and breeding programs that support endangered animals worldwide. If you’re feeling generous and want to do something unique, think about adopting an animal. We adopted the Bilbies, and it was great to see them up close knowing our donation had helped even if just a little toward helping the zoo do great things for Bilbies.
So if you’re looking for the best family fun in Sydney, consider heading to the zoo, you won’t be disappointed.
Have you been to Taronga Zoo Sydney? What was your favourite animal?
by Loreena Walsh | NSW Destinations & Activities, Slider Features
Sydney is a place that we hold near to our hearts. I (Loreena) was born in Sydney, and before having our children we lived in Sydney for a while, at the gorgeous Maroubra Beach. So it was with great excitement that we go to take part in experiencing some of the best family activities in Sydney recently and we get to share those experiences with you.
These family activities offer a range of fun for kids and adults of all ages, and cover a wide range of interests, so here’s four amazing things to do on your next Sydney holiday.
Surf Lessons on Bondi Beach with Let’s Go Surfing.
Not only is surfing as a family something fun to do, getting to experience the waves on the iconic Bondi Beach adds an entire dimension of excitement to this super cool experience. Let’s Go Surfing are the surfing experts in Bondi and they’ll have you standing up on a board in no time, feeling the exhilaration of mother nature.
Bike Riding in Manly with Manly Bike Tours
Our kids love bike riding, but it wasn’t something I would have planned on doing as it had been a while since I’d ridden a bike. WOW I would have been missing out! Talk about fun, riding a bike with the kids along Manly esplanade was such a relaxing way to spend the afternoon and take in the stunning views that Manly has to offer. Manly Bike Tours have a range of bikes on offer, from tandem bikes, cruisers, kids bikes and the tag along bike, where, as you can see in the picture below attaches to the back of the adult bike allowing younger children to come along for the ride. Definitely a highly recommended Sydney activity for families
Taronga Zoo Family Day Out
Another one of the iconic things to do in Sydney, a visit to Taronga Zoo is a must. Be sure to allow yourself a full day to explore everything the zoo has to offer. The cable car at the zoo entrance offers a stunning view of the city skyline, including the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. The range of animals on offer for viewing at the zoo is amazing so close to the city, with everything from native Australian wildlife to exotic animals such as Orangutans, which are one of my favourites. There’s lots to be learned about conservation while you’re there, and children of all ages will be talking about their visit for days to come as our youngest was.
Sydney Bridge Climb – Father and Son Time
WOW, is the most common word that was used to explain the exhilaration of experiencing the Sydney Bridge Climb. With only Jackson being old enough to take part in this experience (children must be aged 10+), Matt and Jackson took the opportunity to have some father, son bonding time and it worked a treat. The smiles and excitement before and especially after they got to climb to the peak of the Harbour Bridge were so great I was left feeling a little envious! I’m glad we went in with them to see them off inside the building, as when we stepped in, we uncovered a museum that allowed all of us to discover the history of the bridge and some interactive experiences for the younger kids too.
Put Yourself in the Picture
Destination NSW have come up with a really unique way to put yourself in the picture of some of the best family activities in Sydney. Simply head on over to Sydney 360 and upload a photo to see yourself doing some of the amazingly fun things Sydney has to offer. Take a look at Jackson Kayaking on the harbour below, and then create your own for a bit of fun! Jackson Kayaking on Sydney Harbour with Sydney 360.
Check out the our family fun in Sydney at Taronga Zoo.
by Loreena Walsh | NT Destinations & Activities
There’s plenty of Australian Outback destinations you could tick of your bucket list. The Aussie outback is massive, and features many natural attractions which provide a dramatic backdrop to an unforgettable adventure. Travelling around it is one of the best uses for cars in Australia – here are five must-see destinations for any budding Outback traveller.
The Devils Marbles
In the Aboriginal story of creation, the Rainbow Serpent created the Earth and then went to the point where the rainbow meets the Earth. The eggs of the Serpent fossilised to become what Aborigines call ‘Karlukarlu’ and in English are known as the Devils Marbles.
The Devils Marbles, sacred to Aborigines, are granite rocks of volcanic origin that have been eroded over time but can still be as wide as seven metres. Guidebooks often feature photographs of only two of the marbles, leading many people to believe that is all that exists, but there are actually many more. The Marbles are best seen at sunset where even the most amateur snapper will be able to take a photograph worthy of a postcard.
Kakadu National Park
The Kakadu National Park covers an area of almost 20,000 km2 – the size of Slovenia. There is much to do in the Park all year round. You could experience the rock art galleries of Nourlangie, marvel at the manifold birds of the Yellow Water and Mamukala wetlands, see the wildlife up close on a boat cruise, or scale the escarpment for astounding views.
Mataranka Bitter Springs and Thermal Pools
The Mataranka Bitter Springs are a natural alternative to the Mataranka thermal pools that nestle in a concrete jungle, and are much deeper. The temperature is a constant 32°C and there is much wildlife in the form of fish and turtles. Barras can also be fed nearby.
Uluru
Uluru was previously known as Ayers Rock before adopting it’s traditional name. Its Aboriginal owners refer to themselves as ‘Anangu’ and act as tour guides. The Ayers Rock Resort located just outside the park is the only available accommodation. The Aboriginal name for it is ‘Yulura’, meaning “weeping,” which wags say is what visitors do when they see their bill, although some accommodation is targeted at budget travellers.
Uluru is beautiful, stark and dramatic. Its appearance changes as the sun moves. It is 358 metres high. Temperatures can be as low as -8°C at night and as high as 48°C by day. The Rock’s distinctive red coating is the result of the iron content of the rock rusting. Roads are coated with bitumen, so you won’t need to be driving an offroad car to enjoy the location.
Kings Canyon
Four hours’ drive from Uluru, in the midst of Watarrka National Park, is Kings Canyon. Its huge, vertical sandstone walls tower above dense forests of ferns and palms. The Canyon can be enjoyed by foot, quad bike and camel. If you succumbed to one of the many Australian 4×4 reviews and purchased such a vehicle, you could experience it that way. The more adventurous could ascend Heartbreak Hill, which is sometimes known as Heart Attack Hill due to its steepness.
Lastly…
The Australian Outback is vast and wild and has been the subject of myth ever since European settlers first arrived in the country. There’s so much to offer for both short and long trips, for those who live close by, our tourists who travel from far away places. Either way, it’s well-worth a road trip with the family or friends.
by Loreena Walsh | VIC Destinations & Activities
When planning a family holiday, it is not always easy to keep every family member happy. So for a great day out that has something for everybody, the in the gorgeous state of Victoria, family day trip ideas are everywhere. From markets to railways, to museums and galleries, there’s activities that include kids rides, to cultural indulgence. So let’s take a look at some quick tips for a day out.
Arriving at Melbourne gives you the chance to experience the metropolitan life and Australian culture. There are plenty of Melbourne family attractions that let the kids connect with nature, while providing plenty of relaxation time for parents too. Taking a ride on the free tram is also a great way to navigate the city and see what’s on offer. So let’s take a look at a few things to do:
Luna Park
This iconic theme park will keep the entire family entertained for hours and hours. From the youngest members to the oldest, get swept away in the joy, happiness and exhilaration that is Luna Park.
Adventure Park in Geelong
With watery fun for the entire family, the Adventure Park at Geelong offers fast paced extreme water rides, right through to a tiny tot splash zone. The restored 1920’s style grande carousel offers something different and unique to experience while you’re there.
Caribbean Gardens Market
The Caribbean Gardens Market is a brilliant idea for a family day out. First of all, there is a huge number of stalls selling fresh produce, IT equipment, clothes and many more things. However, probably the most exciting attraction is the rides. Together, you can explore the gardens by a fancy train, by boat or by chair lift. The Gardens offer many playgrounds for the little ones and give the parents time to relax in the greens.
Diamond Valley Railway Eltham
Old and young alike are fascinated by history and the imagination often drifts away to the more adventurous times. In the Diamond Valley Railway people can learn about and travel on passenger carrying railways built there in miniature. Driving through forests and bush, everyone can truly feel drawn back to a different time.
Of course, when travelling with many members of the family, the budget has to be planned carefully. For that reason, the theme park visits are best organized with regard to seasonal discount offers which occur now and then and sometimes even the whole year round. The internet proves to be a great place to find various coupons for getting discounts. In that way, the trip does not cut a deep hole into the money bag, and leaves the opportunity to repeat a trip like this more often.
by Loreena Walsh | SA Destinations & Activities
Last night, I decided to sit up into the wee hours of the morning to edit some video footage of our Kangaroo Island Holiday. It was super special footage of us swimming with dolphins on Kangaroo Island and you just HAVE to see it.
The dolphins in this photo are swimming just under Matt’s legs, and the chatter that is echoing through the water is just amazing to listen to as they talk to each other.
The problem of course is that the program crashed on me and I hadn’t saved at any point during the process, so I’ve now got to start from scratch and re-edit the entire video (you’d think I’d learn!).
But, I’m so in love with this part of our holiday that I couldn’t wait to share it with you because revisiting the footage has me yearning to go back to KI (everyone should go in their lifetime) so I’ve taken some snapshots from within the video to share with you now, and I’ll be back with the video tomorrow 🙂
