Looking for a family-friendly resort for a summer holiday? With kids, a holiday when you just chuck all your stuff in the car and take off, is not only a lot cheaper than flying somewhere, it’s also a lot easier. And there are so many fabulous resorts within a 2-3 hour drive of Sydney that are perfect for a summer break!
Family-friendly summer resorts near Sydney
Avoca Palms Resort (Avoca Beach, Central Coast)
‘If you want a quick drive, beach pool and cafes all together, Avoca Palms Resort is pretty good.’ – Sam
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay (Shoal Bay, Port Stephens)
‘Self contained apartments, slightly heated outside pool with sand pit next to it, restaurants and takeaway (and an IGA) in bottom of the complex, flat water beach across the road (complete with long park with BBQs and a footpath that doubles as a scooter path), waves beach 5 minutes drive away! Plus it has a day spa. We go every Jan – its is the most relaxing holiday that is possible with kids.’ – Vic
Shoal Bay
Pullman Magenta Shores (near the Entrance)
‘Fabulous villa accommodation, great pools, tennis court, bistro dining available but great kitchen in villas, too good!’ – Abi
Star of the Sea Terrigal (Terrigal, Central Coast)
‘We go to Terrigal and stay at Star of the Sea. They have an indoor heated pool and an outdoor heated pool. It is awesome. One hour drive north, 3 bedroom apartments.’ – Stephanie
Oaks Pacific Blue (Salamander Bay, Port Stephens)
‘We’ve stayed in the 3 bedroom townhouse quite a few times & the 2 bedroom poolside – great place to eat is the Soliders Point RSL or bowling club that has a great play area for kids, cheap food & a five-minute drive from the resort.’ – Lou
Mobys Beachside Retreat (Boomerang Beach, Pacific Palms)
‘We stayed in a 3-bedroom apartment. Lots of space, and a lovely apartment! There is a beautiful lagoon pool (kids spent hours in there!) and a spa. Plus, it’s just across from Boomerang Beach. Love it, we’ll be going back again this summer.’ – Rebecca
Sevan Apartments (Forster)
‘Fantastically well-appointed apartment (especially the kitchen – great if you want to cook a bit!). Lovely views of the water and close to shops and Forster’s main beach’ – Victoria
Sails Beach Apartments (Forster)
‘Luxury apartments with everything you could possibly need. A lovely pool on site, and right in the middle of Forster, so a 2-minute walk from the beach, shops and restaurants. Great with kids!’ – Kate
More holiday ideas!
- Travel Review: Bangalay Luxury Villas, Shoalhaven Heads
- Travel Guide: Things to do with kids on the Central Coast
- Travel Guide: Best things to do with kids in Port Stephens
- Travel Review: NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort, Central Coast
- Travel Guide: Things to do with kids on the Gold Coast (beyond the theme parks!)
