When it comes to enjoying lavish family holidays, there is an abundance of incredible resorts scattered across the world that would make the ideal place for a vacation like no other, and Australia is one such place that offers the perfect setting for memorable trip.
The sprawling country is arguably the ultimate family holiday destination, but while a sandy beach is enough to satisfy younger children, teenagers are notoriously difficult to please. The travel specialists at Red Savannah have compiled some of their recommended retreats for families with teenagers, with plenty to occupy even the most screen-absorbed teen.
From nocturnal wildlife safaris and surfing adventures to paddleboarding in the Whitsundays and ‘heart-of-the-action’ city gems, here are five of the finest family retreats in Australia.
Sal Salis, Cape Range National Park, Western Australia
For an off-grid family adventure unlike any other opt for a stay at Sal Salis, a luxury eco-retreat set in a secluded spot within the dunes of Western Australia’s Cape Range National Park.
With limited Wi-Fi and no televisions, it offers a real opportunity for families to reconnect and explore the beautiful Ningaloo Coast which is home to a vibrant array of marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and whale sharks and Humpbacks (depending on the time of the year). Sal Salis offers a full roster of activities including snorkelling safaris, kayaking and wildlife-spotting guided walks.
Accommodation comprises eco-luxe tents that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings and offer all the comforts expected of a luxury retreat including comfortable beds, ensuite bathrooms, and private decks with stunning ocean views.
Best suited to: Eco-conscious families seeking off-grid adventure (ideally suited to children over 10 years of age).
redsavannah.com/australasia/australia/hotels/sal-salis
Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island, New South Wales
Just a two-hour flight from Sydney, on beautifully remote Lord Howe Island, Capella Lodge is barefoot luxury at its absolute best. Contemporary accommodation is nestled in the shadow of Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird with views extending to the subtropical reef beyond.
11km long by 2km wide (at its widest), it’s an easy and safe destination to explore on foot or by bike (guests are unlikely to encounter a car). The island accepts no more than 400 visitors at a time, and with less than 400 inhabitants, it has a true castaway feel to it.
There’s plenty to keep active teens occupied on land and sea, with beach barbecues, reef snorkelling at Ned’s Beach, surfing at Blinkie’s Beach, walking to the summit of Mount Gower, and spotting green turtles at Old Settlement Beach.
Best suited to: Energetic families with young teenagers (the resort welcomes children over 10 years of age).
redsavannah.com/australasia/australia/hotels/capella-lodge
Park Hyatt Sydney, New South Wales
From the rooftop pool to the signature restaurant, vistas of Sydney Harbour and the iconic Opera House are ever-present throughout the Park Hyatt Sydney. Ideally located to explore the abundant art galleries, independent coffee shops, colourful markets and mouth-watering street food of The Rocks, it’s the perfect destination for families with independent teenagers.
The famous harbour is best explored by boat; charter one for a day or two and navigate the numerous beach coves, perhaps mooring up for a picnic. For an adrenalin rush take a jet boat ride instead. For a high of a different kind, then the climb to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge is unbeatable.
Best suited to: Independent teenagers.
redsavannah.com/australasia/australia/hotels/park-hyatt-sydney
Silky Oaks, Daintree National Park, North Queensland
There are few better places to appreciate nature in Australia than the UNIESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park. At 180 million years old, it is estimated to be the oldest rainforest in the world. On the banks of the Mossman River, in an area of mountain woodland and dense rainforest, luxury eco-lodge Silky Oaks is a collection of 40 super-stylish treehouse residences which blend effortlessly into the naturally beautiful surroundings.
Wild swimming, canoeing, rainforest hikes and learning about traditional hunting and foraging on guided mangrove walks allow children to unleash their wild side, whilst watching for green possums, goanna lizards and tree kangaroos. There’s the opportunity to uncover some of Queensland’s First Nations culture, too, on a ‘Dreamtime’ walk through Mossman Gorge with a Kuku Yalanji guide, and an Aboriginal art workshop. Luxury treehouse accommodation will appeal to everyone’s sense of adventure without compromising on comfort.
Best suited to: Nature-loving teens (minimum age 10).
redsavannah.com/australasia/australia/hotels/silky-oaks
Hamilton Island, Whitsunday Islands, Queensland
The beauty of staying on Hamilton Island is the ‘on tap’ access to the Great Barrier Reef, without the lengthy boat ride to reach it. With ocean stretching views as far as the eye can see, activities are naturally geared towards getting out on the water – and there are plenty of experiences for guests to choose from.
Paddleboard in the pristine waters, windsurf off Catseye Beach, explore hidden coves and picnic spots on bush walking trails, and head out on a motorised dinghy in search of turtles and beautiful beaches.
The Clownfish Kids Club can keep kids from six months to 12 years happily busy, whilst grown-ups set off on their own adventures or spend time on the driving range or at the spa.
Private properties on the island provide unique residences for families and range from small apartments to four-bedroom villas. Each residence is unique, beautifully furnished and affords naturally stunning views.
Best suited to: Families with children of all ages.
redsavannah.com/australasia/australia/itinerary/sydney-wilderness-and-reef
