Winter might feel like it’s still a little way off, but when it comes to planning a family getaway, now is the time to book. From cosy hinterland retreats to sunny coastal escapes, Australia’s most popular winter destinations fill quickly — particularly across the June–July school holidays.
One of the biggest advantages of winter travel in Australia is the variety. Families can head north for warm, sunny days, venture south for a true winter experience, or opt for a relaxed regional escape — all within a few hours’ drive of a capital city or major hub.
To help you get ahead, here are some of the most popular and reliable winter getaways for families in each state, with destinations that combine easy access, great activities and strong caravan and camping options.
Queensland remains one of the most in-demand winter holiday destinations for families, thanks to its mild temperatures, reliable sunshine and wide range of outdoor activities.
Sunshine Coast (Noosa, Mooloolaba, Caloundra) — 1–2 hours from Brisbane
The Sunshine Coast offers a mix of beachside relaxation and nature-based activities. Noosa is a standout, with the coastal track through Noosa National Park providing easy, family-friendly walks and regular wildlife sightings. Mooloolaba and Caloundra are ideal for younger families, with calmer beaches, playgrounds and accessible waterfront areas. The region also offers attractions like the SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium and Australia Zoo, making it a well-rounded winter holiday destination.
Gold Coast (Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads) — 1–1.5 hours from Brisbane
The Gold Coast combines warm winter weather with high-energy attractions. Families can enjoy the beaches across Surfers Paradise and Burleigh, while the major theme parks — Warner Bros. Movie World, Dreamworld and Sea World — make it one of the most popular family holiday hubs in the country. The nearby hinterland, including Mount Tamborine and Springbrook, offers walking tracks, lookouts and a quieter pace.
Scenic Rim (Tamborine Mountain, Canungra, Boonah) — 1–2 hours from Brisbane
For a slower-paced escape, the Scenic Rim region offers farm stays, bushwalking and wide-open spaces. Families can explore areas like Lamington National Park, enjoy picnic spots and short hikes, or settle into a campsite with a campfire — a classic winter caravanning holiday.
Find family-friendly parks via Caravanning Queensland.
New South Wales offers one of the most diverse winter travel landscapes, from cool-climate mountain escapes to quieter coastal regions.
Blue Mountains (Katoomba, Leura, Blackheath) — 1.5–2 hours from Sydney
The Blue Mountains is a classic winter holiday destination. Families can visit Scenic World for cableway and railway rides, explore lookouts across the Three Sisters, and enjoy short bushwalks suited to all ages. Winter brings crisp air, misty mornings and a strong focus on cosy cafés and indoor attractions.
Hunter Valley (Pokolbin, Lovedale) — 2–2.5 hours from Sydney
The Hunter Valley has become increasingly family-friendly, offering more than just wineries. Highlights include cycling paths between cellar doors, open green spaces, and attractions like the Hunter Valley Gardens, which features themed gardens and seasonal displays. It’s a relaxed destination with plenty of space for kids to explore.
Jervis Bay / South Coast (Huskisson, Vincentia) — 2.5–3 hours from Sydney
Known for its white sand beaches and calm waters, Jervis Bay is a strong winter option thanks to fewer crowds and the start of whale watching season. Families can explore Booderee National Park, with walking tracks, picnic areas and sheltered beaches.
Browse parks via Caravan and Camping NSW.
Victoria is a go-to for families wanting a more traditional winter holiday, including cooler weather, snow play and cosy regional escapes.
Yarra Valley (Yarra Glen, Healesville) — 1–1.5 hours from Melbourne
The Yarra Valley blends food, nature and family-friendly attractions, with a range of holiday parks and caravan parks providing an easy base. Stops like the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery are a major drawcard, alongside farm gates, scenic drives and open spaces, making it a relaxed winter getaway.
Mornington Peninsula (Rye, Sorrento, Dromana) — 1–1.5 hours from Melbourne
The Mornington Peninsula offers a mix of coastal scenery and relaxation. The Peninsula Hot Springs is a highlight for adults, while families can enjoy beaches, coastal walks and local markets in a quieter off-peak setting.
Victorian High Country (Marysville, Bright, Mansfield) — 2–3.5 hours from Melbourne
The Victorian High Country is a flexible, camping-friendly base for winter holidays. Towns like Marysville, Bright and Mansfield offer a range of caravan parks, with easy access to nearby snow areas including Lake Mountain, Mt Buffalo and Mt Buller. Families can enjoy snow play during the day, then return to lower-altitude stays with great facilities, along with rail trails, short walks and local food spots to explore.
Discover parks via Caravan Parks Victoria.
South Australia’s winter holiday appeal lies in its proximity to nature, food regions and coastline — all easily accessible from Adelaide.
Adelaide Hills (Hahndorf, Stirling, Mount Lofty) — 30–45 minutes from Adelaide
A quick escape from the city, the Adelaide Hills offers cooler temperatures, scenic drives and family-friendly attractions. Wildlife parks, local markets and short walking trails make it ideal for a weekend getaway.
Barossa Valley (Tanunda, Nuriootpa, Angaston) — 1–1.25 hours from Adelaide
The Barossa combines food, open space and relaxed experiences. Many cellar doors cater to families with outdoor areas, while bakeries, farm shops and cycling paths add variety beyond wine.
Victor Harbor / Fleurieu Peninsula — 1–1.5 hours from Adelaide
The Fleurieu Peninsula is a classic coastal destination, with attractions like Granite Island, the horse-drawn tram as well as a range of coastal holiday parks across Victor Harbor, Port Elliot and Goolwa. During winter, whale watching becomes a highlight along the Fleurieu coastline.
Explore parks via SA Parks.
Western Australia’s winter is ideal for road trips, offering cooler temperatures without losing access to beaches and outdoor experiences.
Swan Valley — 20–30 minutes from Perth
The Swan Valley is one of the easiest getaways from Perth, with food producers, parks and family-friendly venues all within a short drive. It’s ideal for day trips or overnight stays.
Busselton / Dunsborough — 2.5–3 hours from Perth
These coastal towns offer a strong mix of beachfront holiday parks and family-friendly attractions. Highlights include the Busselton Jetty, calm swimming beaches and foreshore playgrounds, making it an easy, low-stress winter holiday.
Margaret River — 3–3.5 hours from Perth
Margaret River combines coastline, forests and attractions like Ngilgi Cave. Chocolate factories, farm experiences and cosy accommodation make it a popular winter choice.
Find places to stay via Caravan & Camping Western Australia.
Tasmania offers one of the most distinct winter experiences in Australia, with cooler temperatures, alpine landscapes and seasonal events.
Freycinet National Park (Coles Bay) — 2.5–3 hours from Hobart
Freycinet offers quieter conditions in winter, with walking tracks to Wineglass Bay, coastal lookouts and scenic drives. Cooler weather makes it ideal for exploring.
Cradle Mountain — 2.5 hours from Launceston, 4.5–5 hours from Hobart
Cradle Mountain is a bucket-list destination, with snow potential, abundant wildlife and accessible walking trails suitable for families. Nearby holiday parks like Discovery Resorts – Cradle Mountain, keep you right in the heart of the region.
Hobart surrounds (Richmond, kunanyi / Mount Wellington) — within 20–60 minutes of Hobart
The Hobart region combines markets, cultural attractions and nearby nature, with a range of holiday parks located within easy reach of the city. Short drives take you to historic towns, lookouts and walking tracks, making it a flexible option for a winter getaway.
Browse parks via Caravanning Tasmania.
Winter is peak travel season in the Northern Territory, with dry season conditions making travel more accessible and comfortable.
Litchfield National Park — 1–1.5 hours from Darwin
Litchfield is known for its accessible waterfalls and swimming spots, including Wangi Falls and Florence Falls. Sealed roads and short distances make it ideal for families looking for a winter holiday closer to home.
Kakadu National Park — 2.5–3 hours from Darwin
Kakadu offers wetlands, wildlife and cultural experiences. In winter, more areas are accessible, and conditions are ideal for exploring its many walking trails and lookouts.
Darwin and surrounds (Mindil Beach, Berry Springs) — within 30–60 minutes of Darwin
Darwin offers a relaxed, outdoor-focused base for winter, with several well-equipped holiday parks in and around the city. Families can explore the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, waterfront precinct and outdoor dining scene, while nearby spots like Berry Springs Nature Park provide easy day trips with swimming areas, picnic facilities and open space.
Find parks via Caravanning Northern Territory.
Whether you’re heading north for warmer weather, south for a true winter experience, or simply looking for a short regional break, there are plenty of family-friendly destinations within easy reach of home for the winter holidays.
The key is to plan ahead. Popular regions, particularly coastal areas, snow destinations and school holiday periods — book out quickly.
Start planning now, secure your spot, and get ready to make the most of winter holidays on the road.
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