Thanks to thousands of creative entries, we can now reveal the definitive list of 13 dream Aussie holiday experiences to do before you turn 13, as chosen by Aussie kids. And wot a list it is! From thrilling theme parks to stunning natural wonders, there’s plenty of holiday inspo here for parents and kids (and big kids at heart!) Check out the list below and get inspired for your next holiday. It’s time to Wotif it! 

And the winner is...

1. Tick off the Gold Coast theme parks, QLD

                   

                    book your hotel

Rides, ice cream and their favourite movie characters, it doesn’t get much better than a day at one of the Gold Coast’s many theme parks – a rite of passage for many young Aussies.

Check out the rest of the list

2. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, QLD

While the reef’s unrivalled scenery and underwater life make it a popular choice for so many travellers, it’s the turtles and chance to ‘find Nemo’ that appeals most to kids. 

 

3. Learn about Aboriginal culture at Uluru, NT


One of Australia’s most significant landmarks. Uluru’s mesmerising size and cultural significance is fascinating for Aussie kids and families can walk around the base, learn about Aboriginal culture and see the incredible Field of Light exhibition.

 

4. See the quokkas on Rottnest Island, WA

Topping the list for WA is a trip to Rottnest Island, which wouldn’t be complete without seeing one of Australia’s most adorable tourism icons, the quokka. 

 

5. Watch the Little Penguin Parade on Phillip Island, VIC

Phillip Island is home to the largest Little Penguin colony in the world and watching the penguins march from the ocean to their burrows is something every Aussie kid should see at least once.

6. Spotting wildlife, waterfalls and crocs in Kakadu, NT

Whoever said never smile at a crocodile has not yet been on a cruise in Kakadu. There are around 10,000 crocodiles in Kakadu (fresh and salties), so you’re guaranteed a close encounter with these giant reptiles.

 

7. Discover Australia's Dinosaur Trail, QLD

Budding palaeontologists are sure to love following in the footsteps of a ferocious dinosaur and discovering the only evidence of a dinosaur stampede in the world.

 

8. Swim with whale sharks on Ningaloo Reef, WA

Swimming with the biggest, yet most gentle sharks is an experience of a lifetime and Aussies kids are lucky to have one of the best reefs to do so, right at home.

9. Meet the dolphins at Monkey Mia, WA

The locals at Monkey Mia are a friendly bunch, but it’s the playful dolphins the kids come to see, and with 200 dolphins living in Monkey Mia, these daily encounters are not to be taken for granted.

10. Visit Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast, QLD

Aussie kids sure do love their animals and Australia Zoo is full of endless experiences the kids will adore, like the Zookeeper for a Day program. Crikey!  

11. Overnight safari at Dubbo's Taronga Western Plains Zoo, NSW

Feel like a sleepover with giraffes, rhinos and zebras? Kids can experience a slice of Africa, all without leaving New South Wales. That’s why an overnight safari at Dubbo’s Taronga Western Plains Zoo made the list.

12. Sleep underground in Coober Pedy, SA

Australia's famous outback opal town, Coober Pedy is full of fascinating history and charming quirks, so a sleepover in one of its unique desert stays is high on the list for young Aussies.

13. Explore Questacon in Canberra, ACT

The only ACT experience to make the list has very good reasons to be here. This famous science museum is a great place for curious kids with so many hands-on, interactive experiences all in one spot. 

Looking for more family holiday inspiration?

Family Deals

Terms and Conditions | Wotif

  • Selected travel dates apply and will vary by property. See individual hotel deals for details.
  • Free cancellation on selected hotels - Some hotels require you to cancel more than 24 hours before check-in. Check individual hotel for details.
  • Prices displayed include discounts referred to – Discount will be applied to the standard rate of selected hotels, as determined and supplied by the hotels.
  • Hotel prices displayed are per room per stay based on the cheapest double room available, inclusive of all taxes and service fees.
  • Rules, restrictions and blackout periods may apply and a minimum hotel stay may be required. Please check individual hotel for details.
  • Prices are updated regularly and are accurate when published.
  • Offers are subject to limited availability and may be discontinued without notice. Please click through to individual deals to confirm prices, availability and applicable terms and conditions for those deals.
  • Wotif’s usual booking terms and conditions apply. https://www.wotif.com/lp/lg-terms