For South Australian families, it’s also the perfect excuse to swap grey winter skies for tropical Queensland sunshine. We recently hopped aboard Carnival Encounter for a 4-night cruise from Brisbane to Airlie Beach and discovered that you don’t need a long itinerary to decide whether cruising is your family’s kind of holiday.

Why a short cruise works

Four nights is long enough to experience everything cruising has to offer and work out if it suits your family. Here’s why it might…

• A low-risk way to try cruising, especially if you’re unsure about seasickness or whether younger kids will enjoy being onboard.
• It’s a great way to go on holiday with a group of other families and friends and be able to enjoy time together, but also do things separately if you want to.
• Great value for money, with accommodation, meals, entertainment and transport all included in one price. If you’re strict with not spending extra on board you’ll know exactly what your holiday is going to cost from start to finish.
• Easy to plan, with far fewer logistics than a traditional family holiday where you need to book hotels, restaurants and activities separately.
• Endless food options (a dream if your kids are constantly hungry and probably my favourite part)
• Pools, epic waterslides and family entertainment all day long
• An endless list of activities throughout the day and nights. Live shows, trivia, movies, live music, competitions and so much more.
• Kids Clubs for all ages that they’ll actually BEG to go to. From babies right up to teens
• Day spa, adults only pools, restaurants and shows you can enjoy while they’re in kids club!
• A chance for parents to actually relax now you don’t have to make the snacks and provide the entertainment.
• Gives you a taste of a destination, like Airlie Beach or the Whitsundays, which can help you decide if it’s somewhere you’d like to return for a longer land-based holiday.

If everyone loves it, you’ll probably be planning a longer cruise before you’ve even arrived home. If cruising isn’t your thing, you’ve only invested a few days and you can cross it off your list.

While there aren’t currently any regular short cruises departing 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ right now, a flight to Brisbane opens up a huge range of 3ā€“6 night options from Carnival, Royal Caribbean and even Disney. Carnival Adventure will also start departures from 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ in Feb/March 2028 including two- to four-night short getaways as well as a five-night South Australia coastal itinerary visiting Kangaroo Island and Port Lincoln, for a total of five departures, ending with a three-night one-way voyage from 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ to Sydney departing 14 March 2028.

If you want our tip, give the 4 night Airlie Beach cruise from Carnival a try. Particularly if you’re keen to get some Winter sun.

Weā€™re lucky to have some pretty incredible places to explore in South Australia, but might just be one of the most unique family stays weā€™ve had.

Where else can you wake up, make a coffee, step onto your balcony and watch a tower of giraffes enjoying their morning feed? (Yes, that’s what a group of giraffes is called… you’re welcome.) No, you’re not in Africa (although there are definitely moments where it feels like you could be). This incredible safari-style escape is just over an hour from 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ and offers families the chance to experience something completely different without needing to jump on a plane.

We recently spent two nights at Monarto Safari Resort with the kids, and while visiting Monarto Safari Park was obviously a highlight, we quickly realised the resort itself was is a HUGE part of the experience. From spotting animals from our room, heading out on an early morning safari, enjoying delicious meals and finding a little time for some mum-only relaxation, every part of the stay gave us something to enjoy.

Our Waterhole Two Bedroom Suite

When youā€™re travelling with kids, having space makes such a difference, and our Waterhole Two Bedroom Suite was perfect for our family of four. The kids had their own room with two long single beds, while we had a beautiful king bedroom, plus a separate lounge and dining area. It meant everyone had somewhere to relax after a busy day.

The huge wraparound balcony quickly became our favourite spot. Morning coffee, afternoon drinks and binoculars (provided by the resort) glued to our faces as we watched the comings and goings around the waterhole below.

The kids were always keen for “one more look” before heading back inside, eager to see which animal might wander over next.

Inside, the suite had all the little touches youā€™d expect from a luxury stay. The bed was incredibly comfortable, the linen was beautiful, the pillows were big and fluffy, and the bathroom was a standout with a huge bath and possibly the best shower weā€™ve ever had!

It was the kind of room where you wanted to spend time, not just somewhere to sleep.

Dining at Kutjera Restaurant

One of the things we loved about staying at Monarto Safari Resort was that we never felt like we had to rush off first thing in the morning. The resort itself gave us a reason to slow down and enjoy our stay, and Kutjera Restaurant quickly became part of our daily routine.

Breakfast was a great way to start the day. The buffet had all the favourites… scrambled eggs, bacon, baked beans, mushrooms and hash browns, alongside pastries, fresh fruit, yoghurt and plenty of healthier options too. The kids were very impressed with the pancake maker (which was a definite highlight for them), while I was very impressed with the coffee. In fact, itā€™s easily one of the best coffees Iā€™ve had in months.

After a big day exploring, dinner at Kutjera was perfect! Inspired by African flavours and using South Australian produce, the menu feels a little different from your usual family resort dining. Itā€™s not a massive menu, but we found plenty to choose from. The flame-grilled Scotch fillet was a winner, the Moroccan pork tenderloin was delicious, but my favourite dish was actually an entrĆ©e, the Durban Lentil & Tomato Dahl. I could have happily eaten that as a main.

For the kids, the menu keeps things simple with family favourites including chicken schnitzel and chips, fish and chips, spaghetti bolognese and beef sliders.

Relaxing at the resort

While the animals are obviously the main attraction at Monarto Safari Resort, we loved having time to simply enjoy everything the resort had to offer.

The kids were very excited to discover the heated pools and, even though we visited in the middle of winter, that certainly didn’t stop them jumping in! There’s a family pool and an adults-only pool, with plenty of sun lounges and outdoor dining areas nearby, making it easy to settle in while the kids swam. We also loved the huge grassy area, where we spotted a group of kids playing and kicking a ball around while their parents relaxed nearby.

And while itā€™s definitely family-friendly, donā€™t picture a resort overrun with kids. Monarto Safari Resort still has that beautiful five-star feel, with plenty of spaces for families to enjoy while also feeling calm and relaxing for adults.

Dawn Wildlife Safari

If thereā€™s one experience weā€™d recommend adding to your stay, itā€™s the Dawn Wildlife Safari.

We headed out at 7am on the safari truck and into the exclusive Wild Africa precinct before most people had even started their day. Being out on the open plains as the sun came up was such a cool experience. The light was beautiful, the animals were active, and it was a side of Monarto that very few visitors get to see.

The small group experience meant we could take our time, ask questions and really enjoy the ride as we spotted animals along the way. The highlight for us was seeing the hippos pop up from the water. The kids were completely fascinated, waiting to see when they would appear, and it was such a fun moment watching these huge animals just quietly going about their morning.

But the biggest surprise was how close we got to a cheetah. Seeing one of these incredible animals up close, from the comfort of the safari truck, was something we wonā€™t forget. We also spotted giraffes, Southern White Rhino, ostriches and more along the way, with our guide sharing plenty of interesting facts and stories about the animals we were seeing.

The two-hour safari includes a guided tour on the safari truck, exclusive access to Wild Africa and light refreshments afterwards. Itā€™s an early start, but one weā€™d definitely recommend adding to your stay.

Exploring Monarto Safari Park

No stay at Monarto Safari Resort would be complete without exploring Monarto Safari Park. Now the largest safari experience outside of Africa, the park spans more than 1,500 hectares and is home to more than 50 species of exotic and native animals.

Having the park right next door makes it so easy with kids. No big drive, no packing everyone back into the car, just step out and start exploring. We recommend allowing at least four to five hours to really enjoy the open spaces, viewing platforms and free Zu-loop bus through the park.

Your stay helps conservation

One more thing we loved about staying at Monarto Safari Resort is that your visit helps support something bigger. A portion of every resort booking goes towards the Zoos SA Conservation Fund, helping support important conservation programs and the ongoing protection of incredible animals around the world.

So while youā€™re enjoying a pretty amazing family getaway, youā€™re also helping play a small part in protecting the wildlife youā€™ve come to see.

Would we go back?

100% yes!!

If you ever get the chance to experience Monarto Safari Resort, absolutely go for it. Itā€™s one of those stays that gives you a little taste of Africa without needing a passport (or a 14-hour flight with kids!).

A family getaway with hippos, giraffes, incredible food and a little bit of relaxation thrown in? Thatā€™s a pretty wild win in our books.

Location: 63 Monarto Rd, Monarto SA 5254
: 1800 016 761

Find them on and

There are numerous unpowered camping areas, complete with shared campfire circles (seasonal use) and adjacent Basecamps which have been fitted with deluxe creature comforts including toilets, hot showers, hand dryers, vanity mirrors and power points for your hairdryer. In addition to the unpowered camp sites, we highly recommend taking a look at the bell tent options. With your own private BBQ area, the bell tent includes a tent, lantern, mattresses (sleeps up to 6 people and just BYO bedding) and table and chairs.

And, your camping fee also includes access to the awesome onsite activities including Challenge Hill obstacle course, giant maze, tube slides, bouldering wall and disc golf!

AND you can enjoy a CAMPFIRE! (allowed outside of Fire Ban season generally May – November). Or make a birthday celebration really special with a Woodhouse Birthday Party!

Just $30 a head per night (Child, student, adult) or $27 a head per night for concession holders. Oh and under 5s are FREE! This includes access to the awesome onsite activities, showers, toilets and BBQ facilities. Grab a some drinks and food from the supermarket and youā€™re set for the weekend.Ā 

• Under 5: Free
• Children (5-15 years) and Adults (16 years+): $30 per nightĀ 
• Concession (concession card) – $27 per night
• Family (2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children): $105 per night

Bell tent costs below

• $135 per night (minimum 2 nights, except long weekends when there is a 3 night minimum) for up to 4 people (including all the park activities – add an extra $33.75pp per night for any add ons by under 5s are free)
• Up to 2 additional guests permitted at $33.75 per person per night.

The Bell Tent includes

• 4x single foam mattreses
• Lantern
• 4x deck chairs and a table
• Private BBQ
• Kettle
• Campfire drum

Find out more at

From the moment we checked in with the kids, it felt like the little details had been thought through. We stayed in one of the family rooms, complete with a super comfy queen bed for the adults and king single bunk beds that our kids instantly claimed as their own. The bed was honestly one of the comfiest we’ve slept in, and after a big day exploring (or in our case, shopping up a storm at nearby Westfield Marion), everyone was more than happy to climb in for an early night. The kids were delighted to find colouring packs waiting in the room, while the gorgeous Appelles kids toiletries were a lovely touch that made them feel just as special as the grown-ups.

Then there’s the food… and if you know 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½, you’ll know the Hurley Group rarely misses when it comes to great hospitality. Whether you’re fuelling up with breakfast before a busy day, grabbing a casual bite after exploring the city or settling in for a relaxed family dinner, there’s something for everyone. Parents can even sneak away for sunset drinks at Wonderland in the stunning rooftop bar (18+), while the sports bar and restaurant also make it easy to enjoy quality food without having to head back out once you’ve checked in.

We also loved how convenient the location is. You’re only a short drive from the 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ CBD, Glenelg Beach, Westfield Marion, Flinders Medical Centre, 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ Oval and many of 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½’s biggest attractions, yet the hotel still feels relaxed and removed from the hustle and bustle. Add in free parking, a modern gym, stylish interiors and genuinely welcoming service, and it’s easy to see why Hotel Panorama is set to become a favourite with families.

If you’re looking for accommodation that’s super modern, affordable, comfortable and makes travelling with kids just that little bit easier, Hotel Panorama is well worth adding to your list.

Location:Ā 625 Goodwood Road, Panorama
Phone:Ā 08 7428 3000
Find them onĀ Ģż“Ē°łĢż

Mount Barker Summit

Find it at: Mount Barker Summit Road, Mount Barker

Did you know Mount Barker had an actual Mountain…..that you can climb? Mount Barker Summit rises 513m above sea level and the summit is easily reached by a range of hiking trails. The Mount Barker Summit walk is one of the 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ Hills’ best-kept secrets for families. Just a 40-minute drive from 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½, this easy adventure is perfect for little explorers, grandparents and everyone in between.

The short summit trail is only 500 metres return from the car park, making it ideal for younger kids or anyone wanting a quick nature fix. The gently undulating path leads to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across the 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ Hills, Mount Barker township and beyond. On a clear day, you can even spot the Coorong and Mount Lofty in the distance.

Along the way you’ll find picnic tables and plenty of space to stop for a snack while soaking up the scenery. Kids will love climbing the rocks, spotting birds and native plants, and exploring the small nature play cubby near the lookout. Keep an eye out for the interpretive signs that share the area’s fascinating geological, cultural and environmental history, including its significance to the Peramangk people.

Feeling like a little more adventure? Families with older children can continue on the 1.7-kilometre Scenic Bush Walk, a loop trail that winds through beautiful native bushland with even more lookout points and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Need to know:

• Easy 500m return walk to the summit.
• Free entry.
• Picnic tables available.
• Dogs are permitted on lead.
• Bring hats, sunscreen and water, especially in warmer months.
• The summit car park gates are locked before dusk, so plan your visit earlier in the day.

Located on Mount Barker Summit Road at Mount Barker (about 5mins from the Main Street of Barker and all the coffee shops!), it is open 8:00am until 6:00pm (until 8:00pm during daylight savings) and is a breathtaking spot to visit during winter when there is morning fog about.

For more great family friendly things to do in the 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ Hills, click here!

South Australia has some really great little water parks and water slides, however a lot of them are hidden in various tourist parks and only available for use of their customers, it can be hard to find one that everyone can use, especially with out paying.

A real family holiday fave hot spot, the water park is able to be used by kids (and adultsā€¦well nobody told me off) of all ages and abilities. My youngest was a little shy at first but he was covered by the little slide in the park. The eldest kids (and me) had a ball on the 4 big slides as well as the big water bucket. With plenty of seats and grassed areas to sit and watch the kids, as well as it all being fenced off, this just makes for a superb family arvo.

Once you finish at the water park you can wander the nearby beach and jetty, play in the adjacent enclosed playground or have a BBQ. There is plenty of shelter, public toilets and changing areas as well as coffee shops right across the road. Not hard to see why this place is so popular! as they may vary throughout the year as well.

Moonta Bay is just under two hours drive from 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½.

Summer 2025/26 Splash Town Moonta Opening Hours

OPEN DAILY (incl all public holidays) Saturday 26 September 2026 – Sunday 25 April 2027

Where? Moonta Bay. 171 Bay Road, Moonta Bay, South Australia
Open from beginning October School Holidays to end of April School Holidays.  Check or for times as holiday and during school term times differ.
How much? Free!

Byethorne Park is a beautiful 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ Hills playground located on Woodside Road in Nairne AND it’s had a great little upgrade in 2021 that includes a nature play area and a beautiful great big grassy kick around area, plus there are plans for more upgrades due for completion is late 2026. These include;

• Flying fox (track slider)
• Spinner
• Swing
• Giant treehouse system with slide
• Hammock
• Double embankment slide

The new equipment will be relocated closer to the newer playground and nature play area withthe existing area along the boundary fence will be returned to a natural passive space.

The nature play elements blend beautifully with the existing equipment that includes a climbing spiders web, flying fox, drums, bouncers and lots of interesting play equipment for the kids to discover.

The park features a lovely duck filled lake in the centre. Make sure you know the . The playground is really well maintained and has a covered BBQ area that is close by, so the kids can play while you cook.

Itā€™s a beautiful spot for a BBQ, picnic or just a new spot to take the kids for a good run around in the park. Fab wide open spaces and lots of fresh air, which the hills is so good for! Well worth the drive.

It’s also a popular spot for Rock Drops so keep your eyes peeled!

Stop in at Pallett Cafe, It’s only a couple of minutes from the park.

Hallet Cove Conservation Park is located 22 km south of 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ and there is public transport from the city to this park!

When is the best time to visit?

Hallet Cove Conservation Park is stunning all year round. In Summer the coastline nature goes into “survival mode” with many plants exposed to a hot summer. Autumn will see the plants regaining their vigour with many bird species on show. Winter will showcase the storms and the changing the scenery from pure pebbles to sand almost overnight and followed by Spring with the wildflowers in full bloom.

What can I do at Hallet Cove Conservation Park?

Bushwalking – The Coast Park Path boardwalk is the main trail which follows the coastal cliffs through the park. The Glacial Hike takes visitors inland to the geological points of interest, such as the Sugarloaf and Amphitheatre, and offers some beautiful photo opportunities within the park. Interpretive signs along the Glacial Hike tell the Geological, Aboriginal  and European story of the area.

Spot Marine Creatures –   Dont forget your snorkle or googles to spot some marine life like biscuit stars at the base of black cliff.

Discover – Walk up to the first lookout along Glacier Hike, and observe the big scratches on the rocks known as ā€˜glacial pavementā€™. The scratches are from the glacier that covered the Park 280 million years ago

Take some photos – Discover the beach or stroll along the boardwalk at sunset and take some photos of the cliffs and ocean as they begin to change colour

Beach Time – Set up for a beach day on Heron Way Reserve and wander along the beach path and read the interpretive signs about Kaurna culture

Sunrise – Rise and Shine in the early morning and choose a short hike and listen out for honeyeaters and wrens and see if you can spot some dolphins or sea lions who occasionally visit the nearby sea.

Explore the bridges – Check out the spectacular coastal boardwalk bridges here.

Things to leave at home ….

Furry Friends, bikes and camping tents are not permitted.

Located within Aruma River Resort, just over an hour from 91¹ū¶³“«Ć½ and around 20 minutes from Mannum, Lil Q River Retreat is one of those places where you can arrive on Friday afternoon and not need to leave until it’s time to head home. Surrounded by towering ochre cliffs, ancient river gums and some of the most picturesque stretches of the Murray River, Walker Flat feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The first thing we noticed when we arrived was just how much space there is. This place is HUGE. Whether you’re holidaying with extended family, a group of friends or multiple families together, thereā€™s plenty of room for everyone to spread out and actually relax without feeling like you’re on top of each other.

Inside you’ll find two separate living areas, four spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large open-plan kitchen and dining space that naturally becomes the heart of the home after a day on the river. The kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need for easy family meals, snack runs for hungry kids or big shared dinners that go late into the night.

The beds were genuinely comfortable, the heating and cooling kept everyone cosy during our stay and there were plenty of thoughtful touches throughout the home that made settling in easy. Just a quick note for families with little ones… the house does have stairs, so youā€™ll want to keep an eye on the toddler crew when choosing sleeping arrangements.

For families, itā€™s the little extras that really make a difference. The kids loved the foosball table, board games and Wi-Fi, while the adults appreciated the coffee machine and the chance to enjoy a quiet cuppa with that river view before the day got underway.

Step outside and youā€™ll quickly see why this property is such a winner for family groups. The large balcony is perfect for relaxed breakfasts, sunset drinks or simply watching the river drift by. Down below, thereā€™s even more alfresco dining plus a lounge-style seating area thatā€™s made for slow mornings with a coffee and a book.

One of our favourite features was the private stretch of riverfront directly out the front. Launch the boat, throw in a fishing line or just sit back and enjoy the peace without the crowds you often find on busier stretches of the Murray.

Guests also have full access to the fantastic Aruma River Resort facilities, including a solar-heated swimming pool, tennis court, basketball court, playground, private boat ramp and plenty of open space for the kids to burn energy. Down on the grass, itā€™s all kicks, chasey and that beautiful holiday freedom vibe.

While it was a little too chilly for a swim during our visit, the firepit quickly became the star of the show. Marshmallows, blankets, stars overhead and that classic ā€œkids still somehow have energy at 9pmā€ river holiday energy.

Walker Flat itself is well worth the trip. The free 24-hour ferry crossing is always a hit with kids, and the local general store, service station and liquor store mean youā€™re covered for the basics. But honestly, once youā€™re settled in here, thereā€™s every chance you wonā€™t feel the need to leave.

Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a getaway with friends or simply looking for a Murray River escape with plenty of room for everyone, Lil Q River Retreat ticks all the boxes. Spacious, comfortable and perfectly positioned on one of South Australiaā€™s most beautiful stretches of river, itā€™s the kind of place where family memories are made.

Book it, pack the snacks and start the group chat. This is peak multi-family river escape energy and weā€™re very into it.

Location: Lot 15, Aruma River Resort, Walker Flat, South Australia, Australia

Swimming, sailing, stand up paddle boarding, fishing, diving, kayaking…… if you love the water, the ocean and the beach you’ll LOVE this park.

We recently stayed in one of their which are located in an elevated position at the back of the park with sunset views from your deck and close to all the park amenities including the brand new 9 hole mini golf course, playground, games room, kiosk and activities room where you’ll find FREE kids activities during the school holidays. The park also offers other 1 and 2 bedroom cabin options as well as a range of sites for camping and caravanning. It’s also pet friendly – so you can take the fur babies too!

It’s a very popular spot during summer and the school holidays and we loved watching our kids make new friends while cutting laps on the pedal karts! (many, many laps!) Bikes are available to hire (including one with a baby seat) or BYO to explore the Coast Park Path which is a great flat trail for riding, walking, scootering and is very pram friendly. There’s some great playgrounds within walking distance too. The recently upgraded Angas Neill Reserve, Bindarra Reserve are to the north and Bandon Reserve and Kingston Park Coastal Park to the south.

Find Brighton Beachfront Holiday Park at: 4 Burnham Road Kingston Park
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