Then and now: 5 family holidays that get better with age

Whitsundays, QLD

Both the young and young-at-heart can get the adrenaline going in the Whitsundays, whether on a guided jet-ski tour, fishing charter or snorkelling over dazzling reefs. From Airlie Beach you can take trike tours, tuk-tuk tours and crocodile safaris for added fun.

The Mantra Club Croc or Big4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort are great family stay options.

Of course, sometimes as adults we return to places with a more chilled-out agenda. No problem. Pamper yourself with luxury stay at beachfront at InterContinental Hayman Island Resort.

Chill out on world-famous Whitehaven Beach and get romantic on a sunset sail. A scenic flight over the islands and Great Barrier Reef is a lifetime memory no matter your age; iconic Heart Reef is embedded in a turquoise sea like a sparking jewel.

Byron Bay, NSW

Surely anyone feels like a kid again in Byron Bay. Spend lazy days swimming and fishing, go kayaking with dolphins, enjoy the thrill of whale watching, or hit the waves for surf lessons. The Lord Byron and Beach Hotel Resort are two prime family-friendly accommodation choices.

Don't ignore Byron's beautiful hinterland for attractions such as Crystal Castle and Tropical Fruit World. Returning adults will appreciate a tour of breweries and distilleries or the Hippy Trail to Mullumbimby and Nimbin. For something unusual, head to Springbrook National Park on a Glowworm Night Tour.

The hinterland has great accommodation options for those who want to explore in more depth, ranging from a Family Friendly Home in Bangalow to Mt Warning Rainforest Retreat.

Margaret River, WA

Margaret River has a fabulous bonus for adults in the region's fabled wineries and gourmet temptations.

Who wouldn't want to go on a Foodie Experience, scenic food and wine tour, or check out cellars doors such as Vasse Felix or Leeuwin Estate. The likes of Margaret River Guesthouse and Grand Mercure Basildene Manor provide a great base to explore.

Yet all the things we enjoyed as kids are still here too, from top surf breaks to karri-tree forests and lighthouses on wind-buffeted headlands. The Margaret River's great outdoors is magnificent, whether you're on a canoe tour, exploring fabulous Jewel Cave or hiking coastal tracks. Tanah Marah is among accommodation options that get you into nature at Prevelly Beach and Bramley National Park.

Canberra, ACT

Australia's most family-friendly city has hands-on museums, attractions from dinosaurs to Mars exploration, and abundant open space. Thrill the family with a stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge at the National Zoo, where a giraffe might lurch past your window.

Revisit as an adult and you'll see Canberra attractions with new eyes, and can explore art galleries, Parliament House and Australian War Memorial. Hyatt Hotel Canberra is close to the sights, while apartment-style Pacific Suites Canberra suit a longer stay.

Canberra also has a buzzing dining scene and wineries and breweries to explore. For something different, tour the National Gallery of Australia building, or encounter nocturnal animals on a Twilight Tour. A Canberra highlight for everyone is a sunrise hot-air balloon ride over Lake Burley-Griffin and our capital's most iconic buildings.

Important note regarding COVID-19 and travel: Before booking, travellers should consult the latest government restrictions for the area in which they wish to travel. Travellers should be mindful that government restrictions are in constant review and travel guidelines may change between booking and travel.

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