From reef adventures to city culture, discover the best last-minute family holiday destinations in Australia and Asia this school break.
School holidays have a way of sneaking up on us, but there’s no need to panic. Australia and nearby Asia is full of unique (and warm) escapes for these September school holidays with family-friendly fun, many of which are easier to book last-minute than you’d think. Whether your family loves snorkelling, safaris or city culture, here are five holiday ideas that will keep everyone entertained while building precious memories together.
Reef and Rainforest in Port Douglas
Port Douglas is the perfect blend of reef and rainforest adventure. Families can snorkel the Great Barrier Reef’s calm waters, spotting turtles and bright coral, becoming a marine scientist for the day with the Eye on the Reef program. Back on land, the Daintree Rainforest invites exploration with guided boardwalks, river cruises to see crocodiles and the chance to learn about the world’s oldest living culture from Kuku Yalanji guides. Lazy afternoons can be spent strolling Four Mile Beach, while evenings bring relaxed dining in the village’s family-friendly restaurants. With luxury resorts that cater to both parents and children, Port Douglas makes it easy to combine exploration, relaxation and plenty of sunshine in one tropical escape.
Luxury Outback Safari
Swap the coast for the red heart of Australia with an Outback safari, where adventure and culture await. In the Red Centre, families can marvel at Wintjiri-Wiru, a dazzling drone light show bringing Aṉangu stories to life, ride camels at sunset, cycle around Uluru and dine under desert skies. In South Australia’s Flinders Ranges, scenic helicopter flights, mountain biking, horse riding trails and 4WD tours let families explore rugged landscapes, followed by gourmet meals at historic homesteads. Further north in Queensland, discover dinosaur fossils at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs or explore pioneering history at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum.
Wherever you venture in Australia’s interior, an Outback safari blends adventure, culture and discovery, perfect for families wanting to trade screens for stargazing.
Wilderness Escape in Tasmania
Tasmania is an adventure playground wrapped in pristine wilderness. At Freycinet, families can hike to Wineglass Bay lookout, take coastal walks or join guided eco-cruises to spot dolphins and sea eagles. Cradle Mountain offers boardwalk trails for all abilities, while Bay of Fires dazzles with its orange boulders, natural swimming pools and long sandy beaches.
Tasmania’s size makes it easy to mix experiences, one day spotting wombats in alpine meadows, the next beachcombing or enjoying hot chocolate by a lodge fireplace. It’s a chance for families to slow down, reconnect and explore one of Australia’s most magical natural settings.
Beach Bliss in Langkawi
For an easy international escape, Langkawi delivers sunshine, beaches, and culture in equal measure. families can ride the SkyCab cable car up to panoramic views at the SkyBridge, zoom through the rainforest canopy by zipline or take boat trips through Kilim Geoforest Park and mangrove forests rich with monkeys and eagles. The island’s pristine beaches invite days of swimming and sandcastle-building, while night markets and traditional craft villages add cultural immersion. Parents and kids alike will enjoy sampling local street food, discovering waterfalls and exploring the island’s legends at cultural centres. With luxury resorts scattered along the coast, Langkawi offers an elevated yet relaxed family holiday, just a short flight via KL or Singapore from Australia.
City Culture in Singapore Sentosa Island
Singapore is an unbeatable family destination, with Sentosa Island at its heart. Families can mix beach time with interactive attractions like S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark and Universal Studios Singapore. Beyond thrills, explore Singapore’s cultural side in Chinatown, Little India and at the National Gallery, full of interactive educational programs. Food is part of the adventure too, from hawker centres brimming with local favourites to fine dining. Thanks to short direct flights, efficient transport and world-class hotels, Singapore is one of the easiest international escapes to plan last-minute.
Do note: The Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place on the main island in the first week of October, so expect larger crowds during this period.
Ready to Book Your Family School Holiday Escape?
From snorkelling the reef to exploring Sentosa, unforgettable adventures await your family these school holidays. Our travel advisors can secure last-minute availability, tailor the perfect itinerary and add exclusive perks to make your trip even more special. Contact Travelcall to find out how.
Contact your Travelcall Advisor to book your last-minute September school holiday escape today.
MELBOURNE 03 9252 3800 | SYDNEY 02 8333 7700 | BRISBANE 07 3368 2113
or email travel@travelcall.com.au
