A Kid-Friendly Guide to NSW’s South Coast & Southern Highlands
Who said you can't experience nice things when you've got kids? Pack your bags, it's road trip time.
There comes a time in every parent's life when they no doubt ask themselves…will I ever enjoy a nice restaurant again? Let alone a weekend away that doesn't involve multiple meltdowns in the car. And replacing romantic hotels and bottles of red wine by the fire with Airbnbs with bunk beds, optional high chairs and plastic plates in the cupboard. But maybe you can have it all. We discovered that something magical happens when you combine stunning coastal drives, farm adventures, seaside cafes and more along the Grand Pacific Drive. Stretching 140 kilometres from Sydney's Royal National Park through five distinct regions, including Wollongong, Kiama, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, and the Southern Highlands, this scenic route delivers the perfect blend of sophistication and kid-friendly adventure. We mapped out the best stops where discerning parents can enjoy quality food and wine while children discover wildlife, science, and outdoor adventures.
Spread across 20 beautifully landscaped acres, it houses over 500 animals from Australia and beyond. The real drawcard? Tickets include animal feed, guaranteeing those coveted up-close kangaroo encounters that make kids (and parents) squeal with delight. Plenty of photo moments! Located in nearby Helensburgh, it's the perfect first stop when driving from Sydney. Cost: $44…
For over 30 years, this Wollongong institution has been serving fresh seafood with panoramic ocean views. The harbour-facing windows provide natural entertainment for restless diners (play spot the pelican), while the fresh menu keeps adults satisfied. The portions are very generous for both parents and kids, and they have colouring-in supplies ready to go. So…
This is NSW's only dedicated immersive science experience and is sure to engage both kids and adults. Interactive exhibits demonstrate how scientific discoveries translate into real-world applications. It's the kind of place where children absorb learning without realising it, and parents discover they're just as fascinated by the demonstrations.
Perched directly on the shoreline and literally positioned on the Kiama Coast Walk, this boutique accommodation redefines family-friendly luxury. This place caters to both romantic getaways and family adventures. The location means you can walk straight from your back door onto one of NSW's most spectacular coastal walks. There are four bedrooms; two with queen…
This local favourite cafe is all about relaxed seaside dining and is perfect for a family breakfast. Expect decent coffee and plenty of menu options for everyone to choose from. The seaside location adds that holiday atmosphere that makes even a simple breakfast feel special.
Sometimes the best family experiences come from the simplest pleasures. This local favourite has some seriously delicious doughnuts and cinnamon scrolls. Time your visit for mid-morning when everything's fresh from the oven, grab some takeaways and head to the beach for a play in the sand, coffee in hand.
Sea Vista Cafe offers elevated views across Werri Beach and a menu that is sure to satisfy the whole family. You can't go wrong with the kids' hotcakes (ice cream for breakfast is totally acceptable when you're on holiday). They also make a delicious lassi smoothie. Their generous portions will help sustain a day of…
While only adults can walk across the wing of the Boeing 747, this remarkable museum creates an aviation adventure the whole family can share. The guided tour works well for mixed age groups. Parents can take turns on the wing walk while kids explore the aircraft interior, spotting details and capturing photos. The attention span…
Overlooking the marina's sparkling waters, this venue delivers the kind of relaxed waterfront dining experience that makes parents remember why they love travelling with kids. Ordering is easy, straight from your table, and there are plenty of options. The margarita pizza was a hit with our kids while we enjoyed the seafood platter. We also…
Often whale watching promises more than it delivers, but Jervis Bay Wild go out of their way to provide rare encounters with migrating humpback whales. The intimate vessel size and knowledgeable crew, combined with Husskison's pristine waters, provide an ideal backdrop for spotting these magnificent creatures. The entire experience lasts around 2-2.5 hours, and some…
This unassuming pasta shop proves that authentic Italian doesn't require white tablecloths or lengthy wine lists. We love venues that master one thing exceptionally well – fresh pasta made daily with genuine care. The option to take your meal down to Huskisson Beach transforms a simple lunch into an impromptu seaside picnic.
This multi-award-winning restaurant incorporates native Australian ingredients into creative yet approachable dishes. Their commitment to regional produce creates flavours that reflect the landscape you've been exploring. Although it's mainly couples enjoying date night on a Saturday evening, we found the early sitting fine for kids. Their kids' menu is seriously delicious with options such as…
This working farm offers hands-on animal encounters. We watched the children's faces light up as they brushed Highland cows and collected rainbow eggs. Host Belle creates genuine connections between visitors and farm life, making this more than just an animal petting session. She's also an excellent photographer, and part of the experience includes a photoshoot.…
This European-style bistro serves French-inspired seasonal cuisine in the picturesque setting of the Southern Highlands. We appreciate restaurants that understand sophisticated dining doesn't mean excluding families. The relaxed atmosphere creates an environment where parents can savour quality food while children feel comfortable. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the leafy surroundings that make the Highlands so appealing during…