Easter is a perfect time for a holiday; autumn is beginning to take the edge off the summer heat but it’s still beach weather. For some, it’s a four day break. But for those with school children, the Easter holiday often stretches to two weeks. Here are five destinations to consider for your family’s Easter vacation.
1. The Gold Coast and Theme Parks
The Gold Coast is home to numerous theme parks including Dreamworld, Wet ’n Wild, Movieworld and Seaworld. Travel agents and specialty ticket outlets offer package deals to the theme parks so you can get entry to several at discounted prices. Other attractions are the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Skypoint Observation Deck. There is plenty of accommodation on the Gold Coast, however, because of its popularity, it’s best to book well in advance.
2. Lord Howe Island
If you want a relaxing holiday, Lord Howe Island is two hours by plane from Sydney. The many leisure activities include paddle boarding, kayaking, golfing, and guided walking tours. This destination boasts beautiful beaches and a lagoon, walking trails, birdwatching, scuba diving, fishing, and an abundance of natural beauty. There are a number of Lord Howe Island accommodation options available, including resorts like the Pinetrees Lodge.
3. House Boat Hire, Hawkesbury River
For something different, try hiring a houseboat. These are available in the Sydney area from Wiseman’s Ferry. A boat licence isn’t necessary as they are easy to manoeuver. Explore the inlets and bays of the Hawkesbury River. Anchor at secluded beaches and enjoy a swim. Houseboats range in size from four to twelve berths. Hiring with friends makes the holiday more affordable. They come equipped essentials and a dinghy, but bring your own linen and towels. Houseboats are also available on the Gold Coast, Noosa, and Tin Can Bay.
4. Rottnest Island
Lying just off Fremantle, Western Australia, Rottnest is a favourite holiday spot for locals. It is accessible by ferry, your own boat or small plane. There are numerous beaches with aquamarine water for swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, surfing and boating. Bicycling is the best mode of transport around the island. A variety of restaurants cater to every taste. You may even run into a friendly quokka, one of the marsupials that inhabit the island. There are only three places to stay on Rottnest, so book early.
5. Take a Cruise
The best thing about a cruise is that you go to bed at night and wake up at a new destination in the morning. There’s no unpacking or searching for restaurants. Some cruise lines offer special events and activities such as themed cruises. Others offer short cruises that go out to sea and back to port just for the pleasure of taking to the sea. There are numerous activities, restaurants, and live shows, and it’s all inclusive.
These are just a few options for this time of year… your choices for Easter holiday destinations are really only restricted by the time you have to spare, your budget, and your imagination. If you have other suggestions, please share them in the comments section below.
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This post was written for New life on the Road