Like most things in life, trips to the beach can become more complicated when kids are involved. You can’t just grab your towel and head for the coast without considering things like safety, facilities and ease of access.
But holidaying at the beach with little ones doesn’t need to be stressful. If you’re travelling with youngsters, New South Wales is filled with seaside destinations the whole family can enjoy. Below are some of the best beaches you’ll find near our kid-friendly holidays parks.
Dreamtime Beach, Kingscliff
If you’re looking for kid-friendly things to do in Kingscliff, Dreamtime Beach is a great spot for families. It’s located at the northern end of Wommin Bay, which runs for 6.4km alongside the town. While big surf can usually be found in the centre of the bay, the waters towards Fingal Headland in the north tend to be calmer.
There are still potential hazards like rips, but Dreamtime Beach is patrolled by watchful lifeguards so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing help is at hand (as always, just be sure to swim between the flags).
If the waves the at Dreamtime Beach get too big for your kids, they can always take a dip in the pool at Ingenia Holidays Kingscliff.
Horseshoe Bay, South West Rocks
This tiny bay is one of the most popular spots for young families in South West Rocks. Located at the end of the town’s main street, the foreshore is lined with towering pine trees, so there’s plenty of space for picnics in the shade.
Even though Horseshoe Bay has relatively safe swimming conditions, it’s still patrolled by lifeguards during the summer holidays.
Take a pleasant stroll through the centre of town to get to Horseshoe Bay from Ingenia Holidays South West Rocks.
Shelly Beach, Nambucca Heads
Known for its picture-perfect scenery and tidal pools, Shelly Beach covers a sheltered stretch of sand in Nambucca Heads. It’s just around the corner from Ingenia Holidays White Albatross, and boasts a newly revamped car park, BBQ facilities, toilets and a boat ramp.
The shoreline is dotted with rocks, but there’s still plenty of space for swimmers. While not known as a surfing spot, the gentle waves at Shelly Beach are perfect for beginners.
If you’d rather your kids went swimming closer to home, Ingenia Holidays White Albatross has a tidal swimming lagoon on its doorstep.
One Mile Beach, Port Stephens
Secluded but spacious, One Mile Beach has plenty of room for kids to run around. With its calm waters, lifeguard patrols and easy accessibility, it’s not hard to see why so many families choose this spot as their preferred destination for beach holidays in NSW.
Bordered by a large sand dune, One Mile Beach has ample parking space and picnic facilities. If your kids are eager to catch some waves, Port Stephens Surf School is located just a few minutes’ walk from the beach.
You can choose from cabins, campsites and villas at Ingenia Holidays One Mile Beach.
Broulee Beach, Broulee
Protected by Broulee Island, Broulee Beach can be found on the New South Wales South Coast. Although the beach is bordered by dunes and heavy vegetation, it can be accessed via a path that snakes its way through the surrounding nature reserve.
The island shields the beach from strong currents, so waves rarely reach over a metre. The beach can be accessed on foot from Ingenia Holidays Broulee, which is located less than a kilometre away.
If the weather conditions aren’t quite right for taking your kids to the beach, cool off at Ingenia Holidays Broulee’s resort-style swimming pool.
Ready to book accommodation for your next seaside stopover? Find somewhere to stay near the beach in NSW with Ingenia Holidays.