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  Top 10 Family Resorts 2011

Top 10 Family Resorts 2011

This year, the annual Top 10 Resorts list was compiled not only from the results of a reader survey sent to Holidays with Kids extensive magazine and online readership, but with the assistance of our partners Club Med, Ubid 4 Rooms and Take a Break, the survey reached a total database of nearly 500,000 people.

With such a massive response, this year’s list has been expanded to incorporate separate listings for the three most popular outbound destinations for Australian families – Fiji, Bali and Thailand. Up and coming destinations such as Malaysia and other Pacific Islands also had a strong response, warranting their own Top 5 lists, while the strength of the Australian dollar made a separate US listing a family essential.  



Fiji

Thailand

Australia
4-stars and over

Australia
under 4-stars

Bali

Malaysia

Rest of the South Pacific

USA

 

Top 10 Family Resorts - Fiji

This year's voting has brought an interesting result with three properties scoring the same number of votes, so essentially we've given you Fiji's top 13. We wouldn't want to limit your choices!  

1. Shangri-La's Fijian Resort & Spa, Yanuca Island (4.5 stars)

Hitting the top spot once again is the worthy Shangri-la Fiji Resort and Spa. Situated on its own private island, conveniently linked to the mainland by a causeway, the resort is an easy 45 minutes by road from the airport. Idyllic island landscapes of tropical gardens and white sand, palm-fringed beaches, with snorkelling right off shore, await the visitor as do large, modern comfortable rooms and helpful friendly staff. Activity coordinators entertain children aged four and over, while babysitters are easily arranged for younger tots. Kids stay and eat free making the Shangri-la an affordable tropical stay.
www.shangri-la.com 

2. The Naviti Resort, Coral Coast (4 stars)

Located on the famous Coral Coast, this all-inclusive resort is perennially popular with Australian families looking for value and quality. Kids rule at the Rugg Rats Club, with three daily sessions for children between 5 and 12 years in a padded playroom; while there are also dedicated teenager activities that will keep them busy both on resort grounds and beyond. Meanwhile, the whole family will enjoy outstanding facilities including a 9-hole golf course, swim-up bar, fully equipped gym and giant chess board.
www.warwicknaviti.com

Plantation Island Resort

3. Plantation Island Resort, Plantation Island (3.5 stars)

A classic tropical island budget escape, Plantation Island continues to rate as one of the friendliest resorts in the Pacific. The kids will have a blast at the Coconut Kids€ Club offering activities such as longboat rides, crab races and limbo; while mums and dads will appreciate the opportunity to relax by the pool or beach, cocktail in hand, knowing the kids are in good hands.
www.plantationisland.com

Mana Island Resort Fiji

4. Mana Island Resort & Spa, Mana Island (4 stars)

Learning about Fijian culture is a big part of the Vonu Kids' Club at Mana Island, with activities including palm weaving, local games and shell collecting all part of the fun. Add to this two pools, a large playground, water sports aplenty and a gorgeous island location, and it's no wonder this island is so popular with families.
www.manafiji.com

5. Sheraton Denarau Villas (5 stars)

This luxury resort's villas are specially designed to suit families, with spacious lounge areas, dedicated dining areas, kitchen and laundry facilities plus the convenience of full hotel facilities. The SPG Kids' Pass allows all-inclusive dining for children at a flat rate; while there's a host of family-friendly activities on offer including fish feeding, lawn bowls, kayaking and a special children's program.
www.sheraton.com/denarauvillasoffers

Club Med Lindeman Island6. The Warwick Fiji Resort & Spa, Coral Coast (5 star)

An all-inclusive package at this popular resort takes the stress out of holiday budgeting, with the bonus of kids€ staying and eating for free (including unlimited ice cream!) The package also includes entertainment, kids€ club, bicycle rides and even scuba lessons € great value for families.
www.warwickfijihotel.com

7. TIED Radisson BLU Resort Fiji, Denarau Island (5 stars)

Located in the exclusive Denarau Island compound, the newly branded Radisson BLU has beach frontage, great access to boat tours and water sports, kids; club and baby sitting services, as well as family-friendly activities including golf, five swimming pools and Fiji's only white water tunnel waterslide.
www.radissonblu.com/resort-fiji

7. TIED Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort, Savusavu (5 stars)

This all-inclusive luxury resort on the northern island of Savusavu is renowned for its family-friendly eco-activities, with special touches including a Fijian buddy for kids aged 6-12, an exclusive nanny for under 5s, and access to a full-time marine biologist who leads snorkel trips on the reef. And while the children are under expert care, parents can relax and enjoy the pristine environment.
www.fijiresort.com

Castaway Island Resort

8. Castaway Island Resort (4 stars)

With its free kids' club featuring supervised fun and culturally-inspired activities, this private island surrounded by white sand beaches and azure waters is a winner with Aussie families, traditional beach bures setting the scene for a relaxed holiday in paradise.
www.castawayfiji.com

Fiji Beach Resort and Spa

9. TIED Fiji Beach Resort and Spa by Hilton, Denarau (5 stars)

With 1.5 kilometres of private beach, paradise is at your doorstep in this luxury resort. Facilities include access to a golf course, spa and gym, as well as supervised children's activities at the kids' club and nutritious menus including a children's dinner buffet. Little touches such as strollers for hire and child bike seats are a bonus.
www.fijibeachresortbyhilton.com   

InterContinental Fiji

9. TIED InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Viti Levu (5 stars)

Five restaurants, four swimming pool, an 18-hole championship golf course and a spa' little wonder this resort rates highly with Australian travellers. Add to that a dedicated kids activity pool (a 105m aquatic paradise with water fountains), Planet Trekkers Kids' Club and baby sitting, and parents as well as kids will be happy.
www.ichotelsgroup.com  

 

10. TIED Treasure Island (4 stars)

Located within a marine sanctuary, the environment is at the fore on this idyllic island, with children encouraged to learn about native animals such as turtles and iguanas at the Little Treasures club. Kids can also make friends with local children, plus once a week little guests prepare their own lovo feast, performing a tradition dance for their parents.
www.treasureisland-fiji.com

10. TIED Malolo Island Resort, Malolo Island (4 stars)

Owned by a local Fiji family, Malolo is a rustic retreat that provides an uncluttered version of paradise. For families, there is a free kids' club located under a massive mango tree and water sports, while three big family bures sleep up to 7 people - ideal for a bigger-than-average family.
www.maloloisland.com  

 


Top 10 Family Resorts - Bali

1. Club Med Bali, Nusa Dua (4 tridents)

This Nusa Dua gem boasts first-rate hospitality, idyllic surrounds and the all-inclusive package and children’s entertainment Club Meds are famous for around the world. Located on the more upmarket stretch of Bali coastline, this gorgeous resort separates children by age in order to best cater to their needs. Babies receive a welcome kit, plus there is a baby zone for meal preparation and babysitting services so parents can sit back and relax or get involved in the many activities from cooking classes to high flying trapeze lessons. All in all, a winning family formula.
www.clubmed.com.au

2. Bali Dynasty Resort, South Kuta (4 stars)

Families are a huge part of this popular beachfront resort’s market, with a wide variety of rooms sleeping up to five people, including special Kids’ Suites with bunk beds, DVD players and PlayStations. There’s also a free kids’ club, a child-only pool complete with a 56-metre waterslide, and a playground and treehouse, while Waterbom Park is just a short walk away.
www.balidynasty.com

3. InterContinental Bali Resort, Jimbaran Bay (5 stars)

Blending modern convenience with traditional Balinese hospitality and aesthetics, this luxury beachfront resort offers a tranquil, exotic escape for discerning families. Luxury abounds, yet families are not forgotten with InterContinental Planet Trekkers childcare centre offering supervised activities and a taste of Balinese culture.
www.bali-intercontinental.com

4. The Westin Resort, Nusa Dua (5 stars)

Kids are stars at this luxury resort, with facilities such as the Westin Kids’ Club and a 12-metre waterslide in the freshwater pool surefire hits. Families can also bond over a range of activities including story telling, kite flying, movie nights and dance lessons in the Love Your Family program; while the SPG Kids’ Pass program is an all-inclusive dining program which make mealtimes simple.
www.westin.com/bali   www.facebook.com/westinbali

5. Grand Hyatt Bali (5 stars)

Designed in the style of a Balinese waterpark, this gorgeous resort offers all the luxuries of a top resort as well as family-friendly facilities such as five swimming pools, supervised cultural and sporting activities in the Camp Nusa kids' club, and VIB (Very Important Baby) amenities.
www.bali.grand.hyatt.com  

 

Hotel Padma Bali

6. Padma Resort Bali at Legian (5 stars)

With special family rates, special kids’ menus and friendly hospitality has made this well-located resort a family favourite, with a host of activities including surf lessons, yoga, fish feeding and cooking classes all adding to the appeal. There are seven food and beverage outlets on site, as well as a spa run by the world-renowned Mandara Spa.
www.padmaresortbali.com  

7. Conrad Bali, Nusa Dua (5 stars)

Your kids will feel like royalty at this luxury resort, with activities at the Kura Kura kids' club catering to their every desire and little princesses even having their own special spa treatments in the Jiwa spa! If they still need to be entertained, there's the Games Zone with the latest computer games and a pool table, a fitness centre, a 33-metre swimming pool and a jogging track through landscaped gardens.
www.conradhotels.com  

Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel & Villas Bali

8. Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel, Kuta (5 stars)

Located in popular South Kuta right near Bali's entertainment hub, this popular resort has a host of activities and facilities that appeal to families swimming pools, massage hut, beach volleyball and watersports plus great shopping right next door at Discovery Shopping Mall.
www.discoverykartikaplaza.com  

 

9. AYANA Resort and Spa (5 stars)

Located on 77 hectares of landscaped gardens with 1.3 kilometers of private coastline, this acclaimed property offers unsurpassed luxury, tranquility and personalized service, while catering for families with extensive recreational facilities and exclusive services. Its renovated Kids Club includes flat screen TV, X-Box, Wii, trampoline and foosball table, and an activities program including a petting zoo, waterslide pool party, Balinese dress-ups and traditional games, all the while allowing parents to indulge in spa treatments and relaxation
www.ayanaresort.com  

10. Nikko Bali Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua (5 stars)

Known as a family and honeymoon destination, this luxury property is perfectly tailored to families, with facilities including water sports, a well-equipped fitness centre and a children's jungle camp. There's also a children's lagoon and pool, a 30-metre waterslide and three tennis courts, all beautifully located beside a beach featuring private cabanas. Family suites with two interconnecting rooms, kids' books and toys and DVD player are a bonus.
www.nikkobali.com

 

Top 10 Family Resorts - Thailand

JW Marriott Phuket

1. JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Phuket (5 stars)

This year’s Thai winner is a slice of serene luxury, away from it all. This impeccable resort is set on tranquil Mai Khao Beach, a long clean stretch of sand and is hassle-free, unlike many of Phuket’s busier beaches. Conveniently located 15 minutes from the airport, the resort caters to a quieter crowd, the main drag of Patong being 90 minutes drive away. Rooms are spacious and modern, with staff making the effort to provide extra attention to detail. The activity program for all ages is imaginative; including family cooking classes; meditation and yoga for teens 13+; batik and nature sketching for kids 4-12 years; Muay Thai boxing and Tie Dye class for adults; even spa treatments for children.
www.marriott.com.au  

Tourism Authority of Thailand

2. Laguna Beach Resort, Phuket (5 stars)

With a host of family-friendly activities and facilities, there’s good reason why this charming resort in the massive Laguna complex is so popular with Aussie families. A spectacular waterpark sets the tone, while more than 30 sports and leisure activities, a full kids’ club program, an 18 hole golf course and the Angsana spa ensures that every member of the family is happy.
www.lagunabeach-resort.com

3. Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort, Phuket (5 stars)

Located in the heart of Patong, yet secluded amongst 40 hectares of gardens in a tranquil cove, this resort blends luxurious contemporary design with traditional Thai, complementing the gorgeous natural setting. Kids rule at the Penguin Club, with daily activities including rock climbing, Thai dancing and sandcastle competitions; while mum and dad will love the driving range, putting green and rejuvenating treatments at La Spa.
www.lemeridien.com/phuketbeachresort

Shangri-La Rasa Ria

4. Holiday Inn Resort, Patong, Phuket (4 stars)

With dedicated kids’ activities, daily activities and a legendary breakfast buffet, this resort in the heart of Patong is an evergreen choice for families. Part of a recognised mid-range brand, it offers seven room categories to cater for every budget, with family-friendly rooms a specialty.
www.holiday.phuket.com  

5. Merlin Beach Resort, Phuket (4 stars)

Close to the action of Patong yet far away enough for peace and quiet, the Merlin appeals with its family focus, including three big swimming pools, a day spa and the Bam Bam Kids’ Club offering free activities such as sand art and jewellery making.
www.merlinbeach.com

6. Talay Karon Beach Resort, Phuket (4 stars)

Family fun is the focus at this resort, with accommodation including magical theme rooms, such as the Underwater, Outer Space, and Castle rooms designed with kids in mind. The Dino Pool is a fantasy masterpiece, featuring Phuket's longest waterslide overlooked by a magic castle and two big dinosaurs; while the Siam Adventure kids' club is hosted by a team of rangers who look after your child's every whim. www.phuket.com/talay-karon-beach-resort

7. Dusit Thani, Hua Hin (5 stars)

Located in Hua Hin, four hours south of Bangkok, this beachfront hotel captures all the charm and tranquillity of this unspoilt Royal destination. A special feature is the resort’s own stables, where children of all ages can learn to ride under expert tuition. Two pools (including a kids’ pool), fitness centre and a spa round out the family-friendly facilities.
www.dusit.com

8. Karma Samui, Koh Samui (5 stars)

Located in charming Bophut, a fisherman’s village in the north of Koh Samui, this complex features luxury villas perched on a cliff-face with gorgeous ocean views. Each one-to four-bedroom villa has its own pool, with luxurious interiors fusing modern technology and handcrafted Thai style. Activities include family spa experiences, with teenage facials and baby massage a specialty.
www.karmasamui.com

9. Indigo Pearl Resort, Phuket (5 stars)

A standout in style and design, this resort located nearby Phuket Airport has plenty of appeal for families, with three pools (including a non-smoking children's section), a beachfront location, cultural activities and a dedicated kids' club contributing to an unforgettable holiday experience.
www.indigopearl.com

10. Centara Grand Beach Resort, Phuket (5 stars)

A watery paradise awaits your child at the Centara Grand's waterpark, featuring four swimming pools, a Jacuzzi, waterslides, waterfalls, a lazy river and a kids' pool. Add to that a dedicated kids' club, a separate teenage zone and extensive playgrounds, and it's little wonder this resort rates so highly amongst families.
www.centarahotelsresorts.com

 

Top 5 Family Resorts - Malaysia

1. Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort, Kotah Kinabalu, Sabah (5 stars)

Where jungle meets the sea is Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort, on 400 acres of lush tropical vegetation at Pantai Dalit Beach in Sabah. Dramatically situated before the majestic Mt Kinabalu, it is famous for its complimentary kids' club, a true haven for the little ones, with plenty to do from arts and crafts to baby crab catching. Free roaming peacocks and rabbits are not the only creatures to discover. Most popular are the orang-utans at the Nature Reserve, rescued animals that are rehabilitated back into the wild. This reserve is also home to deer, civets, bear cats and many more fascinating creatures, plus 63 species of birds.
www.shangri-la.com/en/property/kotakinabalu/rasariaresort

Tourism Authority of Thailand

2. Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah (5 stars)

Sabah is the new 'it' destination, offering families culture and exotic wildlife combined with luxury. Set amidst 3335 acres of natural surrounds, the complex includes an 18-hole golf course, a spa, 8 restaurants and bars and a 75-acre nature park as well as water sports at the resort's Lagoon Park. The Nexie kids' club ensures your kids are entertained and happy while parents relax.
www.nexusresort.com

Club Med

3. Club Med Cherating Beach Resort (4 tridents)

Macaws, gibbons, lizards and butterflies will be your companions at this all-inclusive resort on the east coast of Malaysia. In true Club Med fashion, children are superstars here, with dedicated areas, supervised activities including educational jungle hikes and meeting the local animals, and great family facilities including a trapeze school and a sailing school.
www.clubmed.com.au

4. Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, Kota Kinabalu (5 stars)

With one of the largest child care and play facilities in Malaysia as well as a fantastic water park, families are a priority at this luxury resort, which also features an extensive activities program. Mum will also delight in CHI, the Spa, a luxurious private spa experience based on traditional Asian wellness techniques.
www.shangri-la.com/en/property/kotakinabalu/tanjungaruresort

Sunway Lagoon Resort Hotel

5. Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa, Kuala Lumpur (5 stars)

The largest hotel in Kuala Lumpur is a great choice for families, with a super-cool waterfall pool (re-opening after extensive renovation in June), as well as access to Sunway Lagoon, the world�s largest man-made surf beach and adjacent amusement, wildlife and water parks. Look out for family packages incorporating accommodation and entertainment.
http://kualalumpur.sunwayhotels.com/


Top 10 Family Resorts - Rest of South Pacific

1. Warwick Le Lagon Resort and Spa, Vanuatu (4 star)

Up there with the best, Le Lagon is an excellent number one choice. Its South Pacific charm of white sand and pristine blue seas will not disappoint. Situated on Efate, the main island of Vanuatu, amidst 75 acres of lush gardens on the picture perfect Erakor lagoon, the resort is both minutes from the airport and the capital, Port Vila. Parents love the relaxed vibe and superb service, while the kids will be intrigued by the local island activities like coconut harvesting and crab racing. The kids club is for three-12 year olds; kids aged 13 and under eat and stay free when sharing with parents.
www.lelagonvanuatu.vu

The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa

2. Rarotongan Beach Resort and Spa, Cook Islands (4 stars)

Cook Islands are the hidden treasure of the Pacific, truly an unspoilt paradise for Australians. White sand beaches, azure waters, a relaxed ambience and affordability make this a great choice, with kids getting special treatment at the Moko Kids Club and fab Kids Stay Play Free packages. Teens also have their own special zone, while all children receive a welcome pack on arrival.
www.therarotongan.com

Edgewater Resort, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

3. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, Tahiti (5 stars)

Why should honeymooners have all the fun? Kids aren’t forgotten at this divine resort, with amenities including kid-sized robes, welcome gifts, a children’s menu and a complimentary children’s program including traditional Tahitian cultural activities. Older children will enjoy Chill Island which offers water sports, diving lessons, kite surfing and marine biology presentations.
www.fourseasons.com/borabora/

Edgewater Resort, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

4. Edgewater Resort, Cook Islands (3.5 stars)

The largest Rarotongan resort, Edgewater is a great choice for families due to its spacious accommodation, beachfront location and kids' club offering great entertainment and supervised activities. Daily activities include island tours, snorkelling and market shopping a wonderful experience for the whole family.
www.edgewater.co.ck

Aggie Grey's Lagoon, Beach Resort and Spa

5. Aggie Greys Lagoon, Beach Resort & Spa, Samoa (4 stars)

Located on a stretch of white sand beach, this family-friendly resort offers Samoan hospitality and comfort in an idyllic location. The Dolphin Kids’ Club is an integral part of resort activities, with the emphasis on new experiences and cultural activities. Interconnecting family rooms are good value.
www.aggiegreys.com


Top 10 Family Resorts - Australia - Over 4 stars

Sea World Resort1. Sea World Resort, Gold Coast, Qld (4.5 stars)

A consistent family favourite, Sea World Resort is a hub of entertainment ideally located on the Broadwater waterfront next door to Sea World theme park. Kids love the Sesame Street character appearances, the thrilling water playground plus the newly upgraded kids' club for children aged over 4 years. The resort keeps guests happy with special offers such as free use of the adjoining Water Park and deals like stay two or more nights and receive free entry to special dolphin presentations, a quick monorail ride away at Sea World. www.seaworldresort.myfun.com.au

Sands Turtle Beach2. Daydream Island Resort & Spa, Whitsundays(4.5 stars)

Despite being located on the Great Barrier Reef's doorstep, Daydream has gone one step further and brought the reef to its guests. Its man-made Living Reef featuring cute clown fish, colourful corals, stingrays and baby sharks is a massive hit, just one of many family-friendly facilities that make this a perennial favourite.
www.daydreamisland.com 

turtle beach3.Turtle Beach Resort, Gold Coast (4.5 stars)

An incredible array of resort facilities, including two lagoons with wading pools, two lap pools (one adults only), two tennis courts, an 18-hole putt putt course, cinema and a range of dining options set this Mermaid Beach property apart as great value for families. Kids are a priority at the resort, with spacious one- to four-bedroom apartments ideal for families who desire independence as well as value for money.
www.turtlebeach.com.au

hyatt4.Hyatt Regency Coolum, Coolum (5 stars)

Fronting two kilometres of sparkling beach and surrounded by 1500 hectares of natural bushland, this resort capitalises on nature's bounty to provide a classic Australian holiday experience. With a PGA championship golf course, a beach club and privately patrolled beach plus Australia's largest day spa, there's something for the whole family, including Camp Hyatt for the kids.
www.coolum.regency.hyatt.com

peppers broadbeach5.Peppers Broadbeach, Gold Coast  (5 stars)

The two sculpted towers soaring over Broadbeach set the high-tech tone of this luxury resort, with curb-side check-in, complementary iPads, wireless internet, gourmet mini-bar and tai chi lawns just some of the cool touches. Accommodation includes luxury one- and two- bedroom suites and three bedroom skyhomes appointed with European appliances. Quality all the way.
www.peppers.com.au/broadbeach

crowntowers6.Crown Towers Resort, Surfers Paradise  (4.5 stars)

With apartments offering spacious living spaces and gourmet kitchens, this is a great option for families who want to cater for themselves. Outside is a tropical oasis with lagoon pool, island, sandy beach, pirate ship, heated indoor pool, spa, sauna, steam room and gymnasium.
www.mantra.com.au/queensland/gold-coast/surfers-paradise/accommodation/apartments/crown-towers-resort/

 

peppers broadbeach7. Peppers Salt Resort & Spa, Kingscliff (5 stars)

Located just 15 minutes south of the Gold Coast Airport on the NSW north coast, Peppers Salt Resort offers a more tranquil alternative for families seeking a beach escape. Facilities include lagoon pools, the Golden Door Spa, a grassy amphitheatre and seven kilometres of cycle tracks to explore at your own pace.
www.peppers.com.au/salt

8.Abbey Beach Resort, Busselton, WA  (4.5 stars)

Ideally located to explore the Margaret River region or the beautiful beaches of south-west WA, this resort has everything a family could want for a relaxing holiday, including two outdoor swimming pools plus a heated indoor pool, a gym, squash and tennis courts and mountain bikes and wave skis available to borrow.
www.abbeybeach.com.au

peppers broadbeach9. Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa  (5 stars)

Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa is famed for its soaring views, fantastic restaurants and luxurious Lattouf Hair & Day Spa as well as its awesome lagoon pool where kids can snorkel till their heart's content. A kids' club is also available during school holidays and offers a variety of activites for children which is a bonus for parents in need of 'me' time.
www.marriott.com.au

lakes cairns10.The Lakes Cairns Resort and Spa, Cairns  (4.5 stars)

You'll know you're in the tropics without even leaving this resort, with 11 acres of lush gardens, lakes and lagoon pools setting the mood. Ideally located to explore the rainforest and the reef of TNQ, The Lakes Cairns offers a family package that includes apartment accommodation as well as tours to Kuranda, Green Island and a croc farm.
www.thelakescairns.com.au

 

Top 10 Family Resorts - Australia - 4 stars and under

1. Paradise Resort, Gold Coast, Qld (4 stars)

This number one pick is a great value resort where kids definitely rule! Not for the faint-hearted, this fun resort offers an action-packed stay. Rooms are basic but comfortable, service comes with a smile and the resort is just a short stroll to Surfers Paradise. Zone4Kids is an exceptional club with themed rooms and activities, and it even caters for babies too. If this million-dollar kids’ club isn’t enough the pool area is currently being renovated and by September the resort will boast a huge Aqua Play water park.
www.paradiseresort.com.au

2. Novotel Twin Waters Resort, Sunshine Coast, Qld (4 stars)

There’s good reason Aussie families love this resort, a stylish blend of Queensland charm, comfort and luxury. Recently renovated, there are great facilities for kids including the Cirque Espace circus school, free bike and kayak hire and all-terrain Segways to zip around the resort on. The Kidz Cove kids’ club offers morning, afternoon and weekend evening sessions, giving your child important parent-free time to play with other kids.
www.twinwatersresort.com.au

Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island3. Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island (4 stars)

With its Kids Stay and Eat Free package, this is Hamilton Island's most popular family accommodation, offering a range of rooms as well as great resort facilities including a 35-metre pool and complimentary water sports.
www.hamiltonisland.com.au

aanuka4.BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort, Coffs Harbour (4 stars)

Situated on absolute beachfront at gorgeous Diggers Beach, this popular resort has water play at its fore with an outdoor rock pool, children's pool with its own play area and bubbly cave spas. There's also a range of family-friendly accommodation, including spa villas that sleep up to six.
www.breakfree.com.au/aanuka-beach

5. Capricorn Resort Yeppoon (3.5 stars)

This resort is all about the great outdoors, with a secluded beach location surrounded by wilderness. Resort facilities include two international golf courses, 25 free activities, horse riding, wetland tours and rainforest canoe adventures ideal for a great Aussie family adventure.
www.capricornresort.com.au

Club Med Lindeman Island6. Club Med Lindeman Island, Whitsundays, Qld (3 tridents)

The only Club Med property in Australia, this ever-popular resort combines Club Med's value all-inclusive policy with an idyllic location and a wealth of activities including a kids' club, golf and a flying trapeze.
www.clubmed.com.au

The Islander Noosa Pool7.The Islander Noosa Resort, Noosaville, QLD (3.5 stars)

With self-contained accommodation and host of resort facilities, this is an ideal base for families who want to explore the Sunshine Coast without breaking the bank. Three swimming pools, two tennis courts and three spas are on-site, while there are 10 family-friendly restaurants within walking distance.
www.islandernoosa.com.au

Club Med Lindeman Island8.Kingfisher Bay Resort, Fraser Island  (4 stars)

The only resort accommodation on World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, Kingfisher Bay offers eco-friendly activities such as ranger tours, guided canoe paddles and whale cruises, while the popular Junior Eco-Ranger program teaches kids how to care for the island's unique environment.
www.kingfisherbay.com

Breakfree Diamond beach9. BreakFree Diamond Beach Resort, Broadbeach  (3.5 stars)

Ideally located on the southern end of Broadbeach, this low-rise property offers the convenience of apartment-style accommodation with full resort facilities including two lagoon pools, a heated rock cave spa, kids' playground, BBQ areas and a convenience store.
www.breakfree.com.au/diamond-beach

Broadwater10. Broadwater Beach Resort, Busselton WA  (4 stars)

Accommodating up to six people in a range of rooms, this is a great option for families exploring the Busselton coast. Facilities include an outdoor pool and an impressive indoor pool where guests can participate in 'Poolaties' (pilates in the pool!) And with the beach within walking distance, there's no excuse not to get fit during this family holiday!
www.beach.broadwaters.com.au



Top 5 Family Resorts - USA

disney1. Disneyland Hotel Anaheim, California (3.5 stars)

Family favourite for the rest of the world is the must-stay resort for Disney lovers, the Disney Hotel. This retro-themed hotel has an unbeatable location, only a monorail ride into the Disneyland complex. Guests can meet and greet Disney characters, even gain entry into the theme park before the park opens on certain days. The pool area has recently been renovated to include a monorail waterslide and Minnie Mouse spa, so everyone can immerse themselves in this magical world.
www.disneyland.disney.go.com

hiltonhawaiianvillage

2. Hilton Hawaiian Village, Waikiki Beach, Hawaii (4 stars)

This resort offers classic Hawaiian fun, with the most swimming pools and slides in Hawaii, the widest stretch of beach, local entertainment and 20 restaurants and lounges. Camp Penguin immerses children into the Hawaiian culture, with aquarium and zoo visits and interaction with resident wildlife; while quintessential activities such as surfing lessons are on your doorstep.
www.hiltonhawaiianvillage.com  

 

3. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Florida (4.5 stars)

Located within the Walt Disney World Resort, this grand Victorian-style hotel overlooks Seven Seas Lagoon, Magic Kingdom and Cinderella's Castle, putting you in the thick of the Disney action. If you can drag them away from the park, the kids will love the sandy beach and pool, while children aged 3-12 can join in the Mousketeer Club activities and themed tea parties.
www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/grand-floridian-resort-and-spa/

4. Turtle Bay Resort Hawaii (4 stars)

Forty-five minutes from Honolulu, this luxury resort offers a more tranquil Hawaiian experience, with the emphasis on outdoor fun and family relaxation. Horse riding, surf school, golf courses and hiking are all available, while the Keiki Turtle Club will introduce children to the Hawaiian culture through arts, crafts and beach fun.
www.turtlebayresort.com

5. Circus Circus Las Vegas (3 stars)

 Vegas may be one big family theme park, but Circus Circus remains the most kid-friendly and value accommodation on the Strip, with free all-day circus acts plus its own Adventuredome theme park sure to enthral.
www.circuscircus.com


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