Yokohama

Yokohama was only a small fishing village in Japan when in 1854, Matthew C. Perry arrived with his fleet of U.S. Naval warship at the neighbouring town of Kanagawa. It is now the second largest city in Japan and one of the most favourite city for day trips. Yokohama is about 1 hour and 15 minutes by train from Tokyo.

Kiyoken Yokohama Factory

Factories tours are available at this Kiyoken factory that produces a popular Yokohama souvenir, shumai (steamed meat dumplings). Visitors can learn the production process of shumai from the mixing of fillings to the boxing of finished products. Tasting of fresh made shaomai is offered at the end of the tour. The historical uniforms worn by salespersons are also displayed.

Factory tour is available on Wed, Thu, Fri, and Sat with the first tour starting at 9:00 AM. Each tour will run for 90 minutes (including tasting) and last tour is starting at 2:00 PM. While the factory tour is free but you will need to make a reservation.

Reservations can be made from the same day three months before the tour date. Reservation can be made from https://factoryreserve.kiyoken.com/yokohamafactory/ (in Japanese only).

Alternatively, “Petit Kiyoke” within the Kiyoken Yokohama Factory is a facility where you can experience part of the factory tour without making a reservation. The museum has a train themed design and they also offer freshly prepared Shiumai and Chinese bun at a reasonable price. You sit on the train like chairs to eat in.

Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum

Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum was founded on March 6th, 1994 as the world’s first Ramen-themed amusement park. It is open on weekdays from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Admission fee (whole day ticket) is 330 Yen/Adult or 50 Yen for children between 6 to 12 years old. It os free for children under 6 years old.

Every adult visitors are expected to also order 1 bowl of Ramen during the visit. At the museum you have the opportunity to explore the Galery, where visitors can learn about the history of ramen. At the museum shop, you can buy extremely rare dried and fresh ramen noodles from all over Japan. They also sells sweets with a ramen motif that you can’t buy at other stores.

Restaurant area of Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum

Kateko’s Café and Snack Shop is a coffee shop within the museum which opens from 11:30 AM to 8:00 PM (last order by 7:30 PM). At Kateko’s Cafe and Snack Shop you can enjoy classic Showa sweets such as old-fashioned handmade pudding, cream soda, parfait, and bavarois. Nissei’s soft serve ice cream represents the flavor of Showa era, and it is available for takeout.

Dagashi-ya on Yu-yake Shoten (Sunset Shopping Street) is a replicate of Japanese’s old fashioned sweet shop. It is jam packed with over 300 old fashioned sweets & toys.

At the museum, visitors can also opt to participate in Ramen making class and/or to create their own instant cup noodle at Ra-haku Sugomen Lab. The ramen making class is only available for adults and it costs 4,000 Yen/Adult and it lasts between 60-75 minutes. There are only several ramen making classes per day (11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM) with only up to 10 people per session. Booking can be made through https://takigami-raumen.urkt.in/ja/direct/offices/2268/courses?language_type=en. All participants will have to arrive 10 minutes before their scheduled appointment time.

Ra-haku Sugomen Lab, where customers can make their own instant cup noodle is open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Last order is at 8:00 PM and it 540 yen per cup. For more information about the different ingredients that you can put in to your cup noodle please refer to https://www.raumen.co.jp/english/sugomen-labo_en.html.

Red Brick Warehouse

Red Brick Warehouse is a historical buildinds that is divided into 2 buildings. Building 1 is regarded as a cultural facility, as it is normally used as event venue for art exhibitions, film festivals, musical competitions and plays.

Building 2 is now used as a shopping mall, bars, coffee shops, and restaurants. The 1st floor, mainly shops, opens from 10 AM to 7 PM. The 2nd floor, which is where the restaurants, cafe & bars are located, opens from 11 AM to 8 PM. On the 3rd floor, it also has a balcony from which visitors can view the harbour.

There is also a manhole cover with Pikachu & Raichu design near the Red Brick warehouse. Go to Pikachu Raichu Manhole Location to find out the location. Can you spot it?

Pokemon Mailbox

Japan post had installed three adorable pokemon themed mail box in Yokohama. Two of them (Pikachu & Evie) are located side by side at 5 Chome-49 Honcho, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0005, Japan which is about 14 minutes walk from Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse. The closest rail stop is Bashamichi Station, on the Minato Mirai subway line. There is only one exit gate at this station but after the exit gate, there are multiple ways to go outside the station. To get to the Pokemon mailbox, take the A1 exit which will lead you to series of stairs. Once you reach the end of the stairs, you should be able to see the two pokemon mailboxes.

To see Evie mailbox, you will need to ealk towards Yokohama Sakuragi Post Office, which is about 7 minutes walk (about 2 blocks away from Bashamichi station).

Sankein Garden

Yokohama Chinatown

Yokohama has the largest Chinatown in Japan. it was developed after Yokohama’s port opened to foreign trade in 1859 which attracted many Chinese people to settle in the city. Now Japan’s largest Chinatown with around 500 restaurants, shops and stalls.

Kuan Ti Miao temple & Mazu Miao temple are the two Chinese temples in Yokohama Chinatown. Kuan Ti Miao temple is the older temple, having been built in 1871. Mazu Miao is much newer one. It was opened in 2006 to celebrate Chinatown’s 150th anniversary. Whilst different in style, both are well worth a visit.

Yokohama Open Air

Yokohama Air Cabin is open from 10 AM to 10 PM allowing visitors to choose whether to ride either during the day and in the evening. It is the world’s first urban gondola which offers incredible panoramic views of Yokohama, both cityscape and the sea.

You can board the air cabin either from Sakuragi-Cho station to get to Unga Park (which is close to the area where Red Brick Warehouse is located) or from Unga park station towards Sakuragi-Cho station. One of the poke lid manhole cover was installed near Yokohama Air Cabin entrance at Sakuragi-Cho. Can you spot the Pikachu manhole lid?

One way ticket cost ¥1,000/adult or ¥500/children. Round trip ticket cost ¥1,800/adult or ¥900/children. You’ll also have the option to purchase a ticket which is combo with Cosmo Clock 21. A combo ticket of 1 way and a ride on Cosmo Clock 21 will cost ¥1,700/adult or ¥1,300/children. Alternatively, combo ticket of return ride on Cosmo Clock 21 will cost ¥2,500/adult or ¥1,600/children.

Yokohama Cosmo World

Yokohama Cosmo World is free to enter as you need to buy tickets for individual rides. You have the option to buy discount books of tickets if you plan to try a lot of rides. For example you can buy a book with 3,500 yen’s worth of tickets for just 3,000 yen, or a 5,000 yen discount ticket book for just 4,000 yen. Buying a discount book of tickets also means less waiting in line at the ticket stalls.

Yokohama Cosmo World is divided into three zones: Kids Carnival Zone for younger kids, Burano Street Zone where you can ride on the Family Banana Coaster, Galaxy Ride, Super Planet Ride, Explore the Hall of Mirors, Go to Haunted Mansion and play on game machines.

The third zone is the Wonder Amuse theme which is the main area of the theme park and has the most thrilling rides such as Rapid Slide Cliff Drop and the “Diving Coaster – Vanish!” which is just like a regular roller coaster until it suddenly plunges through and beneath a pool of water creating a gigantic splash.

Hamagin Space Science Centre

Hamagin Space Science Centre is a science museum featuring space as its themes. It opens daily from 9.30 AM to 5 PM but it is closed on 1st & 3rd Mondays. Visitors can feel close to space through various interactive displays and simple experiments in such areas as the Space Captain Room, the Space Discovery Room, the Space Training Room, and the Space Laboratory.

Zou-No-Hana Park

Pikachu Peliper manhole cover was installed near Yokohama Marine Tower, which is about 15 minutes walk from Zou-No-Hana Park. Can you spot it?

Gold Coast and Surrounds

Asides from Theme Parks, Gold Coast also has a lot of other attraction. When you arrived at the airport, it is worth to pick up the tourist booklets as they often have discount vouchers for the local attractions.

Most of the attractions in Gold Coast can easily be reach using public transport. While there are special shuttle bus that takes you to various theme parks, best to do your maths because they are also reachable using public transport.

Gold Coast is hot and humid, I find it handy to also bring hand held rechargeable fan when you go there. Other things that comes in handy is wheel-able backpack, cooler bag, Water friendly Legionnaire hat, and sunscreens! Last but not least, buy your superhero cape from eBay and bring them with you when you go to movie world. It’s cheaper 😀

Movie World

Movie world opens daily from 9.30 AM to 5 PM (except for ANZAC Day & Christmas Day. Before you go, download the Village Roadshow Theme Parks App available from both Apple & Google App store as you can also use this to check the schedules for upcoming showtimes and events, as well as to do a virtual queue.

To get to Movie world, you can take tram (which comes every 15 minutes) to Helensvale Station. The journey will approximately takes 35 minutes. Once you have reached Helensvale station, head to the bus stop to take TX7 Bus to Movie world. TX7 bus comes every 10 minutes and from Helensvale Station to Movie world will also takes about 10 minutes bus ride.

Once you have arrived at Movie World, get the kids height measured at Guest Services, as this will be easier for whenever you need to decide which rides they can and cannot go to. Also pack a change of clothes if you are planning to go on Wild West Falls Adventure Rides as you may need them. Kids would most lokely love to play at Looney Tunes Splash Zones so bring a towels & change for them too.

As Gold Coast can be quite hot during summer, it is best to go on outdoor rides in the morning, and focus on indoor/shaded rides or shows in the afternoon.

Outdoor Rides

No Minimum Height Requirements

Yosemite Sam Railroad (up to 110 cm must ride with an adult)
Looney Tunes Splash Zone

Min Height 90 cm

Sylvester & Tweety Cage (max height allowed is 145 cm)

Min Height 110 cm

Road Runner Roller Coaster (110 cm – 120 cm must ride with an adult)
Speedy Gonzales’ Tijuana Taxis (max height allowed is 145 cm)

Min Height 130 cm

DC Rivals Hypercoaster
Green Lantern Coaster
Batwing Spaceshot
Wild West Falls (95 cm – 130 cm must ride with Adults)
Doomsday Destroyer (max 200 cm tall)

Min Height 140 cm

Superman Escape
Green Lantern Coaster

Indoor Rides

No Minimum Height Requirements

Hollywood Stunt Driver
WB Studio Showcase
4D Experience

Min Height 90 cm

Justice League 3D (90 cm – 110 cm must ride with an adult)
Looney Toons Carousel (Under 105 cm must ride with an adult)
Junior Driving School (90 cm to 106 cm must ride with an adult)

Min Height 110 cm

Scooby Doo Spooky Coaster (110 cm – 120 cm must ride with an adult)

Hollywood Stunt Drivers is a must have show to attend while you’re there

Junior Driving School is another popular attractions

Wet’n’Wild

As the name suggest, make sure you brings towels, change of clothes, and wet pouch to store your phone & small valuables so they won’t get wet.

When you get in to the park, the first thing to do is go straight to Wet’n’ Wild junior area as there is a limited tables & chairs within the covered area. Having a seat at this area makes so much difference when it cones to lunch break! See the once circled in the map.

Once you have settled your belongings, go to the guest service to measure kids’ heights. If you choose to hire a locker, you can do so at Billabong Shop next door.

Food wise, avoid fish and chips menu. They were quite disappointing the last time we tried. The chicken finger was better that we expected, and their burger & pizza were relatively good.

H2O Oasis, the new family friendly splash zone at Wet’n’Wild

Seaworld

Seaworld has wide range of options from animal exhibits, presentations, rides, characters shows & monorail.

Outdoor Attractions

No Minimum Heights

Spong Bob’s Boating School (90 cm – 105 cm must ride with an adult)
Shark Bay Glass bottom ($15/person, runs every 30 minutes from 10.30 am to 4 pm). Bookings taken at Glass Bottom Boat dock in Shark Bay.
The Reef Splash Park

Min Height 90 cm

Spong Bob’s Boating School (90 cm – 105 cm must ride with an adult)

Min Height 110 cm

Storm Coaster (Under 130 cm must ride with an adult)
Boots Banana Boogie (Under 105 cm must ride with an adult)
Dora Fiesta Carousel (Under 107 cm must ride with an adult)
Donatello’s Ninja Flyer (110 cm – 120 cm must ride with an adult)

Min Height 125 cm

Bikini Bottom Crosstown Express (Under 120 cm must ride with an adult)
Patrick’s Star Jellyfish (Under 120 cm must ride with an adult)
Jet Rescue (125 cm – 135 cm must ride with an adult)
Castaway Bay Battle Boats (Under 120 cm must ride with an adult)
Castaway Bay Fortress (Under 120 cm must ride with an adult)

Indoor/Shaded Attractions

10:15 AM Seal Guardians Behind the scenes
10:45 AM Ray Reef
10:45 AM Little Penguin Keeper Talk
11: 00 AM Paw Patrol
11.30 AM Affinity Dolphin
12:45 PM Paw Patrol
1:15 PM Thunder Lake Stunt
2.30 PM Seal Guardians Behind the scenes
3:00 PM Ray Reef
3:00 PM Little Penguin Keeper Talk
3:30 PM Affinity Dolphin
4:15 PM Thunder Lake Stunt

Aquaduck Tours

This 1 hour tour takes partipants to experience land and water all in one. It takes in the highlights of the city by road and experience the best of the Gold Coast from the water without leaving your seat.

The tour session is available at 9.45 am, 11 am, 12.15 pm, 2.15 pm, 3.30 pm, and 4.45 pm. It costs $42/ Adult or $32/Child (2 to 16 Years old). Check in is required at the Aquaduck store 20 minutes prior to your tour departure time.

The tour can be combined with Jet Boat Thrill Ride at the cost of $107/Adult, $84/Child (4-14 years old), or $345 for Family Ticket (2 Adults & 2 Kids)

Peninsula Playground

This playground been recently upgraded and has a spiral tower with 4 levels, equipped with various interative play equipments. To get to this playground, search Playground New Upgrade Southport Qld in Google Map as the actual playground name does not seems to have been registered in Google Map.

The playground is about 15 minutes drive from Surfers Paradise, or about 30 minutes tram ride (take the tram 704 or 711 to Helensvale which arrives every 10 minutes). Peninsula Playground is also about 10 minutes walk from Broadwater Parkland.

Broadwater Parkland

Broadwater Parkland is a popular place for family outings in Gold Coast. It has an Adventure playground which sits at the center of the parkland, near the Rockpool, which has a make believe pirate ships and some interactive play equipments.

Nearby the Adventure Playground & The Rockpool, is the Washington Water Playground which has flying fox, tandem pedal ride on the monorail, giant inflatable bouncy pillow and water play.

Play equipments at Washington Water Playground

Colorful Bouncy Pillow at Washington Water Playground

Swimming Lagoon

Just a short walk from Washington Water Playground, there is a swimming lagoon/enclosure which is great for kids as it is netted area, has calmer water, and lifeguard patrol. There is a permanent jumping pontoon for more experienced swimmer too. The swimming lagoon is also a short walk from outdoor showers & toilet facilities.

Mount Tambourine Glow Worms Cave

Mount Tambourine Glow Worm Cave is located about 50 minutes drive from Surfers Paradise. It is open 7 days all year around except for Good Friday & Christmas Day.

The Glow Worm Tours lasted 30 minutes. During a tour, the trained biologists will lead visitors down through the rainforest boardwalk into the glow worm habitat. Here, you’ll get the chance to meet a glow worm up close, and see their sticky strands and glowing bums! Because the site is not a natural area, our glow worm sightings are guaranteed.

Tickets to the glow worm tour costs $16/Adult, $9/Child (4-12 years old), or free for Children under 3.

Natural Bridge, Springbrook

Natural Bridge, Springbrook is located about 50 minutes drive from Mount Tambourine, and 50 minutes drive from Surfers Paradise.

The park’s Natural Bridge section features a picturesque rock formation, formed by the force of the waterfall over the basalt cave. It is easily accessible from the Nerang-Murwillumbah Road car park.

Natural Bridge Circuit is a one-kilometre circuit walking trail through the subtropical rainforest in the beautiful Numinbah Valley. You will walk through the beautiful forest where you can look out for beautiful rainforest birds and even pademelons. You can also go inside the cave, where you can even spot glow worms at night!

Glow worms at Natural Bridge if you visit at night time

Canyon Lookout

This lookout is nestled in a little side pocket opposite the quaint Canyon Lookout B&B and is a breathtaking Lookout just a short walk from the parking lot.

Ballarat and Surrounds

Ballarat is the third largest city in Victoria, located just about one hour drive from Melbourne CBD.

There are various activities you can do in Ballarat, depending on how long you are spending in Ballarat.

Breakfast/Brunch at Lakehouse Ballarat

Start your day with having breakfast/brunch at Lakehouse Ballarat which also offers tranquil view of Lake Wendouree.

Ballarat Botanical Garden & Lake Wendouree

There are so many things that you can do at Ballarat Botanical Garden from strolling along the pathway of Lake Wendouree, exploring the botanical garden & Prime Minister walk, letting kids loose at the Adventure Playground, lunching at Pipers by the Lake, or picnic on the botanical grounds. There are plenty of picnic tables around the park. Public toilet is also available, located near the playground.

Midland Reserve Parks & Playground

The Midlands Reserve and Water Park in Ballarat North is a fantastic play splace for children. It is located less than 10 minutes drive from Ballarat Botanical Garden. It has a bright and colourful water splash park stands alongside a well equipped playground within a large grassy area.

Ballarat Historical Explorations

If historical explorations is something of your interest, you can try to visit some of Ballart historical landmarks such as Arch of Victory (about 2 minutes drive from Botanical Garden or 20 Minutes walk), Ballarat Railway Station, Old style Post Office Box, The Mining Exchange, Ballarat Townhall, and Her Majesty Theatre.

Old style post box located outside the railway station (Lydiard Street North)

Another historical post box can be found in Lydiard Street South, near Chancery Lane, is not in use and has had the slot sealed with a “Not In Use” plaque.

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Ballarat Wildlife Park specialize on native Australian animals and is another great place to visit while in Ballarat.

The park has lots of Kangaroo roaming free, and lots of opportunity to hand fred the animals. It opens daily from 9 AM to 5 PM and it cost $35/Adult, $19.50/Child (5 -15 years), $95/Family (2 Adults and up to 4 Children).

Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill is one of the main attractions in Ballarat. Most people spent almost the whole day at Sovereign Hill. It opens Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Entry is $39/Adult, $20/Child (5 – 15 years), $99/Family (2 Adults and up to 4 Kids).

There are various activities that visitors can see/participate, from Musket Firing demonstration, candle dipping activities, gold panning, gold pouring, coach ride and many more.

Wilsons Promontory and Surrounds

Wilsons Promontory is well known for its rugged granite mountain and a refuge of native wildlife including Kangaroos, Wombats, Echidnas, and Emus. It is located about 1 hour 40 minutes away from Wilsons Promontory.

Tidal Overlook Circuit Walking Track

Start this walk from Loo Errn Broadwalk. The walk, which had been rated as a relatively easy walk, starts by crossing over Tidal River Footbridge, turning left and walk along Tidal Overlook Circuit.

To complete walk up to Pillar Point lookout, you will need about 30 minutes one way. Alternatively you can opt to do the walk up to Tidal Overlook Viewpoint which will take an approximately 20 minutes to complete.

During this walk you will pass Tidal River Foot Bridge view point and Whale Rock. It will roughly takes around 10 minutes to reach Whale Rock.

Continue along Tidal Overlook Circuit for another 10 minutes from Whale Rock and you will reach the Tidal Overlook Viewpoint.

If you are still up for it, you can opt to go a bit further (approximately another 10 minutes walk) to reach the Pillar Point Lookout which offers a stunning view of Norman Bay, the marine national park and Bass Strait.

To go to the Pillar Poing Lookout, you will need to take the left path at the junction as the other path will is to go to Squeaky Beach. Children will need to be closely supervised to ensure they do not go too close to the edge of the rocks.

Tidal River

The Tidal River is a shallow river with boulder edging and flat sand beach surrounding, making it a fantastic place for kids (and kids at heart) to play. The tea colored water is slightly warmer then the ocean and you are often protected from Wilson Prom’s windy conditions.

Fairy Cove

Fairy Cove is situated on the inner northern side of Tongue Point and is framed by granite boulders and steep surrounding slopes. At high tide, the boulders divide the shoreline into two sections, which merge at low tide to form a single, gently sloping 250‑metre beach with an adjoining sand bar. The cove is accessible via a short side track off the Tongue Point walking trail.

Despite being frequently missed by visitors, the Fairy Cove walk offers an accessible and relatively easy experience appropriate for families and children. Commencing at the Darby River Car Park, the route follows the primary trail toward Tongue Point. After roughly 2.5 kilometres, a distinct side track leads downhill toward the beach, descending an additional 400 metres to the cove.

The walk is best undertaken at low tide and generally requires approximately one hour each way.

Squeaky Beach

Squeaky Beach is renowned for its striking white sand and vibrant turquoise water, making it one of the most photographed beaches in the region.

As you walk along the white sand, the fine quartz grains compress and rub against one another, releasing air and producing the distinctive “squeak” that gives Squeaky Beach its name.

While the beach is generally suitable for swimming, caution is advised when entering water deeper than knee height, as strong underwater currents can pose a safety risk.

Norman Beach

Norman Beach is widely regarded as one of Wilsons Promontory’s premier beaches, offering a sweeping stretch of golden sand directly accessible from the Tidal River campground. Positioned between Mount Oberon and Pillars Point, it provides a striking natural setting and gentle coastal environment.

Although public toilets and showers are located around the beach, the day‑visitor facilities are preferable as they undergo daily cleaning and are typically the most hygienic option. Surf lifesavers patrol the beach in January. At other times, swimmers are advised to remain in shallow water, as dangerous rips can occur.

Big Drift Walk

Big Drift Walk is accessed from Stockyard Campground. Follow the management vehicle track along the park boundary to the northern flank of Big Drift. Scale the sand dune to find expansive views of the ever-changing dunes.

It’s easy to get lost, so keep an eye on the tall white pole that marks the only entrance and exit as your footprints will disappear with the wind.

The best time to visit big drift is near sunset. Carparking, toilets and untreated tank water are available at Stockyard Campground. There is no beach access from Big Drift.

Phillip Island and Surrounds

Phillip Island is located about 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne. It is also 30 minutes from Inverloch, or 1 Hour from Venus Bay and about 1 hour 40 minutes away from Wilsons Promontory.

Maru Koala & Animal Park

Maru is a family run attraction that opens from 9.30 AM to 4.30 PM on weekdays or 9.30 AM to 5.00 PM on weekends. Entry to Maru Koala Park aso includes entry to its Pirate Mini Golf. It costs $80 for a family ticket, or $30/Adult & $10/Child.

In addition to your general admission fee, you can also opt to buy a Koala Encounter and/or Dingo Encounter, where you can pat, cuddle and interact with one of their Koalas/Dingoes. You can take your own photographs and they will also provide a professional photo in a Maru folder to take home as a souvenir of your special experience.

Ticket to the Koala Encounter costs $30 for up to 2 people (Age 4+). There are only three sessions of Koala Encounter daily, which are 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM. Ticket to the Dingo Encounter coats $35 for up to 2 people. Unlike the Koala Encounter, they only have one Dingo Encounter daily which is at 2.20 PM.

Maru Koala & Animal Park also has a dedicated area where you can walk amongst Kangaroo. You can also purchase some Kangaroo foods to hand feed them.

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Wollongong Botanic Garden is located in the Wollongong suburb of Keiraville at the foot of Mount Keira which is about 10 minutes away from Nan Tien Temple.

It also has a relatively large all abilities playground.

One of the favorite interactive displays

Dining hall to have your chocolate deserts

Pinnacles Lookout

Pinnacles Lookout is one of the most scenic attractions at Phillip Island. There is a 30 minutes walk (one way) to the Pinnacle Lookout. Alternatively, you can also opt to walk down to the steep decent path to get a closer look of the Pinnacles.

The best time to do this is during the low tide as you will be able to walk around on the rocks surrounding the Pinnacle. You can check the tide forecast from https://www.tide-forecast.com/locations/Phillip-Island/tides/latest. Children will need to be supervised as the rocks can be a bit slippery due to the spray of waters from the waves.

A Maze N Things

A Maze N Things is a theme park in Phillip Island where visitors can choose activities from Puzzle Island, Magic Manor, Giant Maze, Mini Golf, and Sky Trail.

The theme park opens 7 days a week from 10 AM to 5 PM (last admission allowed up to 3.30 PM). Visitors can buy a ticket to access Puzzle Island & Magic Manor (allow 1.5 hours visit) which cost $39/Adult, $26/Child above 3 years, $118/Family ticket (2 Adults & 2 Childs).

Visitors can also opt for buying additional access to their mini golf area (allow at least 1 hour for the visit) which costs $18/Adult, $14/Children above 3 years, $58/Family ticket (2 Adults & 2 Childs).

At the time of writing, all visitors will need to buy tickets on the day as bookings and online tickets are unavailable. For these reasons, there may be wait times for entry.

Forrest Caves

The beautiful red-coloured caves, were formed by erosion of cliffs over many years, are only safe and accessible at low tide. Please go to https://www.tide-forecast.com/locations/Phillip-Island/tides/latest to check the low tide times.

To access this stretch of coast on Phillip Island’s southern edge, you’ll need to turn off the main Phillip Island road, between Woolamai and the township of Surf Beach. There is a car park and two toilets at the base of the wooden stairs which will take you up and over the rugged dunes. Hold onto your hat if it’s a windy day.

Once you’re on the stunning (but wild, so be aware that incoming waves can have some pulling power) beach, turn left and the caves are less than 500 metres to the east. The coastal walk to Forest Caves is considered as an easy one and takes around 15 minutes.

Be very cautious if you enter the caves as the waves can quickly rush in and flood the rock pools.

Red Rock Beach

Red Rock Beach which is located only about 15 minutes drive from the Forrest Caves. It offers scenic views of French Island and Mornington Peninsula.

The beach is kids friendly as the water is calm, and it also has some rockpools during low tide. Toilet is also available near the parking area.

The Antartic Journey at Nobbies Centre

The Antartic Journey is located at the Nobbies Center, very closeby to the start of the Nobbies broadwalk. It opens Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 4.30 PM or 10 AM to 6 PM during Saturday & Sunday.

At the Antartic Journey, you can take a virtual journey through the Southern Ocean to Antarctica with the interactive and immersive experiences at the Antarctic Journey.

Tickets to the Antartic Journey cost $13.50/Adults, $6.75 for children between 4-15 years, or $33.75 for a family ticket (2 Adults & 2 Children).

The Nobbies Walk

This is clifftop broadwalk offer the views to the Nobbies & Seal Rocks. It is a relatively easy walk through flat timber pathways and takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. It can, however, gets very windy & cold, depending on the weather of the day.

The Penguin Parade

The penguin parade is one of the most popular attractions in Phillip Island. It normally started just after sunset every night (around 8 PM starts and finishes at around 10 PM). Visitors are advised to arrive one hour earlier. There are different types of tickets for Penguin Parade.

The general viewing area allows visitor access to the viewing stands, which overlook Summerland beach and offer tiered seating and boardwalks with restricted capacity.

The Penguin plus ticket offers access to areas within that allows a close up views of the penguin as they are parading back to their nest. This ticket cost $150/family of 2 Adults & 2 Children, or $112.50/family if you have a RACV membership.

The underground ticket has a limited capacity and though it is more expensive than the other two tickets, it is actually the most convinience as it shelters you from often very cold & windy weather (or sometimes rain). It has viewing windows across which offers visitors the same close up view as Penguin Plus (just with the glass barrier as this is an underground viewing area.

The ticket to the underground viewing area cost $187.50/family of 2 Adults & 2 Children, or $140.63/family if you have a RACV membership.

Cowes & Erehwon Point Beach

Cowes beach is one of the safest surf beach and it is also a short walk (about 5 minutes) from Erehwon Point beach. Both beaches have calm water, great for children, has public toilet and shower facilities.

Cowes beach has lots of grassy areas which are great for picnic. It is also located walking distance to the village making it easy for visitors to get a bite to eat during their visit.

There is also a reasonable size playground at Erehwon Point Beach which is always a plus when you have young childrens.

Wollongong and Surrounds

Wollonggong is located about 1.5 hours drive from Sydney and about 30 minutes drive from Kiama so depending on what you have planned for your visit to Wollongong, you may combine it with a quick trip to Kiama.

Nan Tien Temple

Nan Tien Temple is a Buddhist temple located one of the popular tourist attractions in Wollongong. Nan Tien temple complex has a chinese style structures, built using modern architectural techniques. Nan Tien temple complex includes two massive prayer halls, eight level pagoda, and large garden.

Admission to Nan Tien temple is free however you will need to pre booked. Their dining hall is open to public from 11 am to 2 pm. It serves very reasonable price of yummy vegetarian dishes. It is a very well worth the price.

Wollongong Botanical Garden

Wollongong Botanic Garden is located in the Wollongong suburb of Keiraville at the foot of Mount Keira which is about 10 minutes away from Nan Tien Temple.

It also has a relatively large all abilities playground.

University of Wollongong (UOW) Science Space

Science Space is the only dedicated immersive science experience in NSW and exists to advocate for and foster science literacy. They provide experiences for all the family to learn and explore the world around us through hands-on play and visual encounters.

Science Space opens daily from 10 AM to 4 PM (Closed to the public on Wednesdays NSW Term Time) Closed 24th – 27th December and some public holidays. For information about their shoes & admission price, please refer to https://sciencespace.com.au/visit/prices-and-membership/

Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse

Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse is often referred as the Old Lighthouse. It was built in 1871 to help mariners safely navigate the port of Wollongong in the early days of the coal industry in the Illawarra region.

While no longer used, the lighthouse was restored in 2002 as operational and is listed an official local heritage building. It is located in a walking distance from its twin, Flagstaff Point Lighthouse which is still operational today.

Flagstaff Point Lighthouse

Flagstaff Point Lighthouse is one of the first lighthouse to install fully automatic flashing lights. It has three 68 pounder cannons (now defunct) were installed near its base in 1879 to repel any possible attacks by the Russian Navy.

Bulli Beach

Bulli Beach is located about 15 minutes drive from Wollongong. It has a 50 metre rock pool with life guard on duties depending on the season. Shower facilities are available in the change room which has hooks to hang you change of clothes and outdoor showers are also available. Showers facilities only available with cold water. Toilet facilities are also available.

Woonona’s Ocean Rockpool

Woonona’a Ocean Rockpool is located about 16 minutes drive from Wollongong. Like Bulli Beach Rockpool, Woonona also has a 50m laps rockpool and has the reputation of being the coldest rockpool in Illawara region. It has change room & open showers (cold water) as well as toilet facilities.

Austinmer Beach

Austinmer Beach is another of the popular beach, located just about 20 minutes drive from Wollongong. It is patrolled from 9 AM to 5 PM daily and has facilities such as shower, toilet and change rooms. It is a very good family beach and even has twin rockpool at the southern end of the beach.

Port Kembla Lookout Hill 60

Located about 15 minutes drive from Wollongong, this lookout Hill 60 can be reached via a narrow but well formed established walking track and offers spectacular views up and down the coast lineoffers stunning ocean view.

Woronora and Surrounds

Woronora is a suburb within Sutherland Shire which is about 45 minutes drive from Sydney. It is a great stopover location on your way to Wollongong or you can easily spend a day exploring the surrounds area.

Woronora River Bridge Walk

Suspended beneath the northern rim of the Woronora River Bridge, this stunning walkway and cycleway offers fabulous unobstructed views along the Woronora River and to the bushland and water below.

The easiest place to park if you’re driving down to the walk is in Oakwood St in Sutherland at the end closest to River Rd. Follow the pathway along River Rd until it dips underneath the bridge, this is the beginning of the Woronora Bridge Walkway. As you can see it offers some beautiful views of the river.

The walk from Woronora Bridge Walkway to the viewing point and back, typically takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Burnum Burnum Sanctuary

Burnum Burnum Sanctuary offers a range of great bushwalking tracks of varying degrees of difficulty. It is also an ideal spot for picnics, with barbecues and shelter, a playground, bike track, a double boat ramp fronting the Woronora River and plenty of parking.

If you park your car at the end of Coolgardie Place in Jannali and at the first fork you come to head around to your left and follow the Upper Track trail until it circles you back. You can take both the Lower and Upper tracks to turn this into a bush walk that will take about 45 minutes.

Bald Hill Lookout & Stanwell Tops Lookout

Bald Hill & Stanwell Top lookouts are 1 minute apart. They are popular lookouts which over not only the excellent views, but the area is also internationally known as a major hang-gliding point. They are about 30 minutes drive from Burnum Burnum Sanctuary Reserve.

Moronga Park

Moronga Park is located across the road from Rube Hargrave Park, which has a parking lot convenient for visiting the Sea Cliff Bridge and also toilets and playground. It is about 5 minutes walk from Sea Cliff Bridge.

Another alternative parking spot if you are unable to find one at Rube Hargrave Park, is to drive to the other end of Sea Cliff Bridge and try to find parking at Paterson Road, which is a residential area. Be careful not to park if you see a yellow line on the street. While not obvious, we were told by one of the resident that the road with yellow line means no parking zone.

If you park at Patrerson Road, it is roughly 5 minutes walk to the start of the Sea Cliff Bride. You will walk pass Leeder Park (which is a small park) but has a small playground, public toilet, and walking path to Coalcliff Rock Pools.

Sea Cliff Walk

The Sea Cliff Bridge is located just south of Sydney on the New South Wales South Coast and forms part of the Grand Pacific Drive that runs 138-km from the Royal National Park at Loftus in South Sydney to Nowra on the South Coast.

Blue Mountain and Surrounds

Blue Mountain is a popular tourist place located less than 10 minutes away from Leura. The Blue Mountains is known for dramatic scenery. It has rugged sandstone tablelands, wilderness, valleys, waterfalls, rainforests, lookouts, canyons and so many wonderful walking trails.

The Gingerbread House Katoomba

The Gingerbread House is located about 5 minutes drive from Leura and is a must visit place for those who visit The Blue Mountains region with children in tow. The Gingerbread House is set in a beautifully restored 100 year old church. The Gingerbread house opens daily from 9 AM to 4 PM.

This family-friendly café lives up to its name, offering all things gingerbread as well as other sweet delights such as cookies, ginger beer floats, sundaes and ice cream. The kids will enjoy the playground, as well as the gingerbread workshops on offer.

Three Sisters Lookout

The Three Sisters is the Blue Mountains’ most spectacular landmark. It is essentially an unusual rock formation representing three sisters who according to Aboriginal legend were turned to stone.

The easy Three Sisters walk (0.8 km returned, about 25 to 45 minutes) in Katoomba, offers some of the most iconic views in Blue Mountains National Park, and takes you up close to the famous Three Sisters.

Pass through the archway, next to the Echo Point Visitor Centre, and you’ll soon be surrounded by soaring eucalypt forest, bird calls and fresh mountain air. Keep an eye out for the superb lyrebird and crimson rosellas as you walk the gently sloping path for 400m to Oreades lookout. Marvel at the incredible views of the Three Sisters’ weather-eroded sandstone turrets, and the hazy ‘blue’ Jamison Valley stretching to Mount Solitary.

Scenic World

Home to the world’s steepest railway, Scenic World provides the ultimate open-air adventure with epic rides and endless views of the Three Sisters, Katoomba Falls and Jamison Valley.

Dinosaur Valley is also one of the attraction within Scenic World. Dinosaur Valley brings the Jurassic Rainforest to lice with dozens of roaring, life sized dinosaurs. You can walk among everyone’s favourite pre historic species including Triceratops, T-Rex, Stegosaurus, and more.

Scenic world is open daily from 10 AM. Scenic Pass & Dinosaur Valley tickets cost the same, which are $77.80 for 1 Adult & 1 Child, $49.90 for extra Adult, $23.30 for an extra child (3-15 years old). Children under 5 is free. If you buy the ticket to Dinosaur Valley, you can also buy ticket to Raptor Tales at $10/person (discounted price).

Katoomba Falls Round Walk

Often overlooked by tourists, Katoomba Falls is a beautiful segmented waterfall located between Echo Point and Scenic World in the Blue Mountains.

It is a short (about 1 hour) walk but picturesque circuit walking trail, starting at Scenic World, guides visitors through lush rainforest all the way to the waterfall, with panoramic views of Jamison Valley.

The best way to get to the start of the Katoomba Falls Round Walk is by parking your car in the big car park at Scenic World, located on the corner of Violet Street and Cliff Drive.

Starting point of your Katoomba Falls Round Walk

To start your loop from the car park, first walk towards Vaniman’s Lookout (about 5 minutes walk from the car park) where you can get a good view of the three sisters and the valley below.

From Vaniman’s lookout, continue your walk towards Juliet’s Balcony lookout (about 3 minutes walk from Vaniman’s Lookout. Juliets Balcony, can be easily overlooked as it’s not signposted. It can be accessed by climbing up a small staircase leading to a rock platform and fenced-off balcony area.

View of the falls from Juliet’s Balcony Lookout

When you head back from Juliet’s Balcony lookout, turn right and keep following the track until you see an intersection where you can then turn right to follow the Underfalls Walk. This is about 2 minutes walk from Juliet’s Balcony lookout.

Once you’ve finished admiring the views, make your way back up to the same intersection and turn right towards Katoomba Cliff Drive then walk towards Reid Plateau Lookout. The walk takes about 7 minutes.

Wentworth Falls Walk

From Wentworth Falls Picnic area, follow the level path towards Jamison Lookout, which is only about a minute or so away from the picnic area. It does not have a view of the waterfall. It does offer expansive views over Jamison Valley. This is possibly the most accessible lookout in the mountains.

From Jamison Lookout, walk towards Princes Rock Lookout (about 10 minutes walk). This is a pretty popular spot, considered one of the best lookouts in the Blue Mountains National Park. From here, you look directly onto the falls – a very impressive, particularly after rain.

Rocket lookout, which is a further 15 minutes walk from Princess Rock Lookout is has a loop walking track at Rocket Lookout which is said to offer the best view of Wentworth Falls. The walk takes around 45 minutes to complete. It is nit a hard walk but it does have quite a fair bit of stairs.

Sydney CBD

Sydney’s CBD is more than just a place to work, it’s a buzzing hub where people want to hang out. Not only are there hip small bars, acclaimed restaurants and buzzing cafes, but you’ve also got with marvellous attractions including UNESCO World Heritage sites, dazzling shows, wonderful galleries, intriguing museums and excellent shopping.

The Quadrangle

The Quadrangle is a beautiful sandstone building, with the design was based on Oxford and Cambridge University structures. Located within the University of Sydney Camperdown Campus, it took over 100 years to complete from 1854.

The Quadrangle and its associated main building and interior was listed on the City of Sydney local government heritage list on 14 December 2012.

Anzac Bridge Walk

While Sydney Harbour Bridge is undoubtedly the moat famous bridge in Sydney, Anzac bride is another prominent bridge, linking CBD to the inner west area.

The northern side of the ANZAC bridge has a shared pedestrian walk way and cycle way. This way provides excellent views up the harbour from the old Glebe Island bridge to the Sydney Harbour bridge. The Australian digger statue, the New Zealand soldier statue and their commemorative plaques can be viewed close up.

You can start the walk from the Pyrmont side at the spiral ramp near the corner of Quarry Master Drive and Saunders Street in Pyrmont. Click here for the Google Map location of the spiral ramp

Glebe Foreshore Park

Glebe Foreshore Parks is often referred as “Bicentennial Park” which imply people to think that it is only one big park.

In fact, Glebe Foreshore Parks comprises of four that Glebe Foreshore Parks comprises, Bicentennial, Federal, Jubilee and Blackwattle Bay Park.

Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is a fantastic family-friendly destination right in the heart of Sydney that has something for everyone.

2020 Christmas Decoration at Darling Harbour

Bangaroo Reserve

Barangaroo Reserve is Sydney’s newest Harbour foreshore park – marking the transformation of one of the city’s oldest industrial sites into a spectacular, six-hectare headland open space for Sydneysiders and visitors to embrace and enjoy.

Visitors to Barangaroo Reserve can take a stroll along Wulugul Walk, an easy-to- traverse path winding along the harbour foreshore and offering uninterrupted views across the water.

Queen Victoria Building (QVB)

The Queen Victoria Building (QVB) is a five level shopping centre located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. Opened in 1898, the QVB is an historic and iconic destination, attracting local and international visitors. The QVB is home to unique retail and leading Australian and international brands.

Eastern Sydney

Sydney’s eastern suburbs, which are less than half an hour from the CBD, is where you’ll find Australia’s most famous beach, wonderful coastal walks and hidden harbour beaches beloved by locals.

The Gap

The Gap is a spectacular place to lookout from, and it boasts an eclectic selection of flora and fauna for visitors to discover. The cliff itself is made from Sydney Sandstone, making it a part of the Sydney Basin and home to numerous bird and animal species.

The Gap is a well known place for suicides in Australia. The tall cliffs have made it a location for those wishing to end their lives. Between 2008 and 2011 numerous measures have been implemented to dissuade those at risk of suicide, these include security cameras to monitor the area, several purpose-built Lifeline counselling phone booths, and information boards from the Black Dog Institute and Beyondblue. An inward-leaning fence has also been erected to deter people from jumping.

In 2009, Don Ritchie, a former Second World War Naval veteran and retired insurance agent, was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for preventing suicides at The Gap. From 1964, Ritchie saved 164 people from jumping from the cliffs by crossing the road from his property and engaging them in conversation, often beginning with the words, “Can I help you in some way?” Afterwards Ritchie would invite them back to his home for a cup of tea and a chat. Some would return years later to thank him for his efforts in talking them out of their decision. Ritchie, who was nicknamed the “Angel of The Gap”, died in May 2012.

Dunbar’s Anchor

In 1857 the sailing ship Dunbar carrying 63 passengers and 59 crew struck the rocky cliff at the foot of The Gap. The Dunbar, which was captained by James Green, had left England on 31 May 1857 arriving off Botany Bay shortly after dark on 20 August 1857.

In poor visibility and stormy weather, Captain Green misjudged the entrance to the harbour. The Dunbar drove into the rocky cliff at the foot of The Gap causing the ship’s topmasts to snap and the ship to turn broadside against the rocks because of the pounding of the waves.

By light next day, crowds watched as breakers pounded victims’ corpses against the rocks. Other bodies amid cargo and wreckage were washed inside Sydney harbour with the incoming tide; many of the dead were naked and had been mutilated by sharks. The funeral of the Dunbar victims was one of the longest processions ever seen in Sydney. The unidentified dead were buried in a common grave at Camperdown cemetery.

A young sailor named James Johnson was the only survivor. He was rescued after clinging to a rocky ledge below The Gap for 36 hours.

The Dunbar’s anchor was recovered more than fifty years later and placed on the cliffs at Watson’s Bay with a memorial tablet. Google map location of the anchor

Camp Cove & Hornby Lighthouse

Camp Cove boasts millionaire views that are hard to miss. Nestled on the harbour side of South Head, is also the delightful beach. The water is calm and is safe for kids to swim.

Hornby Lighthouse is just around 10 minutes walk from Camp Cove (follow the South Head Heritage trail). This trail also pass Lady Bay Beach, which best to be avoided as it is one of the beaches in Sydney that allows nudity.

Bondi Beach

Bondi beach is one of Australia’s most iconic beach due to its white sands, reliable waves, and relatively safe for swimming.

You can also do a coastal wall from South Bondi Beach (starting point is the stairs near the skate ramps) to either Bronte Beach (about 30-45 minutes return, assuming without stops) or to Tamarama Beach (about 1.5 hour return, assuming without stops?

Paddington Reservoir

This state heritage-listed site reminiscent of the ancient Baths of Caracalla in Rome presents immaculate gardens with wide boardwalks and entry is free.

The park is comprised of two levels. The street level is accessible at all times but the lower chambers, accessible by an elevator, are only open during daylight hours.