Travelling with teens can be a balancing act. They’ve outgrown the mini-golf and fairy parks, but they’re not quite ready for independent travel either. The sweet spot? Australian destinations that mix freedom, excitement, and something genuinely cool, with just enough structure to keep the whole family relaxed.
From reef snorkelling to zip-lining through rainforests, surfing lessons to ski trips, these Aussie spots tick all the boxes for families with teenagers. Whether you’re planning a school holiday adventure, a long weekend escape, or a coast-to-coast road trip, these destinations offer the perfect blend of fun, challenge, and Insta-worthy moments for older kids.
Here are 10 of the best places to travel in Australia with teenagers, with something for every interest and energy level.
Gold Coast, QLD: Thrill Rides and Beach Vibes
For teens who crave action, the Gold Coast is unbeatable. It’s home to Australia’s biggest theme parks, Movie World, Dreamworld, and Wet’n’Wild, all packed with adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, water slides, and stunt shows.
Surf lessons at Burleigh Heads, night markets in Surfers Paradise, and beachside skate parks all add to the appeal. Teens will also love the local shops, cafes, and nightlife scene that still feels family-friendly.
Cairns & Port Douglas, QLD: Reef, Rainforest, and Adventure
If your teen is into wildlife, snorkelling, or Instagram-worthy views, Cairns and Port Douglas should be on your list. Snorkel or dive on the Great Barrier Reef, zipline through the Daintree Rainforest, or take a ride on the Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Cairns also has a lagoon-style swimming area in the city centre and a buzzing esplanade filled with cafes, skateparks, and food trucks, while Port Douglas is a chilled-out base for nature lovers and reef trips.
Byron Bay, NSW: Surf, Markets, and Music
Byron Bay has a cool, coastal vibe that teens love. They can take surfing lessons, shop at boutique markets, explore vintage stores, and hike to the Cape Byron Lighthouse for incredible views.
Nearby waterfalls like Killen Falls and day trips to Nimbin add to the adventure. For music lovers, planning a trip around Splendour in the Grass or local busker festivals is a great way to mix entertainment and travel.
Snowy Mountains, NSW: Skiing, Boarding and Mountain Hikes
If you’re travelling in winter, Perisher and Thredbo in the Snowy Mountains offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country. Both resorts have teen-friendly slopes, terrain parks, and snow schools.
In summer, this same region turns into a hiking and mountain biking haven, with trails like the Mount Kosciuszko summit walk offering unforgettable views.
Margaret River, WA: Caves, Waves, and Outdoor Escapes
For outdoorsy teens, Margaret River is packed with epic experiences. Think surfing lessons, kayaking tours, and exploring underground limestone caves like Lake Cave or Jewel Cave.
The area’s laid-back vibe, good food, and boutique shopping also appeal to older teens, especially those into food, photography, or nature. Many local beaches offer decent surf without the crowds.
Darwin & Top End, NT: Crocs, Waterfalls and Culture
Teens will be fascinated by the mix of crocodile encounters, Indigenous culture, and wild scenery in the Top End. In Darwin, visit Crocosaurus Cove or swim at the waterfront wave pool.
Then head out to Litchfield National Park to swim in waterfalls, see giant termite mounds, and try four-wheel driving. It’s adventurous, memorable, and a bit outside the typical tourist trail, perfect for older kids.
Rottnest Island, WA: Bikes, Beaches and Quokkas
Rottnest Island is a hit with teens thanks to its mix of freedom and nature. With no cars allowed, the island is easy to explore by bike, and the beaches are safe for snorkelling, swimming, and SUP boarding.
Add in a selfie with a quokka, some fish and chips by the water, and sunset over the Indian Ocean, and you’ve got a chilled-out destination that ticks all the boxes.
Blue Mountains, NSW: Canyons, Hikes and Lookouts
Just two hours from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are perfect for teens who love outdoor adventure. Hike to the Three Sisters, try abseiling or canyoning, and explore Jenolan Caves for a bit of underground wonder.
It’s a great spot for unplugged time as a family, with cool villages like Katoomba and Leura offering vintage shops, retro diners, and scenic picnic spots.
Great Ocean Road, VIC: Epic Road Trip with Surf Stops
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most iconic drives in Australia, and teens will love the ever-changing scenery. Stop at Bells Beach to watch surfers tackle massive waves, explore Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, or hike to hidden waterfalls near Lorne.
Don’t miss the Twelve Apostles at sunset, and let teens help map out your stops to make it an interactive, flexible family trip.
Sydney, NSW: Beaches, Bridges and Big City Buzz
Sydney offers plenty to do for teens, from climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge to catching the ferry to Manly Beach. Spend a day at Bondi, explore the Powerhouse Museum, or book a surfing lesson at Maroubra.
With trendy shopping in Newtown, Chinatown night markets, and endless food options, it’s a city that combines urban energy with teen-friendly attractions.
