Warm Winter Escapes: Best Family Holiday Destinations in August for Aussies

Warm Winter Escapes: Best Family Holiday Destinations in August for Aussies

If you're like me and are sitting indoors absolutely freezing—layers on, heater blasting, cuppa in hand—then it's probably time to start dreaming of sunshine. August might be the last month of winter, but it sure doesn't feel that way when your toes haven’t thawed out since June!

So if you're craving warm sand underfoot, salty breezes, and that golden glow only a beach sunset can give, here are some beautiful warm-weather destinations perfect for escaping the chill this August. Whether you're planning a tropical island adventure, a Queensland road trip, or a quick family getaway, there's something here to warm up your winter in all the right ways. ☀️


1. Darwin & the Top End, Northern Territory

🌡 Avg temp: 31°C | 🌴 Tropical adventure + wildlife
Darwin is sunny, toasty and dry in August—a dream combination for families looking to soak up warmth without the sticky humidity.
Family favourites:

  • Splash at the Darwin Waterfront Lagoon

  • Watch the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

  • Visit Litchfield National Park for safe swimming holes and waterfalls
    🧳 Pro tip: Pack swimmers, hats and reef shoes—this is a natural playground for outdoor-loving families.


2. Broome, Western Australia

🌡 Avg temp: 30°C | 🏖 Red dirt meets turquoise seas
With its iconic Cable Beach camel rides and rich cultural heritage, Broome is perfect in August.
Family favourites:

  • Sunset camel rides

  • Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park

  • Pearl Luggers Museum
    🌞 If you’re searching for the best family-friendly beach holidays in Australia, Broome absolutely makes the list.


3. Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef, QLD

🌡 Avg temp: 27°C | 🐠 Reef fun + rainforest magic
August is dry, sunny, and ideal for reef adventures.
Family favourites:

  • Snorkel or cruise the Reef

  • Splash at the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon

  • Ride the Skyrail to Kuranda
    🌴 It’s even whale season!


4. Port Douglas, Queensland

🌡 Avg temp: 26°C | 🌺 Coastal chic + rainforest bliss
Slower-paced, relaxed, and full of nature.
Family favourites:

  • Four Mile Beach

  • Wildlife Habitat

  • Daintree River cruises
    ☀️ Perfect for families looking for tropical winter escapes in Australia.


5. Bali, Indonesia

🌡 Avg temp: 28°C | 🌊 Affordable tropical fun
Dry season in Bali means perfect weather for splashing, relaxing, and exploring.
Family favourites:

  • Waterbom Bali

  • Family-friendly beach clubs

  • Nusa Dua’s calm waters
    🍹 Kids' clubs for them, cocktails for you—everyone’s happy.


6. Whitsundays, Queensland

🌡 Avg temp: 24°C | 🚤 Reef meets island magic
Island hopping at its finest.
Family favourites:

  • Whitehaven Beach day trips

  • Hamilton Island activities

  • Snorkelling galore
    🎒 Ideal for tweens and teens with a love of the water.


7. Noosa, Sunshine Coast, QLD

🌡 Avg temp: 22°C | 🏄♀️ Stylish but chilled
While not tropical-hot, it’s bliss compared to southern cities.
Family favourites:

  • Safe swimming at Main Beach

  • National Park walks

  • Eumundi Markets
    🌞 The ultimate family beach holiday with kids—no passports required.


8. Fiji

🌡 Avg temp: 27°C | 🏝 Warm-hearted island vibes
Fiji’s warm hospitality and sunshine make it a firm family favourite.
Family favourites:

  • Coral coast resorts

  • Kayaking and snorkelling

  • Cultural shows and beach fun
    💙 This is hands down one of the best overseas destinations for Aussie families in winter.


Wrap Up: Where Will You Escape To?

So, there you have it—sunny destinations to warm your bones and brighten your winter blues. Whether you want to keep it local or jet off to the tropics, there’s something here to help you and your family ditch the chill and embrace the sunshine.

👉 And don’t forget your SunPlay Australia Pop Up Beach Tent to stay cool, comfortable, and sun safe while you’re chasing the sun. Lightweight, packable, and perfect for babies, toddlers, and the whole crew.

Let’s make winter fun again—one warm beach day at a time.
Tag us in your travels @sunplayaustralia 💙⛱️