Family-Friendly Things to Do in Bundaberg (and Where to Stay)
When most families think about Queensland holidays, they picture the Gold Coast’s theme parks or the beaches of Cairns. But tucked between the coast and cane fields lies one of Queensland’s most underrated family destinations: Bundaberg. With its unique mix of natural wonders, outdoor adventures, educational attractions, and laid-back local charm, Bundaberg offers the kind of enriching, affordable family holiday that feels both memorable and manageable.
Whether you’re stopping in as part of a longer road trip or planning a week-long stay, Bundaberg offers something for every age, budget, and interest. And when it comes to accommodation, Bundaberg Park Village is the perfect family base, offering a quiet, comfortable, and affordable place to rest after big days of exploring.
Here’s your complete guide to family-friendly things to do in Bundaberg - and why Bundy Park Village is the ideal place to stay.
1. Witness Turtle Hatchings at Mon Repos
For an experience your kids will talk about for years, head to the Mon Repos Turtle Centre, just 20 minutes from Bundaberg. It’s home to the largest concentration of nesting loggerhead turtles in the South Pacific, and during turtle season (November to March), you can join a night tour to see nesting turtles or baby hatchlings making their way to the sea.
It’s not just magical - it’s educational. The centre focuses on conservation, and rangers lead informative, engaging tours that teach kids about marine ecosystems and endangered species. For many families, it’s the highlight of their entire Queensland trip.
Travel tip: Bring warm clothes, snacks, and a red-light torch for the kids - and book early during school holidays.
2. Spend a Full Day at Bundaberg Botanic Gardens Precinct
If you only have time for one big day out, make it the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens - a beautiful 27-hectare parkland on the north side of the city. It’s not just a garden; it’s a full-scale family adventure hub.
Here’s what’s inside:
Playgrounds and open space for kids to run free
Miniature steam train rides (on Sundays and school holidays)
The Hinkler Hall of Aviation – an interactive museum where kids can fly simulators and explore real aircraft
The Bundaberg Historical Museum – a walk through local history, packed with quirky old objects that spark curiosity
A beautiful Japanese Garden and lakeside picnic areas
Birdwatching and bushwalking trails throughout the park
Bring a packed lunch, a frisbee, and some sunscreen - families easily spend 3–4 hours here without spending a cent on entry fees.
3. Explore Bundaberg’s Best Family Beaches
Bundaberg’s coast is lined with safe, clean, and scenic beaches, and many are ideal for families with young children.
Bargara Beach: Calm waters, grassy areas, and a shaded playground with a turtle theme - just 15 minutes from town.
Kellys Beach: Great for older kids who want to swim, snorkel or boogie board. Also patrolled in summer months.
Elliott Heads: A local favourite for kayaking, beachcombing, and swimming. Shallow tidal pools are perfect for toddlers.
Each beach offers BBQ areas, toilets, and shaded spots for picnics, making them perfect for affordable, all-day outings.
4. Farm Tours, Fruit Picking & Local Flavours
One of the joys of visiting a regional town like Bundaberg is giving kids a taste of rural life - literally.
Tinaberries (seasonal): Between September and May, families can pick their own strawberries or raspberries and enjoy fresh-made fruit ice cream under shady trees.
Alloway Farm Market: A great place to grab fresh local fruit and veg, and support the region’s farmers.
Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Barrel: Tour the factory and let kids sample iconic Aussie soft drinks like ginger beer, sarsaparilla, and tropical blends. Free entry, with a small fee for tastings.
It’s an excellent way to sneak in learning about food and farming while enjoying sweet, simple pleasures.
5. Discover the Magic of Flight at Hinkler Hall of Aviation
Part of the Botanic Gardens, the Hinkler Hall of Aviation is a world-class museum dedicated to the life and achievements of Bert Hinkler - a Bundaberg-born aviation pioneer. But it’s far from boring. Kids can:
Try flight simulators
Walk through vintage aircraft
Explore the original Hinkler House, which was transported brick-by-brick from England
It’s interactive, engaging, and perfect for kids aged 6 and up - especially those fascinated by planes, history, or engineering.
6. Rainy-Day Options: Art, Culture and Indoor Fun
If the weather turns wet (or too hot), there are still plenty of indoor activities to keep little minds occupied.
Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery: Regularly hosts family-focused exhibits and school holiday workshops.
Bundy Bowl & Leisure Centre: Bowling, laser tag, mini golf, arcade games - this is your go-to for high-energy indoor fun.
Alexandra Park Zoo: A small, free-entry zoo near the CBD with emus, reptiles, monkeys, and a fun playground nearby.
Where to Stay: Bundaberg Park Village – Your Family Base
After big days of beach-hopping and bushwalks, the last thing you want is overpriced or cramped accommodation. Bundaberg Park Village ticks all the boxes for travelling families:
Affordable Options
Choose from spacious motel units, shady powered sites, or camping spots - all budget-friendly and clean.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Large in-ground swimming pool
Children’s play area
Camp kitchen and BBQ areas
Coin-operated laundries for messy adventures
Quiet, off-highway location for safe and peaceful nights
Close to Everything
Just a short drive to Bundaberg’s best attractions, shops, beaches, and eateries - without being stuck in the hustle of the town centre.
Families consistently rate Bundy Park Village for its laid-back atmosphere, helpful staff, and reliable facilities that make travelling with children a little easier (and a lot more enjoyable).
Bundaberg is Made for Family Adventures
If you’re looking for a destination that’s affordable, relaxing, educational, and packed with things to do for all ages, Bundaberg is the kind of place you’ll wish you’d discovered sooner. It’s a chance to escape the tourist trap without sacrificing quality time with your family - and to make real, lasting memories.
So whether you’re passing through on your way up the Queensland coast, or staying for a while, make Bundy Park Village your family’s home base - and let the Bundaberg region show you just how fun and affordable a family holiday can be.
