Key Highlights

Introduction

Melbourne is a lively city full of culture and activity, and it’s a great place to kick off memorable family road trips from Melbourne Airport or even from the bustling Melbourne CBD. There are many car rental options to choose from, making it simple and easy to explore the beautiful areas around the city at your own pace. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there are things for every family to enjoy near Melbourne. Get ready for an exciting trip as we reveal the best weekend getaways with kids, all reachable with a Melbourne car rental.

Exploring Melbourne and Beyond: Top Weekend Getaways with Kids

Melbourne offers incredible attractions like Flinders Street Station and the Royal Botanic Gardens, but if you're looking to explore beyond the city, places like Lygon Street in Carlton and Footscray are great for family fun. With just a short drive, you can also visit beautiful beaches, mountain towns, and even the famous MCG.

For added convenience, car hire in Melbourne allows you to travel at your own pace, giving your family the flexibility to discover hidden gems and plan your trip around everyone’s interests.

Day Trip to Mornington Peninsula – Beaches and More

Just an hour's drive south of Melbourne, you can find the Mornington Peninsula. It welcomes you with beautiful beaches, charming small towns, and fun activities for families. This place has many things to do, making it a great spot for a weekend trip or even a short visit.

If you love the beach, you have many choices. You can enjoy a nice day creating sandcastles and playing in the shallow water at Sorrento Beach. You might also want to go to St. Kilda Beach to relax in the sun and feel the lively vibe. For those who seek adventure, surfing at Gunnamatta Beach is a must, or you can check out the interesting rock pools at Point Nepean National Park.

Apart from the beaches, there are many fun things for families. You can take a delightful ride on the old steam train at Puffing Billy Railway, stroll through the lovely Enchanted Maze Garden, or see the cute animals at Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Park. With its mix of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions, the Mornington Peninsula offers a memorable experience for everyone.

Adventure in the Dandenong Ranges – Nature and Hiking

For families looking for fun in nature, the Dandenong Ranges east of Melbourne are a great place to visit. These green hills are known for their thick forests, lovely hiking paths, and chances to see wildlife.

You can take a beautiful hike in the tall trees of Sherbrooke Forest. Here, you will find hidden waterfalls and enjoy the sight of ancient ferns. The trails are good for all fitness levels, so everyone can join in.

Look out for native Australian animals on your hike. You might see bright parrots, kookaburras, and the hard-to-spot lyrebird, which can copy sounds very well. After your trip, enjoy a nice meal at one of the pretty villages in the Dandenong Ranges, like Sassafras or Olinda.

Wildlife Discovery at Phillip Island – Penguins and Seals

A trip to Phillip Island, which is south of Melbourne, is a must for wildlife lovers, especially families with kids. This island is famous for its cute penguin parade. Every evening at sunset, Little Penguins waddle back to their homes after a day of fishing.

Seeing this lovely scene is truly memorable for everyone. Besides the penguins, Phillip Island has many chances to see other sea animals in their natural habitat.

You can walk on the boardwalks at the Nobbies Centre to see fur seals lying in the sun. Or, you can go on a boat tour for a closer view of the variety of sea life in these waters. With so much wildlife and stunning coastal views, Phillip Island offers a magical experience for the whole family.

Historical Fun in Ballarat – Museums and Parks

Travel back in time and explore the gold rush history of Australia in Ballarat, a city located northwest of Melbourne. This lively place has a great mix of historical sites, museums, and parks that are fun for families.

At Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum, you can see what life was like during the 1850s gold rush. You can try panning for real gold, meet characters in costumes, and enjoy the recreated streets. The Gold Museum gives you a closer look at gold mining history in the area. You can see amazing gold nuggets and other important items.

If you want to relax, check out the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. This peaceful spot has lovely gardens, walking paths, and a cute conservatory. With its mix of history, culture, and outdoor areas, including an exploration of art similar to what you would find at the National Gallery of Victoria, Ballarat is a fun and learning experience for everyone.

Relaxation at Daylesford – Spas and Gardens

If your family wants a refreshing getaway, Daylesford is the ideal place. It is a lovely town known for its natural mineral springs and peaceful vibe. Located northwest of Melbourne, Daylesford has many spas and wellness retreats to help you unwind and recharge.

You can take a relaxing mineral bath, enjoy a revitalising massage, or chill by the pool with beautiful plants all around. The town also features the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. This calm space offers great views, many different plants, and a perfect spot for a picnic in nature.

For those who enjoy art, the Convent Gallery in nearby Hepburn Springs has modern art displays in a lovely old building. With its focus on wellness, natural beauty, and cultural activities, Daylesford is a peaceful escape for families wanting to relax and reconnect.

Planning Your Weekend Getaway: Tips for Families

When planning a family road trip, good preparation is important for a smooth and fun experience. First, look for places to visit that match what your family likes. Think about aspects like how far you will travel, activities suitable for different ages, and family-friendly places to stay.

It's smart to bring a mix of snacks, drinks, and things to keep the kids entertained while you drive. Plan breaks every few hours so everyone can stretch and refresh. This way, the trip can be just as enjoyable as reaching your destination.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for Comfort and Space

Choosing the right type of car for your family road trip is very important. It helps to make sure your journey is comfortable and fun. There are many car rental choices in Melbourne. Take time to think about what your family needs and likes.

If you have small children, rental companies usually offer child seats and booster seats. These make for a safer and more comfortable ride for your little ones in the vicinity of Collins Street and A’Beckett Street.

Here are some car rental options in Melbourne you might want to think about for your car rental Melbourne experience:

Packing Essentials for a Road Trip with Kids

Packing for a road trip with kids can be easy. Start organising by making a checklist of things every person needs. This should include clothes, toiletries, and any medicines. Be sure to pack for all kinds of weather, especially if you want to explore different areas around Melbourne.

Keep the kids busy during the drive by packing a "fun bag." Fill it with books, games, and electronics. Don’t forget the headphones for movies or music to help the driver stay focused. To stop overpacking and to keep the car neat, use packing cubes or bags. These help separate and shrink the clothing for each person.

Managing Travel Times and Stops for Kids

When you plan a road trip with kids, it's important to manage travel times and stops well. Kids can get restless on long drives because they have shorter attention spans. So, plan your itinerary based on their needs.

Instead of trying to drive a lot in one day, split the trip into shorter parts. This way, you can stop more often for the kids to run around, stretch, and use up some energy. Look for parks, playgrounds, or rest areas along your route to give yourself a break from the car.

Think about stopping at cool landmarks or attractions while driving. This can make the trip more fun and educational. It’s also a good idea to pack a cooler with snacks and drinks. This can help you avoid too many stops for fast food or running to convenience stores.

Safety Tips for Family Road Trips

Safety is very important when going on any road trip, especially with important people in the car. Get to know the traffic rules in Victoria before you travel. Make sure your rental car has all the safety features you need. This includes a first-aid kit, warning triangles, and a fire extinguisher.

Always follow the speed limits and watch out for other drivers. To make your trip easier, think about using a GPS. It can help you find your way in new places and prevent you from getting lost. This way, you can focus on the road and enjoy time with your loved ones.

Essential Car Safety Checks Before You Depart

Before you begin your exciting road trip from Melbourne, it’s important to check your car for safety. Spending a few minutes on these checks will give you peace of mind and help keep everyone in the car safe.

Start by looking at your tires. Make sure they are pumped up to the right pressure. Check the tread depth, too, to confirm they have enough grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

Next, check the levels of all fluids. This includes engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. If any fluids are low, be sure to fill them up. These simple checks can stop breakdowns and help your trip go smoothly.

Keeping Kids Entertained and Safe During the Drive

Long drives can be tough for everyone, especially young kids. To keep your children happy and busy on a road trip, bring some fun activities and entertainment.

Load your tablets or smartphones with movies, shows, and educational games suitable for their age. Audiobooks are also fantastic for everyone to listen to together. You can encourage family time by bringing travel-sized board games. Playing classic car games like "I Spy" is another fun way to bond.

While having fun is important, safety must come first. Always make sure everyone in the car wears their seat belts. Check that child seats and booster seats are set up and fit properly.

Conclusion

Renting a car in Melbourne can lead to great adventures for families, including a trip along the Great Ocean Road. You can explore beautiful places like the sandy beaches of Mornington Peninsula and see the amazing wildlife at Phillip Island. There are many chances to make special memories with your children. By planning well, looking at vehicle comfort, packing what you need, and making safety a priority, you can change a simple weekend trip into an amazing experience. Enjoy your Australian adventure by being flexible and open to surprises, letting the joy of discovery happen. So, get ready, buckle up, and hit the road—the perfect family trip is waiting just outside Melbourne!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best times to avoid traffic when leaving Melbourne?

To avoid heavy traffic when you leave Melbourne, especially in the central business district in the state of Victoria, stay clear of busy hours. It’s a good idea to go early in the morning before 7 am or later in the evening after 7 pm, particularly on weekdays. This way, you can dodge the worst congestion.

How can I make my car rental more child-friendly?

Request important child-friendly features from the car rental company. Items like child seats, sunshades, and a portable DVD player can make things safer and more fun for your kids.