Are you looking for exciting family-friendly activities to keep your kids entertained during the school holidays in Sydney? Look no further! This article explores 10 must-try Sydney school holiday activities that cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. From safe, gentle waves for learning to surf to interactive theatre and educational workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a variety of kid-friendly activities in Sydney during school holidays
- Explore safe and gentle environments for learning to surf and practice parkour skills
- Enjoy interactive theatre, plays, and workshops at the Sydney Opera House
- Stay active with sports camps and surf lessons on the Northern Beaches
- Explore family-friendly attractions like the Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden
Spend Time in the Gentle Bays at Urbnsurf Sydney
Nestled in the heart of Sydney, Urbnsurf offers a unique opportunity for families to experience the joys of surfing and bodyboarding in a safe and controlled environment. The resort’s “Bays” feature rolling green and white water waves, perfect for beginners to hone their skills and build confidence in the water.
Learn to Surf or Bodyboard in a Safe Environment
Urbnsurf Sydney provides a range of family-friendly water activities, including the popular Surf In The Bays ($39 per kid) and Boog In The Bays ($39 per kid) sessions. These sessions are designed to help kids of all ages and skill levels learn to surf or bodyboard in a secure and supportive environment. With average wave counts ranging from 10 to 12 per hour, and expert sessions offering up to 18 waves, there’s ample opportunity for everyone to catch the perfect ride.
For those looking to make the most of their school holiday experience, Urbnsurf offers Spring Multipacks, allowing families to surf more for less during the busy period. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a complete beginner, Urbnsurf Sydney is the perfect destination to spend quality time in the gentle bays and create lasting memories.
| Session Type | Waves per Hour | Participant Cap | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surf In The Bays | 10-12 | Capped | $39 per kid |
| Boog In The Bays | 10-12 | Capped | $39 per kid |
| Expert Barrels | 18 | 12 per side | Varies |
| Swim In The Bays | N/A | 2-hour blocks | Included with entry |
Practice Your Parkour Skills at Ninja Parc
Nestled in the heart of South Granville, Ninja Parc is an indoor adventure park that’s perfect for kids to unleash their energy and hone their parkour skills. This state-of-the-art facility features a thrilling obstacle course, complete with rope climbs, bouldering challenges, vertical and horizontal obstacles, and the iconic “warped wall” – providing a fun and engaging space for young adventurers to push their physical limits and get creative with movement.
With over 20 obstacles and challenges to conquer, Ninja Parc offers an unparalleled opportunity for kids to practice their parkour skills in a safe and supervised environment. Whether they’re perfecting their wall runs, mastering the balance beam, or conquering the daring leaps, the skilled instructors are on hand to guide and encourage them every step of the way.
For those looking to experience the thrill of Ninja Parc, the casual play pass offers access to the obstacle course for one or two hours, allowing kids to explore and push their boundaries at their own pace. And for those seeking a more structured adventure, the venue also offers birthday party packages, with Ninja Parc handling all the preparation so parents can simply sit back and enjoy the festivities.
Beyond the exhilarating parkour experience, Ninja Parc South Granville is part of a vibrant hub of activities and programs for kids in the Sydney area. From the nearby Aquatic Centre’s All Day Recreational Program to the Archery Centre’s youth-focused lessons, there’s no shortage of opportunities for young adventurers to stay active and engaged during the school holidays.
So if you’re looking to unleash your child’s inner parkour prodigy, head to Ninja Parc Sydney and let the adventure begin!
Jump into School Holiday Fun at the Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House has an exciting lineup of activities to keep your kids entertained during the school holidays. From interactive theatre productions to creative art workshops, there’s something for every young explorer to discover.
Interactive Theatre, Plays, and Workshops
Embark on an “Alien Rescue Mission” and learn a special alien language through an immersive theatrical experience. Dive into the world of “Edward the Emu” with a stage adaptation of the beloved children’s book. For the budding artists, the “Architecture Club” workshop allows kids to design and build their own miniature structures.
- Alien Rescue Mission: An interactive theatre play that transports kids to a galactic adventure
- Edward the Emu: A family-friendly play based on the classic children’s book
- Architecture Club: A creative workshop where kids can explore the art of design and building
The Sydney Opera House’s school holiday program caters to a range of age groups, from toddlers to teenagers. Families can also enjoy dining options at the House Canteen and Opera Bar, as well as browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs.
“The Sydney Opera House’s school holiday activities are a fantastic way to spark creativity and imagination in kids. From interactive theatre to hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Don’t miss the opportunity to jump into school holiday fun at the Sydney Opera House. Tickets are available now, so book your family’s adventure today!
Keep Them Active with a Sports Camp
Looking to keep your kids active and engaged during the school holidays? Opt for a sports camp that offers a well-rounded, multi-sport experience. The sports camps for kids in Sydney hosted by Evolve Tennis Academy and Prodigy Football provide the perfect opportunity for your little athletes to develop their skills in both tennis and football.
These camps run throughout the school holidays, giving your children the chance to participate in a structured program that blends the fundamentals of two popular sports. Not only will they have fun, but they’ll also learn new techniques, improve their coordination, and build teamwork skills.
- Evolve Tennis Academy & Prodigy Football offer multi-sport school holiday programs in Sydney
- Campers receive instruction in both tennis and football, allowing them to explore a variety of athletic pursuits
- Experienced coaches guide the children through age-appropriate drills, games, and challenges
- Camps cater to a range of skill levels, ensuring all participants can enjoy the experience
Whether your child is a budding tennis star or a passionate footballer, these sports camps provide the perfect opportunity to keep them active, engaged, and having fun during the school holidays. Invest in their physical and personal development with a multi-sport program that will leave them energized and excited for the next school term.
“The sports camp was a fantastic experience for our kids. They loved learning new skills in both tennis and football, and the coaches were amazing at keeping them engaged and motivated throughout the program.”
– Sarah, parent of two campers
Learn to Surf on the Northern Beaches
Unlock the waves of Sydney’s Northern Beaches with surf lessons and school holiday programs from Manly Surf School. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque coastal region, the school offers a range of options catering to kids of all ages and skill levels.
Surf Lessons and Holiday Programs
Manly Surf School’s experienced instructors guide budding surfers through the fundamentals of wave riding, from beginner lessons on foam boards to advanced training on fibreglass boards. The school’s comprehensive school holiday programs provide a fun and engaging way for kids to develop their surfing abilities over multiple sessions.
- Beginner lessons for ages 5 and up, with options for individual or group sessions
- Intermediate lessons for progressing surfers, including beach and gym sessions
- Advanced programs focusing on wave reading, paddling techniques, and board control
- Salty Groms Holiday Program for 16 years and under, with a 1:5 coach-to-child ratio
| Program | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner Surf Lesson | 1.5 hours | $66 |
| Surf and Snorkel | 3 hours | $99 |
| 3-Day Surfing Course | 4.5 hours | $165 |
| 2-Day Surfing Course | 3 hours | $120 |
| Snorkeling Only | 1 hour | $44 |
| Surf Survival Award | 3 hours | $88 |
With flexible scheduling, convenient locations, and experienced instructors, Manly Surf School is the perfect destination for surf lessons for kids Sydney and school holiday surf programs Sydney on the Northern Beaches.
Stay, Sea, and Play at the Pullman Hyde Park
As the school holidays approach, families in Sydney are looking for ways to make the most of their time off. Look no further than the Pullman Hotel Sydney, conveniently located in the heart of Hyde Park. This 5-star hotel offers a family-friendly school holiday package that is perfect for a weekend getaway or extended stay.
The package includes an overnight stay at the Pullman Hotel, a delicious buffet breakfast, complimentary parking, and a welcome amenity to start your vacation off right. But the real highlight is the included tickets to the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, just a short walk away.
Explore the wonders of the underwater world at Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, home to over 13,000 animals from 700 different species. Wander through 60 tanks and three oceanaria, marveling at the vibrant coral reefs, playful penguins, and awe-inspiring sharks. It’s an educational and entertaining experience the whole family will love.
| Package Inclusions | Value |
|---|---|
| Overnight stay at Pullman Hotel Sydney | $300+ |
| Buffet breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children | $80 |
| Complimentary parking | $50 |
| 2 adult and 2 child tickets to Sea Life Sydney Aquarium | $160 |
| Total Value | $590+ |
With the Pullman Hotel Sydney‘s family-friendly amenities, convenient location, and exclusive package, you and your loved ones can enjoy a truly memorable school holiday experience. Book your stay today and get ready to Stay, Sea, and Play at the Pullman Hyde Park.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JC8BuGPuLc
Go Wild at Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden
Hidden within the lush Centennial Park in Sydney lies a true gem for families – the Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden. This enchanting outdoor playground is a haven for young adventurers, encouraging them to explore, discover, and connect with nature in a safe and engaging environment.
The Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, providing ample time for children to indulge in imaginative play. The play space, designed for children aged 2-12, is equipped with a treehouse, bamboo forest, water-play area, and captivating banksia tunnels, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
According to research conducted by Centennial Parklands, the nature-based play experiences at the Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden have numerous benefits, including improved physical activity, social engagement, imagination, and a stronger connection to the natural world. With the recent opening of the Garden, Centennial Parklands anticipates the number of children participating in their education programs to reach an impressive 100,000, up from the previous figure of 30,000.
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, the Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden is equipped with CCTV cameras as part of a comprehensive safety enhancement model. This allows the park’s management to effectively monitor visitor behavior and maintain a secure environment for families to explore and play.
So, gather your little ones and head to the Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden in Centennial Park for a day of wild, nature-inspired fun. Immerse yourselves in the enchanting treehouse, navigate the bamboo forest, and let your children’s imaginations run free in this one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure playground.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating Hours | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm daily |
| Closure | Closed during August for annual maintenance and around one month during the winter period for non-essential maintenance |
| Age Range | Suitable for children aged 2-12, under parental supervision |
| Safety | CCTV cameras installed for effective visitor behavior management |
| Education Programs | Centennial Parklands’ education programs expected to reach 100,000 participants with the opening of the Garden |
| Certification | The Garden has received certification from Play DMC |
“The nature play provided by the Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden benefits physical activity, social engagement, imagination, and connection to nature.”
– Centennial Parklands Research
Spot a Whale on Their Journey Back Down South
As the spring school holidays arrive, Sydney families are in for a treat – the annual migration of humpback whales down the “Humpback Highway” is underway. These majestic creatures can be spotted from various vantage points around the city or by booking a whale watching cruise departing from Circular Quay.
The best time to witness the whales’ journey is from the last weeks of June to the middle of July, when around 30,000 humpback whales make their way back down south. It’s an incredible opportunity to observe these magnificent marine mammals up close and learn more about their behaviors and habitats.
Whale Watching Cruises and Vantage Points
Families can choose from a variety of whale watching cruises to get a closer look at the whales. These tours typically last 2-3 hours and depart from Circular Quay, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline and the whales in their natural environment.
- Explore the Humpback Highway from the comfort of a cruise ship, with knowledgeable guides providing insights into the whales’ migration patterns and behaviors.
- For a more intimate experience, consider a dolphin cruise that runs year-round and offers the chance to see other marine life, such as seals and dolphins, in addition to the whales.
If you prefer to stay on land, there are several scenic vantage points around Sydney where you can spot the whales during their journey. These include:
- Cape Solander in Kamay Botany Bay National Park, just 45 minutes from the city center
- Barrenjoey Lighthouse in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, less than an hour’s drive from Sydney
- The picturesque coastal town of Jervis Bay, approximately 2.5 hours from Sydney
Whichever option you choose, whale watching in Sydney during the school holidays is a unique and unforgettable experience for the whole family.
10 Sydney School Holiday Activities for Families
With the upcoming Sydney school holidays just around the corner, families are searching for engaging, affordable, and educational activities to keep the little ones entertained. Look no further, as we’ve compiled a diverse list of 10 must-try experiences that cater to a range of interests and ages.
- Spend Time in the Gentle Bays at Urbnsurf Sydney: Learn to surf or bodyboard in a safe, controlled environment at this artificial surf park, with lessons starting at just $39 for children.
- Practice Your Parkour Skills at Ninja Parc: Challenge your kids to conquer the obstacle courses and develop their agility and strength at this one-of-a-kind indoor facility.
- Jump into School Holiday Fun at the Sydney Opera House: Explore interactive theatre, plays, and workshops that spark the imagination and creativity of young audiences.
- Keep Them Active with a Sports Camp: Enroll your children in a multi-sport camp to ensure they stay physically engaged and have a blast during the school break.
- Learn to Surf on the Northern Beaches: Take the family to iconic surf spots like Manly and Dee Why for surf lessons and exciting holiday programs.
For those seeking indoor activities on rainy days, consider a visit to the Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden or an immersive experience at the ARC at Taronga Zoo. Families can also spot whales on their journey back down south with a Sydney Harbour Cruise or explore the interactive exhibits at the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or educational workshops, Sydney has a wealth of options to keep the whole family entertained during the school holidays. With a little planning, you can create cherished memories and ensure your kids have a fun-filled and enriching break.
Get Nostalgic at Magic Pudding Day
The school holidays provide the perfect opportunity to visit the Norman Lindsay Gallery and celebrate Magic Pudding Day. Families can immerse themselves in the whimsical world of the beloved children’s book, with a pudding competition, guided tours, children’s crafts, games, and more. It’s a chance to connect with Australia’s literary heritage and create nostalgic memories.
Published in 1918, The Magic Pudding by Norman Lindsay has remained a beloved classic for generations of Australian readers. The story follows the adventures of a magical pudding that never runs out, and the colorful characters who try to claim it as their own. This year, the Norman Lindsay Gallery in Sydney is hosting a special Magic Pudding Day celebration, offering a delightful array of activities for the whole family.
- Enter the Pudding Competition and showcase your culinary creativity with your own version of the famous magic pudding.
- Enjoy Guided Tours of the Norman Lindsay Gallery, exploring the author’s life and the inspiration behind his iconic characters.
- Participate in Children’s Crafts and workshops, bringing the magical world of the Gumnut Babies to life.
- Immerse yourself in Games and Activities that capture the whimsy and adventure of the beloved story.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of The Magic Pudding or discovering the enchanting tale for the first time, Magic Pudding Day at the Norman Lindsay Gallery is a must-visit experience during the school holiday activities Sydney. Reconnect with the timeless wonder of Australian children’s literature and create cherished memories with your family.
Conclusion
The Sydney school holidays offer a wealth of exciting and engaging activities for families to explore. From water sports and adventure parks to cultural experiences and educational workshops, this guide has highlighted 10 must-try options to keep the kids entertained and create lasting memories. Whether your family enjoys outdoor adventures, interactive play, or delving into Sydney’s rich history and arts, there is something to suit every interest and age group.
With a diverse range of 10 Sydney School Holiday Activities for Families, parents can ensure the school holidays are filled with fun, learning, and quality time together. From the best family-friendly activities Sydney has to offer, to a variety of kids activities Sydney school holidays, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the fun things to do with kids in Sydney during the break.
Whether you’re seeking thrilling water sports, immersive cultural experiences, or playful indoor adventures, Sydney has something to captivate and delight the whole family. By exploring these 10 exceptional options, you can create cherished memories and provide your children with engaging, educational, and physically active experiences throughout the school holidays.
