If you’re looking to book a holiday around the Central Coast area and you love the beach, I highly recommend Escape at Caves Beaches Cottage, located at Caves Beach. We stayed there recently, and it was absolutely wonderful.
You can book the property easily through Airbnb. The house is beautifully maintained, spacious, and comfortably accommodates up to seven people. It’s fully equipped with all the necessary amenities, including a covered outdoor space, a barbecue area, and even a play area for the kids – perfect for family getaways.
The cottage is only a 10-minute walk to the stunning Caves Beach, where we enjoyed unforgettable sunrises and relaxing beach days. The location is brilliant, with plenty of lovely cafes, restaurants, and hangout spots nearby. There’s also a shopping centre just a short drive away, making it very convenient if you’re planning to cook your own meals – the kitchen had everything we needed.
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the caves at low tide – it’s a magical experience to walk inside and explore. If you do stay there, I highly recommend waking up early for sunrise at the beach. It’s truly worth it.
We had a fantastic time and would definitely return. Escape to the Beaches Cottage is a perfect choice if you’re after a relaxing, beachside escape with family or friends.
During our recent stay in Tasmania, we were fortunate enough to visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG), and I can’t wait to share our experience with you. If you’re planning a trip to Hobart, this is one spot you definitely don’t want to miss. Located just a short walk from our hotel, the museum is not only conveniently close but also offers a wealth of fascinating exhibits for all ages to enjoy.
As we approached the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, I was immediately struck by its size. The building is impressive, with its historic architecture beautifully blending with modern spaces. Inside, the museum is spacious, offering plenty of room for visitors to explore and enjoy the various exhibits. From the moment we stepped through the doors, we were welcomed by the inviting atmosphere — it’s an educational space that feels both comfortable and engaging, making it ideal for families.
The best part? Entry is completely free! This is something I always appreciate, especially when visiting museums with children. It means you can explore without worrying about the cost piling up, making it an affordable option for families looking to experience something educational and fun.
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has so much to offer. Whether you’re interested in natural history, art, or local culture, there’s something for everyone here. We started our journey by walking through the natural history section, where we were greeted by impressive displays of Tasmania’s unique wildlife and ecosystems. From taxidermied animals to interactive exhibits, there was so much to learn about the island’s biodiversity.
As we moved through the galleries, we encountered beautifully curated art collections showcasing Tasmanian artists, historical artifacts, and intriguing exhibits about the region’s past. What I loved most was how the museum does an excellent job of blending history, culture, and nature in a way that kept us all captivated. The kids were particularly drawn to the interactive elements of the displays — it kept them engaged and curious as they explored the exhibits.
If you’re visiting with children, the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is a dream come true. The museum is extremely family-friendly, with designated play areas where kids can get hands-on and dive deeper into learning. Our children had an absolute blast here, and I’m sure yours will too. One of the highlights was the play area, where the kids could run around, slide down a fun slide, and explore different interactive exhibits designed for little hands.
We spent over an hour in this section alone, as the kids were completely engrossed in the exhibits. From exploring fossils to pretending to be scientists, it was clear that the museum had been thoughtfully designed with young visitors in mind. It was a fantastic way to balance fun and learning while allowing the children to explore at their own pace.
As we explored the various exhibits, I found myself appreciating just how much the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has to offer. It’s a place where history, art, and nature all come together in one spot. The museum is well-maintained, and the exhibits are thoughtfully displayed, making it easy to navigate and appreciate the richness of the collections. It’s one of those places where you can easily spend a couple of hours without even realising how much time has passed.
Before we left, we took some time to browse the gift shop, which had a lovely selection of locally made crafts, books, and souvenirs — a perfect way to remember our visit.
If you’re ever in Hobart, make sure to carve out some time to visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. With free entry, a variety of exhibits to explore, and a kid-friendly environment, it’s the perfect place for a family outing. The mix of educational and interactive exhibits, along with the spacious and welcoming atmosphere, makes it an ideal stop for anyone looking to learn more about Tasmania’s natural and cultural heritage.
Have you visited the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery? Share your experiences in the comments below
Our summer holiday this year took us to the charming city of Hobart, Tasmania, and we couldn’t have had a better time! From the moment we boarded our flight, we were filled with excitement, and by the time we landed, Hobart had already started to win us over.
Hobart is such a unique place—nestled between the mountains and the sea, it’s a city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. It’s smaller and quieter than some of the major Australian cities, but that’s part of its charm. For our family, it was the perfect spot to unwind and explore together.
We stayed in a lovely Doubletree by Hilton in the city, which gave us easy access to everything Hobart had to offer. The kids absolutely loved it—they could run around freely, and it felt safe and peaceful. The peaceful surroundings gave us the space we needed to recharge, yet we were still close enough to all the action.
As for the food, we were in heaven! Hobart has so many incredible options—whether we were grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a leisurely meal. We enjoyed everything from fresh seafood a to delicious local treats.
On one of our days, we ventured out to the Mawson’s Hut Replica Museum—a fascinating experience for the whole family. The kids were fascinated by the life-sized husky statues and learning about the Antarctic explorers. We also took a stroll through the beautiful Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, where the kids had a blast running around and exploring the stunning plant displays.
We also visited Bruny Island, a short ferry ride from Hobart, where we enjoyed the incredible views, wildlife, and delicious local cheeses. Another memorable stop was Port Arthur, a historic site with such a powerful story. Walking around the grounds and learning about its history was both educational and thought-provoking for the whole family.
One of the most exciting moments was when we watched the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Hobart. The kids were mesmerised by the dazzling display over the harbour, and it was such a special way to ring in the new year together.
We couldn’t leave Tasmania without exploring Salamanca Market—the vibrant stalls filled with local produce, crafts, and handmade treasures were fantastic. The kids loved browsing through the goodies and picking out a few souvenirs.
Another unforgettable adventure was our visit to the Tall Trees Walk and Russell Cascade waterfall. The towering trees made us feel so small in the best possible way, and the kids had a blast hiking through the forest. The Russell Cascade Waterfall walk, with its lush greenery and stunning views, was a perfect way to connect with nature and unwind.
Another highlight was the breathtaking MountWellington. We drove to the summit, and the views were nothing short of spectacular. The kids had fun hiking around, and we enjoyed the panoramic vistas of Hobart, the Derwent River, and the surrounding wilderness.
Throughout our trip, it was the little moments that made it special: watching the kids discover new things, sharing meals at cozy cafés, and taking in the scenery. Hobart may be a small city, but it’s full of charm and adventure, and it’s a place we can’t wait to return to.
Hobart, Tasmania—thank you for the memories! It was the perfect place for our summer holiday, and we can’t wait to see where our next adventure will take us.
Our recent trip to Tasmania was filled with incredible experiences, but one of the highlights was spending half a day at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens in Hobart. As a family of four, we’re always looking for places where both adults and kids can enjoy themselves, and this garden turned out to be perfect for all of us.
From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by lush greenery and beautifully maintained paths that seemed to lead us into a different world. The kids immediately dashed off to explore, thrilled to find so much open space where they could run around and burn off their energy.
One of the first spots we visited was the Japanese Garden, and it completely stole our hearts. The tranquil ponds, delicate wooden bridges, and the soft rustle of the leaves created such a peaceful vibe. My husband and I took a moment to sit on one of the benches, soaking in the calmness while the kids excitedly pointed out the koi fish swimming gracefully in the pond. It was one of those rare moments where everyone was happy and content in the same place.
Another highlight was the Tasmanian native plant collection. We spent time admiring the unique and diverse flora that this island is known for. It was amazing to see plants we’d never encountered before, and the kids had fun trying to guess the names (with some hilarious results).
The Subantarctic Plant House was a bit of an adventure in itself. Stepping into the cool, controlled environment was like visiting a miniature version of Tasmania’s subantarctic islands. The kids found it fascinating, and we all learned a lot about the unique ecosystems of these remote places.
The gardens are so vast and varied that there was always something new to discover. From colourful flower beds to the aromatic herb garden, every corner offered a little surprise. We even found a lovely spot to sit down and enjoy some snacks we’d brought along, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
What made this visit truly special wasn’t just the stunning scenery but the chance to slow down and connect as a family. Watching the kids laugh and run freely while we explored together was such a joy. It felt like we’d hit pause on the busy-ness of life and stepped into a place of pure calm and beauty.
By the time we left, we were all feeling refreshed and inspired, with plenty of photos and happy memories to take home. The kids even asked if we could visit again next time we’re in Tasmania, which says a lot considering their usual attention spans!
If you’re ever in Hobart, I can’t recommend the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens enough. Whether you’re traveling with kids, as a couple, or on your own, it’s a place that offers something for everyone—a perfect blend of education, relaxation, and fun.
During our trip to Hobart, we decided to visit the Mawson’s Hut Replica Museum, a tribute to the legendary Antarctic explorer Sir Douglas Mawson and his team.
The Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum is the world’s only full-scale copy of a building from the heroic era of Antarctic exploration. Situated on the Hobart waterfront, it is rated by Trip Advisor as the No 1 Museum in Hobart.
The Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum in Hobart offers a range of ticket prices to accommodate different visitors. As of January 2025, the entry fees are as follows:
Adults (17 years and over): $15
Concession (seniors and students): $12
Vulnerable adults (with carers admitted free): $8
Children (6 to 16 years): $5
Children (under 6 years): Free
Family Pass (2 adults and up to 3 children aged 6-16): $35
From the moment we stepped inside, it felt like we were transported back to Mawson’s time. The replica of the hut was meticulously detailed, giving us a real sense of what life was like during the Antarctic expedition. As a family of four, we all found something to connect with, from historical displays to hands-on exhibits.
The kids were especially excited about the life-sized husky dog statues, affectionately named Patch and Duchess. They were quick to pose for photos and loved imagining how the real huskies helped the explorers navigate the icy wilderness. The statues sparked so many questions, and it was wonderful to watch their curiosity grow with every new story they learned.
Inside the hut, we got to see how the explorers lived and worked in such extreme conditions. The small bunk beds, the makeshift kitchen, and the limited equipment showed just how resourceful the team had to be. The kids were fascinated and kept asking how they managed to survive without the modern conveniences they’re used to (especially heating and snacks!).
The museum also featured interactive displays, videos, and artifacts that brought the story to life. One section, in particular, showcased the stunning aurora light displays that the explorers would have witnessed in Antarctica. The colourful and ethereal imagery left me in awe, and it’s made me even more determined to see the aurora in real life someday. It’s now firmly on my bucket list!
The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer all our questions, making the experience even more engaging.
What stood out to me the most was how much the kids learned during our visit. They were captivated by the stories of survival, teamwork, and exploration. By the time we left, they couldn’t stop talking about Antarctica, the challenges faced by the explorers, and how huskies played such an important role in the expedition.
The Mawson’s Hut Replica Museum may be small, but it’s packed with information and detail. It’s a place where history comes alive, offering visitors of all ages a unique and meaningful experience. If you’re in Hobart and looking for an activity that’s both fun and educational, I highly recommend visiting.
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