Looking for the perfect family-friendly hotel in Sydney? From harbourside luxury to beachfront apartments, we’ve handpicked the best accommodation options for families. As locals who’ve raised kids (and now grandkids) in this city, we know exactly what makes a great family stay.
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Quick Guide to Family Areas in Sydney
Darling Harbour
With its waterfront playground and endless entertainment options, Darling Harbour has everything you need to keep young kids busy for days. There is a good range of family friendly dining and lots of space to run around.
Highlights include the free adventure playground and water play areas, SEA LIFE, Wildelife Zoo Sydney, Madame Tussards, Maritime Museum and the Chinese Garden.
City Centre
Central Sydney offers the perfect mix of shopping, culture and easy access to everything your tweens and teens want to see. This is a good choice if you would like to avoid extra public transport fare as you can walk to most sites easily.
Nearby is Pitt Street Mall, Sydney Tower, Hyde Park, and serveral of the cities best museums. The streets are mostly flat making it great for prams.
Manly
A beachside village atmosphere just 30 minutes by ferry from the city, Manly offers the best of both worlds. It’s a holiday in a holiday. Manly’s harbour beaches offer safe sheltered swimming spots while the ocean side offers the perfect spot for your first surf lesson.
There are plenty of shops and restaurants and while it can get busy on weekends one street either side of the Corso gets you out of the action. Buses go to Taronga Zoo, North Head and the rest of the Northern Beaches.
Bondi
Australia’s most famous beach delivers with its surf culture, coastal walks and buzzing cafe scene. It’s not a good choice for anyone pushing a pram but for older families it might but the perfect fit.
Best suited for when you have a longer stay planned and don’t need to be heading to the city centre each day. Buses will take you to Bondi Junction and the rail network or Watsons Bay where you can join ferries to the city.
Now let’s look at our recommended family-friendly hotels in each of these areas, starting with Darling Harbour where you’ll find some of the city’s best options for young families.
Our Top Family-Friendly Hotels in Sydney
- Best for Young Families – Adina Apartment Hotel Harbourside: Steps from kid-friendly activities, ferry access, and full kitchen facilities
- Best Beach Location – Peppers Manly Beach: Direct beach access, two swimming pools, and spacious apartments
- Best Large Family Option – Meriton Suites North Sydney: Two-bedroom apartments with harbour views and full kitchens
- Best Budget Choice – Sydney Harbour YHA: Family rooms with private bathrooms and rooftop views
- Best Luxury Family Stay – Four Seasons Sydney: Central location, kids’ amenities, pool with harbour views
- Best Location for Attractions – Sebel Quay West Suites: Spacious apartments with harbour views, indoor pool, and easy access to major attractions
Kids Clubs in Sydney
Just a note, few, if any, hotels in the centre of Sydney have proper kids clubs. Even swimming pools are not common in mid to budget range properties. Because of this, I recommend you look for a hotel near to parks or other public spaces where younger kids can explore and burn off steam.
If you still have questions by the time you reach the end of the page, pop over to our Facebook Group, and we would be happy to try to help you out.
Darling Harbour – Best Area for Young Families
Best For: Families with young kids l Distance to city centre: 15-min. walk
Darling Harbour offers the perfect mix of entertainment and convenience for families. The area stretches almost 2km and divides into three main zones:
- Darling Square: Next to Chinatown, newest dining precinct
- Darling Park & Cockle Bay: Central area with playground and water park
- King Street Wharf: Close to SEA LIFE Aquarium, Maritime Museum, Barangaroo
Family-Friendly Highlights:
- Modern playground and water play area
- SEA LIFE Aquarium and Wildlife Sydney
- Australian Maritime Museum (free entry)
- Chinese Garden of Friendship
- Free outdoor events (especially during school holidays)
- Wide pedestrian areas perfect for strollers
- Multiple food courts and family restaurants
Important Note for 2025: The Harbourside Shopping Centre demolition may affect western side hotels. Consider eastern side propertiesm or those at the southern end for a quieter stay.
Pros: Family-friendly eateries and quick access to the kids playgrounds.
Cons: Can be busy and distance to Circular Quay may bother some.
Best Family Hotels in Darling Harbour
Adina Apartment Hotel Harbourside – Best for Young Families
Guest Rating: 8.8/10 | Location: King Street Wharf | View on Booking.com
Our top pick for families, Adina Harbourside is perfectly positioned by King Street Wharf with easy access to kid-friendly attractions and dining options. A ferry wharf is nearby, and it’s a 7-minute walk to Wynyard Station.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Indoor pool and BBQ area
- Full-sized kitchen
- Grocery shopping service
- Washer and dryer in apartment
- Free internet for four devices
- Babysitting available
Room Types: One and two-bedroom (interconnecting) apartments sleeping up to 5
Pros: Steps from attractions, spacious apartments, great location for transport
Cons: Uphill walk to Wynyard Station
Oaks Goldsbrough Apartments – Best Value Choice
Guest Rating: 8/10 | Location: Pyrmont | View on Booking.com
Set in a historic woolshed building, on the western side of Darling Harbour, these apartments offer good value for families. Recent guest reviews highlight the importance of requesting higher floor rooms for better views and less street noise.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Indoor swimming pool
- Full kitchen facilities
- Laundry facilities
- Some rooms with harbour views
- Large studios and apartments
Room Types: Studios, one and two-bedroom apartments (sleeping six)
Current Note: Some construction noise from Harbourside development
Eat: Head 5 mins around the corner for breakfast and excellent coffee at Social Brew.
Rydges Darling Square – Our Southern Harbour Pick
Guest Rating: 8.6/10 | Location: Darling Square | View on Booking.com
We love this end of Darling Harbour for families – it’s had a complete transformation in recent years. The hotel sits right beside the new Darling Square dining precinct, and you’re just a few minutes’ walk from both Chinatown and Paddy’s Markets.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Indoor pool (a rarity in this part of town)
- New rooms with proper beds (no sofa beds)
- Food delivery from local restaurants to your room
- Market City Coles just up the road
Room Types: Standard rooms with two queens, one and two-bedroom suites
Pros: Quick walk to Paddy’s Markets, quieter location, modern rooms
Cons: Longer walk to main harbour attractions
Pro Tip: Ask for a room facing away from George Street for a quieter night’s sleep
Mantra on Kent – Best Mid-Range Choice
Guest Rating: 8.4/10 | Location: Kent Street | View on Booking.com
This property often gets overlooked, which is a shame because it’s excellent value for families. While it’s technically in the CBD, you can walk to Darling Harbour in under 10 minutes, and the apartment-style rooms mean you’re not all cramped in a standard hotel room.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Proper kitchens (not just a microwave)
- Washer and dryer in the apartments
- Separate bedrooms so parents can relax after kids’ bedtime
- Grocery delivery available (lifesaver with tired kids)
Room Types: One-bedroom apartments that actually work for families
Dining Tip: There’s a great little cafe in the lobby for breakfast, but we suggest walking 5 minutes to The Galleries food court for more options
Worth Noting: While there’s no pool, you’re just a short walk from the Darling Quarter water playground.
Sydney CBD – Perfect for First-Time Visitors
Best For: Easy access to attractions l Distance to Harbour: 5-15 minute walk
The CBD makes an excellent base for families wanting to tick off Sydney’s main attractions. You’re walking distance to most sites, and public transport connections are excellent. This area is particularly good if you’re pushing a pram – the streets are relatively flat compared to The Rocks, and there are plenty of places to stop and rest.
Family-Friendly Highlights:
- Easy walk to Sydney Harbour
- Close to main shopping district
- Multiple transport options
- Plenty of casual dining choices
- Walking distance to Royal Botanic Gardens
- Near Hyde Park’s open spaces
While hotel rooms in the CBD tend to be more expensive, the money you save on transport and the convenience factor often makes up for it.
Best Family Hotels Near Hyde Park
Swissotel Sydney – Best for Young Kids
Guest Rating: 8.3/10 | Location: Market Street | View on Booking.com
One of the first Sydney hotels to really think about what families need. Their kids’ rooms are specially designed for children aged 2-12 years, and the location right above Myers department store means you’re never far from anything you might need.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Kids’ themed rooms with age-appropriate toys
- Special kids’ welcome packs
- Children’s menus
- Indoor pool
- Three minutes to Hyde Park
- Easy pram access to shops
Room Types: Kids’ rooms with two extra-long double beds, interconnecting options available
Pros: Central location, thoughtful kids’ amenities, excellent service
Cons: Street-facing rooms can be noisy, pool can get busy
Dining Tip: Head to the rooftop of Westfield for family-friendly dining with a view
Oaks Hyde Park Plaza – Perfect Park Location
Guest Rating: 7.5/10 | Location: Elizabeth Street | View on Booking.com
This apartment hotel sits right opposite Hyde Park, perfect for families who want some green space on their doorstep. The Museum train station entrance is literally at your door, making airport transfers a breeze, and you’re just a short walk to the city’s main shopping area.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Rooftop pool with city views
- Full kitchen facilities
- Large living areas
- Washer/dryer in apartments
- Supermarket nearby on Oxford Street
- Direct park access for kids to run around
Room Types: Studios, one and two-bedroom apartments that can actually fit the whole family
Pros: Excellent location, good value for space, park views available
Cons: Some apartments need updating, street noise on lower floors
Pro Tip: Request a high floor park-facing room for the best experience
Fraser Suites Sydney – Luxury Family Choice
Guest Rating: 8.8/10 | Location: Kent Street | View on Booking.com
These modern 5-star apartments offer both luxury and practicality for families. Located just 5 minutes from Town Hall station, they’re perfect for families who want more space without compromising on quality.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Heated indoor pool
- Full kitchen with Nespresso machine
- In-room washer and dryer
- High chairs and cots available
- Grocery delivery service
- 24-hour reception
Room Types: One and two-bedroom suites sleeping up to 5
Pros: Spacious modern apartments, excellent facilities, central location
Cons: Busy street location, some traffic noise on lower floors
Pro Tip: The two-bedroom suites on higher floors offer excellent city views.
Meriton World Tower – Great for Extended Stays
Guest Rating: 9.1/10 | Location: World Square | View on Booking.com
These apartments sit right above World Square shopping centre, making them incredibly convenient for families. The location between Town Hall and Central stations means you can easily reach any part of the city, and there’s a full-size supermarket downstairs.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Indoor pool and spa
- Full kitchen facilities
- In-room laundry
- Free high-speed WiFi
- Supermarket in building
- Multiple dining options downstairs
Room Types: One, two and three-bedroom apartments sleeping up to 6
Pros: Excellent transport links, spacious apartments, great amenities
Cons: World Square area can be busy and noisy, especially on weekends
Pro Tip: Higher floor rooms facing south are usually quieter and some have decent city views
Circular Quay and The Rocks – Best for Harbour Views
Best For: Access to icons l Distance to Opera House: 2-10 minute walk
This historic harbourfront precinct offers the quintessential Sydney experience for families. While the area can be hilly with some cobblestone streets (challenging for prams), the proximity to ferries, trains and major attractions makes it worth considering.
Family-Friendly Highlights:
- Direct access to Opera House and Harbour Bridge
- Easy ferry access to Taronga Zoo and Manly
- Weekend markets in The Rocks
- Multiple ice cream shops and casual eateries
- Museum of Contemporary Art (free entry)
- Overseas Passenger Terminal viewing deck
While premium priced, these hotels often include views that would cost you extra in admission fees to viewing platforms. Consider it part of your entertainment budget.
Sebel Quay West Suites – Best for Harbour Views with Space
Guest Rating: 8.8/10 | Location: The Rocks | View on Booking.com
These spacious apartments with generously sized rooms (the smallest is 50sqm) and some fantastic harbour views, are not in the budget category, but they offer some of the best family-friendly accommodation with harbour views.
The location between the Shangri-La and Four Seasons puts you right in the heart of the action. Trains and ferries are only a few minutes away although there are some hills to negotiate if you don’t choose your route carefully.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Indoor heated pool with harbour views
- Full kitchen facilities
- Separate living areas
- Washer/dryer in apartments
- Easy walk to ferries
- Grocery delivery available
Room Types: One and two-bedroom suites sleeping 4-6 guests
Pros: Generous room sizes, great views, full apartments
Cons: Some street noise, hills to negotiate with prams
Pro Tip: Request a high floor harbour view room for the best experiencerooms (the smallest is 50sqm) and some fantastic harbour views, are not in the budget category, but they offer a lot.
Four Seasons Sydney – Best Luxury Family Stay
Guest Rating: 9.1/10 | Location: Circular Quay | View on Booking.com
Following a complete room refresh, this hotel offers some of Sydney’s best harbour views along with five-star service. Its position right at Circular Quay means you’re perfectly placed for exploring the city with kids.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Heated outdoor pool with harbour views
- Special kids’ welcome packs
- Child-sized bathrobes
- 24-hour room service with kids’ menu
- Connecting rooms available
- Easy pram access to ferries
Room Types: Deluxe rooms with two doubles, harbour view rooms, suites
Pros: Spectacular harbour views, excellent service, perfect location
Cons: Standard rooms can be small for families, premium pricing
Pro Tip: Full harbour view rooms are worth the splurge – you get both Bridge and Opera House views.
Sydney Harbour YHA – Best Budget Choice with Views
Guest Rating: 8.5/10 | Location: The Rocks | View on Booking.com
Don’t let the word ‘hostel’ put you off – this place offers some of the best value harbour views in Sydney. Built above archaeological remains, it’s a unique mix of history and modern comfort that works surprisingly well for families.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Rooftop terrace with harbour views
- Large shared kitchen facilities
- Family rooms with private bathrooms
- Guest laundry
- Free walking tours
- Secure building access
Room Types: 4 and 5-bed private rooms with ensuite
Pros: Incredible value, great views, historic location
Cons: Basic amenities, some stairs to navigate
Pro Tip: This is not always a bargain as prices seem to have risen steeply in holiday periods. Book well ahead for school holidays – the family rooms sell out quickly
Beachside Family Hotels in Sydney
Best For: Beach lifestyle l Distance to City: 30-45 minutes
While the harbour properties put you close to the icons, staying beachside gives your family a genuine Aussie experience. You’ll trade the busy city streets for morning beach walks and laid-back coastal vibes.
You have two main choices when it comes to beach accommodation: Manly or Bondi. Each offers a different experience:
Manly Beach – Best All-Round Beach Choice
Manly works well for families with younger children. The combination of a calm harbour beach and ocean beach means you can choose conditions to suit your kids’ swimming ability. The 30-minute ferry ride to the city becomes part of the fun rather than a chore, and there’s plenty to keep you busy on days when you don’t want to head into the city.
Local Tips:
- 30-minute scenic ferry ride to city
- Mix of harbour and ocean beaches
- Excellent public transport links
- Plenty of rainy day options
- More relaxed than Bondi
- Great breakfast spots
Check out our detailed guide on things to do in Manly
Bondi Beach – Best for Active Families
Bondi tends to suit families with teens better. The famous beach can have strong surf conditions, but there’s an energy here you won’t find anywhere else. The coastal walk to Bronte is a must-do, and the skateboard park and street art give it a cool vibe that older kids love. Buses to the city take 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
Local Tips:
- Famous coastal walk to Bronte
- Great surf schools for beginners
- Excellent cafe culture
- Weekend markets
- Year-round outdoor pool
- Easy bus to Bondi Junction shopping
If you are happy to book a holiday rental, you can look anywhere along the coast with good transport. The eastern beaches are a quick ride to the city, but the Northern beaches while more relaxed can be a slow commute to the city
Where to Stay in Manly Beach with Kids
Peppers Manly Beach – Best Beachfront Option
Guest Rating: 8.7/10 | Location: South Steyne | View on Booking.com
Sitting right opposite Manly Beach, Peppers offers that perfect mix of beach access and convenience. You’re just a 5-minute walk to the ferry wharf and surrounded by family-friendly dining options.
Family-Friendly Features:
- 2 swimming pools and spa pool
- Direct beach access
- Full kitchen facilities
- Guest laundry.
- Grocery stores nearby
- Close to calm harbour beaches
Room Types: Studios and one-bedroom apartments for up to 4 people
Pros: Beachfront location, good-sized apartments, close to ferry
Cons: Weekend noise from nearby venues, some rooms need updating
Pro Tip: North tower rooms have the best beach views
Manly Pacific – Our Luxury Beach Pick
Guest Rating: 8.9/10 | Location: North Steyne | View on Booking.com
I’ve watched this place transform over the years, and the recent renovation has really lifted it to another level. The location is spot-on – right opposite the beach and an easy walk to everything. While it’s definitely on the pricier side, the convenience and those ocean views make it worth considering.
Family-Friendly Features:
- That rooftop pool is a winner with kids
- Really good breakfast (worth including in your rate)
- Proper beach gear you can borrow
- Rooms big enough that you’re not tripping over each other
- Actual bath tubs in most rooms
- Lift access to the beach (great with prams)
Room Types: Standard rooms with two queens, ocean view rooms, suites
Pros: Location is unbeatable, rooms are fresh, service is reliable
Cons: The weekend noise can be loud – also there is a lot of white furnishings!
Bondi Beach
Let’s be upfront about Bondi – you’ll pay a premium to stay here, especially in summer. But for many families, having Australia’s most famous beach on your doorstep makes it worth the splurge. Just be prepared for some eye-watering room rates during peak seasons.
For families, Bondi works best with older kids and teens – the surf can be strong, and those famous hills aren’t great with prams. But if your kids are past the toddler stage, they’ll love the skateparks, surf schools, and the buzz of beach life. Just remember the commute into the city can take 45 minutes in peak hour, so it’s better for families who don’t plan on too many days of city sightseeing.
What you do need to think about is parking, which can be a real headache unless your accommodation includes it.
Read our detailed guide to the Bondi Coastal Walk so you can which parts are most family-friendly.
Adina Bondi Beach – Best All-Round Choice
Guest Rating: 8.8/10 | Location: Hall Street | View on Booking.com
This relatively new property sits just back from Campbell Parade, which I actually prefer – you’re close enough to the beach but away from the worst of the noise and crowds. It’s right in the middle of Hall Street where you’ll find some of Bondi’s best eating.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Pool (a real bonus in Bondi)
- Full kitchens that are properly equipped
- Washer/dryer in apartments
- Security parking (gold in Bondi!)
- Grocery shopping service
- Lots of space to spread out
Room Types: One, two and three-bedroom apartments
Pros: Great location for beach and cafes, modern facilities
Cons: Beach views are limited, summer pricing can be eye-watering
Local Tip: Get your morning coffee from Sensory Lab downstairs – it’s a bit hidden but worth finding.
QT Bondi – Best for Longer Stays
Guest Rating: 8.7/10 | Location: Campbell Parade | View on Booking.com
Right on Campbell Parade opposite the beach, QT offers something a bit different. While it’s technically a hotel, the rooms are set up more like apartments with proper kitchenettes. The location is hard to beat – you’re literally across the road from the beach.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Kitchenettes in all rooms
- Access to nearby gym and pool
- Really good storage space
- Beach gear to borrow
- Parking available (rare in Bondi!)
- Guest laundry facilities
Room Types: Studios and apartments, most with balconies
Pros: Perfect beach location, stylish rooms, good for longer stays
Cons: No on-site pool, weekend noise from nearby bars.
Local Tip: The corner rooms have the best views.
Final Tips for Booking Family Accommodation in Sydney
After helping hundreds of families plan their Sydney stays, here are my top booking tips:
- School Holidays: Book at least 6 months ahead for December-January stays
- Location vs Price: Sometimes paying more for location saves money on transport
- Airport Transfers: While I love the train, with kids and luggage, a pre-booked transfer is worth considering
- Room Configurations: Always double-check bed setups – “family room” can mean different things
- Eating Options: Look for accommodation near supermarkets if you’re staying more than a few days
Need More Help?
Still not sure which area or hotel would suit your family best? We offer Itinerary planning services to help you fine tune your time in this incredible city. Alternatively pop over to our Facebook Group where our community of Sydney locals love helping families plan their perfect stay.
Related Guides:
- Budget Accommodation Options
- Things to Do in Sydney with Kids
- Guide to Sydney’s Different Areas
- Sydney’s Best Wildlife parks
- Planning a visit to the Blue Mountains
Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney?
Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help.
Main imagine credit: Destination NSW
