Okay, so when I said we wanted to move to Australia, I wasn't kidding! Our family vacation to Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast was truly unforgettable, and I wanted to share a few more practical details and insider tips that made our trip so special. You guys know how much I love a good recommendation, so here’s the lowdown beyond our top three must-dos. First, let's talk about where we stayed: the Best Western Plus North Lakes Hotel Australia. This wasn't just a hotel room; it was like our own ginormous apartment away from home! We had a spacious setup with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a dining room, and a living area. For a family traveling with kids, that extra space was an absolute game-changer. It meant we weren't tripping over each other, and the kids could have their own quiet zone. The convenience of having a full kitchen setup was a lifesaver for making quick breakfasts and snacks, saving us both time and money. Plus, they have a fantastic restaurant on-site – perfect for when we were too tired to venture out – and yes, they actually do room delivery! Even though it was raining part of our trip, having the pool right there meant the kids still got to splash around and burn off some energy. I definitely recommend staying here if you’re looking for comfort and convenience. Now, let's dive a little deeper into those top three things to do in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast that the kids (and us!) absolutely adored. The Australia Zoo was even more incredible than I imagined. Growing up watching Steve Irwin, it felt incredibly surreal to finally be there. Beyond just seeing the animals, the conservation message is so powerful. Make sure you see the crocodile show – it's an absolute must-see for its educational value and thrilling demonstrations. My biggest tip? Get there early to avoid the biggest crowds, and plan your day around the showtimes you want to catch; there's so much to explore! Then there was Bluey's World. My kids are huge Bluey fans, so getting to go through the interactive house and literally meet Bluey and Bingo was a dream come true for them. It’s set up exactly like the cartoon house, letting kids play in all the rooms. It's truly an immersive experience that brings the show to life. If your little ones love Bluey, this is non-negotiable. Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, as slots can fill up fast! And finally, Mooloolaba Beach. Seriously, why people from Australia ever go to another beach is beyond me – they truly have the best ones there! Mooloolaba was perfect for our family. The waves are generally calm, making it safe for younger swimmers, and the sand is soft and clean. There are also plenty of cafes and ice cream shops just steps away for those essential beach day treats. We spent hours just building sandcastles and splashing in the clear water. The relaxed vibe and stunning views made it one of our favorite spots. There’s so much more to uncover along the Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane that we hardly scratched the surface. We found delightful little markets, beautiful coastal walks, and incredible local food. Don't be afraid to explore some of the smaller towns too. I guess that just means we have to come back! But these are definitely our absolute favourite things we did, and I hope these extra insights help you plan your own amazing Australian family adventure.