The Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Adelaide That Won’t Stress Parents
School holidays are easily one of my favourite times of the year. No early mornings, no packed lunches, just time to slow down and hang out with the kids. This year, instead of planning a big trip, we decided to keep it simple and go for a staycation.
Staying local meant less stress, more time to relax, and no need to spend hours in the car. Adelaide has some great family-friendly hotels that feel like a proper getaway, even though you’re close to home.
To help other families do the same, I’ve made a list of the best family-friendly hotels in the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’re bound to have a good time in these spots with the kids!
Lakes Resort Hotel
Photo credit: lakeshotel
Website: https://www.lakesresorthotel.com.au/
Address: 141 Brebner Dr, West Lakes
Contact details: +61 8 8356 4444
Check in: 2:00 PM
Check out: 10:00 AM
Pricing: ($ for $199 and below, $$ for $200-$300, and $$$ for $300 and up): $
We ended up choosing Lakes Resort Hotel for our family staycation, and it turned out to be a great spot. It’s just about 20 minutes from the city centre, but the peaceful lakefront setting made it feel like we were much farther away.
Our room was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for the four of us. The private balcony overlooking the lake was a lovely extra touch, giving us a quiet space to relax together and take in the view.
The food options were also spot on, since they have a restaurant and a bar with kid-friendly menus. Since the hotel is close to Westfield West Lakes, we also managed to squeeze in a bit of shopping and stopped by a movie theatre before heading home.
Pro tip: Ask for a corner suite on a higher floor when booking—ideally one facing the lake at sunset. These rooms not only give you more space to spread out as a family, but the view in the late afternoon is something else.
It’s the kind of golden-hour glow that makes even a simple takeaway dinner on the balcony feel like a special moment.
Discovery Parks – West Beach Parks
Photo credit: westbeachparks
Website: https://www.westbeachparks.com.au/
Address: 1 Military Rd, West Beach
Contact details: +61 8 8355 7320
Check in: 2:00 PM
Check out: 10:00 AM
Pricing: $
For the next school holiday, I’m probably going to take my kids to Discovery Parks at West Beach. It’s an easy drive from the city centre, and there are loads of attractions here that they’ll absolutely love.
The biggest draw is the location. This park stretches along 1.2 kilometres of beachfront, so we’ll have direct access to the sea whenever we feel like it. There are also more affordable options like camping sites, which make it easy on the budget.
It’s also a huge plus that this park has a ton of fun stuff for kids. There’s a zero-depth water park, a big playground, a bouncing pillow, and a games room. For the older ones, there’s a basketball court and a few pool tables too.
Pro tip: Join the Beach Club before you book. It’s their free membership program, and it gives you 10% off your stay.
But it’s not just about the discount, since members sometimes get early access to deals, updates on seasonal events, and perks during school holidays like giveaways and activity schedules.
Marion Holiday Park
Photo credit: marion_holiday_park
Website: https://marionhp.com.au/
Address: 323 Sturt Rd, Bedford Park
Contact details: +61 8 8276 6695
Check in: 2:00 PM
Check out: 10:00 AM
Price: $$
While searching for more family-friendly spots around the city, I came across Marion Holiday Park. Tucked among lush greenery, it has a relaxed, resort-style vibe that makes it feel like a proper escape.
Aside from the scenery, another thing that makes this place stand out is the sheer range of amenities. You’ve got both indoor and outdoor pools, a 45-metre lagoon pool, a water park, an indoor tennis room, and even an outdoor cinema!
The kids have their own adventure playground too, which gives them plenty of space to burn off energy while you unwind nearby. It’s also nice that this hotel is close to Marion Shopping Centre, so you can easily fit in a bit of shopping during your stay.
Pro tip: Book directly through Marion Holiday Park’s website or by phone to score their Best Price Guarantee. You’ll lock in the lowest rate and might even catch special offers like free room upgrades.
Also, it’s always worth a quick peek at their Offers page before you confirm.
Moana Beach Tourist Park
Photo credit: gdayparks
Website: https://www.moanabeachtouristpark.com.au/Home
Address: 44 Nashwauk Cres, Moana
Contact details: +61 8 8327 0677
Check in: 2:00 PM
Check out: 10:00 AM
Price: $
If you’re up for a bit more of a drive, Moana Beach Tourist is a solid pick. It’s about 40 minutes from the CBD, but well worth it, especially if your kids are huge fans of the beach.
I especially like how relaxed and unfussy the setup is. Instead of luxurious hotel rooms, you’ve got self-contained villas and cabins that feel more like casual beachside homes. They’ve got camping sites too if you’re feeling adventurous.
There’s also a good mix of handy amenities, like a tennis court, BBQ areas, a camp kitchen, and laundry facilities. It’s even pet-friendly during quieter times, which is a big plus if your furry family member is tagging along.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to bring along a beach cart or wagon for your stay here. Since you can drive onto the sand at Moana, it’s easy to set up a full beach day out with shade, snacks, and toys without hauling everything by hand.
It’s a small thing, but it makes a huge difference when you’ve got kids in tow.
Stamford Grand
Photo credit: stamfordgrandadelaide
Website: https://www.stamford.com.au/hotels/stamford-grand-adelaide-hotel
Address: 2 Jetty Rd, Glenelg
Contact details: +61 8 8376 1222
Check in: 2:00 PM
Check out: 11:00 AM
Price: $$
Another beachside hotel worth checking out is Stamford Grand, right on Glenelg Beach. It’s easy to get to, especially with a tram stop nearby, so there’s no need to worry about driving or parking.
Aside from the sweeping views of the sea, another thing I like about this hotel is how spacious and comfortable the rooms are for families. They come with a good set of amenities, including flat-screen TVs, WiFi, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
You’ve also got access to an outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, and even a play area for the kids. I can definitely see this as a solid pick for those who are after that classic, no-fuss staycation where the beach is just a few steps away.
Pro tip: Take advantage of their Family Getaway Package before booking! It includes a buffet breakfast for two, free self-parking, free WiFi, and a $40 credit for The Beachhouse—a family entertainment centre just a short walk away.
Hotel Grand Chancellor
Photo credit: hotelgrandchancelloradelaide
Website: https://www.grandchancellorhotels.com/hotel-grand-chancellor-adelaide
Address: 65 Hindley St
Contact details: +61 8 8231 5552
Check in: 2:00 PM
Check out: 11:00 AM
Price: $
If you’re visiting Adelaide with the family, Hotel Grand Chancellor is a decent place to consider. It’s right in the heart of the city and just a short walk from the tram line, which makes getting to Adelaide’s top attractions quick and easy.
The rooms are spacious and modern, with family-friendly touches like flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Some even include kitchenettes and lounge areas, which could come in handy if you’re planning a longer stay and want that extra bit of comfort.
The hotel also has plenty of amenities to help you unwind, including an outdoor heated pool, a fitness centre, a sauna, and a hot tub. Plus, the on-site tour desk can help you plan day trips to places like the Adelaide Hills or Barossa Valley.
Pro tip: Add the Family Package to your booking at Hotel Grand Chancellor for a fun, low-effort upgrade. It includes a ready-to-go picnic basket packed with sandwiches, snacks, juice boxes, and even a cheese board. You’ll also get a late 12 PM checkout, which gives you a bit more breathing room on departure day.
Quest on Franklin
Photo credit: questapartments
Website: https://www.questapartments.com.au/properties/sa/adelaide/quest-on-franklin
Address: 74 Franklin St
Contact details: +61 8 8113 7500
Check in: 2:00 PM
Check out: 10:00 AM
Price: $
I asked a few friends how they spent the school holidays, and one mentioned they stayed at Quest on Franklin for a couple of nights. What sold them on the place was its central location, as it made getting around and exploring the city really convenient.
Furthermore, the rooms are surprisingly affordable and are more like full apartments than typical hotel suites. Since my friend has three kids, the extra space was a huge bonus. Everyone had room to relax after a full day of walking around.
Each apartment comes with its own kitchen, laundry, and separate living and dining areas. The one they booked even had a private balcony, which offered a nice view of the Adelaide skyline.
Pro tip: Since each apartment comes with a full kitchen, it’s easy to keep things relaxed and cost-effective by cooking a few meals yourself. The Central Market is just a short walk away, so you can pick up fresh produce and local snacks early in your stay and keep the kids happy with some good ol’ homemade meals.
The Fire Station Inn
Photo credit: north_adelaide_heritage_group
Website: https://www.adelaideheritage.com/
Address: 80 Tynte St, North Adelaide
Contact details: +61 8 8267 2020
Check in: 2:00 PM
Check out: 11:00 AM
Price: $$$
This one definitely caught my eye while researching for the list. The Fire Station Inn is a nice place, especially if your kids are into all things firefighting. Set in a restored 1866 fire station, it has themed suites designed around classic firehouse elements.
The coolest of the bunch? The Fire Engine Suite, which has a real 1942 fire truck parked at the foot of the bed, a fireman’s pole, and even firefighter dress-up gear. If your kid is obsessed with sirens and hoses, they’ll be in heaven.
I also like how each suite is self-contained and comes with thoughtful comforts like a king-size spa bath, underfloor heating, free WiFi, and a kitchenette. Breakfast can be delivered to your door, and there’s even free room service from a nearby restaurant.
Pro tip: Make sure to take advantage of the free city loop bus that passes near The Fire Station Inn. It’s a great way to explore Adelaide’s highlights without the hassle of parking or paying a fare, especially if you’re travelling with the little ones in tow.
