Over the past three years, we’ve welcomed hundreds of families to our properties in and around Airlie Beach — and lately, we’ve noticed a shift. Fewer people are booking international getaways with complicated itineraries. More are looking for something easier, calmer, and closer. And it turns out, they’re not compromising by doing so — they’re getting more of what matters most. We’ve spoken to so many parents and grandparents lately who just want to reconnect without the chaos. They want their kids to feel free. They want their own space. They want to relax without needing a second holiday afterwards. And they’re finding all of that — and more — right here in Queensland. Why Families Are Staying Local (And Loving It) It’s not just about convenience — although not dragging suitcases through airports certainly helps. It’s about time. Time together. Time in the sun. Time to slow down. Queensland makes that easy. There’s no jet lag, no passport panic, and no language barrier when you’re ordering a coffee (or trying to find a public toilet with a toddler). Instead, there’s space to breathe. There’s reef and rainforest to explore. There’s warm weather, local markets, and afternoons that turn into evening walks along the water. And among all the incredible destinations Queensland has to offer, one region continues to stand out for families: the Whitsundays. Why the Whitsundays Is a Family Favourite — and Always Will Be There’s something about this part of the world that makes people exhale the moment they arrive. Maybe it’s the wide blue skies. Maybe it’s the sight of the Coral Sea from your balcony. Maybe it’s just knowing you’ve landed somewhere that’s equal parts peaceful and spectacular. But for families, it’s more than just the scenery. It’s the way life flows here. Airlie Beach is compact and walkable — there’s no need to plan your day around bus timetables or traffic. You can stroll to the lagoon for a swim, pick up fish and chips on the way back, and stop for ice cream without crossing a single major road. That kind of simplicity is rare, and families value it more than ever. A Holiday That Works for Every Generation From toddlers splashing in beautiful waters to grandparents watching the sunset from the balcony, the Whitsundays offers experiences that stretch across generations. Snorkelling at Whitehaven, sailing to secluded bays, lounging by the pool with a book — you can shape the holiday to suit your people, whatever their pace. And best of all, you’re still in Australia. There’s comfort in knowing the food will suit fussy eaters. That the hospital is five minutes away (just in case). That mobile coverage won’t vanish when you need to send that “Mum, we’re here” message. Familiar, But Still Feels Like an Escape That’s the beauty of holidaying in the Whitsundays. It’s still home — but somehow, it doesn’t feel like it. The colours are brighter. The sunsets linger longer. Even the silence sounds different. We live here, and it still surprises us how beautiful it can be on an ordinary Tuesday afternoon. Choosing the Right Accommodation Makes All the Difference One of the reasons families return to us time and again is because of the way our homes are set up. At Paradise Private Collection, we only represent properties that offer space, privacy and thoughtful design — the kinds of homes you’d actually want to live in, not just stay in. That means: Separate bedrooms for early risers and night owls Kitchens for midnight snacks or big pancake breakfasts Laundry facilities for sandy swimmers and sticky fingers Peace and quiet when nap time rolls around And walking distance to everything you actually want to do We don’t offer generic stays. We curate homes that help you feel settled — so you can focus on your holiday, not the logistics. Why Now’s the Perfect Time With more families booking domestic travel this year, availability in premium locations like Airlie Beach is already tightening. If you’re thinking about taking the kids (or grandkids) away for a pre-Christmas escape or early 2025 break, now is the time to start planning. In Summary: Queensland is the top pick for Aussie families seeking ease, connection, and climate The Whitsundays offers unmatched natural beauty, family-friendly adventure, and zero fuss Airlie Beach is safe, walkable, and ideal for multi-generational holidays Staying local gives families more time and less stress Paradise Private Collection offers handpicked homes designed for real family living If you're dreaming of a family holiday that leaves you refreshed instead of frazzled, we’d love to help. Enquire today to find the perfect property for your next Queensland escape — and see why so many families are choosing to make memories right here, close to home. Warmly, Lea & Ross The Boathouse Apartments, Airlie Beach