If you think you’ve discovered all the best spots on the New South Wales coast for a family holiday, think again. Recently, I stumbled upon a hidden gem I just have to share: Reflections Holiday Park at Bonny Hills. Located a little over four hours north of Sydney and just 25 minutes south of Port Macquarie, this tranquil coastal town offers everything you could want for a family holiday, and then some.
At first, I was skeptical—after all, I thought I knew all the top destinations. But Bonny Hills, also known as the “pot of gold” at the end of Rainbow Beach, is so much more than I expected. Imagine waking up every day to a panoramic view of a pristine coastline, the sound of waves crashing, and the opportunity to explore rock pools filled with marine life. It’s nature at its finest, with the added comforts of home, like a hot shower, crisp sheets, and stunning views from every angle.
Accommodation with a View
Reflections Holiday Park offers a variety of accommodation options, including camping sites, glamping tents, and cabins. We opted for a premium cabin, which turned out to be perfect for our family of five. The cabin was modern, impeccably clean, and fully equipped with everything we could need—dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, and even three TVs. The best part? Every accommodation option boasts the same 180-degree ocean view.
For dog lovers, the park is also dog-friendly, though, unfortunately, our cabin wasn’t. No complaints here, though—it was a relief to enjoy a dog-free space for a change!
A Family-Friendly, Low-Key Adventure
What sets Bonny Hills apart from other family destinations is its simplicity and connection to nature. There’s no glitzy pool or game room to distract the kids—just pure, wholesome fun. My girls spent their days boogie boarding, exploring rock pools (we even spotted four octopuses!), fishing, dancing in the rain, and embarking on a scenic bushwalk—without a single complaint, even from our five-year-old notorious for “tired legs.”
With a cabin deck sheltered from the rain, we enjoyed board games while watching the storm roll in, and our youngest had a blast playing outside in the rain. It was the perfect recipe for quality family time, free from the distractions of screens.
The Best of Both Worlds: A Quiet Town with Plenty to Explore
Though Bonny Hills is a peaceful town, it offers plenty of amenities within a short drive. Just across the road from the park, you’ll find a petrol station, convenience store, takeaway joint, and bottle shop. And don’t miss out on The Prawn Man, a fresh seafood delivery service that comes right to your door—prawns in a van, anyone?
If you love a good bushwalk, there are plenty of National Parks nearby. For families with younger children, I highly recommend a trip to Old Buttlebutt in Burrawan State Forest. This easy loop trail takes you to the largest Red Bloodwood tree in the southern hemisphere, estimated to be over 200 years old. It’s a short 600-meter walk, perfect for little legs—and our five-year-old completed it without a hitch!
A Family Escape You’ll Never Forget
Reflections Bonny Hills has a special charm—quiet, yet full of natural beauty and adventure. The staff are friendly, and the park is not overrun with visitors, making it a truly relaxing getaway. My husband didn’t want me to write this review because he wants to keep it our secret, but I can’t help but share this hidden treasure with other families.
When we finally returned to Sydney after our weekend escape, our youngest burst into tears—proof that Bonny Hills had captured our hearts. Trust me, this is one family getaway you have to experience for yourself!
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