55 Gold Coast things to do with kids

Adventure

55 things to do on the Gold Coast with kids

February 17, 2021by carasignature

It’s not hard to find things to do on the Gold Coast with kids. This incredible stretch of coastline is family-fun on overdrive. It has theme parks, incredible golden sand beaches and loads of local markets.

But we’ve also found a few of the more low-key and local attractions that Holidays with Kids readers rave about.

Here’s our list of the best things to do on the Gold Coast with kids.

1. Surfers Paradise Beach

Although the Gold Coast includes 20 different beaches along its 57-kilometre swathe of coastline, it’s Surfers Paradise that is one of Australia’s most famous. Known for its golden sand and highly distinctive skyscrapers, families can enjoy a swim between the flags before heading into Surfers itself. There are heaps of places to grab a bite to eat, or check out some of the 100 stalls at the weekly beachfront markets.

2. Dreamworld & WhiteWater World

Enjoy the most action-packed and adrenaline-pumping rides at Australia’s biggest theme park. Take on the ‘Big Nine’ thrill rides of Dreamworld or come face-to-face with the big cats on Tiger Island. Little ones can join Dorothy the Dinosaur and friends for a wiggly song and dance show before having a splash at Wiggle Bay and the Pipeline Plunge. WhiteWater World’s top water slides include the Super Tubes Hydro Coaster and Little Rippers.

Gold Coast things to do — Dreamworld © Alan Jensen/Tourism and Events Queensland

3. Sea World

Sea World offers animal adventures for kids and adults alike. Swim with the dolphins, score a smooch from a seal or get among the sharks… if you dare. Sea World’s latest standout attraction is Polar Bear Shores, the only exhibit in Australia where you can see the world’s largest land carnivore, the polar bear, up close.

4. Warner Bros. Movie World

Meet your favourite stars and super heroes and watch the spectacular shows at Warner Bros. Movie World. Let the kids loose in the Kids’ WB! Fun Zone or experience adrenaline-pumping rides such as The DC Rivals HyperCoaster, opening in October. The new coaster will be the Southern Hemisphere’s tallest, longest and fastest, reaching speeds of 115-kilometres per hour.

5. Wet’n’Wild

Get wet and get wild. From the gravity-defying AquaLoop to the tight turns of the Constrictor, the attractions at Wet’n’Wild are not for the faint of heart. Little kiddies will love the Junior Zone, which includes mini thrill rides, eight slides and a giant tipping bucket. The whole family can enjoy a fab finish to the day by cruising around Calypso Beach, the park’s lazy river.

6. Mount Tamborine Village

A drive to this mountain village is a great day out. There’s a great range of hinterland hikes, from the all-abilities Cedar Creek Falls to the more advanced Witches Falls and Sandy Creek circuits. If you’re looking for less scenery and more shopping, hit the village where you’ll find antiques, cafes and some of the Gold Coast’s most mouthwatering fudge.

7. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Cuddle a koala, walk a wombat, get slippery with a snake or hand-feed a kangaroo. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is dedicated to conserving Australia’s indigenous, natural and historic heritage and culture. As well as seeing hundreds of native animals, kids can also get their hearts pumping in the Tree Top Challenge, which includes 80 aerial adventures including 11 insane zip-lines.

8. Springbrook National Park

This breathtaking site is located in the Gold Coast Hinterland, just 45 minutes’ drive from the region’s glittering arc of beaches. Take a walk through the wilderness to find waterfalls, lookouts, wildlife and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The hinterland is close enough for a day trip, so make sure you stick around in Springbook National Park‘s Natural Bridge to see the glow worms light up the cave at night.

9. Currumbin Rock Pools

This not-so-secret swimming hole is just 15-minutes inland from Currumbin Beach and the perfect place to escape the crowds. Here in the valley, kids swing on ropes and leap off ledges into the cool, fresh water while parents lounge in the sun. Dogs are welcome and there are picnic tables, a barbecue area, toilets and a local convenience store just across the road.

10. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

O’Reilly’s is the place to enjoy daily family-friendly activities including guided bird walks, animal shows, off-road Segway tours and the famed Tree Top Walk. Order ahead for a packed lunch or picnic hamper before exploring one of 500 amazing waterfalls accessible via 160-kilometres of trails. There’s so much to do; squeeze it into a day or stay the whole weekend in a Rainforest Villa.

11. David Fleay Wildlife Park

It is the only nature park on the Gold Coast housing live platypus. Yet, the David Fleay Wildlife Park is also home to fresh and saltwater crocodiles, snakes, lizards, kangaroos, koalas, tree kangaroos, gliders and butterflies. It’s also an excellent place for the kids to spot native birds including jabiru, brolgas, owls and cassowaries.

12. Tallebudgera Creek

If you’re after a water-based holiday, a stay by this estuary is for you. Pack your gear for swimming, fishing, boating, water-skiing, wind-surfing and kayaking. Wave-seekers can head across the road to Tallebudgera surf beach, while nature-lovers can take the short stroll to Burleigh Head National Park for a walk through the lush rainforest.

Here’s a local tip: follow Tallebudgera Creek up into the Tallebudgera Valley and you can swim and splash in cool rock pools surrounded by rainforest.

13. Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre

Located next to Tallebudgera Creek, the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre offers an insight into the Yugambeh Aboriginal people, one of the oldest cultures in the world. It’s a great place for kids to learn about the Aboriginal history of the Gold Coast, discover traditional bush foods and hear Dreamtime stories.

14. Australian Outback Spectacular

Saddle up for a remarkable journey to the snow-capped mountains of the High Country, where legendary yarns come alive to commemorate the Centenary of the ANZACS. The whole family will be dazzled by the show’s death-defying stunts, stunning aerial performances and incredible animal stars, while enjoying a three-course gourmet Aussie feast.

15. Bike Hire Gold Coast

Hire a bike from Bike Hire Gold Coast to spend the day cycling from Coolangatta up to Surfers Paradise along the beachfront bicycle path. Venture out to The Spit or through the Broadwater Parklands, pass by the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre or take a peek at The Hill to see its sculptures. After a long day of cycling, stop at the beach for a well-deserved dip in the sea.

16. Paradise Jetboating

Like a theme park ride on the water, jet boating is a must-do family activity on the Gold Coast. Experience 360-degree spins, high-speed drifting, incredible beach buzzing and other exciting manoeuvres in as little as 10-centimetres of water with Paradise Jetboating. Be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins, wallabies and other wildlife. Oh, and hold on tight.

17. Infinity

Challenge your senses and ignite your imagination at Infinity as you journey into a futuristic maze-like world of wonder. There are 20 multi-sensory environments filled with all manner of special effects: sound fields, sensuous aromas, groovy music, eye-boggling illusions that seem to go on forever and a world-first, mind-warping time tunnel.

18. Gold Coast Island Buggy Tours

Start your adventure with Gold Coast Island Buggy Tours with a luxury boat cruise from Mariners Cove to Couran Cove Resort. Upon arrival, hit the sand in a 4WD buggy for 90-minute eco-tour through the tranquil forest over naturally built obstacles, sand dunes and onto unspoilt beaches. Family buggies are available, which seat two adults and two children.

19. SkyPoint Climb

Rising 270-metres into the air, this 90-minute open-air adventure takes place at the very top of the Q1, one of Queensland’s most recognised landmark buildings. This experience is not for the faint-hearted. Whether you do a morning, daytime or twilight climb, you’ll have your breath taken away by the incredible 360-degree views of the Gold Coast and beyond from SkyPoint.

20. Thunderbird Park

As Australia’s largest adventure playground, Thunderbird Park has activities for the whole family, including horse riding, laser skirmish, mini-golf and fossicking for treasures in the world’s largest thunderegg mine. Daredevils can even attempt the Tree Top Challenge, with its 100 sky-high challenges and Canyon Flyer, Australia’s largest and fastest guided zip-line tour.

21. Game Over Centre

Get wild at Game Over Gold Coast, Australia’s first Electric Indoor Karting track. Game OVer is complete with soaring Clip ‘N Climb adventure walls, an eight-metre-high ‘Leap of Faith’ and a high-tech Laser Tag arena. Channel your inner Tarzan on one of the 16 climbing and adventure walls. Choose to ride the adrenaline-pumping indoor zipline coaster or battle it out as a laser soldier at this epic indoor attraction.

22. Ripley’s Believe it or Not!

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is the most unusual attraction in Surfers Paradise, offering 16 themed galleries packed with 400 artefacts and interactive exhibits. See creepy shrunken heads, walk through the spinning vortex tunnel and re-enact your favourite spy movie as you duck, weave and slither your way through a room full of brilliant green lasers in LaseRace.

23. NightQuarter

From arts and crafts to farmers’ markets and car boot sales, the Gold Coast buzzes both day and night. The weekend NightQuarter is a popular market for families, bringing together food, music, entertainment and shopping all in the one place. Make sure you try a mouthwatering cronut (half croissant, half doughnut) or quirky funnel cake for dessert.

24. Currumbin Valley Surf School

If you’re looking to pick up some board skills or perfect your air reverse, the beaches of the Gold Coast are a top place to start. While there are plenty of great surf schools, Currumbin Valley Surf School has an excellent beginner-friendly location offering lessons for people of all ages and levels of skill. Who knows, you could even become the next Mick Fanning.

25. Jetpack Adventures

Do you dream of flying? If so, get your superhero on at Jetpack Adventures. The Gold Coast adventure company operates Jetpacks, Flyboards and Jetovators, which will see you and the kids get airborne. Hundreds of litres of water blast through specially-designed thrust nozzles that send you skyrocketing into the air.

26. Jet Ski Safaris

Boasting a celebrity clientele including members of The Foo Fighters, Jet Ski Safaris will take you into the water for some serious fun. Blast your way along the shores of South Stradbroke Island through narrow tidal passages and around beautiful islands, sandbars and mangroves at high speed on state-of-the-art jet skis. Kids over eight can ride pillion, while kids aged 12 to 15 can take control if they’re accompanied by an adult.

27. King Tutt’s Putt Putt

Prepare for some friendly competition and family fun over at King Tutt’s Putt Putt. There are three individually themed 18-hole mini golf courses, right in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Where else could you find Cleopatra and deadly dinosaurs all in one place?

28. SUP in Paradise

Who wouldn’t love cruising along the Gold Coast’s beloved Broadwater on a stand-up paddle-board? Broadwater is a playground for water sports enthusiasts. One of the best places to hit the water is the protected area off Budd’s Beach. Here you’ll find SUP in Paradise trainers who will supply all the necessary equipment and give you tips on safety, balance and technique.

29. Broadwater Parklands

Located on Marine Parade in Southport, opposite Australia Fair, the world-class Broadwater Parklands offer a huge range of outdoor activities to amuse every member of the family. Kids can play in the mini water park, jump on the giant bouncing pillow or swim out to the floating play pontoon. There are also loads of free barbecue areas and shady spots for a picnic.

30. Timezone Gold Coast

For video game aficionados, Time Zone Surfers Paradise is a virtual mecca. Timezone Gold Coast claims the title for largest indoor family entertainment centre in Australia and the biggest Timezone in the world. Located on Cavill Avenue, the arcade covers an area of 5000-square-metres. With an ever-changing array of cutting edge games and attractions including racing, shooting, bowling and basketball games, a mini-golf course, Typhoon Simulator, bumper cars and laser skirmish, there’s something for everyone. Perfect for a rare rainy day, or any weather situation for that matter.

31. Movies under the stars

With its perfect sunny climate, what better way to spend a balmy summer evening than watching a free movie under the moonlight? Courtesy of the Gold Coast City Council, Movies Under the Stars invites families to pack a comfy chair, bring a picnic basket or support the local food vendors and veg out on a grassy knoll. All movies start at 7pm and are family-friendly.

32. Sunrise in the skies

Children aged three and up can watch the sunrise over the majestic hinterland with Hot Air Balloon Gold Coast. Witness sweeping views of Lamington National Park, Tamborine National Park and the towering silhouette of Surfers’ skyline like you’ve never seen it.

33. TreeTop challenge

It seems everybody wants to be in the trees this summer. The TreeTop Challenge, with locations in Victoria Point, Currumbin and Mount Tamborine, offers the perfect adrenaline-pumping alternative for ages seven and up. There’s a special challenge for juniors aged three to eight at the Tamborine Mountain location.

34. Harbour Town shopping centre

If you want to do some shopping on the Gold Coast, you need to visit Harbour Town. The outlet shopping centre has all the big brands – Nike, Cotton On, Hugo Boss, Adidas, Armani, Bonds, Converse, Cue, DeCuba, Kathmandu and more. The centre also has a great strip of restaurants and cafes. The kids will really love the pix-and-mix lolly shop and the cheap cinema.

35. Gold Coast Aquatic Centre

Why would you want to spend the day by a pool when you have so many great beaches? But trust us, the kids will love the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre. This pool hosted the Commonwealth Games swimming and diving competition and visitors can jump off the same diving boards into the water.

In summer, the pool installs a giant inflatable obstacle course that floats in one of the pools. The kids will spend hours racing each other up and down.

36. Bowl the night away

Bowling is one of the best family activities on offer, and on the Gold Coast, you’ll be spoilt for options. Choose between Tenpin, Go Bowling and Strike alleys for a night of family fun, plus a little bit of rivalry. If you’d rather be outdoors, there’s always bare-foot bowling. Dig your toes into some freshly-mowed grass at one of many bowling clubs along the foreshore. Challenge your family and friends to a game while you sip a cold drink under the Gold Coast sun.

37. Face your fears with a bungee jump

For those seeking an absolute adrenaline rush, look no further than Bungy Australia. Defy the laws of gravity as you free-fall through the air from 14 storeys up, only to be pulled up by your feet moments before you hit the ground. Bungy Australia are currently closed, but are re-opening at a new location soon, so keep your eyes peeled.

38. Make a splash at GC Aqua Park

Kids will love this inflatable swimming spot in Southport. Where the Nerang river meets the Pacific Ocean, the GC Aqua Park bobs fiercely among the small waves. Children as young as five can make use of the giant slides, climbing structures, water-borne trampolines and other fun obstacles.

39. Treat yourself at Cowch

Cowch Dessert Bar in Pacific Fair is an absolute must for those with a sweet tooth. With its visually unique interior and sickeningly-sweet menu, you’ll be coming back for more at Cowch. Try out local favourites such as the toasted waffle sandwich, cheat day pancakes or fruit tingle crepes. For mum and dad, cheeky choccie cocktails are also in order, including the nutella espresso martini.

40. The Gold Coast Sling Shot

Now this is for the daredevils – the most exhilarating ride on the Gold Coast. Launch yourself 80-metres into the air at 160-kilometres per-hour with the Sling Shot. 40 tonnes of energy is stored in the Spring Machine, ready to catapult you into the sky. Only the bravest kids will step up to the challenge.

41. Strandbroke Island

About 50-minutes off the Queensland coast is the world’s second largest sand island, the stunning Stradbroke Island. To get here, jump on a ferry from Cleveland, which is just over an hour from the Gold Coast. With picturesque beaches, lakes and bush walks, you can get back to nature at Stradbroke. If you’re looking for something fun to do, take your pick between whale watching, markets, restaurants, cultural talks and niche local shops. Stay on the island overnight at one of the many resorts, BNB’s or holiday rentals. And of course, you can camp.

42. Ride a horse at the equestrian centre

From ongoing lessons to one-off experiences, the Gold Coast Equestrian Centre offers something for all horse-lovers. Nestled in the hills on the outskirts of the city, the centre is a quiet and peaceful retreat. Surrounded by acres of pastures with a running stream throughout, tranquilly is a certainty. Try a lesson with a professional or hop along on a guided trail ride. The well-trained horses and ponies will love the cuddles and pats.

43. Whale Watching

Between June and November each year, an estimated 20,000 humpback whales migrate north past the Gold Coast. It is prime time to head out on a whaling watching tour, to get up-close-and-personal with some of nature’s largest mammals. There are a bunch of whale watching tours to choose from on the Gold Coast, all offering unique experiences with these magnificent beasts. Spend the day watching whales show off, arching the backs and flipping their tails.

44. Check out Australia’s #1 farm experience

For an authentic Aussie farming experience, a visit to Paradise Country is a must. From the Koala Breakfast animal encounter to the Wildlife Walkabout and Farmyard Nursery, kids will be enamoured by our native cuddly creatures for hours. Some of our favourite critters include the possums, Tassie devils, Marmoset monkeys, dingoes and kangaroos.

45. Miami Marketta

This is where the locals eat. This open-air street food market is only eight-minutes from Broadbeach, offering the most mouthwatering eats around. Take your family down on any Wednesday, Friday or Saturday of the month to experience this cultural dining hub with a difference. While you devour food from around the world, try locally brewed beer for parents and listen to the local talent.

46. Check out the Crazy Cat Cafe

Come on down to the Crazy Cat Cafe in Surfers Paradise to pat some pals and enjoy a meal. The cafe itself is separate to the cat lounge, but visitors are welcome to take their drinks in while they enjoy the company of some friendly felines. There are comfy chairs and rugs for guests and cats galore to cuddle. Sessions last between 25 minutes and an hour depending on your booking.

47. Enjoy a footy game at Cbus Super Stadium

Cbus Super Stadium is the home ground for the Gold Coast’s very own rugby league team, the Titans. It is also the ideal destination for a family day out. Grab a hot pie and a cold drink before settling into your grand-stand seats. It’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement. The roaring atmosphere combined with the high intensity of the game will be sure to get everyone cheering.

48. Gold Coast Wake Park

This huge lake turned wake park in Oxenford is perfect for thrill seekers. With both wake-board and knee-board options, take to the water fully-equipped and ready for fun. The park caters to everyone, from beginners to advanced. There are jumps and obstacles for those looking for a challenge. Kids as young as six can join in on the fun, but those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

49. Day trip it Kingscliff

There’s long been debate about whether the Tweed Coast is included when talking about the Gold Coast. Whether it is or not, Kingscliff’s Cudgen Creek is a must, even if you have to make the drive from up north. The creek is known locally for its insanely clear water. Dolphins frequent the waterway so often, as it’s practically on the mouth of the river, so you’re not even considered lucky if you spot one. The current is gentle and there are sandbanks galore, making it an ideal place to cool off for all ages. Cafes, restaurants and pubs are all nearby in the beach-side town of Kingscliff.

50. Palm Beach parklands

The parklands at palm beach have ‘family-day-out’ written all over it. The outdoor space combines a playground, swimming spot, barbecue areas and walking tracks, all at the heart of the Gold Coast. The Pirate Treasure Island playground is a favourite amongst the kids, known for its half sunken sailing ship and giant slide. Picnic tables nearby make for the perfect lunch spot. But wait, there’s more. On those extra hot days, cool down in the estuary, where salt and fresh water meet. Protected by large sand dunes, the water here is gentle and calm, catering to kids of all ages.

51. Kurrawa All Abilities Playground

Broadbeach is home to one of the Gold Coast’s most unique playgrounds. Kurrawa focuses on catering towards children of all abilities, designed in tandem with Disability Services Queensland. Everything is bright and interactive, purposefully built to stimulate the minds’ of all children, no matter their age or ability. Ramps and a liberty swing promise fun for those in wheelchairs. Kurrawa is definitely a must when visiting the Gold Coast with kids.

52. Brisbane’s Southbank

Southbank in Brisbane city, just over an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast, is a family-friendly hub of fun. From the giant kid’s playground to a man-made beach with views of the river, your family day out will be jam-packed with fun. High-quality restaurants along the river’s shore will cater to you after a long day lazing by the beach-pool. The stunning purple bougainvillea is a staple of this area, keep you eye out for it creeping its way up trees and trellises. Combine that with palm trees and a long wooden boardwalk, and you’ve got yourself an inner-city tropical paradise.

53. Have a picnic at Point Danger

At the southern-most end of the Gold Coast in Coolangatta, is Point Danger headland. Famous among locals for its uninterrupted views and unconventional lighthouse, this spot has to be one of the best on the Goldie. Recognising Aussie history with the Centaur Memorial and Walk of Remembrance, this site holds a sentiment most headlands don’t. It is also home to the Marine Rescue NSW Point Danger station. With unique features and an abundance of picnic areas with ocean views, Point Danger is a great little getaway from the hype of the Gold Coast north.

54. Hire a paddle boat at Jack Evans Boat Harbour

While you’re still down south, check out one of the largest harbours on the Gold Coast. Fed by the Tweed River, Jack Evans Boat Harbour is a great spot for swimming, fishing and boating. One of our favourite activities to do here is hiring an old-fashioned paddle boat, which is powered by the user’s feet. The faster you paddle, the quicker you move. If you’re not too keen on a leg work-out, try stand-up paddle-boarding. Picnic areas and grassy knolls provide the perfect spot for a family picnic.

55. Try out yet another fantastic playground

Laguna Park in Palm Beach is another one of our super fun and interactive playground recommendations. What makes this park unique is its mini monorail, which circles the park and is powered by the cycling of kids who ride it. There’s lots of fun to be had here. Right on the edge of a beautiful lake, kids can get lost in sand-play, a huge playground, swings, slides and various climbing structures.

This article appeared in Holidays with Kids magazine. To subscribe to the latest issue, click here.

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55 things to do on the Gold Coast with kids

55 things to do on the Gold Coast with kids

1. Surfers Paradise Beach

2. Dreamworld & WhiteWater World

3. Sea World

4. Warner Bros. Movie World

5. Wet’n’Wild

6. Mount Tamborine Village

7. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

8. Springbrook National Park

9. Currumbin Rock Pools

10. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

11. David Fleay Wildlife Park

12. Tallebudgera Creek

13. Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre

14. Australian Outback Spectacular

15. Bike Hire Gold Coast

16. Paradise Jetboating

17. Infinity

18. Gold Coast Island Buggy Tours

19. SkyPoint Climb

20. Thunderbird Park

21. Game Over Centre

22. Ripley’s Believe it or Not!

23. NightQuarter

24. Currumbin Valley Surf School

25. Jetpack Adventures

26. Jet Ski Safaris

27. King Tutt’s Putt Putt

28. SUP in Paradise

29. Broadwater Parklands

30. Timezone Gold Coast

31. Movies under the stars

32. Sunrise in the skies

33. TreeTop challenge

34. Harbour Town shopping centre

35. Gold Coast Aquatic Centre

36. Bowl the night away

37. Face your fears with a bungee jump

38. Make a splash at GC Aqua Park

39. Treat yourself at Cowch

40. The Gold Coast Sling Shot

41. Strandbroke Island

42. Ride a horse at the equestrian centre

43. Whale Watching

44. Check out Australia’s #1 farm experience

45. Miami Marketta

46. Check out the Crazy Cat Cafe

47. Enjoy a footy game at Cbus Super Stadium

48. Gold Coast Wake Park

49. Day trip it Kingscliff

50. Palm Beach parklands

51. Kurrawa All Abilities Playground

52. Brisbane’s Southbank

53. Have a picnic at Point Danger

54. Hire a paddle boat at Jack Evans Boat Harbour

55. Try out yet another fantastic playground

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