70 things to do on the Gold Coast with kids

Adventure

70 things to do on the Gold Coast with kids

November 12, 2023by Cara Wagstaff

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.

An aerial view of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, Australia Queensland border restrictions

2. 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.

Wet'n'wild Gold Coat things to do with kids

3. Dreamworld & WhiteWater World

Enjoy the most action-packed and adrenaline-pumping rides at Australia’s biggest theme park. Take on the nine epic thrill rides of Dreamworld, starting with the twisted Serpent Slayer, which sends riders spinning at 3.8 G-forces.

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. Sky Voyager is the Southern Hemisphere’s first flying theatre.

WhiteWater World’s top water slides include the Super Tubes Hydro Coaster and Little Rippers.

Buy your tickets through Klook and save $15 off your first Klook booking using promo code HWKKLOOK15 until 31 December 2023.

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

4. 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.

Things to do on the Gold Coast with kids Seaworld

5. Warner Bros. Movie World

Meet your favourite stars and superheroes 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.

6. Save with a Village Roadshow multi-day pass

Buy a Movie World, Sea World, Wet n’ Wild Gold Coast multi-day pass with Klook for a package deal. Plus save $15 off your first Klook booking using promo code HWKKLOOK15 until 31 December 2023.

7. Explore land and sea in Quack’rDuck’s amphibious vehicle

Join Quack’r’Duck on a unique land and sea experience on board a modern and environmentally friendly amphibious vehicle, the Quack’rDuck duck bus.

The special 1-hour sightseeing adventure takes you and your family around Surfers Paradise over land and through the sea. During the tour, you’ll drive past some of the main attractions of Surfers Paradise. You’ll then drive down a boat ramp, splashing into the water where the duck bus seamlessly becomes a duck boat.

Sail through the Gold Coast canals and the Broadwater, experiencing awesome Surfers Paradise sights. This is the ultimate land and sea adventure, suitable for the whole family.

Tours run six times daily and cost $45 for adults and $35 for children. Family tickets are available too. Book online or find out more at quackrduck.net.au.

8. Hire a babysitter and enjoy some time to yourself

It’s always important to have some time to yourself too and the Kiddo app connects parents to fully verified and Working With Children checked babysitters, nannies and NDIS workers for children instantly. Parents will have peace of mind knowing bookings are covered by insurance and an independent review and rating system. Made by an Aussie mum, Kiddo is available in all capital cities, perfect to use at home or when travelling. It is free to join, quick and easy to register – connecting you to carers for your Kiddos instantly.

9. 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.

10. ArtVo Gold Coast

Put yourself in the picture at ArtVo Gold Coast, an immersive, ‘trick-art’ gallery, that will have you in hysterics. It is one of the most mind-bending things to do with kids on the Gold Coast. This immersive art gallery is filled with hand-painted larger-than-life murals. Each one is an optical illusion.

Make sure you have your camera ready so that you can capture the moment the kids come face-to-face with wild animals, fight a dragon, and surf the ultimate pipeline.

ArtVo is suitable for all ages, large and small groups and those with disabilities.

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. Slideways Go Karting

Slideways Go Karting Pimpama has a 500-metre-long, three-level outdoor karting track. Helmets and neck braces are provided and kids can drive state-of-the-art karts along the drift track. They’ll be tearing up the track and slipping around the corners at speed with beaming smiles at this Gold Coast attraction. Slideways is located on the Gold Coast at both Nerang (has an indoor track) and Pimpama. Kids need to be seven years old and a minimum height of 120cm to drive a go kart.

Cost: Starting from $80 for 20 minutes

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

Space age and sparkling, this one-of-a-kind indoor amusement centre invites visitors into a world of challenges and illusions.

Challenge your senses and ignite your imagination at Infinity as you journey into a mirror-filled, maze-like attraction. 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. Kids are to don shoe covers and gloves to explore Infinity’s lasers, strobes, inflatable orbs, sound fields and smoke machines.

18. Walkin’ on Water surf school

Whack on a wetty and get ready to tackle the waves at gorgeous Greenmount Beach in Coolangatta. Its gentle waves make it an ideal place to start your surfing career, no matter your age or level of fitness. Walkin’ on Water offer group and private surfing lessons for all, with expert instructors teaching the littlies safety skills and theory in a nurturing environment, getting them upright and smashing the waves in no time. Walkin’ on Water is also the Gold Coast’s number-one provider of SurfGroms, the world’s first national junior surfing program for five to 12-year-olds.

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 more than 300 oddities, 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.

Ripley’s space-age 7D Moving Theatre will be a favourite for tech-loving kids embarking on the multi-dimensional adventure

23. Check out the Weekend, Beachfront & Twilight Markets

From arts and crafts to farmers’ markets and car boot sales, the Gold Coast buzzes both day and night. Check out the bounty of market options and when they’re on here.

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. Holey Moley Putt Putt

Prepare for some friendly competition and family fun. Right on Cavill Avenue, Holey Moley has 18 unique and crazy holes for the family to enjoy.

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, Timezone 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 Zone or 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.

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 Oh My, Waffle

Oh My, Waffle in Burleigh Heads is an absolute must for those with a sweet tooth. The specialty dessert bar offers gourmet waffles, fresh baked cookies, hot chocolates and over-the-top scrummy milkshakes.

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 whale 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.

56. 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.

57. Gold Coast arts centre

HOTA stands for Home of the Arts and if you have creative kids, you’ll want to put it on your list of places to see on the Gold Coast. It’s home to the largest art gallery outside of the capital cities, spread across six levels, HOTA holds regular exhibitions and exhibits work from local artists.

Its latest, ‘Postcards from the Edge’ offers the whole family the chance to create some colourful and creative holiday mementos to cherish forever.

HOTA also has a theatre, regular creative arts workshops, comedy shows and talks. It’s worth checking out what’s on when you plan to visit.

Things to do on the Gold Coast with kids HOTA

58. Broadwater

If you have little kids and the waves at the beach are too large, try the Broadwater on the northern end of the Gold Coast.

The shallow estuary of water has gentle waves, sandbanks and beaches where toddlers and preschoolers can splash and play.

59. Fishing

The Gold Coast canals are a great place to try fishing with little ones. If you’re lucky enough to have an Airbnb on the canals, you may even have a private jetty to fish from.

Bream and flathead are the most catch. The kids will also love watching black swans and pelicans eyeing off your catch.

60. Gold Coast mountain bike trails

Most people think of the beach when they think of the Gold Coast. But this city also has three incredible mountain bike trails.

Nerang National Park offers fast, rocky rides and the shuttle lifts to the top of the trails are included in the entry fee.

The Numinbah Valley Gravity Bike Park (NV) has exhilarating descents and Boomerang Farm Bike Park (Boomers) is the park for kids and adults that love speed.

61. Bim’bimba Park

Now this is a playground! The $7.5 million Bim’bimba Park took top honours in the Parks and Recreation category of the 2020 Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Queensland Awards for Excellence.

The 5-hectare green space has a jaw-dropping 14-metre high play tower, a nature-based playground with recycled timber play equipment, a basketball half-court, skate ramps, outdoor table tennis, space to kick a football, shaded barbeque and picnic areas, and three kilometres of walk and cycle paths.

62. Eat donuts

The Gold Coast has some of the best donuts in Australia. The insta-famous Paddock Bakery in Miami dishes up amazing Nutella and salted caramel donuts. Doughnut Time in Burleigh Heads offers decadent Golden Gaytime inspired creations filled with honeycomb custard, Malteser encrusted donuts and sprinkles galore. D Point Ten Donuts in Upper Coomera, Southport and Broadbeach sells a mean red velvet, biscoff donut.

Also try The Pastry Emporium in Bundall, the Flour of Life Bakery in Helensvale and Doughnut Boss at
Pacific Fair, Broadbeach.

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63. Mountview Alpaca Farm

Mountview Alpaca Farm is located in a vineyard for the best of both worlds. For $29 you can have a 15 minute ‘meet an alpaca’ experience. You’ll get to walk an alpaca through the vineyards on a lead. There’s also a creek you can swim in before enjoying a vino alongside a pizza and cheese plate.

Making friends at Mountview Alpaca Farm gold coast attractions — Making friends at Mountview Alpaca Farm © Narelle Bouveng

64. 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.

65. Rainforest and Glow Worm Tour

Explore the Gold Coast Hinterland on an Evening Rainforest and Glow Worm Tour with Southern Cross Tours.

You’ll be guided through the dark rainforest by torchlight to see wildlife, Curtis Falls and vibrant glow worms.

Cost: $99 for adults, $78 for children 2 – 16, under 2’s free.

66. 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.

67. 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.

68. Get Wet Surf School

With a bevy of brilliant beaches, Surfing is a timeless Gold Coast classic. Kids can gear up for a lesson at Get Wet Surf School, located at The Spit which is an ideal spot for beginners with its consistent and easy waves. Instructors will have the kids in fits of giggles as they take them through their paces on the sand and explain the correct techniques for surfing before they all wade into the surf with their boards. Under expert tutelage, it may only take a few waves for the kids to find their footing. The two-hour lessons will pass by in a blur of salty smiles.

69. Ice Cream

Ice Creams are the cherry on the top of a quintessential beach day. The Gold Coast has over 42 ice cream shops to choose from for your sticky treat.

70. 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.

Queensland family accommodation

Nobby Beach Holiday Village

Create family memories at this sensational, affordable holiday park

BIG4 Port Douglas Glengarry Holiday Park

Holiday park with water park and slides

Paradise Resort Gold Coast

A renowned heaven for kids and a paradise for parents.

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

Expansive tropical oasis, quality accommodation, exceptional facilities.

InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort

Classically-inspired Queensland estate with kids' club, fine dining and pool

Brisbane Holiday Village

Epic kid’s splash pool and water fountain playground

Fitzroy Island Resort

Located on a tropical island in Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

BIG4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort

Modern accommodation 50 minutes from Brisbane

BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Located in the centre of the Gold Coast theme park area

RACV Noosa Resort: Save 20%

A family resort providing suites and apartments located in Noosa, Queensland

Kingfisher Bay Resort

Perfect base when staying on Fraser Island

Sunshine Coast Holiday Parks

Access to some of the best beaches in the country.

NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort

Kids club, waterpark, activities and more on the Gold Coast

Ashmore Palms Holiday Village

A relaxed holiday setting for families going to the Gold Coast

Ivory Palms Resort

Accommodation to suit families of all ages

Pacific Hotel Cairns

One of the best locations in Cairns for a family holiday.

Pacific Hotel Brisbane

Free breakfast for kids + pet friendly

ibis Hotel Brisbane Airport

Standard rooms have a smart TV and free Wi-Fi

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

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2 comments on this post

Luke

January 17, 2022

Wow! I have some friends visiting the coast this weekend with their kids and have been trying to think of what I can do with them/ where to take them. Your list has gone above and beyond and given me some great ideas! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Anna

January 17, 2022

Such a great list! My sister, her kids, and I went to point danger yesterday for a picnic and it was absolutely beautiful! Can’t wait to try something else on your list – hard to choose as they all sound fantastic!

Australia

Overseas

70 things to do on the Gold Coast with kids