Whether your kids are nature lovers who want to spend their holiday outdoors, or thrill-seekers who can’t get enough of rides, the Gold Coast is an ideal destination. There are safe beaches, easy walking trails, wildlife encounters and theme parks galore.
Here’s how to spend a perfect weekend on the Gold Coast with the kids – without going crazy yourself. You might even get the chance to relax.
TAKE THEM SWIMMING AT SAFE BEACHES
The Gold Coast spans more than 70 kilometres of coastline; so, when it comes to beaches, families are spoilt for choice.
For safe stillwater swimming, head to Tallebudgera Creek. Lifesavers patrol the southern end, plus there’s a playground, cafe, kiosk and plenty of shady spots for resting between dips.
If your kids are ready for gentle waves, then head to Currumbin Alley. The local surf school runs beginners’ lessons here.
Another place with crystal clear water and well-protected swell is Kirra Beach, which is also great for rock-hopping.
WATCH THEM GO CRAZY AT THEME PARKS
The Gold Coast is undoubtedly Australia’s theme park capital. There are five to visit.
The biggest is Dreamworld, packed with terrifying rides, next-level experiences and unexpected events. Highlights include the Giant Drop, Australia’s tallest free-falling ride; the Steel Taipan rollercoaster, which hits 105 kilometre/hour at top speed; and the Claw, which swings eight-storeys high into the air. There’s also a wildlife experience featuring more than 500 native animals.
Meanwhile, kids who love to splash about have a choice of three water theme parks. There’s Whitewater, right next door to Dreamworld; Wet ‘n’ Wild, the biggest water theme park in Australia; and Sea World, which is as much about educating kids about wildlife as it is about rides. Kids can see dolphins, polar bears, penguins and even a shark up-close.
Last but not least, for burgeoning film buffs, there’s Warner Bros. Movie World, where kids can dive into their favourite flicks. There are shows, roaming movie characters, and, of course, rides galore, including the Road Runner Rollercoaster and the Superman Escape.
HELP THEM GET CLOSE TO NATURE
For kids who love nature, the Gold Coast is hard to beat.
If meeting animals is a top priority, then take them to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, they can have breakfast with koalas, make friends with echidnas and watch pelicans being fed. There’s also the Tree Top Challenge, with more than 100 aerial rope challenges, including 14 ziplines.
Then, in Burleigh Heads National Park, you can take the kids on magical coastal bushwalks and stop for picnics overlooking the beach. Make your next stop the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, where there’s a stunning butterfly garden, as well as a sensory garden, where children are invited to touch the plants.
EXPLORE THE HINTERLAND WITH THEM
The Gold Coast hinterland has just as many wonders as the shoreline – so be sure to add a little road trip west to your itinerary.
On Tamborine Mountain, the kids can swim under rushing water safely at Cedar Creek Falls.
Then, in Springbrook National Park, there’s Natural Bridge, where a little waterfall cascades into a cave filled with glow worms. For the best views, visit at twilight.
GETTING TO THE GOLD COAST
The Gold Coast is around two hours’ drive south of Brisbane and around nine hours’ drive north of Sydney.
You can also fly to the Gold Coast Airport, then pick up a SIXT car rental – be it a spacious luxury sedan or SUV, which are perfect for family road trips, or an electric vehicle, which helps protect our beautiful environment.
