City Breaks With Kids
10 Best Things to do on the Gold Coast with Kids
Queensland’s beautiful Gold Coast is a mecca for holiday makers and sun seekers. Thrill seekers can find plenty of things to do and there’s so much on offer for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
But what about families, you ask? There’s no better place to visit! There are so many great things to see and do in the Gold Coast and surrounding areas that DON’T involve schlepping the kids to a theme park (and spending hundreds of dollars while you’re there).
Here’s where to go to make the most of your trip to the Gold Coast with kids.
1. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a fantastic place to start your Gold Coast family adventure. This is a special place that’s dedicated to the conservation and protection of beautiful native species of birds.
Kids will enjoy the demonstrations, there’s great food and play spaces, lorikeet feeding and there’s even an adorable little train that lets you travel around the park. There is plenty of parking available and it’s easily accessible for prams and wheelchairs.
It’s a fantastic day out and one that’s sure to stay with you long after you leave.
2. Whale Watching Cruises
The Gold Coast is absolutely CHOCK-A-BLOCK with whale watching cruises guaranteed to thrill and delight little ones (and big ones). Watch the whales jump, splash, swim and just generally show off from the safety of excellently equipped vessels.
These are unforgettable experiences that will absolutely amaze your whole family. Word to the wise – invest in some sea sickness tablets!
3. Tallebudgera Creek
This is a little hidden gem on the Gold Coast. You can snorkel, play or just relax in a gorgeous area that’s hidden well away from the big crowds (and the big scary surf).
It’s perfect for picnics and BBQ’s and there are plenty of places to spread out and have an awesome time that’s a lot more chilled out than some of the other swimming spots.
4. Farm Stays
Got a spare couple of days? The Gold Coast and surrounding areas are home to some wonderful farm stay designed to give your little city dwellers a taste of country life.
Taking your kids on a farm stay is a fantastic experience. They can get involved with the day to day activities of a working farm and soak up the peaceful atmosphere that’s often missing from family holidays.
The best part? They’re so tired by the end of the day that they’ll be in bed early and you can relax with a glass of wine!
5. Glow Worm Caves at North Tamborine
These little fellas have to be seen to be believed! You’ll be led through a gorgeous winery to a purpose-built man-made cave where millions of tiny glow worms are waiting just for you. Walk through the tunnels (it can get a little chilly in there) and marvel at these wonderous little miracles in action.
6. Springbrook Natural Bridge
This is a place where you can spot glow worms in the wild. You’ll traverse down a rainforest walk to find a jaw-droppingly magnificent rock formation that forms a natural bridge.
It’s awe-inspiring and truly a special day out for families traveling to the Gold Coast with kids.
7. Cedar Creek Falls at Mount Tamborine
This is one of the best swimming holes you’ll find anywhere in Australia. You’ll have to walk about fifteen minutes or so (depending on your pace) from the car park to find a waterfall dropping into a perfect little swimming hole.
There are plenty of places to spread out on the rocks and just while the day away.
The area can get crowded during peak season and prams aren’t advised on the path down as it can be a bit steep and rocky.
8. Indoor Skydiving at I-Fly
Perfect for tweens and teens, I-Fly offers you the chance to practice aerial stunts and tricks in a perfectly safe (but still totally fun) environment.
The glass tube set up allows you to watch your kids duck, weave, spin and dive from the comfort of the viewing platform. Trust us, you’ll want to have a go as well!
9. Picnic Perfection Anywhere You Can Find It
The Gold Coast is ripe with areas to spread out a picnic area and soak up the beautiful scenery. Travel up and down the coast and check out the parks and vantage points. The world is your (picnicking) oyster!
10. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
The last one on our list is a Gold Coast fave. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Is on the famous Cavill Avenue in the heart of Surfer’s Paradise. Weird stuff abounds once you work through these hallowed halls and your kids will be absolutely delighted by the fun stuff they discover.
Families Magazine is a print and online resource for parents with children aged 0-13. Families Magazine is the Clever Resource for Thinking Parents. Find all the best things to do in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich and Toowoomba for your family and visitors.
For things to do in Adelaide with kids see here.
For things to do in Sydney with kids see here.
For things to do in Brisbane with kids see here.
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