It’s time to plan an unforgettable holiday with your family, and where better to do that than the beautiful Gold Coast? So now it’s time to look for things to do on the Gold Coast.
We’ve got you covered.
There are few places in the world that are as luxurious and family-friendly as the Gold Coast.
It’s beautifully framed with long, sandy beaches, features plenty of places for surfing, and boasts an elaborate system of inland waterways and canals.
But there’s so much more to the Gold Coast.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 15 things to do in the Gold Coast that you don’t want to miss. To hit them all, you’ll need to maximize your time.
Read on.
Head to Tallebudgera Creek
Looking for the best calm water spot anywhere on the Gold Coast? Tallebudgera Creek is where to head.
Although it feeds directly out of the Coral Sea, it features crystal clear blue water that’s inviting and calm. It’s the perfect place for your family to splash around without a current in sight.
It has a nice shady beach where you can swim, kayak or picnic. It really is a little taste of paradise.
If you’re looking for more privacy, you can access the other shore of the creek from Burleigh Heads National Park.
Burleigh Heads National Park
Speaking of Burleigh, this location makes the list because of its lush green outcrop and ease of accessibility. It also features trails suitable for all members of the family.
While here, send your kids off on a scavenger hunt and see who can discover the most unique animals.
Wildlife loves this park. You and your kids will uncover water dragons, eagles, kites and tons of other birds.
The Regional Botanical Gardens of the Gold Coast
You’ll discover this gem in the heart of Benowa. It has captivating experiences for nature and outdoor lovers of all kinds.
Take a walk around the rose garden and don’t forget to stop and smell them!
Send the kids off to touch the multitude of plants in the sensory garden.
The botanical gardens even have a butterfly garden, a full playground, and an off-leash area if you’ve brought along a four-legged member of your family.
Springbrook National Park and Glow Worms!
A couple of hours inland from the Gold Coast shoreline, this park is the home of one of the natural wonders of Queensland.
If you love waterfalls, this is a place to see, but it goes beyond that.
One of the waterfalls goes underground directly into a glow worm cave. How cool is that?
While the trail to the glow worm waterfall isn’t suitable for prams, most 2 – 3-year-old children can easily navigate it.
Mount Tamborine
You might consider this more country than coast. But a short drive to this mountain village is an awesome outing for the family.
Once you get here, you’ll have a choice of hinterland hikes. The Cedar Creek Falls is great for hikers of all abilities. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, head toward the Sandy Creek Circuits or Witches Falls.
Want more shopping and less scenery? Head over to the village where you’ll find unique art, antiques, boutiques, and cafes among other shopping pleasures.
A Day at the Beach
A day on the beach is one of the top things to do in Gold Coast.
Grab the sunscreen and beach towels, throw a few water bottles in a bag and head off to any of the amazing beaches the Gold Coast has to offer.
To keep your family safe, choose one of the guarded beaches for the best beach day possible.
Broadwater Parklands
Think of this like the free Disney World in the Gold Coast.
When your kids need to blow off steam, this is the place to go. It features a big public pool, a giant playground, a jumping pillow and a beach with beautiful calm water.
The Tree Top Walk at O’Reilly’s
Wouldn’t it be cool to give your kids a bird’s eye view of the rainforest?
O’Reilly’s is located in Lamington National Park and features 180 metres of boardwalk that are suspended 15 metres above ground.
Below, you’ll overlook a canopy of fruiting and flowering trees and see all kinds of wildlife.
Plus, it’s one of the things to do in Gold Coast that’s completely free.
Currumbin Rock Pools
Maybe you’re keen to get away from the busy beach but want a spot to cool off where the kids can freely splash around.
If that’s the case, head to Currumbin Rock Pools.
This was once a secret spot for locals but is now a happening hinterland waterhole.
Bring a picnic with you and dream about a nap in the shade while the kids tire themselves out.
BBQ at Budd’s Beach
There are great places for a BBQ all over the Gold Coast. For families, few of them beat Budd’s Beach.
Here you’ll find nice calm water for the kids, a cafe across the street, and a playground!
Budd’s Beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing time with the family.
The Gold Coast Theme Parks
Do you have some adrenaline junkies in the family? Welcome to the thrill-seeker capital of Australia.
The Gold Coast is home to five large-scale theme parks that have everything you’d expect:
- Roller coasters
- Grand shows
- Fairy floss
- Furry animals
The biggest challenge is deciding which to visit first!
Learn How to Surf
After all, this is the Gold Coast. Surfing is what it’s most famous for.
Treat your older kids to a lesson from pros that call these waters home.
Get Wet Surf School gives lessons to beginners. They even have a “stand up on your first lesson” guarantee!
Outback Spectacular
Since 2006, this has been one of the top things to do in Gold Coast.
Watch stories of Australian characters and legends come to life with live music and horses.
The special effects will wow your entire family.
Even better, for the price of admission, you’ll get a themed meal to keep all those bellies full.
The Wildlife Sanctuary at Currumbin
This wildlife sanctuary has a history of preservation that goes back over 50 years. It’s arguably he best place for animal encounters in the Gold Coast.
It’s open year-round and kids under four get in free.
Gold Coast Wax Museum
Located in Surfers Paradise, this is Australia’s largest museum of its kind.
Take the kids on a fun tour by introducing them to wax versions of past prime ministers and presidents, royal family members and celebrities.
Need More Things to Do in Gold Coast?
This list could easily go into the hundreds. Yet, these 15 things will keep your family entertained for the duration of your holiday.
By now, no doubt you’re ready to book a vacation to the Gold Coast with your family. Good news, we have some incredible family packages to get you on our way.
We look forward to working with you!