Adventures with Top Family and Kid-Friendly Activities on the Gold Coast

Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast is one of the largest water parks in Australia, making it a fun destination for families. With a range of water slides for all ages, from gentle rides for younger children to more adrenaline-pumping experiences like the AquaLoop, there’s something for everyone. The Kidz Zone is designed specifically for younger kids with splash pads and gentle water features, while the Wave Pool and Lazy River provide a relaxing family experience.

Held in Burleigh Heads, The Village Markets are a fantastic family-friendly event to enjoy on the Gold Coast. Families can stroll through the market, browse local artisan goods, enjoy live music, and sample food from food trucks. There’s a designated kids’ area with activities like face painting, craft stations, and games. The market is a great way for families to spend a relaxed afternoon, supporting local businesses and artists.

Located along the Gold Coast Broadwater, the Broadwater Parklands is a large waterfront park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths. Families can enjoy a day by the water with options for a barbecue or picnic, and the Aquatic Playground offers an interactive water park perfect for children. The park also has paddleboard and kayak rentals, ideal for families who enjoy outdoor water activities.

For families who love nature, the Gold Coast Hinterland offers stunning mountain views and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Visit the Lamington National Park to explore lush rainforests, enjoy scenic walks, and spot native wildlife. Families can hike the Mullumbimby Falls Trail, go on a bushwalk, or visit the Glow Worm Caves for a magical experience. The Hinterland also has lovely picnic spots, making it a perfect family getaway.

Sea World is a marine-based theme park that combines thrilling rides with aquatic animal shows and exhibits. Families can watch dolphin shows, penguin feeding, and explore exhibits with polar bears, sharks, and stingrays. The park also has roller coasters and water rides, perfect for adventure-loving families. For a more hands-on experience, the Wildlife Park section allows kids to feed and interact with a variety of animals, including koalas and kangaroos.

The iconic Surfers Paradise Beach is a must-visit for families. With its golden sand and clear waters, it’s a great spot for families to relax, swim, or try surfing. The area also features safe swimming zones, ideal for families with younger children. Along the beach, you’ll find playgrounds, cafes, and ice cream stands, making it a fun and convenient destination for a family day out. There are often beach events and festivals as well.

The Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens in Benowa is a lovely spot for a family day out. Families can explore the extensive gardens with walking trails, wetlands, and play areas for children. It’s a peaceful location for picnics, with plenty of shaded areas, and the Sensory Garden offers an interactive experience for kids to engage their senses. The gardens also host seasonal family events like outdoor movies and community festivals.

The Arts Centre Gold Coast is a cultural hub that offers family-friendly performances, exhibitions, and workshops. The centre regularly hosts theatre shows, concerts, and dance performances that are suitable for children and families. Additionally, there are creative workshops where kids can get involved in art-making or learn more about the performing arts. It’s an inspiring place for families to explore culture together.

Paradise Country is an Australian-themed farm experience that offers families the chance to meet and interact with a range of animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and farmyard animals. Kids can enjoy a petting zoo, horse riding, and stockman shows, while parents can relax and enjoy a traditional Aussie BBQ. It’s an immersive experience where families can get a taste of rural life in a fun, interactive setting.

Dreamworld is a popular family amusement park offering a mix of thrilling rides, animal encounters, and family-friendly attractions. With areas dedicated to younger children like ABC Kids World, and thrilling rides like the Tower of Terror, there’s something for everyone. The park also features the Tiger Island animal sanctuary where families can see tigers up close. Don’t miss the Dreamworld Corroboree for an interactive experience that introduces you to Aboriginal culture.

The Southport Broadwater Parklands offers families a great day out with plenty of playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths. Kids can enjoy the interactive water play area, and there are plenty of green spaces for a game of soccer or Frisbee. The park is also home to the Southport Pier, where families can enjoy views of the ocean and spot local wildlife like pelicans and dolphins.

The Spit area, located along the northern end of the Gold Coast, is perfect for a family day at the beach with quieter waters for swimming, picnicking, or just enjoying the coastal views. Families can also explore the nearby Sea World Drive, home to ferry rides, boat tours, and fishing areas. The Gold Coast Sand Pumping Jetty offers a scenic spot to walk and watch boats coming in and out of the marina.

Located in Surfers Paradise, Macintosh Island Park is a beautiful green space with wide open lawns, shady trees, and a playground for kids. The park is also home to local wildlife, including ducks and geese that families can feed. It’s a peaceful spot for a family picnic, with paths for walking, cycling, or simply relaxing. The nearby Surfers Paradise Beach provides an opportunity to take a dip after spending time at the park.

Located atop the Q1 Building, the SkyPoint Observation Deck offers spectacular views of the Gold Coast, from its beaches to the hinterland. Families can enjoy a 360-degree view of the region while learning about the area’s history through interactive displays. The SkyPoint Climb is available for families with older children (ages 12 and above), where you can climb to the top of the building for an even more thrilling experience.

The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers an interactive experience for families to get up close to Australian wildlife. Kids can hold a koala, feed kangaroos, and watch crocodile and bird shows. The park also has the Wildlife Hospital, where families can learn about animal care and conservation efforts. For an added adventure, check out the TreeTop Challenge, a thrilling treetop obstacle course that the whole family can enjoy.

For a more relaxed day, families can visit Australia Fair Shopping Centre in Southport. In addition to shops and restaurants, the centre features a kids’ play area, and family-friendly entertainment. The shopping centre regularly hosts events, such as movie nights, and is conveniently located near the beach, making it easy to combine a trip to the mall with a visit to the nearby Broadwater Parklands.

For families seeking a nature retreat, the Currumbin Rock Pools offer a beautiful setting for swimming and relaxation. Located in the Currumbin Valley, this natural swimming hole is surrounded by lush greenery, with crystal-clear waters ideal for a refreshing swim. Families can enjoy a picnic by the water, walk along the nearby trails, or explore the Currumbin Valley area, home to wildlife and local farm shops.

Springbrook National Park is known for its waterfalls, lush rainforest, and peaceful walking trails. The Natural Bridge is a must-see—a stunning rock formation with a waterfall flowing through it. Families can explore easy walking tracks such as the Purling Brook Falls or visit the Springbrook Plateau for a family-friendly hike through the subtropical rainforest. The area is a perfect escape for families wanting to experience nature and wildlife.

Tamborine Mountain, located in the Gold Coast Hinterland, offers a variety of activities for families. Visit the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, an elevated walkway through the lush rainforest canopy, or explore the Glow Worm Caves for a magical underground experience. The mountain is also home to charming local markets, wineries, and the Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens. Families can enjoy a day of nature walks, scenic views, and outdoor adventures in this picturesque area.

Infinity Attraction is a unique, interactive experience that takes families on a journey through mind-bending, multi-sensory environments. The attraction features a series of visually stunning rooms with optical illusions, lighting effects, and unusual soundscapes. It’s a fun and quirky experience that’s perfect for families with kids who enjoy puzzles, mazes, and the challenge of navigating through unusual spaces. It’s located in Surfers Paradise and is suitable for all ages.