Australia’s Gold Coast is full of beauty, wonder, and adventure.
Whether you consider yourself a local or you live here on holiday, it really is a special place to be.
The whole family can enjoy the best things nature has to offer. From gorgeous beaches to wildlife sanctuaries and hidden gems, there is something for everyone, no matter your age or interests.
However, with so much available, it can be hard choosing what things to do on the Gold Coast with kids.
Lucky for you, we’ve narrowed down the top attractions every kid is sure to love!
Take a Trip to Cavill Avenue
For the adventure-loving and curious kids in the group, a trip to Cavill Avenue is sure to satisfy their senses.
Cavill is a great place to explore unique activities like Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium and Infinity.
Ripley’s is home to all things spooky, funky, and different. It is a place your kids will marvel at, as well as your inner kid.
As you go through the experience, don’t forget to try out the “web of lasers”. This race to the finish line will make you think while you go under and over lasers to see who is the family’s fastest!
After Ripley’s, make sure to hop over to Infinity for the laser fun to continue. Relax and enjoy the sights of a 40-minute light show, sure to make everyone “oooh” and “ahh” at the experience.
Shop at Carrera Markets
The worst part about holidays is having to say goodbye, so make sure you grab a special souvenir from Carrera Markets.
This 10-acre market is definitely a must on a list of things to do on the Gold Coast with kids.
You can enjoy a little discounted and unique retail therapy at over 400 vendor stalls. This is the best place to stock up on fresh produce from local farmers or find the perfect piece of art to take home after the holidays.
Meanwhile, the kids can adventure around what feels like a carnival. The market has pony rides, face painting, and even bungee trampolines – something your smallest to your oldest child can smile at.
Skypoint Observation Deck
There’s no better way to say hello or goodbye to the Gold Coast than seeing it all from over 70 stories high.
Enjoy a full 360-degree view of the entire area. Take the sights in with a nice lunch or stroll around to get a good glimpse of each direction. No matter what you choose to do, the deck’s views will sweep you off your feet.
The Skypoint Observation Deck is no doubt one of the most breathtaking activities in the whole area. This is something for everyone who visits to see, which means, of course, it belongs on your list of things to do on the Gold Coast with kids.
If your kids are over the age of 12, they can even dare to climb all the way to the top.
The Skypoint climb takes you to the tip of the Q1 Resort Building. It is a 90-minute thrill, best for those who can handle heights and love adrenaline. The climb is available at any time of day, but try to book this special activity a little bit in advance.
Broadwater Parklands
Broadwater Parklands is the perfect place for a family outing.
It has everything you need to set up a feast of a picnic or cook your favorite BBQ dishes. Meanwhile, the kids can explore the rock pools or visit the bouncy pillow.
Rock pools are like the equivalent of your kid’s favorite water park, except cheap and in the middle of a relaxing outdoor oasis. They can get all their energy out as they run and jump through the water, and you can keep a safe eye from a peaceful distance.
The Parklands also offer a calendar of events to make your visit even more enjoyable. Or, come when there is nothing going on to make it feel like a cozy day in the backyard.
Either way, you will be glad to cross it off your list of things to do on the Gold Coast with kids.
The Springbrook Natural Bridge
Take a day away from the heart of the Gold Coast and discover something worth the few hours of a drive!
Springbrook National Park is an outdoor lover’s dream. The trails are easy enough for even your toddlers to manage, and the views are something everyone will remember and cherish.
This is not a regular waterfall trail.
Beyond the beauty of the flowing water, something else is waiting underneath. Take your kids to explore the underground caves and discover the beauty of the glow-worms in their natural habitat.
Keep your eyes out on the trail too, because you might even see some koalas or sooty owls hanging out in the trees.
O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk
If you want more adventures in the trees discovering nature as a family, go to Lamington National Park.
The park is home to a free tree top walk covering 180 meters of rainforest. You will be on a platform 15 meters in the air as you explore the mysterious, enchanting world below.
There are no age or height restrictions, and there are two observation decks to take your time as you soak the sights in. The decks also make a lovely photo opportunity to remember a sure favorite of your things to do on the Gold Coast with kids.
Jellurgal Aboriginal Culture Center
Give your kids the full Australian experience with a day trip to discover the aboriginal world of the Gold Coast.
Complete with an authentic dance performance and a history lesson from one of the oldest living cultures in the world — this is not something to miss.
The culture center offers a tour through Burleigh Heads National Park as well. Lunch is provided in the local cafe, and you can stop at the art workshop to take a piece of the experience home with you.
Don’t Miss Out on the Best Things to Do on the Gold Coast with Kids
No matter if you are planning a trip to the Gold Coast for the first time, or if you love it so much you visit all of the time, there is always something new to experience.
For the outdoor lovers and big adventurers alike, Gold Coast is a world of fun and discovery.
Give your children the excitement of these opportunities. It doesn’t matter how little they are, they will always be able to appreciate the wonders the Gold Coast has to offer.
To learn how to make the most of your time down under, click here.