The school holidays are well and truly here and yes, you are on the Gold Coast so yes, there are beaches and shopping and theme parks aplenty. But, what happens when the kids are keen for something a little bit different to pass the time?
Never fear parents, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of some of our favourites things to do on the Gold Coast with the little ones.
Happy holidaying.
Alpine Indoor Climbing
The latest indoor climbing space taking the Gold Coast to new heights, Alpine Indoor Climbing is great for everyone from beginners to the more experienced among us. With LED and full specs, their set-up allows you to connect your phone to a bluetooth app and light up your own projects. It’s also very colourful and a very good time for everyone aged 10 years and up.
Where: 86 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina
Level Up Arcade
It’s the newest entertainment venue to hit the Coast. The Arcade is an 80s and 90s inspired amusement venue on the first floor of the Oasis Shopping Centre in Broadbeach. Level Up features 62 of the best games from the era! With Lane Master Bowling, pool table, 3D pong, limited edition pinballs, classic arcade with 40 of your old school games, LA Lakers hoops, big buck hunter, Jurassic park, down the clown, ring toss and plenty more.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Padlock’d
With 60 minutes on the clock, you and the fam are left in a room to solve puzzles, crack riddles, open locks and escape the madness in a fast paced hour where you will either come out with big old smiles on your faces, or in need of a big old glass of wine. It’s such a fun time either way though.
Where: 3177 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Holoverse Dinosaur World
Holoverse Dinosaur World is a futuristic arcade. In each session you do ten different experiences like feeding a Brontosaurus, flying with Pterodactyls, or going under water. We’ve had quite a few fun times there and we know you will too!
Where: Shop 33, Paradise Centre, 8 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Mini Golf
What child doesn’t love putt putt golf? None as far as we know. Luckily, the Gold Coast is home to a few sweet putt putt spots and they are dotted throughout the city so you could even make a day of it should that be your thing. Our favourites are King Tutts in Surfers Paradise and Putt Putt Mermaid Beach. We’ve got vouchers for those too!.
Kingston Park Raceway
If you want an action packed day, Kingston Park Raceway is the way to go! With three separate tracks built on 15 acres of land, make a day of it with BBQ and relaxation areas and don’t forget to have a go at mini golf and the amusement rides too.
Where: 20 Mudgee Street, Kingston
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature-based destination that’ll delight the whole family. Check all your favourite Aussie animals, watch the brand new bird show, Wild Skies, or wander through Lost Valley and gaze at some of the magical creatures of Gondwana Land. All entry to the sanctuary must be pre-booked online.
Where: 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
Whale Watching
It’s that magnificent time of the year when the largest mammal in the world can be viewed from our sparkly shores. But for a memorable encounter, take the kids for a whale watching trip with Spirit of Gold Coast. Enjoy a spectacular two and a half hours onboard a 24 metre Catamaran purpose-built for whale watching learning detailed information and commentary, while their Marine Biologist explains all about the whale migration.
Where: 60/70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Infinity
It’s an incredible journey through a world of illusion at Infinity. Think futuristic, maze-like world of wonder with unique rooms and sensory overloads that will have you laughing, jumping and feeling as through you’re in a dream. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
Where: Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, G31/3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
GoBoat
Rent a GoBoat with your crew and enjoy the waterways of the Gold Coast from a totally new perspective. Cruise the Coomera River and canals with your family, friends and doggo in tow, pack a picnic and escape from the world. Pick a quiet spot to drop anchor or cruise all the way around to Paradise Point, the world is your oyster. It’s a very good time.
Where: Pier F, Sanctuary Cove Marina, 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Pampered Princess
The Gold Coast’s only kids’ pamper salon, Pampered Princess in Coomera and Burleigh Heads offering a wide range of pamper, disco and makeup tutorial parties, makeovers and Mummy and Me packages. Their aim is to inspire young ladies to build self-esteem and confidence by showing their little (and big) guests how worthy they are. Which is amazing. So if you feel like doing something special for the princess in your life, look no further.
Where: 5/7 De Barnett Street, Coomera and 4/44 Dover Drive, Burleigh Heads
FREE
Go for a picnic
Relaxation, good views and all of the food. It’s an almost free activity and when choosing the right spot, can fill up a whole day.
Broadwater Parklands
For a real fun time hit up Broadwater Parklands in Southport. There’s a huge range of free activities including the rockpool water playground, giant bouncy pillow, BBQ areas, eats and a little train that fits big kids (you) and little ones.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport
Miami Marketta
Known as the Gold Coast’s favourite family friendly nightspot for tasty street food, fun cocktails, boutique shopping and live bands, Miami Marketta is so good. Save some coins and share a couple of tapas plates amongst the family. Oh, and watch out for the dessert area too.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
Currumbin Rock Pools
If you’re looking for something more adventurous and exciting to do, Currumbin Rock Pools is the ticket. The beautiful scenic drive through Currumbin Valley is enough of an attraction in itself, taking you straight to the natural swimming pool next to Currumbin Valley Primary School. There’s lots to do, whether you just want to cool down and splash in the water or enjoy some family time over a BBQ at the designated picnic area.
Where: Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Valley