Thinking of taking a trip somewhere that is super kid friendly? Here’s 10 things your tribe will love on the Gold Coast for kids.
Seaworld
This was one of the highlights of our trip to the Gold Coast. Seaworld is a marine mammal park, oceanarium and theme park all in one. The kids loved the play area which included water play, a giant treehouse with rope bridges and tunnels and Nickelodeon land with kids rides and coasters. We also loved seeing the penguins feeding and learning about their conservation in the area. Shark Bay was also awesome seeing manta rays, sharks and fish swimming around together and then going below the decks into the viewing area to see them swimming under water. Of course if you love dolphins, the dolphin show is an amazing experience and the seal show is really educational for families about how to keep our water ways clean for marine life.
Parks and playgrounds
There are loads of awesome parks and playgrounds to be found along the coast in the Gold Coast. We stopped at a couple and gave them a road test, but what we loved about them is their proximity to the beach. Lots of playgrounds included sandpit play but some of our favourites included Main Beach park, Burleigh Beach playground and Broadbeach has an epic play area that is fully fenced.
Safari Rides
The kids absolutely loved Safari Rides in the Cavill Mall. For $10, the kids got 15 minutes to cruise around the mall area on their choice of motorised animal. We had a go on leopards, tigers and zebras, but there was everything including a Pink Panther and a Clifford ride on. Parents can jump on the back and have a ride too which we have to admit was really fun!
Surfers Paradise beach
One of the best things about The Gold Coast for kids is its beaches. The Gold Coast is famous for its stunning beaches and Surfers Paradise is no exception. This beach stretches on as far as the eye can see. The beach itself is so big you can be down there with hundreds of other people and still feel like you’ve got your own section of private beach. It’s patrolled by lifeguards which is great for families. Other beaches worth checking out include Burleigh Beach, Nobby Beach and Broadbeach.
Surfers Paradise night markets
Wander through the night markets along Surfers Paradise Esplanade three nights a week! One of the largest markets on the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets are open on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night, showcasing local wares and crafts for holiday makers to enjoy. With over 100 market stalls stretching down the beachfront, there is something for everyone!
Movieworld
The tribe had a ball with all the activities and character spotting at Warner Bros Movieworld. The big hit was Kids WB land with mini rides including Junior Driving School, Tweety’s flying cages, a Warner Bros character carousel and more. They also enjoyed The Lego Movie 4D experience where the seats rattle and shake to make you feel like you’re in the movie. For the big kids there are more thrill seeking rides including the terrifying Joker rollercoaster, the Superman coaster and the Green Lantern coaster.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
There is so much to do and see at Currubmin Wildlife Sanctuary. There are daily animal encounters where the family can pat, feed and cuddle the animals. You can also take a segway tour of the Sanctuary if you have older kids. The kids will love the Free Flight Bird Show, and if you are staying nearby during the holidays, you can also book the kids in for a full day school holiday Wild Adventures Program.
Dreamworld
Dreamworld is packed with family fun with rides and attractions to suit the entire tribe. The little ones will love ABC Kids World with Bananas in Pyjamas maze, Giggle and Hoot Pirate Ship and ride, Wiggles World ride and Play School Art Room. Dreamworld’s newest attraction will capture the heart of bigger kids with Troll Village. You can get ‘trolled up’ in Maddie’s hair salon, enjoy live shows and character appearances from favourites Poppy and Branch, enjoy a ride through the Trolls Fun House and more!
Timezone
Surfers Paradise Timezone is the biggest Timezone in Australia! There is so much to do in there and it’s always busy with tourists because it stays open until midnight every night! We loved the Pac Man air hockey game where hundreds of mini coloured air discs dropped at once, the basketball shooting game, the giant claw machine and loads more. There was even an 18 hole mini golf course in the middle of this amazing Timezone!
Wet n Wild
Wet n Wild in Queensland is Australia’s most famous water park. Wet n Wild on the Gold Coast is open every day of the year except Christmas Day and ANZAC Day. There is lots to do for little ones including Wet n Wild Junior area with smaller slides and water play attractions. The family can relax by Calypso Beach and float around in donuts. There is also a giant wave pool and Whirlpool Springs which offer family fun on warm days.
