The Gold Coast is a dream come true for families looking for fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories. While the theme parks may steal the spotlight, there’s so much more to explore! Whether you’re looking for wildlife encounters, thrilling attractions, or a relaxing day by the beach, the Gold Coast has something for everyone.
At Down Under Vacations, we’re all about creating trips that match your family’s travel style. Here’s our selection of the best experiences on the Gold Coast.
Theme Park Thrills
Dreamworld – Perfect for Younger Children
Dreamworld is the ultimate theme park for little ones, featuring kid-friendly rides, adorable characters, and interactive play zones. The park also boasts the popular Wiggles World and ABC Kids World, making it a hit with toddlers and preschoolers.
Warner Bros. Movie World – For the Older Kids
If your kids are craving high-speed roller coasters and action-packed entertainment, Movie World is the place to be. With superhero encounters, thrilling rides, and Hollywood-themed attractions, this park is a paradise for older children and teenagers.
Sea World – Fun for All Ages
A mix of marine life encounters and exciting rides, Sea World is a must-visit for families. Get up close with dolphins, penguins, and sharks, while enjoying the latest eco-friendly exhibits that focus on ocean conservation.
Wet’n’Wild – Splash-tastic Fun
Cool off at Wet’n’Wild, one of Australia’s biggest water parks. From adrenaline-pumping water slides to relaxing wave pools, there’s something for every member of the family.
GC Aqua Park – Inflatable Water Fun
For an action-packed water adventure, head to GC Aqua Park, an inflatable water playground perfect for kids and adults alike.
Nature and Wildlife Adventures
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled in the heart of the Gold Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike! Get up close with iconic Australian wildlife, from cuddly koalas and playful kangaroos to majestic birds of prey. Perfect for families, this award-winning sanctuary offers a unique blend of conservation, education, and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Treetop Challenge (Ages 8+ with height restriction)
Located inside Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, the Tree Top Challenge will get your adrenaline pumping! With 100+ huge TreeTop Challenges, including 14 insane ziplines, we guarantee you will have an unforgettable day of thrills, action and adventure.
Gold Coast Eco Safari – Wild Encounters & Electric Boat Cruise
Embark on a sustainable adventure with Gold Coast Eco Safari. Whether it’s a wildlife safari or an eco-friendly electric boat cruise, this experience is both exciting and educational.
Paradise Country – A Taste of Farm Life
For a break from the roller coasters, Paradise Country offers an authentic Aussie farm experience. Kids can meet koalas, feed kangaroos, and even watch live sheep shearing demonstrations.
Learn to Surf – Ride the Gold Coast Waves
Sign the kids up for a surf lesson and let them experience the thrill of catching their first wave on some of Australia’s best beaches.
Family-Friendly Attractions
SkyPoint Observation Deck & Skywalk
Take in panoramic views of the Gold Coast from the SkyPoint Observation Deck. For thrill-seekers, the Skywalk offers a heart-pounding adventure at dizzying heights.
Thunderbird Park – A Jurassic Adventure
Dig for thundereggs, challenge yourself on the high ropes course, or go on a mini adventure in the lush rainforest surroundings.
Aquaduck – Land and Water Fun
Hop on the famous Aquaduck for a fun-filled city tour that seamlessly transforms into a water cruise – kids absolutely love this quirky experience!
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre & Little Explorers
Learn about the rich Indigenous history of the Gold Coast through guided cultural tours, storytelling, and hands-on activities for kids.
Putt Putt Mermaid Beach – Mini Golf Madness
With themed courses and fun challenges, Putt Putt Mermaid Beach is a fantastic activity for all ages.
Indoor Fun & Games
Planet Chill – Ice Skating in the Tropics
Escape the Queensland heat with some family-friendly ice skating at Planet Chill – perfect for a cool change of pace.
Timezone Arcade & Zone Bowling
Arcade games, laser tag, and bowling – what more could a kid want? Timezone and Zone Bowling guarantee hours of indoor fun for the whole family.
Game Over – Action-Packed Fun in Helensvale
Featuring go-karting, laser tag, rock climbing, and a ninja warrior course, Game Over is an adrenaline junkie’s paradise.
Padlocked Escape Rooms – Solve the Mystery
Older kids and teens will love putting their problem-solving skills to the test in one of the thrilling escape room experiences.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! – Wacky and Wonderful
Discover the strange and the unusual at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! A fun-filled attraction full of mind-boggling exhibits and interactive displays.
ArtVo – Interactive Art Gallery
Immerse yourself in a world of optical illusions at ArtVo, where you can step into larger-than-life artworks for incredible photo opportunities.
House Down Under
A mind-bending attraction where everything is upside down! Walk on the ceiling and experience a world turned on its head.
Thrill-Seeking Adventures
Slideways Go Karting
For those who love speed, Slideways offers indoor and outdoor go-karting fun with a unique drifting track.
Gold Coast Jet Boat Rides
Experience the thrill of high-speed jet boating on the Gold Coast’s stunning waterways with heart-racing spins and turns.
Hot Air Ballooning Over the Gold Coast
Soar above the Gold Coast with a breathtaking hot air balloon experience, offering panoramic views like no other.
V8 Driving Experience
For motorsport enthusiasts, take the wheel of a powerful V8 race car for an unforgettable driving adventure.
Markets
For those who love browsing unique local crafts, fresh produce, and handmade goods, the Gold Coast offers some fantastic markets. Must-visit markets include:
Burleigh Heads Farmers Market
Fresh produce, gourmet food, and artisan products.
The Village Markets
A hub for boutique fashion, accessories, and handmade items.
Carrara Markets
One of Australia’s largest markets with over 400 stalls.
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
A picturesque market by the beach offering artisan goods and souvenirs.
Miami Marketta
A vibrant night market featuring street food, live music, and local designers.
Broadbeach Art and Craft Markets
Perfect for unique handmade gifts and artwork.
Shopping Centres
If you love shopping, the Gold Coast is home to some incredible shopping centres featuring high-end fashion, boutique stores, and family-friendly experiences:
Harbour Town
An outlet shopping paradise with great deals on top brands.
Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre
A stylish shopping precinct with boutique stores, dining, and wellness options.
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre
One of the largest shopping centres in Queensland, offering luxury brands, dining, and entertainment.
Robina Town Centre
A massive shopping hub with a great mix of fashion, homewares, and entertainment options.
Australia Fair Shopping Centre
A central shopping destination featuring retail, dining, and a cinema.
The Oasis Shopping Centre
Located in Broadbeach, this shopping centre offers boutique fashion, cafes, and wellness stores.
Paradise Centre
A beachfront shopping destination in Surfers Paradise with a mix of retail and entertainment.
And Of Course… The Amazing Beaches
No trip to the Gold Coast would be complete without visiting its world-famous beaches. Whether you want to swim, build sandcastles, or just relax under the sun, there’s no better way to end a fun-filled family holiday.
With so many exciting activities, the Gold Coast truly is a family-friendly destination like no other. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or something in between, there’s no shortage of things to do for families of all ages!