The Gold Coast is a fantastic holiday destination any time of year—and it’s also tailor made for a good time with the kids. You’ll never run out of things to do, with all the great beaches, water sports, parklands and attractions on offer. As well as all that fun in the sun, here is a round-up of ten must-do days out that the kids will love.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
There's nothing like the experience of getting right up close to native Australian wildlife. Image: TEQ
Cuddle a koala, feed a kangaroo and be entertained by Blinky Bill and his best mate Nutsy at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Dedicated to conserving our nation’s Indigenous, natural and historic heritage, the park offers up-close and interactive experiences for all ages. See hundreds of native Australian animals on display in natural bushland and rainforest settings, visit the Wildlife Hospital, watch live Aboriginal dance shows and try out the adrenaline-pumping TreeTop Challenge.
Australian Outback Spectacular
Witness the bravery, beauty and courage of the greatest Australian stories never told in a magical display of drama and action at the Australian Outback Spectacular. The dinner and show package, Salute to the Light Horse, features many Australian animals, songs and bush tucker in an arena themed to take visitors back to the snowy mountain peaks of the high country. It’s a show for youngsters and adults alike, so saddle up, sit back and enjoy a gourmet Aussie feast as the entertainment unfolds.
Movie World
There's a surprise around every corner for kids at Movieworld! Image: TEQ
Visit Hollywood on the Gold Coast at Movie World, a magical place where action heroes like Batman saunter the streets and movie-themed rides like roller coasters swirl through the skies above. As well as thrill rides galore, including the Superman Escape and Green Lantern Coaster, there’s a junior driving school and kids fun zone for the little ones, and don’t miss all of the live shows, especially the Star Parade on Main St.
The Wax Museum
Get up close and personal with your favourite movie stars, scientists, explorers, villains and world leaders at The Wax Museum in the heart of Surfers Paradise. There are two sections to explore at the museum– the World in Wax, where you’ll come face to face with celebrities including Kylie Minogue and Crocodile Dundee, and the Chamber of Horrors—possibly a bit much for younger children but the tweens will love it!
Art and Craft on the Coast
Find gifts, souvenirs and other weird and wonderful knick-knacks at the Coast’s art and craft markets, held every Sunday on the Broadbeach, Coolangatta and Burleigh Heads beach fronts. Large, colourful and full of atmosphere, the markets boast more than 100 stalls showcasing the most original of Australian-made products, providing tourists and locals alike with a fun market shopping experience.
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Tours and Information Hub
Get an amazing and accurate insight into the spirituality and society of the Yugambeh Aboriginal people, one of the oldest living cultures in the world, at the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Learn about the Aboriginal history and culture of the Gold Coast, meet a traditional land owner and hear the dreamtime stories associated with the creation of the mountain, Jellurgal.
Sea World
Sea World's twin polar bears will be a holiday memory that'll last the kids a lifetime. Image: TEQ
Visit Polar Bear Shores, Seal Harbour, Penguin Encounter, Dolphin Beach, Shark Bay and more at Sea World, located across from the beach at Southport. In between making friends with the many mystical creatures of the deep, try out the park’s themed rides and attractions and catch a live stage show and the popular Jet Stunt Extreme.
Paradise Country
From Australian wildlife to cute farmyard favourites, there are so many animals to fall in love with at Paradise Country. Join in feed-time fun at the animal nursery, where piglets, lambs, guinea pigs, chicks and alpacas will melt your heart; see cows, horses, cattle dogs, sheep and chickens at the farmyard; and hand feed kangaroos and emus while watching sleepy, cuddly koalas.
Dreamworld
Watching the action at Tiger Cub Kindy will keep everyone entertained. Image: TEQ
Rides, ABC Kids World, Australian wildlife and tigers – Dream World has it all, ensuring hours of fun for the family. Watch Adira and Akasha rumble and tumble with their white adopted sister cubs Kiko and Kali in their purpose-built playground at Tiger Cub Kindy. Test your skill on the Skadoosh Bumper Cars or climb aboard the Dreamworld Express and see the little ones’ faces light up when they meet Dorothy the Dinosaur and Bananas in Pyjamas.
WhiteWater World
Co-located with Dreamworld, WhiteWater World is the place to be on a hot Gold Coast day. Featuring ground-breaking technology to deliver some serious splash, WhiteWater World is no ordinary water park. Try the newest slide, the Triple Vortex, or the range of other slides and attractions, including the Cave of Waves, the Pipeline Plunge, Surf School and The Wedgie. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, so pack your sense of fun and let the sliding begin!
Visit your local Flight Centre store or call 131 600 for more advice and the latest deals on travelling to the Gold Coast.
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