The beautiful Gold Coast is home to us, but it’s also a number one holiday destination for the rest of Australia. So what are those unmissable family friendly attractions that everyone must do when they are here? And how many have you done as a local resident?!
Family friendly attractions on the Gold Coast
Dreamworld & WhiteWater World
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
A visit to the Gold Coast isn’t complete without a day at Dreamworld, Australia’s biggest theme park. As well as the big thrill rides, there are plenty of rides specifically designed for the littler ones to enjoy. After a busy morning of thrills and action, head next door to WhiteWater World, where you can cool off on one of their many water slides and water play spaces.
iFly
For ages 3+, iFly is the excitement of skydiving in an ultra-safe, state-of-the-art environment. Not just a thrill ride but also the latest in action sports, simply lean into the wind inside in the giant glass tunnel and a column of air lifts you up to float effortlessly into flight.
Warner Bros. Movie World
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Whether it’s meeting Superman or checking out the Hollywood Stunt Driver show, Warner Bros. Movie World has something for every movie buff! Cheer your favourite LOONEY TUNES characters, have your photo taken with Scooby Doo or go behind the scenes on the Star Tour.
SeaWorld
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
A marine park and theme park rolled into one, at SeaWorld you can get up close with a range of marine life including polar bears, penguins, sharks, sting rays. And when you are ready for a little action, enjoy the thrills and spills of the Storm Coaster, Castaway Bay and Jet Rescue, or for the little ones there is Nickelodeon Land, with kid-sized rides and shows.
Wet ‘n’ Wild Gold Coast
Packed with thrill rides and family fun, Wet ‘n’ Wild has something to cool everyone down this summer and certainly one of the local’s favourite family friendly attractions on the Gold Coast. From the adrenaline-pumping Extreme H20 rides to the subtropical gardens of Calypso Beach, the whole family will be set for a splash-tastic day.
SkyPoint Observation Deck
SkyPoint is located on level 77 of the Q1 Building, soaring above the golden beaches of Surfers Paradise. It is Australia’s only beachside observation deck. Take in the panoramic views and if you are feeling brave, try the SkyPoint Climb. This is Australia’s highest external building climb with unparalleled 360° views of the Gold Coast and beyond.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
One of our favourite family friendly attractions on the Gold Coast is a day out to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Get up close and personal with a range of animals. Check out the animal shows, or get your photo taken with a koala. For the older ones, the Treetop Challenge is a must. This thrilling set of five large rope courses climb through the pristine bushland and 11 ziplines that sour through the treetops.
Springbrook National Park
Just 45 minutes from the busy coastline is the idyllic forest wilderness of Springbrook National Park. Formed by the eruption of an ancient volcano 23 million years ago, this nature-lover’s paradise is brimming with waterfalls, cool rock creeks, fascinating wildlife and some of the oldest trees in Australia. With many walks and lookouts that are kid friendly and stroller accessible, it’s a great spot for families to escape the rat race for a day.
Tamborine Mountain Rainforest Skywalk
Set in 30 acres of rainforest, this exciting eco-adventure offers a unique view of the rainforest. The 1.5km walk is a combination of forest floor trails and bridges that sour through the upper canopy. The walk is stroller friendly (but there are some steps). And there is also a rainforest eco gallery to learn about the local animals, birds and reptiles.
Thunderbird Park
With a huge range of on-site activities, Thunderbird Park has something for everyone. Dig for a thunderegg (geode) at the crystal mine, climb through the trees on the TreeTop Challenge, play laser skirmish or mini golf. Or simply cool off in the serene natural rock pools. There are glamping tents to stay in too!
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