The Gold Coast is a dazzling destination where sun, surf, and excitement come together to create the ultimate school holiday experience. Known for its iconic beaches, thrilling theme parks, and an array of family-friendly attractions, the Gold Coast offers endless opportunities for fun and adventure. Here’s your guide to making the most of the school holidays in this vibrant coastal paradise.
1. Theme Park Thrills:
- Warner Bros. Movie World (Pacific Motorway, Oxenford): Dubbed ‘Hollywood on the Gold Coast’, this theme park brings to life your favourite characters and movies. From adrenaline-pumping rides like the DC Rivals HyperCoaster to family-friendly attractions such as the Looney Tunes Village, there’s something for everyone.
- Sea World (Seaworld Dr Main Beach): Dive into the aquatic world at Sea World. Marvel at marine life, enjoy playful dolphin shows, and educate the little ones about ocean conservation. Don’t miss the Penguin Encounter and the thrilling Storm Coaster.
- Dreamworld (Dreamworld Pkwy, Coomera): As Australia’s largest theme park, Dreamworld offers a blend of high-octane thrill rides and kid-friendly zones like ABC Kids World and Wiggles World. The park is also home to Tiger Island, where you can witness the majestic big cats.
2. Beachside Bliss:
- Surfers Paradise Beach: This iconic beach is perfect for families, offering pristine sand and gentle waves. Engage in beach sports, build sandcastles, or enrol the kids in a surf lesson at the Cheyne Horan School of Surf.
- Coolangatta Beach: For a more laid-back beach experience, head to Coolangatta. Its sheltered waters are ideal for young swimmers, and the adjoining parks offer excellent picnic spots.
3. Natural Escapes:
- Lamington National Park: A short drive from the coast, Lamington National Park is a rainforest wonderland. Explore walking trails like the Morans Falls Track and discover waterfalls and abundant wildlife.
- Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (28 Tomewin St, Currumbin): Interact with native Australian animals, enjoy bird shows, and take part in the treetop challenge at this extensive wildlife park.
4. Cultural Experiences:
- Gold Coast Arts Centre (135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise): Check out their family-friendly theatre shows, art workshops, and exhibitions.
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! (Cavill Mall, Surfers Paradise): A museum of the weird and wonderful, Ripley’s is a fascinating attraction for curious minds.
5. Adventure Activities:
- SkyPoint Observation Deck (Q1 Building, Surfers Paradise): For breathtaking views, visit Australia’s only beachside observation deck. It also offers the SkyPoint Climb for the more adventurous souls.
- Putt Putt Mermaid Beach (2492 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach): Enjoy three themed 18-hole mini-golf courses: Jungle Trail, Fun Run, and Waterways.
The Gold Coast is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. This list of 11 great School Holiday activities is only just scratching the surface of what is possible on the beautiful Gold Coast. Whether it’s the thrill of the theme parks, the allure of the beaches, or the call of the hinterland, there’s no shortage of adventures for families during the school holidays. Pack your sunscreen, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories on the Gold Coast!
