10 Fun Things to Do on the Gold Coast These School Holidays
School holidays are a time for creating memories with your family, and there’s no better place to do that than the Gold Coast. With so many Gold Coast attractions to choose from, you’ll have no trouble keeping your little ones entertained while enjoying some quality family time!
With so many epic Gold Coast attractions to choose from, this blog is designed to help highlight a few of the top things to do on the Gold Coast so that you can plan an unforgettable trip with your kids. Ready to explore the top ten activities you shouldn’t miss during the school break? Let's dive in. But first...
Why you should bring your kids to the Gold Coast for the school holidays
The Gold Coast is a dream destination for families looking to holiday on the East Coast of Australia. It’s famous for its stunning beaches, where your family can spend the day swimming in the pristine waterways, building sandcastles, whale watching from the coast and playing beach games.
The region is also home to some of Australia’s top theme parks, like Dreamworld, SeaWorld and Movie World, where your kids can meet their favourite characters, enjoy exciting rides, and learn about Aussie wildlife.
For families who love nature, the Gold Coast’s lush nature reserves provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. You can explore the rainforests of Springbrook National Park, take a treetop walk in Tamborine, or simply enjoy the beauty of the Gold Coast Hinterland. These areas offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the tourist spots and give your kids a chance to connect with nature.
One of the best ways to experience all that the Gold Coast has to offer is by travelling in a campervan. With a campervan, you have the flexibility to explore at your own pace, stay in some of Queensland's best family-friendly campsites, and make spontaneous stops along the way. Plus, it’s a cost-effective way to travel, especially for families, and it allows you to fully immerse yourself in the Australia road trip experience. Whether you’re spending a day at the beach, exploring the Gold Coast theme parks, or discovering the natural beauty of the area, you have it all at your fingertips.
Ready to start planning your Gold Coast adventure? This guide will help you make the most of your school holidays with a comprehensive list of fun activities and tips to ensure your family has an unforgettable time.
10 fun things to do on the Gold Coast these school holidays
Keeping your kids entertained during the school holidays can be a challenge, but the Gold Coast makes it easy with the sheer volume and variety of activities on offer. Whether your family is into riding roller coasters at a theme park, exploring nature, or discovering something new, there’s plenty to choose from. Here’s a look at our top ten fun things to do on the Gold Coast!
1. Visit Dreamworld
Dreamworld is an absolute must if you’re looking for a day packed with fun for the whole family. As one of Australia’s largest theme parks, it really does have something for everyone—no matter the age of your kids. The little ones will be thrilled with Wiggles World and the DreamWorks Experience, where they can meet their favourite characters and enjoy rides designed just for them.
If you’ve got older kids or teenagers, they’ll love the thrill rides like the Tower of Terror and the Giant Drop. During the school holidays, Dreamworld often runs special events that include everything from character meet-and-greets to live shows, so there’s always something extra to look forward to.
2. Explore Sea World
A visit to SeaWorld is a fantastic way to mix fun with a bit of education. It’s just a quick 15-minute drive from Surfers Paradise, making it super accessible for a day out. Kids will love the Penguin Encounter and the Polar Bear Shores, where they can see these amazing animals up close. The dolphin and sea lion shows are always a hit, and they come with a great message about conservation that’s sure to spark some interesting conversations with your kids.
3. Spend a Day at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
If your kids love animals, a visit to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a must during the school holidays on the Gold Coast. This sanctuary offers an incredible opportunity to get up close with a variety of Australian wildlife. Your little ones will be thrilled to hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle a koala, and watch the daily bird shows, which are both entertaining and educational.
For those who enjoy a bit more adventure, the TreeTop Challenge is a fantastic addition. This high ropes course, set amidst the trees, is designed for both kids and adults, making it a great way to add some excitement to your day.
Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
4. Have Fun at Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast
When the weather’s warm, there’s no better way to cool off than with a day at Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast. This popular water park is perfect for families, offering a range of attractions that suit all ages. Younger children will love Buccaneer Bay, a pirate-themed splash zone with mini slides and shallow pools. For the older kids and the more daring adults, thrill rides like the Tornado and Kamikaze are sure to get the adrenaline pumping.
5. Discover the Natural Bridge at Springbrook National Park
Have your kids (or yourself, for that matter) ever dreamed of wandering through glow worm caves? Well, then, you won't want to miss the chance to head over to Springbrook National Park to see the Natural Bridge.
This stunning rock formation and waterfall offer visitors the chance to walk beneath a starry sky of glow worms! Nestled within the lush rainforest, it is one of the Gold Coast’s most beautiful natural attractions. The walking track to the Natural Bridge is relatively easy and suitable for families, making it a great way to introduce your kids to the wonders of nature.
Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
6. Experience SkyPoint Observation Deck
For breathtaking views of the Gold Coast, a trip to the SkyPoint Observation Deck is a must. Located on the 77th floor of the Q1 Building, SkyPoint offers panoramic vistas that stretch from the coastline to the hinterland. It’s a fantastic place to take the family for a bit of sightseeing, and older kids will love the SkyPoint Climb—an outdoor adventure that takes you to the very top of the building.
After taking in the views, you can relax at the SkyPoint Bistro + Bar, where you can enjoy a meal or a coffee while soaking in the scenery. It’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy some downtime with the family.
7. Visit the Gold Coast’s Beaches
No trip to the Gold Coast would be complete without spending some time on its famous beaches. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant atmosphere of Surfers Paradise or the more relaxed vibe of Burleigh Heads, you’ll find the perfect spot to suit your family’s needs. The beaches here are ideal for swimming, building sandcastles, and enjoying a beachside picnic.
TOP TIP: When spending a day at the beach on the Gold Coast, make sure to swim between the flags where lifeguards are on duty. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen regularly and keep everyone hydrated in the harsh Aussie sun.
Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
8. Go on a treetop walk at Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk in the Gold Coast hinterland
For a unique way to explore the Gold Coast’s natural beauty, take your family on a treetop walk at the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk. This elevated walkway gives you a bird’s eye view of the lush rainforest, with plenty of lookout points and informative signs along the way. It’s a fantastic way to combine fun and education while the kids spend the day spotting native plants and wildlife from above.
9. Explore Infinity Attraction
For a truly mind-bending experience that’s fun for all ages, head to the Infinity Attraction. This indoor maze is bound to be unlike anything you’ve ever seen before, filled with special effects, illusions, and interactive displays that will captivate both kids and adults alike. As you make your way through the maze, you’ll encounter different themed environments that challenge your senses and perception.
TOP TIP: Check for any age or height restrictions before you go, especially if you have younger children.
10. Enjoy a day at King Tutt's Putt Putt
Mini-golf is always a hit with kids, and King Tutts Putt Putt takes it to the next level with its three uniquely themed courses: Egyptian, Jurassic, and Jungle Trail. Whether you’re navigating around a dinosaur or avoiding the traps of an ancient tomb, there’s plenty of fun to be had. King Tutts Putt Putt often runs special deals or promotions during the school holidays, so it’s worth checking ahead to make the most of your visit.
Other Gold Coast tours and outdoor activities for kids during school holidays
Looking for more ideas of family-friendly things to do on the Gold Coast? Here are some of our go-to ideas for fun school holiday activities for kids:
Where to stay on the Gold Coast
When exploring the Gold Coast with your family, having a comfortable and convenient place to stay is key to making the most of your holiday. Thankfully, the region is home to several excellent holiday parks that cater specifically to families travelling in campervans. Here are three top picks that provide great facilities and locations for your Gold Coast adventure.
BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
The BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park is a fantastic base for your Gold Coast holiday, located just a short drive from major theme parks like Dreamworld, Wet’n’Wild, and Movie World. This holiday park offers a range of facilities, including a huge resort-style pool complete with a water slide, a licensed café for easy meals, and even a dog-friendly area if you’re bringing your furry friend along.
Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park
If you prefer a more scenic and tranquil setting, Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park is an excellent choice. Situated on the banks of the picturesque Tallebudgera Creek, this park offers stunning water views and easy access to some of the Gold Coast’s most beautiful natural attractions.
The park is perfect for families, with a range of activities available, including kayaking, fishing, and swimming in the calm waters of the creek. There’s also a heated swimming pool, tennis courts, and a playground to keep the kids entertained.
Nobby Beach Holiday Village
Nobby Beach Holiday Village, located just a short walk from Nobby Beach, is perfect for families who love the beach but also want easy access to the shops, cafes, and attractions of the Gold Coast.
Nobby Beach Holiday Village features a range of facilities, including two swimming pools (one with a water slide), a games room, and BBQ areas, making it an ideal spot for family fun. With the beach just a stroll away and public transport nearby, it’s easy to explore the Gold Coast’s many attractions from here.
For more travel tips and ideas for planning your campervan adventure on the Gold Coast, check out our top Queensland campervan guides below:
Ready to check out some of these Gold Coast activities on your next school holiday adventure?
The Gold Coast is an unbeatable destination for a family holiday, especially when you’ve got the freedom of a campervan to explore at your own pace. Ready to hit the road? You can easily book your Apollo camper online and start planning your adventure. With Apollo branches conveniently located across Australia, including near by Brisbane, picking up your campervan and beginning your school holiday family getaway is a breeze.