Gold Coast with Children: Tips for the Perfect Family Holiday

Coming from the UK, I often find myself dreaming of warm weather destinations when it’s our turn for winter here. Since December to February are some of the coldest in the UK and are Australia’s summer months, it is a natural fit. Add in some gorgeous landscapes, friendly locals, and plenty to do that everyone in my family will enjoy, the Gold Coast of Australia is a destination that makes for an extra special family holiday. Located just south of Brisbane on Australia’s east coat, it’s easy to get to and is well-suited for tourism.

So how do you plan the perfect family holiday to the Gold Coast with children?

Useful tips for traveling to the Gold Coast

Before anything, start by getting your visas set up and making sure everyone has a valid passport. You’ll need an Australian tourist visa for UK citizens, which you can easily apply for online at auvisa.org.

Organize your holiday before you fly. There is a lot to do on the Gold Coast between the beaches, hiking spots, sanctuaries and theme parks, so you want to get a family game plan and make sure everyone has time to do and see something they love.

Stick to the beaches patrolled by lifeguards in Australia. The coasts here are lined with red and yellow safety flags and make sure you and your family stick to them.

Make sure everyone knows ‘000’ for emergencies. This is how you contact the police, fire or ambulance in Australia.

The best destinations and activities to do on the Gold Coast

Mount Tamborine

The drive itself to Mount Tamborine is a fun family adventure. The landscape is lush and you can stop off for hikes, go on a Glow Worm tour through the purpose-built caves, (a hit with my family!), and make your way around the quaint village.

Tallebudgera Creek

With small kids, a gradual beach that leads to the sea with clear blue water is ideal for safety and fun. You can go swimming here, kayak, paddle board, and have some classic beach fun with stunning views.

Currumbin Rock Pools

My family loves our beach time, but sometimes we just want to skip the sandy feet and mess and head for somewhere with fresh water. The Currumbin Rock Pools are natural swimming pools with rope swings, facilities, and picnic set ups.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Your kids (and you parents!) will have a great time at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can visit with kangaroos, koalas, Tasmanian devils and more.

Surf lessons

The Gold Coast is famous for its sandy beaches, and it is the spot to go to learn how to surf. It’s a fun family activity where you can all learn together, laugh and play on the sand while you attempt surfing in the water.

Visit Carrara Markets

The Carrara Markets is a place to wander, get some treats, go for a pony ride and get your faces painted! It’s fun for the kids with all there is to do, and parents can grab a coffee and chat with locals here.

So there you go, some tips for the perfect family holiday to the Gold Coast! Have you ever been to the Gold Coast? If so, did you enjoy it?