What turns a regular family holiday into one that the kids talk about for years? This could be the thrilling rollercoasters, the animal encounters, and that one attraction you almost skipped. On the Gold Coast, those unforgettable moments aren’t hard to come by.
However, the Gold Coast attractions have a lot of options to choose from, and it can be tricky to know where to begin. That’s why this guide is for you! We highlight the most memorable attractions to add to your itinerary so you can make the most of every day together.
Where to Find the Most Memorable Gold Coast Attractions for Families
Start your itinerary strong with a handpicked mix of exciting and age-friendly destinations. Here are our top picks:
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Begin your holiday with a truly Australian experience. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a family favourite that combines hands-on animal encounters with immersive nature experiences.
Key Highlights
- Feed rainbow lorikeets for free just outside the entrance (arrive early!)
- Spot iconic Aussie animals: kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles, and more
- Try the TreeTop Challenge if the kids are up for it (closed shoes needed)
- Plenty of shade, on-site cafés, and picnic areas for breaks
- Easy parking or a scenic walk for active families
Palm Beach Parklands (Pirate Park)
Palm Beach Parklands offers a different kind of family joy. Pirate Park, the centrepiece of this lush coastal spot, is a hit with younger children thanks to its imaginative design. This parkland also connects you to the broader Broadwater QLD vibe.
Key Highlights
- The playground is designed like a shipwrecked pirate island
- Relax at the neighbouring Dune Café while kids play
- Direct access to the beach for spontaneous swims or sandcastles
- Shaded lawns are ideal for picnics or stroller naps
- Great option for a short morning or early evening outing
Palm Beach Estuary & Currumbin Creek
For families craving calm water play, paddleboarding or kayaking along Currumbin Creek delivers a peaceful, low-stress outing. Equipment rentals are available nearby, and the gentle flow makes it safe for kids learning the ropes.
Key Highlights
- Hire kayaks or stand-up paddleboards by the hour (approx. $25–30)
- Spot pelicans and fish in the early morning hours
- Clean, shallow edges for toddlers to splash safely
- Grassy areas for a relaxed lunch or shaded rest
- Just 5–10 minutes from Princess Palm, easy to fit into any day
Thrill-Seeking Gold Coast Attractions for Energetic Families
Planning for a full day of adrenaline and action? These are the standouts worth every minute of the drive.
Warner Bros. Movie World
A day at Warner Bros. Movie World Australia feels like stepping into the movies. With street parades, live-action stunt shows, and characters roaming the grounds, kids stay wide-eyed from entry to exit.
Key Highlights
- The Looney Tunes Kids Zone is packed with gentle rides for young adventurers.
- Bigger kids and adults will love the Superman Escape and DC Rivals HyperCoaster.
- Daily performances like the Hollywood Stunt Driver show offer thrilling downtime.
- Plenty of shady spots for breaks, plus casual food outlets around the park
Tip: Book tickets online to skip queues and access multi-park passes
Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast
Waterparks are a classic family holiday treat, and Wet and Wild Queensland is a top contender. Located in Oxenford, right near Movie World, it’s easy to double up these attractions in one trip or spread them over a few days.
Key Highlights
- Family favourites like Calypso Beach (lazy river) and Wet’n’Wild Junior cater to little ones
- Thrill rides like the Kamikaze and Tornado are ideal for older kids and adults
- On-site cabana hire available for a shaded, central base
- April still offers warm temperatures, making this a perfect shoulder-season choice
Pro tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, quick-dry towels, and refillable water bottles
Topgolf Gold Coast
Looking for something different to round out the action? Topgolf Australia offers high-tech fun with a social twist. Set on multiple levels, each bay lets up to six players swing microchipped golf balls towards digital targets.
Key Highlights
- Ideal for older kids, teens, and competitive parents
- Game modes and scoring keep everyone engaged, even non-golfers
- Order food and drinks directly to your bay for relaxed play
- Budget-wise: Around $60–70 per hour, shared across your group
Insider tip: Book a sunset session for cooler temperatures and a panoramic view.
Wildlife, Farm Fun, and Aussie Culture on the Gold Coast
A gentler kind of excitement, perfect for younger kids or mixed-age groups looking for more hands-on experiences.
Paradise Country
This working farm lets families connect with animals and traditional bush life in an easy, interactive way.
Key Highlights
- Hand-feed kangaroos, watch sheep shearing demos, and snap photos with koalas
- Enjoy stock horse shows, whip-cracking displays, and billy tea-making
- Great for toddlers and primary-aged kids—nothing too fast or overwhelming
- The setting is open-air and peaceful, with shaded picnic zones and on-site cafés
- Combo tickets available with neighbouring attractions like Movie World or Topgolf
Australian Outback Spectacular
The Outback Spectacular Show Gold Coast offers an all-ages theatrical event that’s anything but ordinary. It’s a full-scale production set against a dramatic, purpose-built backdrop.
Key Highlights
- A 3-course Aussie BBQ-style meal is served while you watch
- The story celebrates resilience, rural life, and Australian history
- Incredible lighting effects, stunts, and live music keep all ages captivated
- Wheelchair accessible and climate-controlled for comfort
- Ideal for your last evening on the Coast, or as a special event night
Indoor Family Attractions for Rainy Days or Easy Afternoons
Sometimes you just need a break from the sun. These picks are ideal for a slower day.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Ripley’s Gold Coast is packed with interactive exhibits, illusions, and bizarre artefacts from around the globe.
Key Highlights
- Explore optical illusions, mind-bending puzzles, and real-life oddities
- Perfect for curious minds and sensory seekers
- Self-paced and easy to enjoy with prams or wheelchairs
- Centrally located with food options nearby for lunch before or after
- Tickets are often available online at a discount—worth checking before you go
It’s weird, it’s wacky, and it’s one of the few places where the kids are encouraged to shout, laugh, and point at everything.
Infinity Attraction
Infinity Surfers is like a sensory playground that combines lights, sound, and mirror illusions to create a journey through futuristic dream worlds.
Key Highlights
- Great for all ages, especially those who love sensory surprises
- Each room offers a different visual and audio experience
- Staff guide you through and provide support for little ones
- Not too long—ideal as a pre-lunch activity or to fill an afternoon gap
The Strand at Coolangatta (Timezone + Cinema)
The Strand at Coolangatta blends classic family entertainment with a beachfront location. Timezone offers arcade games, air hockey, and soft play zones, while BCC Cinemas provides a break for tired feet.
Key Highlights
- Ideal for mixed-age groups with varied energy levels
- Plenty of casual food options like burgers, sushi, and smoothie bars
- The promenade outside is perfect for a post-movie beach walk
- Stroller and pram-friendly, with lifts and baby change facilities
- Easy undercover parking to dodge the rain
Local Favourites for Laid-Back Beach Days and Nature Escapes
Don’t underestimate the beauty of a slower day by the sea. These stops are close to the base and easy to enjoy.
Broadwater Parklands
This massive green space blends ocean views with kid-centric play areas and loads of space to run.
Key Highlights
- Features include a giant bouncy pillow, water play area, and interactive playgrounds
- Ideal for families with mixed ages
- Shady picnic spots and BBQ areas are available
- A walking track and beach access make it feel like a full day out
- Cafés and food vendors line the park, so snacks are always close
Book Early and Stay Close to the Fun at Princess Palm
Choosing the right base makes all the difference. Princess Palm on the Beach offers absolute beachfront access and spacious two-bedroom holiday apartments that feel like a home away from home. You’re within easy walking distance to enjoy some of the Gold Coast’s top family experiences without the stress of long drives or packed itineraries.
When the day winds down, relax in the heated pool, soak in the outdoor spa, or unwind on your private ocean-view balcony. Everything’s designed to help you slow down, stay connected, and enjoy the moment.
Book early to secure your ideal school holiday dates.
Image Credit: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
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