With over 15 kilometers of amazing beach and golden sand, it is no wonder that this city became known as the Gold Coast. Enjoy walks along the Esplanade, stop in at the beachside markets, head to a theme park or get adventurous with a tour in an Aquaducks amphibian vehicle. We asked our GM from Mantra on View to tell us the best hidden family spots on the Gold Coast.
Broadwater Parklands
Featuring a pavilion, an outdoor cinema, a giant lawn, playgrounds, picnic areas and parks, there is something to do for families of all ages. The parklands also boasts a 100m pier that extends into Broadwater offering views of Surfers Paradise, Southport and the Spit. There are many events that take place here so be sure to ask your local Surfers Paradise Mantra staff what might be on. The Parklands is also where you will find the purpose-built rockpools, a must visit for any family. With both a dry and wet playground, this is a great place to cool off on a hot day and entry is free. Kids will enjoy the many fountains, colourful statues and angular water streams. Bring a picnic, visit the local café or if you are lucky enough to catch the Friday food trucks, enjoy casual local and international cuisine.
Tallebudgera Creek
Covering 98 square kilometers, this creek offers calm waters making it great for fishing, kayaking, water-skiing and of course swimming. The creek itself is surrounded on one side by the Burleigh Heads National Park and on the other side by Palm Beach. Bring a beach umbrella, a good book and water activities for the kids, and you’ll be set for a day of family fun. For a good family meal, head over to the Tallebudgera Surf Lifesaving Club to re-fuel after enjoying your water based activities.
Gold Coast Beaches
Lining the coastline, the beaches of the Gold Coast are a must visit. How is it an insider secret you may ask? Because there's more to visit than just Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. To explore the southern end of the Coast why not head down to Coolangatta or Tugun, it won't be half as busy and you'll enjoy the relaxed, beachside feel. For a great beach walk, head up to the Spit, where you can walk along the beach, then out along the jetty over the ocean.
Image Credit - Tourism Australia, Maxime Coquard
For a memorable experience with delicious food visit the Miami Marketta, a trendy, pop up food market that can serve up to 450 people. This great venue is open Friday and Saturday evenings and not only offers dinner items but also hosts a dessert hall and a live music stage. For a tasty family breakfast at a good price, head to any Surf Club along the coast. Many have ocean views and they are all very family friendly. Gold Coast also has a thriving cafe scene, make sure to check out our favourite restaurants and cafes while you're in town.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
With interactive presentations, characters like Blinky Bill the koala causing mischief around the park, a high ropes adventure park with zip lines and even a Segway Safari, the sanctuary has excitement waiting at every corner. Learn about Tasmanian devils, koalas, kangaroos, snakes, birds, saltwater crocs and many more animals while seeing them up close and personal, from a safe distance of course. To further this entertaining and educational adventure, you can observe vets at the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital as they help some of the 8000 native animals brought in every year. If you happen upon the park on a Friday you can end your experience at the Sanctuary Markets which feature international cuisine, local arts and crafts, live entertainment and delicious deserts. This memorable experience is sure to stick with children and parents alike for years to come.
Outback Spectacular
For a dazzling, country themed show with horses, performers, stunt devils, acrobats and clowns head to the Australian Outback spectacular. The show includes a three course Australian BBQ, live music and even pre-show entertainment. Learn about some of the nearby historical cowboys and remain transfixed by all the different sites and sounds.
Jellurgal Cultural Centre
Located in Burleigh Heads this culturally rich center takes you back to the time of the Yugambeh Aboriginial people, one of the oldest living cultures around. Learn about how they lived in the bush, their traditional bush foods, and their connection to the natural world around them. Enjoy a guided tour, watch the aboriginal artists create original works and explore all the artifacts. With no admission fee and plenty of resources at the information hub, this truly is a great family adventure.