Here on the Gold Coast, the sun shines 300 days per year and the shops are just waiting for you to dive in and pick up some bargains. We hope you've saved plenty of room in your suitcase, because the shopping facilities here are some of the best in the country.

If you’re organising your Gold Coast holiday in detail, a day at the shops is a great activity to add to your list of things to do. We all know that when it comes to shopping with kids, a little planning can go a long way. With that in mind, take a look at our guide to the best family-friendly shopping destinations on the coast.

Harbour Town

Located in Biggera Waters only a 15 minute drive from Surfers Paradise, the Harbour Town shopping precinct is full of brand direct outlet stores and specialty retailers. It's the largest shopping centre of its kind in Australia, providing plenty of opportunities for your family to grab a bargain.

Stock up your kids' wardrobes at Seed, Pumpkin Patch and Esprit outlet stores, get beach-ready at the Bikini Island outlet, and pick up some pieces for the home at the Royal Doulton warehouse. There's a free stroller loan available and even a Kids Pit Stop crèche if you're looking to enjoy some child-free shopping during your trip.

Getting to Harbour Town from Surfers Paradise is easy. Catch the G: Link tram to Southport then hop aboard bus 704 to find yourself on the footstep of shopping paradise.

Ashmore Surf Outlets

Ashmore's surf stores include Billabong, Quiksilver, and Sideways Surf Outlet. Here you’ll find offers of up to 70 per cent off the regular retail price for your favourite surf and street labels for both kids and adults clothing. From wetsuits, to surf accessories and even skateboards, if you're looking to add a bit of action and adventure to your trip, or stock up on items while away, the Ashmore Surf Outlets cannot be missed.

The shopping environment offers a no-frills approach in order to keep prices low, but the customer service is second to none. From a new cossie through to a new surfboard for your budding Kelly Slater, it's all in-store at Ashmore.

Stock up your kids' wardrobes at Seed, Pumpkin Patch and Esprit outlet stores, get beach-ready at the Bikini Island outlet, and pick up some pieces for the home at the Royal Doulton warehouse

Pacific Fair

Pacific Fair is a major shopping attraction in Broadbeach that is ideal for families, with a movie theatre, food hall and fully equipped parent's room accompanying the plethora of fashion, homeware, jewellery and gift stores. There are also supermarkets and services such as doctors and hairdressers here, so it's a perfect one-stop destination to suit your family's every need. Many of the shops are located outside, as are cafes, and create a village.

Robina Town Centre

Robina Town Centre boasts the only David Jones on the Gold Coast, plus plenty of other department stores alongside two supermarkets and more than 350 specialty stores. Drop the older kids off at Event Cinemas to catch a movie while you take time out with a coffee, or enjoy family-friendly fun at the AMF Bowling Centre. 

Stores of interest include family and budget friendly chains such as Target, Kmart and Big W alongside specialist sporting and swimwear retailers.

Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets

These markets are unique in that they line the stunning Surfers Paradise shore, and their evening setting adds to the appeal.

Set aside the evening of a Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night to take your kids along for a night of bargain hunting and browsing through more than 120 market stalls.

This is an ideal place to pick up a one-off souvenir or grab some fresh produce to take back to your hotel, and the markets' 5pm kick-off time means it's not too late to take your really young kids along to.

Tedder Avenue

Billed as Gold Coast's premier destination, Tedder Avenue will add a touch of class to your family's shopping spree. The revamped strip has beautiful glittering fairy lights in the evening, which are mesmerising for children and the young at heart alike. 

Treat yourself to a piece from a designer such as Missoni or Paula Ryan, or simply watch the passers-by as you enjoy a family brunch at one of the strip's cafes.