Site Content Updating, August/sept 2025

The Gold Coast, located south of Brisbane on Australia's eastern seaboard, is renowned for its extensive sandy beaches, popular surfing locations, and intricate network of inland canals and waterways. 

It’s also home to theme parks such as Dreamworld, Sea World and Wet’n’Wild. 

Inland, a network of hiking trails weaves through the mountain ridges and valleys of Lamington National Park, a sanctuary for rare birds and lush rainforests.

A favored destination for family holidays, renowned for its theme parks, themed dinners, theaters, farm stays, ocean views, exquisite cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and the allure of daily affordable flights, it's clear why we keep heading north for some rest and relaxation.

GOLD COAST 

** Escape rooms - PADLOCKED  ** 

Location:  3177 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise 

Opening Hours: 10am - 10.30pm /11.30pm 

Price: Adult $49.99 | Child $39.00

 The wizard-themed room was a blast, and I highly recommend it to all groups, particularly families. Although I was disappointed that devices weren't allowed in the rooms and had to be stored in lockers (I would've cherished some themed photos), I understand the desire to maintain its uniqueness. There are several escape room options available here, as well as other brands throughout the city, which I'm confident are equally enjoyable. Note: The rooms change periodically.

** Cavill Avenue  ** 

Location: Cavill Avenue, SP

Opening Hours: DAILY stores individually

Price: Free to visit + Purchases

Cavill Avenue is not just a shopping destination; the street performers and dining options give you a taste of the local talent and cuisine. You don't have to spend much, as takeout is also popular among tourists who prefer to savor their dinner on the beach at sunset.

** Pankcakes in paradise  ** 

Location:  3046 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise Queensland 4217 

Opening Hours: from 8am - days various check website

Price: VARIED - per menu

A fun breakfast opportunity awaits with all-you-can-eat options, making it an excellent choice for families. Whether you're looking to fill up for the day or just top up, the menu caters to all meals and now includes a bar, ensuring that visits at any time of the day are well accommodated.

** Movie World  ** 

Location:  Pacific Motorway, Oxenford Queensland 4210 

Opening Hours: DAILY 10am -5pm (varied for special events)

Price: From $95.00

It's a fun destination for all, easily accessible by public transport or private car. With a variety of attractions including meet and greets, street food, parades, photo spots, rides, shopping, and sit-down dining, it's easy to spend an entire day here. The park also caters well to young children with mini coasters, suitable rides, and water activities. 

Whether you're here for the rides, to carry bags, or to simply enjoy a family day out, make sure to check out the popular stunt show. If you're not riding, take a moment to browse the themed merchandise stores found at most ride exits for a souvenir or addition to your collection at home. 

Remember to visit the website for seasonal events like Halloween!

** Sea World  ** 

Location:   Seaworld Drive, Main Beach Queensland 4217 

Opening Hours:10am -5pm DAILY 

Price: From $95.00 - additional passes and encounters extra

A day filled with aquatic entertainment, animal encounters, thrilling rides, and stunt performances offers the perfect adventure for families. Those seeking excitement can brave the rides, while others may relish a live show or savor the local fresh seafood with a glass of beer or wine. Children are likely to enjoy the water play area for some fun cooling down. No matter your motivation for visiting, it promises to be an experience to remember. To fully enjoy your day of adventure, remember to plan ahead and visit the website for information on any ongoing seasonal festivals.

NOTES- Sea world offers many additional encounters for additional charges be sure to consider these to make the most of your time here. 

** Dracula’s   ** 

Location:  1 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach QLD Queensland 4218 

Opening Hours: DAILY 

Price: From $115 Cabaret entry

This was an incredibly fun-filled night that I recommend adding to your list of activities. I won't reveal too much, as it's best experienced without any preconceived notions.

 Just a bit of advice: be ready for surprises, hearty laughter, and eye-rolling moments! Booking a dinner and show here was a decision I'm delighted with; it made for an excellent night out with our family

** Hard Rock ** 

Location: Cnr Cavill Ave & Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland 

Opening Hours: 

Price: VARIED - per menu

UPDATED - TEMP CLOSED 07/06/2024

I suppose it's the chance to experience the local ambiance... to savor the local music and enjoy a bite, whether at the bar or a table. This is the most laid-back Hard Rock Cafe I've ever visited. The outdoor area is a nice addition, providing an alternative to the usual indoor setting found elsewhere. It has all the Hard Rock classics, complemented by friendly service & Rock Shop.

** Local Markets - Surfers paradise Beach front** 

Location: The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise Queensland   

Opening Hours: 4pm -9pm Wednesday| Friday & Saturday

Price: VARIED per stall holder

A diverse array of stallholders populates the renowned Gold Coast Esplanade three nights a week. The relaxed atmosphere is palpable as you meander among the stalls, which offer an assortment of food, sweets, unique handmade gifts, and trinkets—there's something for everyone, pets included! 

For those seeking a local keepsake or aiming to support small businesses, this market is the ideal spot. Situated in a prime beachfront setting, it provides a pleasant promenade towards the evening's sunset. A wide selection of items awaits both locals and visitors, ranging from sweets, wax sculptures, and jewelry to toys, chocolate, apparel, donuts, and various other locally crafted gems.

** Timezone Australia** 

Location:  1, Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise Queensland 4217 

Opening Hours: 9am - Midnight DAILY

Price: VARIED

This was an excellent way to make the most of a rainy holiday. We spent a lot of time here, taking pleasure in everything the day had to offer. There were plenty of entertaining games, providing a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with the children and escape the unexpected weather. We were fortunate to accumulate many points, which made shopping for rewards as enjoyable as playing the game itself. Even if it's brief, I recommend making a quick stop here to give the kids a break from the traditional sights on the Gold Coast.

NOTE - TimeZone often offer double credits during long weekends and special dates, be sure to check out birthday offers also.

** Disability Water Sports  ** 

Location: QC AQUA PARK - Broadwater Parklands

Opening Hours: 11am -1pm WEDNESDAYS - CARER MUST ACCOMPANY

Price: FREE

MORE: Inclusion Sessions – GC Aqua Park 

I absolutely love this! It's a fantastic opportunity for individuals with adaptive needs. You're welcome to bring your carer and take part in this exclusive 10-week challenge. 

 Assemble a group of friends and relish two hours of water sports, with onsite skilled staff providing guidance in Swimming Lessons, Paddle Boarding, and more!

 NOTE - This program runs from October. BOOKINGS ESSENTAIL

** Outlet Shopping  - HARBOUR TOWN** 

Location:  147-189 Brisbane Rd
BIGGERA WATERS,QUEENSLAND 

Opening Hours: 9am -5.30pm 

Price: Free to visit +Purchases

Harbour Town's outlet shopping precinct is home to all the brands you know and love. From North Face, Peter Alexander, Coach, Seed, Ecco, to Smiggle and iPlay for the kids, there's something for everyone. Set within a contemporary design, you could effortlessly spend the entire day shopping. Start with breakfast to fuel up, take a break with lunch, or cap off your day with dinner at one of the many eateries available. Harbour Town is definitely worth a visit for those interested in discounted shopping. It's designed to provide a comprehensive retail, dining, and entertainment experience, all conveniently located on a single ground level for easy and accessible shopping.

NOTE - As a mother of a daughter with Down syndrome, I am deeply impressed by the inclusivity offered here for individuals with disabilities. Highlights include the availability of mobility device rentals, the comfort of ten air-conditioned restrooms designed for disabled visitors, dining options that cater to food allergies, and the provision of a Quiet Room for guests with sensory challenges to minimize sensory overload. Harbour Town proudly supports the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program and provides an impressive 61 dedicated disability parking bays.

** Gold Coast Aqua Park - inflatable water park ** 

Location: Broadwater Parklands

Opening Hours:10am - 4pm

Price: From $25 - packages available

Stay as little as 50 minutes upwards and enjoy this fun inflatable water park packed with many fun obstacles of all shapes and sizes. A visit here is well supervised with lifeguards on duty and compulsory life vests for all visitors. Lockers and a cafe are also available to be enjoyed by guests. 

A special area for the younger visitors is best suited to toddlers from 3-5 years old or you may choose to allow your special needs child to enjoy a calmer play area here. 

** Wet and Wild  - Water Park** 

Location:  Pacific Motorway, Oxenford Queensland 4210 

Opening Hours:  DAILY from 10am

Price: from Adult $99.00 | Child $89.00

I guess we can call this a seasonal option - Jam packed with fun on a hot day offering safe areas for imaginative role play and adventure! Small slides designed for an introduction to water rides create a welcoming environment for gatherings that include young children.

Thrill-seekers are spoiled for choice, and appetites can be satisfied with a menu that includes salads, wraps, fish and chips, burgers, and other favorites!

A trip is not complete without a family float down the lazy river encountering fun stop off points and waterfalls making this a great way to regroup and reset.  

** Pacific fair  - Local shopping** 

Location: Gold Coast Highway

Opening Hours: DAILY 9am -5.30pm later on thursdays

Price: Free to visit +Purchases

One of the must-see shopping experiences on the Gold Coast is the beautifully revamped Pacific Fair. It's truly amazing! The eatery is lavish and well laid out, offering seating for groups in fun booth areas, table options for couples, and, if I recall correctly, there were even seats with swings. The food offerings are exceptional; there's something for everyone. They've got it all covered, from simple toasted sandwiches to decadent desserts, all set within a delightful top-level dining area.

Shoppers can spend an entire day exploring the numerous opportunities available here, including spa services and retailers ranging from high-end to family-friendly franchises.

NOTE - The remodel thoughtfully includes accessible facilities, which I find commendable. The Adult change facility is particularly impressive, featuring an adult-sized change table, a shower next to the change table, a ceiling hoist with a 200kg weight limit (personal sling required), continence disposal bins, a large basin for easier washing, an alert button for emergency security assistance, and more. It's wonderful to witness the expanding opportunities for challenged community members and travelers to enjoy the same daily activities without limitations.

** Currumbin wildlife sanctuary   ** 

Location:  28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin Queensland 4223 

Opening Hours: DAILY 9am -4pm

Price: ADULT $64.95 |Child$49.95 | concession $51.95

Animal enthusiasts will delight in spending a day here, taking in everything the sanctuary has to offer. Don't miss the feeding frenzy when the local lorikeets gather for their dinner before closing time; it remains one of the most beloved attractions. 

The latest addition is the remarkable Homestead, providing an elegant dining experience from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm daily, offering a unique Outback experience to all sanctuary visitors. Additionally, there's now the chance to host your own wedding or event at the sanctuary. 

The traditional favorites are still available, with over 15 encounters to choose from during your visit, along with numerous workshops, shows, and experiences to enrich your day. And that's all before you even consider stopping by the gift shop or taking a ride on the park train.

** Aqua duck ride   ** 

Location:  36 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise Queensland 4217 

Opening Hours: DAILY 

Price: Adults $50 | Child $40 |Senior $50

The Aqua Duck was a great choice for our family and I’m sure if you have little ones they will appreciate being considered while taking a ride onboard. Once on the water children are offered the opportunity to drive the boat (a highlight for everyone on board) and will usually receive a certificate for doing so, a fun way to remember your holiday!

In addition to the onboard entertainment for children, adults can learn about local points of interest, such as celebrity homes by the water, and may even be greeted with a wave or two! 

The one-hour tour provides a unique perspective from both the road and the water. Children particularly enjoy the splash into the water and the amusing Duck Quack horn. The most noteworthy aspect is that it is a locally-owned venture.

** fish foot spa @ BAREFOOT FISH** 

Location: Shop 37 / Paradise Centre Shopping Centre, 2 Cavill Ave Surfers Paradise 

Opening Hours: 

Price: ADULT $60.00 |CHILD $50.00 - Ask about  Medicare subsidy 

It's definitely an experience worth trying! Submerging your feet in a tank of nibbling fish might seem unsettling, and it certainly feels strange at first, but it's quite astonishing! 

I was surprised to learn that this service is covered by Medicare, so remember to show your card if you're an Australian resident.

** Outback spectacular ** 

Location:  Pacific Motorway, Oxenford Queensland 4210 

Opening Hours: Evenings

Price: From $79.99 (adults @ Kids prices offer 

Australia's Outback Spectacular introduces their latest show, 'Heartland'. Experience a touching and engaging arena show complete with a three-course meal and beverages served during the performance, astonishing special effects, captivating animal acts, and a renowned cast. 

Immerse yourself in the Australian Outback Spectacular's iconic red barn setting, where a new arena show brings the outback to life. Witness a talented cast of Australian actors and cutting-edge technology portraying the struggles of farm life amidst a severe drought.

Follow the true story of farmers Reg and Marge who are struggling to keep their farm going after 5 years without rain. The story depicts the real struggles of Australian farmers and life in the outback as told through humour, quirky characters and friendship set to the soundtrack of popular Australian country music. Using the latest projection technology and with the help of some incredibly talented horses and their riders, see the arena transform into a variety of harsh outback landscapes that give the illusion of rugged plains, green fields, red dust, rocky outcrops, stampeding cattle, fire and rain.

NOTE -  Promotion of ‘adults at kids’ prices 

Includes 1. Pre show entertainment; 2. A hat; 3. The 2 hour show; and 4. Three course meal and drinks.

Great value in my opinion. 

** Skypoint Climb - Q1 building   ** 

Location:  Level 77 of Q1 Resort, 9 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise Queensland 4217 

Opening Hours: DAILY 

Price: FROM Adult $92.00 - Must be 12 yrs or older

The SkyPoint Climb is a quintessential Gold Coast adventure; it offers an exhilarating, open-air ascent on one of Queensland's signature structures, the Q1 Resort Building.

This is defiantly not on my Bucket list - I am terrified of Hights, but if this sounds like something you might like to do then the closest, I can offer is .......Envision standing on a platform 270 meters above sea level, surrounded by breathtaking views of golden sands, verdant tropical mountains, and the sprawling cityscape of the Gold Coast beneath you...Enjoy!

NOTE - Offers are quite desirable at times well worth consideration to enhance your experience including twilight and dining offers. 

** Dreamworld  ** 

Location:  Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera Queensland 4209 

Opening Hours:  DAILY 10.30-4pm | weekends till 5pm

Price: Adult $10.005 |Child $95.00 - other options available see website

This destination is popular with thrill-seekers, featuring exciting OMG rides that are a hit with teenagers. It's also welcoming for families, with Wiggle World offering a big red car ride, shows, and photo opportunities for all ages. The park also provides unique animal interactions for those looking for an up-close experience. When it comes to dining, expect the usual theme park offerings. Seasonal events are also often offered here be sure to check your visit dates to not miss out on any additional activities that may be on offer here. 

** Whitewater World  ** 

Location:  Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera Queensland 4209 

Opening Hours:  DAILY 10am - 5pm - CLOSED DURING WINTER MONTHS

Price: TBA new season

As the largest waterpark in Australia, WhiteWater World features over 140 rides, slides, and attractions. Notable highlights are the Cave of Waves wave pool, the Pipeline Plunge splash zone, The Rip family raft ride, and The Wedgie, a five-story power slide that courses through a translucent pipe and barrel. A suitable day for the entire family with offers of slides and fund for all ages.

** Ripleys believe it or not   ** 

Location:  Soul Boardwalk, Cavill Mall, Surfers Paradise Queensland 4217 

Opening Hours: DAILY 9am - 10pm 

Price: Adult $31.90 | Child $23.90

As a passionate fan of Ripley's, I find its offerings utterly fascinating, making it impossible to omit this famous two-tiered attraction from any list. Nearly every visit to QLD includes a stop at Ripley's, where I've witnessed its evolution into the remarkable museum it stands today. It's filled with exhibits that truly challenge your sense of belief! "Just Do It" - this phrase also serves as an ideal option for wet weather, so monitor the forecast to strategically incorporate this into your itinerary.

Queensland offers so much more than its beaches and makes for a very family friendly holiday location, Heading North you will experience offerings of rainforests, Train rides, cultural walks and talks, museums, local art and craft and so much more.  

Let's talk CAIRNS - TO BE UPDATE by late SEPTEMBER 2024

** Aquarium** 

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** Beach (town)** 

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** Night Markets   ** 

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** Boat to barrier reef - GREEN ISLAND ** 

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If you are xpecting to be welcomed by picture perfect snorkeling opportunities I'm here to offer you an update. The reef is sadly suffering the many modern-day elements and its true to say dying. This once spectacular Ocean wonderland has now become a sad dull sight to see.  Unfortunately, the reef faces threats due to climate change, including the most obvious coral bleaching. 

It is still worth the trip? 

ABSOLUTELY!

Our recent trip (June 2024) had us experience many encounters with the turtles (and one reef shark). I was here for the turtles, so I was fulfilled and content with my day having viewed a total of 6 over my 1/2-day visit. We chose to visit Green Island however there are other entry points to the GBF you may choose Cape York OR Bundaberg. 

**Glass Bottom Boat  ** 

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**Cultural walks & Talks  ** 

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