Family fun at Coomera Lodge Hotel’s Mini Masters.
Family fun at Coomera Lodge Hotel’s Mini Masters.
The Coomera Lodge Hotel has teed up the ultimate summer activity that will putt you in the mood for fun! Introducing Mini Masters – a pop-up putt-putt experience nestled right in the heart of this family-friendly venue. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or more of a Happy Gilmore, this is your chance to show off your skills while soaking up the sunshine and good vibes.
Until 18th April, you can let your competitive streak run wild as you make your way around the Mini Masters course and work up an appetite. As if the promise of putt-putt wasn’t enough, let’s talk about the extras that make this venue a hole-in-one.
The Coomera Lodge Hotel is the ideal locale to keep the good times rolling after your round of mini-golf. The recent renovations have transformed it into a versatile destination for all occasions. Whether you’re savouring a delicious meal in the stylish bistro, enjoying the sunshine and river views from the expansive beer garden or relaxing with friends at The Perch, there’s a perfect spot for everyone. Sports fans will love the revamped sports bar, while families can rejoice in the addition of a vibrant new playground, ensuring the little ones stay entertained. Sit back with a cold drink from the fully stocked bar while the little ones burn off their energy – it’s the ultimate win-win.
The menu is packed with crowd-pleasers that’ll keep everyone happy. Think Macaroni & cheese croquettes with green tomato jalapeno relish and parmesan crisp, Fried chicken karaage with Gochujang mayo and pickled ginger as well as sharing platters for the whole family to enjoy, like the Coomera meat plate with southern slaw, sweet pickles, jacket potato, chicken wings, pork riblets, grilled corn, beef brisket, grilled pita bread and billinudgel hot sauce.
From hearty pub classics like beer battered fish and chips to fresh salads like crispy wonton salad with BBQ prawns, mango, coconut, spanish onion, grilled capsicum, crispy wonton and macadamia nut dressing, there’s something for everyone including a dedicated kids’ menu for the littlest members of your crew (and yes, chicken nuggets and plant-based nuggets are on it!).
No matter the scorecard, there will be sweet treats that’ll make everyone smile. As you line up your shot, the kids will be busy cooling off with a scoop (or three) from the gelato cart, sipping on colourful, icy delights from the recently acquired slushie machine or getting creative at the new lolly wall, where they can add their fave lollies to their slushies.
So why not make the Mini Masters your go-to destination for family fun this summer? Whether it’s a weekend outing, a school holiday adventure or just an excuse to put a little more putt into your routine, Coomera Lodge Hotel Mini Masters is a tee-rific way to make memories and enjoy the northern Gold Coast all summer long.
For more details, check out their event page here.
Where: Coomera Lodge Hotel, 160 Maudsland Road, Oxenford
When: Until April 18th
Words by Lisette Drew
STORY SPONSORED BY COOMERA LODGE HOTEL
Playgrounds, pints and good times at the revamped Hope Island Tavern.
It’s official—Hope Island Tavern has had the ultimate glow-up.
Tucked in the heart of Hope Island, this much-loved local watering hole is stepping into its 2.0 era with a complete renovation, and trust us, it’s ticking all the boxes.
Whether you’re seeking a lazy family lunch, a cheeky drink with mates, or a front-row seat to the game of the season, this is your new go-to for good times on the Goldie.
Gone are the days of the old tavern setup (RIP, but thanks for the memories). Now, you’re greeted with a lush new beer garden that’s basically sunshine and happiness rolled into one.
Picture this: picnic tables nestled under market umbrellas, surrounded by greenery and a vibe that screams coastal cool. Add a playground and voilà—you’ve got the ultimate family-friendly destination.
It’s all about alfresco living here, and LBH, is it even a Queensland pub if you can’t sip a cold one while soaking up some rays?
Inside, the revamp leans into the tavern’s coastal retro vibe, with green stripes and rattan setting the scene for a relaxed yet elevated experience.
The bistro has had a zhuzh-up too, and the sports bar is now a sports fan’s dream come true.
We’re talking mega screens showing all the live action, so whether it’s the cricket or footy that gets your heart racing, you won’t miss a beat. And with plenty of seating options, there’s always room for your crew.
Now let’s talk about the menu because, honestly, we’re always thinking about food.
The good news is they’ve kept your fave pub classics, because who doesn’t love a Chicken Parmy or a good Smash Burger?
But they’ve also gone next-level with some seriously drool-worthy additions.
Case in point: the Prawn & Bug Rolls, slathered with chervil mayo and paired with crispy fries. Or how about the Sauteed Prawns with Chorizo, swimming in smoked paprika butter and sherry and served with house-made focaccia for mopping up every last drop?
Then there’s the pièce de résistance—the Salsiccia Pizza, straight out of the wood-fired oven, with mozzarella, pork and fennel sausage, caramelised onion, broccoli, and thyme. It’s basically a party on a plate.
We hope you left room for dessert. The gelato station is a hit with kids and adults alike, and for the grown-ups feeling a little extra, you can even opt for a boozy gelato paired with your favourite liqueur. Genius, right?
If all that wasn’t enough, Hope Island Tavern’s weekly programming seals the deal. Thursday nights mean trivia, Fridays are for tradies with a BBQ and live music from 5pm, and Saturdays bring free kids’ entertainment from 2pm, followed by more live tunes.
Sundays? It’s Family Fun Day, featuring activities for the little ones and a classic Sunday Roast that’s calling your name.
Venue Manager Troy Williams nailed it when he said the renovation was all about putting the community front and centre. And with a massive local’s weekend celebration planned for January, it’s clear that Hope Island Tavern isn’t just back—it’s better than ever.
So, whether you’re rolling in for the gelato, the pizza, or just want to kick back in the beer garden with a frosty brew, this newly revamped tavern is where the good vibes live. Don’t walk, run—because this place is about to become the talk of the town. Cheers to that!
Where: 93 Broadwater Ave, Hope Island
When: Sunday – Thursday 10am – 10pm, Friday – Saturday 10am – 12am
Website: hopeislandtavern.com.au
Instagram: @hopeislandtavern
Words by Belinda Symons
STORY SPONSORED BY HOPE ISLAND TAVERN
Step one: save, screenshot, and plaster this list to every surface.
Ah, summer school holidays, our old foe.. we meet again. Six magical, memory-filled.. very long weeks of slogging it out keeping the mini-me’s entertained (and your sanity intact, ideally)… some days, it really do be feeling like an endless summer.
Never fear, parents, carers, ‘funcles’ and ‘faunties’ – we got you. But like, not like, in a ‘child minding’ way (soz), more in a ‘thoughts, prayers, and compiling the best school holiday activities on the Gold Coast into one handy list’ kind of way.. aka, this very bible of boredom busters you have clicked upon.
Screenshot it, send it on, stash it for safe keeping and stick it to all your most important surfaces (fridge door, namely). At some point (right around day three, lbh) your (mildly exhausted) future self will be eternally grateful.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a school holiday favourite for good reason. From hands-on holiday programs for kids aged 5–16 years to animal encounters, shows and the always-popular Feed the Rainbow Lorikeets at 8am and 4pm daily, there’s plenty to keep little wildlife lovers entertained. Add in the Treetop Challenge zipline, park train and Outback Adventure Precinct and you’ve got a full-day winner.
Until 24 December, the sanctuary also hosts Wild Christmas, transforming the park into a festive family escape. Expect Christmas photo ops without the shopping centre chaos, surprise elf sightings, and meet-and-greets with Blinky Bill, Nutsy the Koalas and the Christmas Fairy, all included with day tickets (and free for National Trust members).
When the sun goes down, Astra Lumina Gold Coast lights up the sanctuary with a magical, after-dark walking trail through the bushland (ticketed separately).
Where: 28 Tomewin St, Currumbin
Hold on to your HOTA’s, because the Gold Coast’s cultural hub is serving up a dreamy school holiday win for little creatives. This summer, the Children’s Gallery is home to Cloudy with a Chance of Art, a playful, imagination-fuelled exhibition that turns daydreaming into an art form. Running until 1st February, the sky’s the limit as kids explore cloud-inspired artworks by some of Australia’s most celebrated artists, alongside hands-on, interactive activities designed to spark creativity.
It’s not just about looking either, this immersive experience invites little visitors to imagine, create and play, with sky-themed activities that’ll keep tiny hands busy and minds buzzing (all in blissful air-conditioning, no less). Best of all, entry is completely free. No bookings, no tickets, just drop in anytime between 10am and 4pm.
While you’re there, make a day of it. Let the kids roam the outdoor play spaces, cool off by the lake, grab a bite at HOTA Café, or catch a family-friendly flick at HOTA Cinema. A summer must-do for curious kids and culture-loving parents alike.
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
Paradise Centre is making waves these school holidays with a summer lineup designed for maximum fun in the sun. From 3–11 January, spend $50 in one transaction and take on the Beach Locker Challenge, where you can unlock a locker packed with epic prizes including pool rings, sunnies, bags, vouchers and more (find it daily from 1pm–4pm near Newsextra).
There’s also Ping Pong Paradise, serving up free table tennis action daily from 9am–8pm in the beachfront precinct – paddles, balls and bragging rights all sorted. Keep an eye out for the lively lifeguard duo, making a splash daily from 1pm–4pm, and don’t forget to swing past the Pop-up Sunscreen Station for free sunscreen and neon zinc, open 11am–2pm from 3–11 January.
And if all else fails, the rag-tag entertainment gang – Timezone, Zone Bowling and Padlock’d, have never let us down yet.
Where: 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Sanctuary Cove is turning up the summer vibes with five days of free(ish) family fun in the Marine Village from Monday 19 to Friday 23 January (10am–2pm daily). Expect inflatable chaos on the waterfront, with the Wipeout Challenge running 19, 21 & 23 January, and the Radical Run Race taking over on 20 & 22 January, perfect for kids who need to burn off that school holiday energy.
How to play? Simply spend $20+ at any Sanctuary Cove retailer and show your receipt to score a turn on the inflatables. Then stick around for waterfront dining, boutique shopping and all the breezy marina vibes.
Where: The Marine Village, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Need a break from all that festive cheer (and obsessively vacuuming up tinsel that just. keeps. coming)? Might we suggest tinsel town for a refreshing change of pace. On select dates until 23 December, experience White Christmas, with the park’s biggest parade, festive characters, magical precincts and rides under the stars, Movie World style.
Then, as the school holidays roll on, Hooray For Hollywood returns to the streets of Warner Bros. Movie World from 28 December to 18 January. Expect their biggest-ever Movie Magic Parade, glitzy street entertainment and cameos from an all-star cast, including classic characters and all your (we mean… your kids’) favourites.
And if you needed one more excuse to visit, the SCOOBY-DOO! Spooky Coaster has just reopened open. Case closed.
Where: Warner Bros Movie World, Pacific Mwy, Oxenford
Get ready to roll into Rollerama, the GC’s roller-skating rink at Carrara Markets. This vibrant addition to the markets transformed the existing events arena into a permanent roller-skating haven.
Picture disco lights, graffiti walls, and a live DJ, creating an electric atmosphere with over 500 pairs of light-up roller skates available for hire. Lace-up for 2-hour skating sessions every Friday and Saturday night, plus daytime fun on Saturdays and Sundays alongside the regular markets.
Calling all parents: Rollerama is the ultimate school holiday destination with skate sessions every weekday. Plus, they’re open Monday to Friday from 9am to 3pm during school holidays.
No need to book. Just roll up on the day or secure your spot online. Let the good times roll!
Where: Carrara Markets, 2 Market Street, Carrara
Oh, how we (and by association, our eternally ‘bored’ offspring) love the City of Gold Coast’s array of free and low-cost activities on offer thanks to the Gold Coast Active & Healthy Program. There’s stacks of stuff going down daily for all ages, so jump on their website and compare calendars stat (pro tip, filter by ‘school holidays’). Get amongst everything from junior park runs, colour blast obstacle courses and summer dance parties to hip hop workshops (one our own kidlets can attest to).
Where: Various locations across the Gold Coast
Gold Coast Recreation Precinct is shaking up school holiday fun with half-day sessions of outdoor adventure activities for kids aged 8+. This isn’t the usual holiday entertainment – it’s an opportunity to ditch the couch, step out of the comfort zone, and dive into activities like Canoeing, Kayaking and Abseiling with Quick Jumps, all in supportive and fun environment. Bookings are essential, and at just $37.45 per child, spots won’t last long. Give your kids a holiday experience they’ll never forget! Dates from 5th January.
Where: 1525 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
The NaturallyGC Kids school holiday program gives your intrepid adventurers the chance to explore.. and dare we say… learn (shhh).. about the Gold Coast’s natural environment, with a range of range of nature-based activities on offer. Book them in for heaps of free workshops, and switch screen time for green time with deep dive sessions such as ‘Mini marine biologists’, ‘Little Twitches’, ’Koala Kids’ and ‘Scaly Reptiles’ all on offer. It’s giving Totally Wild (#iykyk, 90’s kids).
Where: Various locations across the Gold Coast
As always, there’s action packed adventure days a plenty happening at KDV Sport School Holiday Camps. Kiddos aged 5–13 are catered for, with more options than you can poke a tennis racquet at – mini golf, tennis, dodge-ball, swimming, basketball, table tennis, padel tennis, arts & crafts, talent shows, rock climbing aaaand *pauses dramatically to inhale* cricket all on offer. We’re exhausted just reading all that. The kids will be begging to go back and try them all.
Where: 221 Nerang Broadbeach Rd, Carrara
Celebrate the Christmas season, Coolangatta-style, at The Strand, with festive fun for the whole family (yes, even your four-legged besties). This December, the centre is turning up the holiday cheer with a calendar of free, family-friendly experiences designed to make Christmas shopping a little more magical.
For the first time ever, Santa will be visiting The Strand until 24 December, giving families the chance to snap a festive photo while ticking off the Christmas list. There are also special Paws & Santa Claus sessions on 11, 13, 19 and 21 December, so your furry friends don’t miss out on the fun.
Kids can get hands-on at Santa’s Bake House from 20–24 December, with a free in-centre Christmas cookie decorating workshop popping up on the ground floor, the perfect sweet treat to keep little elves entertained.
Where: The Strand at Coolangatta, Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Unil 24 December, Broadbeach Mall transforms into a magical Gingerbread Village, serving up free family fun and festive cheer beside The Oasis Shopping Centre.
By day (10am–3pm daily), book into festive workshops featuring gingerbread cookie decorating, Christmas crafts and storytime theatre. At night (5pm–8pm daily), meet Santa and his elves, snap a free Santa selfie and post your wish list at Santa’s Post Office.
Don’t miss Movies Under the Stars at Kurrawa Park on Friday 19 December, with a free screening of Arthur Christmas from 7pm.
Where: Broadbeach Mall, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Although our city is known for sunshine, the weather gods have been known to frown upon us with iffy conditions in summer. Although including this in our list makes sunshine inevitable, so you’re welcome. In the event of rain, to prevent your kiddos from suffering dreary weather moods #theworst, check out our list of things to do indoors when it’s raining on the Coast.
Words by Belinda Symons
Doughed, you complEAT me.
If a bakehouse café is your jam (doughnut), then go to Doughed, go directly to Doughed. Do not collect $200….and if you’ve never played Monopoly, you’re hearing crickets right now. This Hope Island newcomer is literal heaven, serving up cracking good coffee (and mind-blowingly good matchas), taste-bud-titillating toasted focaccia sangas, and the holy grail of sweetness, doughnuts.
And if you’re thinking ‘oh but my waistline…’, stress not because the centre is 100% fat free #EatMoreHoleFoods. They also specialise in choice chunky NYC style cookies, fresh outta the oven and straight into your belly.
This gastronomic Graceland is the brainchild of prior café owners and smart cookies Alannah Bell, Kyle Davidson, Yuki Soga, Jay Jeon, who wanted to revolutionize the GC dining experience with a one-stop-shop satisfying every craving. Recognising the immense potential of Hope Island and its promising trajectory for growth, they landed on northern Gold Coast fave, Hope Island Marketplace to set up shop. On behalf of all northerns, we salute you.
Opening to a frenzy of food lovers in mid March, locals were instantly wooed by the vibrancy and vitality Doughed brought to their ‘hood. Providing both indoor and outdoor seating options, it’s more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s the perfect spot for friends and fam to come together and share their passion for doughlicious food.
Inside, they’ve crafted a clean, minimalist vibe with just the right splash of color courtesy of their bright blue logo and eye-catching packaging. It’s a space that’s both calming and invigorating, setting the perfect backdrop for your Doughed experience.
Everything on the menu will evoke your inner foodie, but let’s take a moment to shout out their signature dishes. The Early Riser Focaccia Sandwich is available all day and rises to any occasion. The slice of life we all need features maple bacon, a fried egg, hash brown, American cheddar, tomato relish, and everyone’s fave; aioli. If you’re keen to grab another, their other focaccias are just as smashing including Chicken Schnitzel, The Doughed Reuben, The Benny, Mortadella Medley, and The Vego.
Back to the sweet stuff, their signature dish Chunky NYC Cookies race out the door faster than Jono hooking up with Ellie post MAFS, including Hot Cocoa, Ferrero, Biscoff, Salted Caramel Pretzel, Red Velvet to name a few. For the doughnut devotees, have a go of Vanilla Glazed, Crème Brulee, Tirimisu, Apple Crumble, Gaytime, Strawberries and Cream and more. Apologies in advance to your dentist.
A visit to Doughed isn’t complete without a beverage and our vote goes to their signature Iced Strawberry Matcha. Using the highest possible qualiTEA, we dare you find a better drop.
Coffee lovers are in for a treat too with their already-famous coffee brews, or if you’d like to cool off with something fruity, grab an Allie’s Cold Pressed Juice, available in flavours like Watermelon, Daily Greens, Sublime Pine, or Valencia Orange. They also serve frappes, standard teas, and sparkling iced tea.
So, dough’nt delay! Pop in and say hi (and nom) to this new kid on the block, where focaccia fantasies, doughnut dreams, matcha memories, and cookie castles-in-the-sky are made.
Where: 99-103 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island
When: 7am- until sold out (due to high demand), Monday to Sunday
Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Mathilde Bouby
