The ‘gig guide’ for fam-friendly Easter fun!
The ‘gig guide’ for fam-friendly Easter fun!
Ahhh school holidays. That special time when we get to do fun things with our mini-me’s …only to run out of entertainment inspo three days in and panic #RocksInCornerWithGlassOfSav.
Never fear Gold Coast mums and dads, as we have a list of to-do’s to keep your kiddos occupied (and you sane) across the whole Easter school holidays. And wanna know the best part? The majority are free, or super cheap and cheerful!
Here we go (listed north to south)…
Looking for a fun way to keep the kids entertained these school holidays? Sanctuary Cove Marine Village has plenty happening, headlined by the return of its much-loved Easter Eggstravaganza on Sunday 5 April (10am–2pm).
The Marine Village will transform into an Easter wonderland filled with free family fun, including pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, train rides, Kilkie Cruises and more. Kids can also take part in an Easter scavenger adventure, following clues around the precinct before collecting a chocolate reward (registration required).
For something extra special, families can upgrade to the VIP Easter Experience ($20pp), which includes a private meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny, a chocolate treat, drink or ice cream voucher, and a take-home gift bag.
Plus, during the school holidays (weekdays 6–17 April), families can enjoy Kids Eat Free offers at selected venues and go into the draw to win Dreamworld passes.
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
We wouldn’t dream of omitting the home of all things thrills this school holidays. For a feast of flavour, entertainment and fun, Dreamworld’s Street Food Festival returns from 5–27 April, serving up global eats across three vibrant zones, Europe, Latin America and Asia.
Tuck into everything from dumplings and bratwurst to loaded burgers, churros and bubble tea, while live entertainment brings the park to life with Latin dancers, Japanese drumming, Luchador wrestling and more. Best of all, it’s all included with your Dreamworld entry.
Little ones can also enjoy Easter Bilby Week (3–9 April), with family-friendly activities including a bilby scavenger hunt, cookie decorating, face painting and more.
Where: Dreamworld Pkwy, Coomera
Need a break from the usual school holiday chaos? Head to Hollywood instead. Back by popular demand, Hooray for Hollywood returns from 3–19 April, bringing golden-age glamour to the streets of Warner Bros. Movie World.
Expect extended park hours (9:30am–6pm), limited-time entertainment, and plenty of star-studded moments as you mingle with an all-star cast of classic Hollywood characters. The Movie Magic Parade lights up the park daily, adding even more sparkle to your visit.
And of course, you can still take on all your favourite rides, including the ever-iconic SCOOBY-DOO! Spooky Coaster.
Where: Warner Bros Movie World, Pacific Mwy, Oxenford
DinoFest is stomping back onto the Gold Coast these Easter school holidays — running from 3–19 April 2026 (excluding April 8–9 & 14–15), plus preview weekends on March 21–22 and 28–29, and it’s bigger than ever.
Taking over Country Paradise Parklands in Nerang, this outdoor prehistoric adventure features 30+ life-sized dinosaurs, including a roaring T-Rex, walking Triceratops and plenty of baby dinos kids can pat.
Expect a 45-minute Dinosaur Encounter, a brand-new Dino Trail, plus hands-on fun like dino digs, fossil experiences and themed arts and crafts.
Perfect for younger kids (especially under 9), it’s an interactive, screen-free day out — with tickets from $26 for kids and $28.50 for adults (under 2s free).
Where: Country Paradise Parklands, Nerang
Calling all little (and big) softies, the Teddy Bear High Tea Buffet is arriving just in time for the school holidays. Created in collaboration with Build-A-Bear, this adorable experience pairs a high tea buffet with a cuddly take-home teddy (one per two guests).
Be among the first to experience it on 11 and 18 April, where guests can enjoy sweet and savoury treats, a glass of sparkling for adults, and a special drink for the kids. Guests attending on 11 April can also take part in a Build-A-Bear Heart Ceremony, adding an extra magical touch to their keepsake.
The experience runs from 12:30pm to 2:30pm, with tickets priced at $105 for adults and $60 for children aged 4 to 12.
Where: 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
Level up your school holidays with QT Gold Coast’s playful new Power-Up High Tea, a nostalgic, Mario-inspired feast that’s almost too fun to eat. Step into a pixelated wonderland of colourful treats, whimsical toadstools and surprise-filled bites, served daily from 11am–2pm, unitl 8 May.
Expect a tiered spread of sweet and savoury delights, paired with tea or coffee and a refreshing iced drink, all designed to unlock a little childhood joy with every bite. Priced at $74 per person or $44 for kids (5–12), it’s a deliciously fun twist on the classic high tea.
On select days, little creatives can also join the ‘Shake & Create’ Easter decorating classes, where they’ll design their own chocolate toadstool masterpiece with guidance from QT’s chefs. $35 per child includes a milkshake and take-home creation. Held on Wednesday 8 April and Saturday 11 April from 12:30pm.
Where: 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Hop to it, because the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets are going full Easter mode this long weekend! On Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th April from 4pm–9pm, the iconic Esplanade will come alive with over 100 artisan stalls, live music, and festive fun.
Expect handmade treasures, coastal breezes, and that unbeatable beachfront atmosphere. The Easter Bunny will be hopping in for meet-and-greets from 5pm–8pm both nights, perfect for those egg-stra cute photo ops, plus there’ll be family-friendly activities and plenty of chocolate to go around.
Where: The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Hop into the Easter spirit at Paradise Centre this April, where festive fun is in full swing for the whole family! From cracking prizes to hands-on workshops, there’s something for every bunny.
Spend $50 in-centre from 4–6 April (12pm–4pm) and try your luck at Crack An Egg for a guaranteed $50 gift voucher. Every egg’s a winner. Little ones can also get creative at the FREE Paradise Hoppy Hollow craft workshops (2–7 April, 1pm–4pm), where they’ll make their own hopping bunny to take home (bookings recommended).
Keep an eye out for a special Easter Bunny meet & greet on 2 April (11am–2pm), plus your chance to win one of three chocolate-loaded Easter hampers via Paradise Centre’s socials.
Once you’ve loaded up on treats from All Sorts of Sweets, Woolworths, Newsextra, Priceline and more, take the excitement up a notch at Timezone, Freak VR, MANIAX Axe Throwing, or Padlock’d Escape Room.
Now that’s what we call an egg-cellent holiday lineup! Find out all the details here.
Where: 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Step into a world of colour, culture and creativity these school holidays at HOTA with Aka Sorbie: Saltwater Heart, a vibrant new Children’s Gallery exhibition by Torres Strait Island artist Lisa Sorbie Martin.
Inspired by memories of her childhood, this immersive experience invites families to explore reef life, play in an island hut cubby, relax under the story tree, and get hands-on with art and pattern-making at Aka’s creative table. It’s a beautiful space designed to bring people together, share stories, and connect with First Nations culture and the natural environment.
Perfect for curious little minds, this interactive exhibition blends play, learning and storytelling in a meaningful and engaging way.
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
The Langham Gold Coast is serving up a fun-filled School Holiday Program from Friday 3rd to Sunday 19th April, packed with activities for kids and a little luxury for parents.
Little guests can enjoy everything from family yoga and Easter egg hunts to arts and crafts, pizza making and cupcake decorating. There’s also plenty of energy-burning fun with kids discos, sandcastle making and beach volleyball, making it easy to fill the days with creativity, movement and play.
Best of all, the program is open to the public, so you don’t need to be staying at the hotel to join in the fun.
Where: The Langham, Surfers Paradise
Hop into the Easter spirit with Madison’s Easter Cupcake Decorating Workshop, a fun, hands-on activity perfect for little creators. Held on 9 April at 2pm, kids can decorate two Easter-themed cupcakes using colourful icing, sprinkles and toppings, with all tools provided.
Each child also receives a drink of their choice, making it a sweet and creative school holiday treat.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
There’s plenty happening at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary these school holidays, with a wild line-up of Easter fun, hands-on programs and unforgettable animal encounters.
Running from 8–17 April, the popular school holiday programs return for kids aged 5–12, plus a teen zookeeping experience for ages 13–16. Expect wildlife adventures, interactive learning and plenty of time outdoors connecting with nature.
Don’t miss the return of the Jaw-Dropping Croc Talks (daily at 1pm, 3–19 April), where reptile experts share fascinating facts and, if you’re lucky, a live feeding. There’s also Wild Wonderland, featuring egg hunts, crafts and family-friendly activities throughout the park.
For something truly unique, Astra Lumina is offering kids free entry all April (with a paying adult), transforming the Sanctuary into an immersive light and sound experience after dark.
Where: 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
The Strand has your school holidays sorted with a line-up of free family-friendly activities.
On Saturday 4 April, the Easter Bunny will be hopping through the centre from 9:30am–1:30pm, handing out free Cadbury Easter eggs (first in, best dressed!).
The fun continues from 7–11 April, with a free Kids Art Takeover Zone running daily from 11am–3pm on Level 1. Expect colourful, hands-on activities including spinning paint stations, face painting and a colouring competition with prizes up for grabs.
It’s free, it’s creative, and it’s the perfect easy day out these school holidays.
Where: 72-80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
NaturallyGC holiday programs are FREE and specifically designed to connect kids with nature and encourage outdoor play and learning. The Totally Wild vibing workshops cater to all interests and ages with a range of nature-based activities on offer across the holidays. There’s Scaly Reptiles or Make a Bug Hotel for the creepy crawly fans to slither in to, Creatures of the Sea to captivate the budding marine biologists, raft building sessions, and more.
Where: Various Gold Coast locations
The Get More Oomph Skipping Battle is bouncing into Justin’s Park on Friday 17 April, bringing a morning of high-energy fun for kids and families these school holidays. Supported by Dairy Farmers, this free event will see skipping sensation Lauren Jumps go head-to-head with Australian champion Luke Boon in an epic skip-off showdown, alongside a meet and greet with Gold Coast Suns players. Expect plenty of skipping activities for all ages, plus Dairy Farmers samples to keep everyone fuelled. It’s all happening from 9am –11am at Justin’s Park on the Gold Coast, just bring your energy and get ready to jump in. Register here.
Where: Justin’s Park, The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads
Climb, slide, swing… repeat!
Where can you keep kids entertained for hours…or at least long enough for you to enjoy a coffee in peace? Playgrounds!! And you’re in luck, because we have 8 amazing Gold Coast playgrounds for you and your little ones to try! From jungle gyms to mega slides, we have ’em all!
Whether you’re chasing a shady spot, a sunny spot, waterfront views, or an all-abilities playground everyone can enjoy, there’s something for every family. Pack snacks, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure- we’re going to the playground!
Say hello to Lorikeet Park, the newest playground on the Gold Coast- just opened this week. She’s bright (literally a sculpture of a lorikeet), she’s modern, and she’s full of fun! Spanning over two hectares, Lorikeet Park is suitable for toddlers through to teens, expect climbing challenges, big slides, large open green spaces, Insta-worthy lookouts and even a flying fox! However, the highlight would have to be the huge 500-person amphitheatre set for moonlight cinemas, concerts and Christmas events. The park overlooks Southport down to Burleigh Heads, making it the perfect spot for a picnic or BBQ.
Where: Skyridge Bvd, Worongary
Greenheart Parklands is leafy, spacious, and perfect for a whole family day out. You may need multiple days to get through all this park has to offer! Expect bike tracks, climbing areas/walls, water troughs, mini trampolines, winding tunnel slides, net bridges, balance beams and plenty of swings to cater for every ability. There’s a dedicated toddler play zone, walking pathways, an on-site cafe, a half basketball court, and a dog off-leash park, too! The playground is fully fenced, and the parklands cover 22.5 hectares.
Where: Stadium Dr, Robina
An absolute favourite and a Gold Coast classic, Broadwater Parklands Peninsula Playground is set along the waterfront with stunning views. Kids can race between swings, slides, and climbing structures while parents enjoy the riverside walking paths or shaded picnic areas. This playground is great for energetic toddlers and school-aged children alike, with many all-abilities inclusions! A highlight would have to be the 4-level spiral tower full of interactive play equipment like a glockenspiel, binoculars, telescopes and rope tunnels. The open design also makes it easy to keep an eye on everyone. Parking is plentiful and there’s usually a coffee cart (score!)
Where: Marine Parade, Southport
Inspired by local culture, Livvi’s Place integrates stories of the Indigenous Seasons Calendar for a colourful, art-filled experience. It’s packed with climbing structures, slides, a suspended rope bridge, multiple swings, a double flying fox and sensory play features suitable for all abilities. Parents will appreciate the shaded seating areas and the fully fenced layout. There are picnic tables and grassy areas, making it ideal for a snack or a family lunch. With ample parking and facilities close by, it’s a stress-free day out.
Where: 60 Boundary St, Tweed Heads
Schuster Park is jungle-themed and packed with adventure. With two mega slides (a standout), nets, tunnels, and even musical features along the sand paths, kids aged 4+ can challenge themselves while using imagination and coordination. Parents can relax in shady areas nearby while watching their little explorers tackle climbing structures and balance paths. It’s a great park for picnics, casual games, or simply letting children roam safely. Toilets and parking are on site, and the nearby Tallebudgera Creek makes it easy to extend your adventure with a splash after play.
Where: 506 Schusters Road, Tallebudgera
Kurrawa All Abilities Park is designed so every child can play, regardless of age or ability. With wheelchair-accessible equipment, sensory features, slides, and inclusive play spaces, this playground is fun for the whole family. Parents can watch from shaded seating areas or picnic tables while kids explore safely. Nearby facilities, including toilets, cafes and parking, make it convenient for a long day out. It’s the ultimate playground for family adventures where everyone can join in the fun!
Where: Old Burleigh Road (opposite Elizabeth Ave), Broadbeach
Ahoy, mateys! Pirate Park is a seaside playground perfect for imaginative play. Kids can climb, swing, and slide on pirate ships and rope bridges, imagining they’re off on a big adventure. Parents can relax on benches in the shade or stroll along the beachfront while keeping an eye on their little ones. It’s a fun stop for toddlers and older children alike, with grassy areas for running and sand pits for sensory play. Toilets and parking are close by, as is Dune Cafe (recommend), so you can grab a coffee or a snack.
Where: 945 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
Country Paradise Park is exactly what it sounds like: a little slice of country-themed playground heaven. Climbing frames, swings, slides, and sprawling green spaces make it perfect for family outings. The hero is an 11.5m windmill with a mega slide, accessed via a water-tank tunnel and swing bridge! There’s a variety of equipment for all ages- toddlers will enjoy smaller slides and sand areas, while older children can challenge themselves on larger climbing structures. With picnic areas, shady spots, toilets, and safe parking, it’s easy to spend a few hours here. And lucky us, there might be a cafe coming soon!
Where: 231 Beaudesert Nerang Rd, Nerang
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
There’s more to the glitter strip than glitter!
It’s right under our nose, but sometimes we forget how many activities there are for the small, medium, and big kids (aka us) in good ‘ole Surfers Paradise. And we’re not just talking about the beach, but a myriad of other cool stuff to keep them entertained and whinge-free these school holidays.
Here are ten ideas to help fill the blanks in your school holiday schedule, with some old faves and a few newbies thrown in for good measure. The best part is not only will you score ‘cool mum’ kudos from the kids, but you’ll get a kick out of them too!
Timezone
I mean, does this place really need an introduction? We’ve all racked up many-an-hour at Timezone in days gone by, and your mini-me’s will love it as much as you did. Probably more, because it’s levelled up its epic-ness in recent times. With arcade games, bowling, mini bowling, mini golf, laser tag, and bumper cars, it’s actual kid heaven…with a touch of nostalgia for us.
Where: Paradise Centre, Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Holoverse
This new hi-tech entertainment centre using holograms which look oh-so-real will make you feel like you’re in a Star Wars flick! Pick hologram grass to feed a dinosaur, swim with life-sized holographic whales, compete against your kiddos in holographic sports, play holographic arcade games, and more! Special shoutout for their birthday party packages #theshizzle.
Where: Paradise Centre, Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Infinity
To infinity and beyond! Challenge their sense and ignite their imaginations with a unique and mind-blowing 30-minute journey into spectacular, interactive, futuristic maze-like worlds of wonder! This walk-through experience is choccas with unique special effects, emotive atmospheric sound fields, sensuous aromas, awesome tunes and amazing illusions. Suitable for kiddos aged 8 and above. Get an exclusive 15% off here.
Where: Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, G31/3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Ripley’s Believe it or Not
This iconic home-grown ‘odditorium’ – now with over 300 exhibits and artefacts – is out of this world! A highlight is the new state-of-the-art Ripley’s 7D Moving Theatre where you feel every twist and turn as you compete against your seatmates. Enjoy a Ripley’s LaseRace, find out just what happens to your body in space, make friends with a life-sized R2-D2™ and more. Click here for a special offer.
Where: Cavill Mall, Surfers Paradise
The Wax Museum
Fancy some famous people watching? There’s no better place than The Wax Museum, home to the largest collection of wax figures in the Southern Hemisphere. Super realistic replicas of celebs, nursery rhyme characters, scientists, explorers, villains, world leaders, and even the crown jewels await (#RIPQueenElizabethII)! For the big kids (if you’re game) check out The Chamber of Horrors (shriek!!). Fancy a discount voucher? You’re welcome.
Where: 56 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Quack’r Duck
Is there any such thing as a kid who doesn’t go loco when they spot the big duck cruising down Ferny Ave? Imagine if you actually took them on said duck #eeep. Check out the pristine beaches and landmarks by road, then experience the thrills as the duck splashes into the Broadwater! Admit it – you’ve always wanted to do it too…. Grab a special offer here.
Where: 7 Elkhorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Fox in a Box
Ever wanted to break out of prison (without actually going to prison)? Or break into a diamond-filled vault in a bank? Or perhaps work out how to open a mysterious chest and unlock its contents and the secret within? You can do all of this and more at Fox in a Box! The rooms are recommended for ages 10 and above, but everyone is welcome to play. Good times!
Where: Level 1/3173 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Padlock’d Escape Rooms
Boasting ten immersive rooms themed to perfection, a visit to Padlock’d Escape Rooms is a great way to ditch reality for a bit (an hour to be exact…) and put your mind to the test. You’ll have a blast and the kids will be tuckered out from all that clue finding, code cracking, and puzzle solving #missionaccomplished. Recommended for ages 10 and above but all ages welcome.
Where: 3177 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Eclipse Escape Rooms
With five diverse, highly immersive, and technologically advanced rooms with insane special effects, bespoke props, and unique storylines leading up to an unforgettable grand finale, what’s not to love? Puzzle solving is designed to be fun and rewarding, with different levels of difficulty available. Kids as young as five can join in the fun, plus babies in prams are welcome in some rooms #StartEmYoung!
Where: Level 1, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise River Cruises
Kids get as pumped about boat rides as we do, so why not jump on a morning, midday, afternoon, or sunset cruise with Surfers Paradise River Cruises! Friendly guides will point out landmarks and homes of the rich and famous around our glitter strip’s waterways, whilst you kick back with the kiddos enjoying complimentary snacks. And mum/dad – there’s a bar…. Cheers! Get 10% off your cruise here.
Where: 63 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Words by Bianca Trathen.
