Parents of the GC, look no further for inspo-a-plenty.
Parents of the GC, look no further for inspo-a-plenty.
School holidays. Two words that can strike fear and dread into the hearts of parents far and wide. But fear not mums, dads, grandies et al, you’re reading this which means you’ve got this (fist pump emoji… and a wine glass emoji for good measure. Maybe two).
Now the next couple of weeks don’t need to be totally heckers – just filled with a good balance of physical, mental, and creative activities to bust boredom and preserve sanity (yours that is). And with the majority of suggestions on this list not costing anything more than the fuel to get there, just shut up and (don’t) take my money!
So, pull up your calendar app, hatch some srsly cool plans, and make some memories with your mini-me’s.
Skateboards at the ready! Skatefest is back at Pacific Fair from 28th June to 6th July, and this year it’s bigger than ever. Think a 3-metre-high half pipe in The Resort, pro skaters and Olympians on deck, and $5,000 in prizes up for grabs.
Little shredders can join daily Skate Skool and Design Skool sessions, while older kids and grown-up fans can catch half pipe takeovers with skating stars like Rome Collyer, Pedro Day, Tommy Fynn and Chloe Covell. There’ll be open skate nights, pro demos, and Q&As too.
Plus, to celebrate NAIDOC Week, there’ll be a Welcome to Country and Smoke Ceremony at 11am on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July in The Resort. And on Thursday 10th July from 9:30am–2:30pm, Little Paccas Kids Club members can join Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre for ‘Jarjum’ Boomerang painting sessions, an interactive, creative way for kids to learn about Aboriginal culture.
Bookings are essential. Spots fill faster than a kickflip – don’t miss it!
Where: 2 Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach Waters
From 7th – 12th July, Paradise Centre is turning up the fun with a monster-sized lineup of activities – and we mean that quite literally. Meet the Rockstar Monster, a 3-metre-wide interactive LED sensation that mirrors your moves in real-time. Think giant digital dance partner meets Gold Coast’s Got Talent. It’s the first of its kind in Australia and only at Paradise Centre!
But that’s just the opening act. There’s free face painting daily, pop-up dance shows, kids painting and mini figure workshops (hello, tiny dragons), plus tasty masterclasses from Enzo Cucina (pizza!), Grill’d (burgers!) and Krispy Kreme (doughnuts!). Hungry? Parents, rejoice – plenty of Kids Eat Free deals on offer too.
Catch all the action on Level 1, and bring your best dance moves. The Rockstar Monster is waiting. Find all the info here.
Where: 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Got a dino-obsessed kiddo and a wild child who loves animals? You’re in luck – Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is going full prehistoric these school holidays with Jurassic July, running from 28 June to 20 July.
Step into a world of life-like dinosaurs, hands-on crafts and dino-mite live shows – all included with your entry. Don’t miss the two Dino Days on 28 June and 5 July, packed with face painting, giveaways, dino dress-ups and meet-and-greets with baby dinosaur puppets Stella, Razor and Chompa.
Plus, Currumbin is bringing the fun and the learning with a series of animal-packed, educational school holiday programs designed to spark curiosity and connect kids with nature. Choose from:
Whether your little legends love dinos, dream of becoming zookeepers or just want to get their hands dirty, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has your school holidays sorted.
Where: 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
Hold on to your HOTA’s, things here are packed with wonder.
First up, marvel at CLOUD PLAY, a stunning 530sqm kinetic sculpture by international artist Patrick Shearn of Poetic Kinetics, created exclusively for the Gold Coast and exhibited at HOTA this winter. This mesmerizing artwork moves like a flock of birds or a school of fish, made up of tens of thousands of ribbons carrying heartfelt messages from the community completing the sentence, “I’m grateful to call the Gold Coast home because…”
Next, for families with older kids (8+), don’t miss The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale, running from Friday 4th to Sunday 13th July. It’s a breathtaking theatrical journey perfect for lifelong fans and new audiences alike.
Finally, spark little imaginations with Anna Carey’s Magic + Memory: make me a home in the Children’s Gallery, running until April 2025. Explore oversized miniature house models where play and daydreams collide in a whimsical world that feels like home – only bigger and more magical.
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Make school holidays magical at Whisker’s Magic School at Harbour Town! Running daily from 11am to 2pm, kids can learn four incredible magic tricks in a fun, hands-on workshop that sparks imagination and wonder.
Each budding magician also scores a take-home magic kit valued at $49.95, so the magic doesn’t stop when the session ends.
Workshops run every 30 minutes and cost just $5 per child. Located next to Villeroy & Boch. Bookings essential.
Where: 147 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters
Australia Fair is serving up double the fun with two free family-friendly events that’ll keep kids busy and buzzing.
First up, from 30th June to 6th July, let the little ones burn off that holiday energy at the Mighty Marathon Dash Zone. Located on the Ground Floor, Centre Court, this high-energy obstacle course is all about speed, agility and non-stop fun. No bookings needed, just turn up and dash it out.
Then, from 7th to 11th July, dive into the deep blue with HIDE & SEA, a free interactive marine life experience. Get up close with amazing sea creatures, meet marine experts and discover jaw-dropping ocean facts daily from 10:30am–2:30pm.
Where: 42 Marine Parade, Southport
There’s snow chance we’re missing Dreamworld’s coolest Winterfest yet! Don your beanie and head on down between 28th June–20th July for one brrrr-illiant blizzard of family fun. Glide across the pop-up ice rink, zoom down the icy tube slide, and warm up with hearty European eats at the Winterfest food stalls. Little ones will love Belinda’s Arctic Adventure, a chilly indoor walkthrough filled with frosty friends.
For the ultimate foodie experience, grab the Winterfest All Day Dining Pass – two savoury dishes, two sweets, and two drinks to keep you fuelled for a day full of fun.
When the sun sets, the Winterfest Night Market heats up with tasty treats and live entertainment.
Where: Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera
Feeling a little blue these school holidays? In a good way? Round up the crew and head to The Strand at Coolangatta for a Smurf-tastic week of free fun to celebrate the release of the brand-new Smurfs movie!
From Tuesday 8th to Saturday 12th July, the Level 1 activity zone outside Timezone is transforming into a Smurfs Free Activity Centre, open daily from 10am–1pm. Expect epic giveaways, themed crafts and all the good vibes for little legends of all ages.
Each day brings something new – from decorating Smurf frisbees and sipping from custom cups to crafting your very own Smurf house snack. Book ahead to secure your spot or try your luck with a walk-in!
Where: 72-80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Holy smokes, Batman! The ultimate battle between good and evil is back at Warner Bros. Movie World from 30 June to 20 July. These school holidays, Main Street transforms into a DC showdown, with Super Heroes and Super-Villains taking over the park.
Meet all your fave characters from the DC Universe—including a few new faces—and don’t miss the daily DC Super Heroes Parade at 5pm, where even Krypto the Superdog makes an appearance.
Feeling heroic? Dress the part and join the action in your best cape or mask.
Where: Pacific Mwy, Oxenford
Smurf the holidays away at Smurfette’s Garden, a free craft-filled event running 8th–12th July near Aldi at Stockland Burleigh Heads. Each day from 10:30am – 1:30pm, kids can dive into hands-on fun inspired by the new Smurfs movie—think flower crowns, Smurf mood bracelets, and painting mini terracotta pots. Activities change daily, so there’s always something new to create. No bookings needed—just drop in and get Smurfy!
Where: 149 W Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads
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 Wand crafting and Potion making classes, native Wildlife Encounters, cubby building workshops, and more… but get a wriggle on, the popular sessions book fast! Find the whole program here.
Where: Various Gold Coast locations
In-house guests at The Langham Gold Coast are in for a treat these school holidays, with an exclusive winter program running from 5th–20th July. Designed for families staying at the resort, the schedule includes both paid and complimentary experiences, from pizza making and kids’ fitness classes to arts & crafts and a Kids Club Disco Party.
Parents can join in the fun or relax guilt-free thanks to 24/7 Kids Club access and babysitting services on request. Don’t miss the complimentary Family Yoga in Style, the perfect way to unwind together in luxe Langham style.
Where: The Langham, Surfers Paradise
When: 5th–20th July
Wands at the ready! Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience has officially arrived in Queensland, casting spells over Sirromet Winery.
For the first time in the Sunshine State, fans of all ages can step into the Wizarding World with an after-dark light trail through an awe-inspiring forest filled with magical creatures, iconic moments from the films, and enchanting displays that bring the magic to life.
At the end of the trail, explore a themed village where you can sip on butterbeer, feast on magical treats, and stock up on official merch from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts movies.
It’s the ultimate winter outing for Potterheads, families, and anyone ready for a little after-dark wonder.
Where: Sirromet Winery, Mount Cotton
When: Until 27th July
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.
Taking kids out for a feed on the glitter strip has never been so easy!
Loading the kidlets into the car in search of a decent feed can be a wildly unpredictable sport. And by unpredictable, we mean slightly traumatic. But fear not — these Surfers Paradise restaurants are tried, tested, and given the ultimate seal of approval by many-a-small human (and therefore, relieved parents).
From the glitter strip classics to crowd-pleasing favourites, this is your go-to guide for taking the rug rats out to eat for a tanty/whinge-free meal. Bless their cotton socks…
A feast with a side of thrilling theatrics?! Count us in! If the kiddos (or you) haven’t yet experienced the fire and energy of teppan dining, this is your cue. From family-friendly to elevated eats, Misono serves up fresh Japanese fare that’s as delicious as it is fun. Think Australian Wagyu, chicken, scallops, bug meat and more, expertly cooked over flame, with fresh sashimi and sushi on hand to balance things out. Even better, there are dedicated kids’ teppanyaki banquets, making it an easy win for families. The venue is bright and open, the staff are welcoming, and bringing the whole crew along is refreshingly fuss-free.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
If you’ve got little ones with big appetites, Wahlburgers is a win. Famous for its juicy, no-nonsense burgers and crispy fries, Wahlburgers almost guarantees a breezy family dinner out- like seriously, what kid is complaining about burgers for dinner?! Everything on the menu is totally kid-approved, with classics like cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, and mac & cheese. Don’t forget the shakes — another sure-fire hit.
Where: 2 Cavill Ave, Shop EP008/9 Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise
A classic family favourite, TGI Fridays has something for everyone. From baby back ribs and burgers to chicken fingers and loaded fries, the menu satisfies every craving. Kids can enjoy their own smaller portions of mac and cheese, cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets, and more. They’re also open for breakfast, with options like avo smash, eggs on toast, pancakes. Casual and fun!
Where: Paradise Centre, Shop E10/10A/2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise and Shop 1005B/19 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina
If it’s a family fiesta you’re craving, look no further than El Camino Cantina. Their shareable tacos, quesadillas, and nachos are perfect for little hands, and the colourful, lively atmosphere will be an adventure in itself for the kids. Head on down for Taco Tuesdays – 3 tacos of your choice plus an icy-cold drink, at only $35pp – or Wing Wednesdays – 1kg of saucy chicken wings for just $20, plus a chance to win a prize! How spec-taco-ular!
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Milky Lane is the ultimate kid magnet thanks to its retro milkbar-inspired fitout (perfect for Insta snaps) and epic menu. Think decadent burgers, loaded fries, and over-the-top milkshakes that even adults will envy. The kids’ menu is equally impressive and the desserts…well, you can’t go past them. Decadent, daring and downright delicious.
Where: 1/38 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Vapiano is perfect for families who love freshly made pasta, pizza, and risotto. I bet you can’t name a single person who doesn’t adore one or more of those things. And at Vapiano, they serve it hearty, yet elevated with everything from burrata and prosciutto with focaccia and roast pumpkin and quinoa salad to creamy carbonara and mini Hawaiian pizza. In other words, there’s something for every member of the family. Pop in any day of the week between 4-6pm for sips from $6 and snacks from $5. Hell yeah!
Where: Soul Boardwalk, T208 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise and Shop R006/103 Foxwell Rd, Coomera
As relaxed as the name suggests, and situated in the sunny Surfers Paradise, Longboards is perfect for families and any occasion. You will be hard-pressed to find a menu as loaded as Longboards, covering snacks, loaded fries, normal fries, mains, salads, wings, burgers, and sweets. The kids’ menu includes fun eats like mini sliders and chicken bites. But warning! They’ll be tempted by your popcorn chicken and cheesy garlic bread (assuming you would order such deliciousness), and will resort to stealing given the right opportunity!
Where: Q1 Resort & Spa, Corner of Hamilton avenue &, Northcliffe Terrace, Surfers Paradise
Nothing beats a surf club for that casual, welcoming family vibe, and BMD Northcliffe Surf Club is a real Gold Coast gem! They’ve got stunning ocean views alongside a menu of seafood, burgers, gourmet salads, pasta, and grilled classics for adults, and fish, burgers, pizzas, or nuggets with chips for kids. They’re also open for breakfast, serving favourites the kids will love.
Where: 51 Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise
La Playa is your little slice of Mediterranean paradise on the Gold Coast, serving vibrant eats by the beach. We’re talking chargrilled favs, exotic salads, pastas and skewers. The kids have it equally as good with chicken skewers with butter rice, chicken bites with fries, pizza, and spaghetti bowl. What’s more, kiddos eat free (yes, FREE) every day from 5pm to 6pm with a purchase of any main meal.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
Hog’s Breath is a family favourite for hearty meals that everyone will love. Think prime ribs, steaks, burgers, and chicken schnitzels — proper crowd-pleasers for hungry adults. Kids are well looked after too, with options like crumbled calamari, chicken quesadillas, mac and cheese, sirloin steak and more. Every kids’ meal is served with a choice of curly fries, kids’ salad or vegetables, plus tomato sauce, a free drink and a free ice cream — now that’s a big win. And there’s more! Sweet tooths can add strawberry jelly for $1, or upgrade to a kids’ banana split for $3.50. Okay, now we’re just jealous…
Where: Soul Boardwalk, Building T2/9 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
After a day of balls-to-the-wall adventure inside the infamous Hijinx Hotel challenge rooms, one’s appetite must be nothing short of ferocious. Enter, Hijinx Hotel’s straightforward yet incredibly delicious lineup of burgers, pizzas, and snacks to save the day. There’s plenty of plant-based options too, so no tummy is left growling!
Where: 40 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Why fly to the States when you can get the Yankees right here on the Gold Coast?! Let your kids get a taste (literally) of the USA: from American nachos and loaded fries to ribs and wings. While there’s no kids’ menu specifically, one meal can be made to share, or choose one of their epic American Platters for the whole family to enjoy! Go get your Yankees on!
Where: 4 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
For something a little different (and seriously delicious), Shiraz Persian brings bold Persian and Middle Eastern flavours to a relaxed, family-friendly setting. The menu is extensive, spanning generous banquets, salads, soups, seafood, slow-cooked dishes, kabobs, plus plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. New to Persian cuisine? Expect fragrant rice, succulent grilled meats, warm breads with dips, and colourful sautéed vegetables. It might sound slightly outside classic kid territory, but trust us — one bite in and even the fussiest eaters are converted.
Where: 2893 Gold Coast Hwy, Surfers Paradise
And if all else fails, there’s the trusty buffet, the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure dining destination with something for everyone, and then some. You literally cannot go wrong. Check out our buffet list here.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
