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.

Pacific Fair

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

Paradise Centre

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

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

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:

• Wild Adventures Junior (ages 5–8): A half-day intro to native wildlife and exotic species – $36
• Wild Adventures (ages 9–12): A full-day wildlife keeper experience with enrichment and habitat design – $72
• Wild Adventures Teen (ages 13–16): Zookeeping deep dives and caring for Aussie animals – $95
• Kids Bee Workshops (ages 5–16): Discover the world of native stingless bees, taste honey and get hands-on – from $36

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

HOTA

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

Harbour Town Premium Outlets

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

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

Dreamworld

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

The Strand

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

Warner Bros. Movie World

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

Stockland Burleigh Heads

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

Naturally GC

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

The Langham Gold Coast

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

Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience

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

At roughly this point in the frosty season, the balmier days of strappy sandals and summer dips feel but a distant memory. Sure, we here in the Sunshine State can get a bit dramatic whenever the temps dip below 20°C, but when it comes to keeping ourselves busy in the chilly months our outlook needn’t feel bleak.

Currently cranking up the fire pits and busting out the warming fare, some of GC’s finest are bunging on some un-brrr-lievably good experiences to coax us from the comfort of our domiciles. So skip the hibernation – here are some of the hottest activations to be had on the Gold Coast this winter.

Roji Cat

Can’t swing a ski trip to Japan this winter? Roji Cat’s got you covered again this July, with their cosy Miami bar transformed into a Niseko-style snow scene, think glowing lanterns, snow-dusted décor, and all the après-ski feels (minus the airfare).

Expect Japanese comfort food like steaming hot yakisoba noodles, winter cocktail specials including the Hokkaido Blizzard, Mandarin Yume and Coffee Old Fashioned, plus their signature winter house shot: the Hakuba Hill Bomber. There’s also piping hot sake and ice-cold craft beers to keep things toasty. Or frosty, your call.
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami

Coomera Lodge

If the prospect of a spot of riverside revelling on those nippy winter evenings isn’t exactly enticing, Coomera Lodge Hotel has got you covered (literally). The open air beer garden will again transform into an igloo wonderland for the season, so that we may live our best winter lives carousing in total comfort. Nab one of the decked out domes and hunker down by the river. Bookings essential, no booking fee, and seating is first in, best dressed!
Where: 160 Maudsland Road, Oxenford

Robina Pavilion

We don’t care how old we are, opportunities to stuff our faces with freshly-toasted marshmallows over an open fire are outrageously far and few between. Thankfully the return of Robina Pavilion’s ever-popular Fire pits by the Lake sessions are back and doing their darnedest to turn this toasty past time erasure around. For select dates across winter, beat the winter chill by booking your group of up to six for your own fire pit sesh every Friday–Sunday night (until Sunday 24th August). The booking fee of $199 is redeemable on your choice of food and bev, so sip cocktails, nosh on cheese boards and your fave winter warmers and char til heart’s content with complimentary marshmallows and fire pit attendant included. Not to fan the flames, but bookings are limited people!
Where: 229 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina

Sirromet

Surrounded by lush rolling hills and an unending supply of locally-made vino – who among us isn’t perpetually down for a sneaky Sirromet trip (doubly so when it’s someone else’s turn as deso driver). Add in your very own personal fire pit, crackling under the twinkling night sky, and you’ve got yourself just about the cutest and cosiest date night going (bestie dates count too!). For $189, Sirromet will take care of all the heavy lifting, with a generous hamper for two filled with charcuterie-style provisions to feast upon and signature mulled wine to sip. Once you and your nominated partner-in-wine are done whiling the night away by the fire, you then get the insulated Sirromet cups and picnic blanket (plus fond mems) for keeps! Wine not, we say! (Bookings required).
Where: 850-938 Mount Cotton Rd, Mount Cotton

Cucina Vivo

If anyone knows how to lure us from our cosy cocoons (read: oversized hoodies and novelty socks), it’s The Star Gold Coast. This winter, they’re turning up the heat on the Cucina Vivo balcony with crackling fire pits, small bites, and drinks that’ll warm your soul faster than you can say “another round of red, please”. Swing by from 5.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays for a no-bookings, first-come-first-served fireside experience.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Aviary Rooftop Bar

No skis? No worries. Aviary Rooftop Bar is bringing major après-ski energy to the GC this winter – minus the snow, plus the sunset vibes. Until August, head up to the rooftop every afternoon from 4–6pm for Aviary Après – a twilight wind-down complete with firelight, cosy blankets and seasonal sips, all set in their dreamy open-air space The Nest.

It’s giving Euro winter meets Gold Coast glam, with live acoustic tunes on Fridays and Saturdays (weather permitting), golden hour skies, and a very strong chance of mulled wine. Whether you’re snacking, sipping or just soaking in the vibe, it’s the perfect way to warm up as the sun goes down.
Where: Aviary Rooftop Bar, Mantra at Sharks, Corner Musgrave & Olsen Avenues, Southport

Words by Belinda Symons

Looking for ways to keep the ankle biters entertained on the Gold Coast? Too easy!

Whether your little legends are bouncing off the walls (literally), exploring the great outdoors, or just looking for a bit of magic, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a rundown of kid-approved activities that’ll keep the young (and young at heart) entertained all day long. Plus, don’t forget to check out our discounts page, where you can score vouchers for a bunch of these fun-filled spots and save a few bucks while you’re at it!

Theme Parks
Let’s be real, the Coast’s theme parks are basically our crown jewels, and visitors can’t get enough of them. Movie World brings the magic with themed rides, roaming movie stars, and cartoon characters you’ll want a selfie with. Dreamworld? Big thrill energy with rides that’ll have you screaming your lungs out. Then there’s Sea World, where stunning sea creatures and jaw-dropping live shows steal the spotlight. Let’s not forget WhiteWater World – the ultimate water-filled oasis! Open seasonally, it’s a mix of chill and thrill, with something for everyone. Wet’n’Wild is all about epic waterslides and the massive wave pool that feels like summer in a nutshell.

For a side of Aussie charm, The Australian Outback Spectacular delivers with stunning special effects, a heartwarming outback tale, and some truly beautiful animals. And if you’re keen to be whisked into authentic Aussie farm life, head over to Paradise Country – Australia’s premier farm experience. It’s as hands-on as it gets, with interactive experiences like tasting traditional billy tea, learning to make damper, and soaking up the excitement of the Ram Parade and Sheep Shearing Display in a historic shearing shed.

Trampolines, adventure features, and airbags galore make BOUNCE an adrenaline playground where kids can perfect flips and unleash their inner acrobat.

A 30-minute sensory journey awaits at Infinity Attraction, with futuristic maze-like worlds full of illusions, mesmerizing soundscapes, and groovy vibes that are perfect for kids over eight and anyone seeking a touch of magic.

Packed with curiosity, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! offers 15 interactive galleries and over 300 fascinating artifacts, with the Impossible LaseRace adding an extra thrill as visitors shimmy through a maze of laser beams like spies.

History, fantasy, and a touch of fright combine at The Wax Museum, where wax celebrities, the eerie Chamber of Horrors, and replicas of the Crown Jewels make for a memorable visit.

For larger-than-life optical illusions, ArtVo in Robina Town Centre provides endless photo opportunities, letting kids step into wild scenarios and themed zones where the art seems to come alive.

Indoor skydiving at iFLY Gold Coast lets you soar like a bird in a 365-degree glass tunnel, offering packages for first-timers and seasoned flyers looking for an unforgettable rush.

Hair in need of a little extra sparkle? H&H Hair Braiding (at Pacific Fair and Surfers Paradise) and Surfers Paradise Hairwraps are the dream team for colorful wraps and braids – an absolute hit with little girls who want to channel their inner princess or mermaid vibes!

Animal Encounters
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Gold Coast has animal experiences that’ll make your heart melt.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a sprawling 27-hectare haven where kids can feed kangaroos, cuddle koalas, and catch incredible shows like the Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show. Don’t miss the Lost Valley for encounters with exotic animals.

David Fleay’s Wildlife Park is a quieter gem in Burleigh Heads, offering intimate encounters with Queensland’s unique flora and fauna. Spot the platypus, meet nocturnal creatures, and chat with passionate rangers.

Arcade Adventures
The arcade offerings on the Coast are next-level, with Broadbeach’s Level Up Arcade offering a mix of classic games and virtual reality arenas, plus a prize redemption system that’s sure to win over the kids.

Bumper cars, laser tag, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, and over 250 arcade games make Timezone in Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta a sensory overload of fun in the very best way.

High ropes, Clip ‘n Climb courses and an arcade combine at iPlay Adventure, delivering a mix of challenges and pure fun that has something for everyone to enjoy.

Escape Rooms + VR
Escape rooms and virtual reality adventures are the perfect mix of brain-teasing fun and high-stakes excitement. It’s like a race against time — and let’s be real, no one is ever quite as good at solving puzzles when there’s a countdown looming! But hey, whether you’re celebrating a victorious escape or drowning your sorrows in a glass of wine, it’s definitely a win for family fun. Who knew unlocking mysteries could come with so much drama?

Eclipse Escape Rooms, Escape Hunt, Padlock’d and Fox in a Box all offer themed challenges that’ll have your family working together to solve mysteries and escape in time.

Meanwhile, Sandbox VR and Other World HQ are redefining virtual reality experiences with cutting-edge tech and immersive fun. Sandbox VR takes things up a notch with a haptic vest, motion sensors, and VIVE Focus 3 headsets, putting you in the heart of the action like never before.It’s a thrilling, real-time group adventure that goes beyond what home VR systems can offer. At Otherworld HQ, prepare to step into realms of exciting, unconventional games. Featuring the Saboteurs Arena, you’ll need strategy and skill to outwit your friends and enemies in this high-stakes adventure.

Prepare to get wet
Cool off with these water-based adventures that’ll have the whole family splashing with joy.

Located in Broadwater Parklands, Gold Coast Aqua Park is an inflatable paradise packed with slides and obstacles.

For those looking to catch a wave, Hang Ten Surf Co provides surf coaching with friendly instructors who are passionate about helping the whole family ride the waves like pros.

If you’re after a unique adventure, Aquaduck offers a fun blend of city and river cruising on the Gold Coast’s amphibious icon. Kids even get the chance to take the wheel and feel like the captain!

For an adrenaline rush, Paradise Jet Boating and GC Jetboating and Parasailing both deliver thrilling spins and slides through the Broadwater.

Smack some golf balls
If your little ones love a good game of golf, the Gold Coast has no shortage of fun places to swing a club. Putt Putt Mermaid Beach is an iconic local spot with three awesome 18-hole courses, each offering its own unique challenge. Plus, they have neon glow balls to light up your night-time putting!

TopGolf is a year-round winner, with indoor bays and plenty of food options to keep your energy up while you perfect your swing.

Day Trip Fun
If you’re looking to explore a little further afield there are plenty of fun activities for the kids that are only a short drive away.

Dig It Mini Excavator Park at Thunderbird Park lets kids graduate from sandcastles to operating real excavators. With construction-inspired activities and safety-first operators, it’s the ultimate hands-on experience.

Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk offers breathtaking views and a chance to stroll among the treetops. It’s an easy walk suitable for families, with photo ops aplenty.

Over at Mountview Alpacas, kids can hand-feed these fluffy friends while parents kick back with a coffee or wine in hand. It’s a win-win situation.

Words by Belinda Symons