spring school holidays in Gold Coast
the september-october break brings warmer weather — ideal for getting outside, hitting playgrounds and exploring nature.
free things to do
Surfers Paradise Beach
freePatrolled swimming, sandcastle territory, and foreshore playgrounds when they need a break from the waves. Free and easy.
ages: all agesBurleigh Heads National Park
freeEasy 30-minute coastal walk through rainforest with ocean lookouts. Free, pram-friendly on the lower path, and you can grab fish and chips at the end.
ages: 3+paid activities & attractions
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
paidThe lorikeet feeding at 8am and 4pm is the highlight — hundreds of birds land on you. Tree-top challenge course for older kids is properly challenging.
ages: all agesSea World
paidMarine animal shows, rides, water play areas and penguin encounters. Buy tickets online — never pay gate price.
ages: all agesWet'n'Wild
paidAustralia's biggest water theme park. Wave pool and splash zones for little ones, proper slides for older kids. Bring your own sunscreen — they charge a fortune inside.
ages: 3+David Fleay Wildlife Park
paidQuieter alternative to Currumbin, tucked away in Burleigh Heads. Koalas, platypus and a nocturnal house. Good for a half-day.
ages: all agesTimezone Surfers Paradise
paidIndoor arcade, laser tag and bowling. Saves you on rainy days or when the kids are over the beach.
ages: 3+Infinity Attraction
paidWalk-through maze of light, sound and special effects in Surfers. The glow-in-the-dark rooms are a hit — allow about 45 minutes.
ages: 5+looking for playgrounds in Gold Coast?
browse our directory of parks and play spaces — perfect for burning off energy during the holidays.
Gold Coast playgrounds