The Gold Coast of Australia is a playground for families. With its stunning beaches, thrilling theme parks, and breathtaking natural beauty, it’s undoubtedly one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations. And what better way to explore everything the Gold Coast offers than with a family-friendly road trip? This guide will take you through the ultimate Gold Coast family road trip, from the best attractions to the most scenic routes. So, pack up the car, buckle up the kids, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!
Day 1: Gold Coast Hinterland
Start your road trip by heading inland to the picturesque Gold Coast Hinterland. Just a short drive from the coast, you’ll be surrounded by lush rainforests. Also, you’ll see stunning waterfalls and charming mountain villages.
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to Tamborine Mountain. Take a stroll through the beautiful Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, where you can walk through the canopy of the rainforest and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Afterwards, head to the quaint village of Gallery Walk, where you can browse local art galleries, boutique shops, and artisanal food stores. Don’t forget to pick up some delicious fudge from the fudge shop!
Afternoon
Next, make your way to Curtis Falls. Take a short walk through the rainforest to reach the waterfall, where you can cool off with a refreshing swim in the rock pool below. Moreover, why not try a treetop adventure at Thunderbird Park if you’re feeling adventurous? With zip lines, rope bridges, and treetop challenges, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Evening
End your day with a relaxing dinner at one of the Hinterland’s charming restaurants. With plenty of family-friendly options, you can find something to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Day 2: Gold Coast Beaches
No trip to the Gold Coast would be complete without a day at the beach. With over 70 kilometres of pristine coastline to explore, you’ll be spoiled for choice when finding the perfect spot to soak up the sun.
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Surfers Paradise Beach. Its golden sands and crystal-clear waters make it the perfect place to spend a few hours building sandcastles, swimming, and soaking up the sun. Moreover, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try surfing? Plenty of surf schools along the beach offer lessons for beginners of all ages.
You might like to read: 6 Beginner-Friendly Surfing Spots on the Gold Coast.
Afternoon
After lunch, head to Burleigh Heads Beach. Its protected swimming areas and gentle waves make it an excellent spot for families with young children.
While there, walk along the Burleigh Heads National Park Coastal Walk. With stunning ocean views and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, it’s a must-do activity for nature-loving families.
Evening
End your day with a barbecue dinner at one of the beachside parks. Electric barbecues, picnic tables, and playgrounds are the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal as the sun sets over the ocean.
Day 3: Gold Coast Theme Parks
In addition to your family road trip itinerary is a trip to Gold Coast theme parks. No family road trip to the Gold Coast would be complete without a visit to one of its famous theme parks. With everything from thrilling roller coasters to interactive animal encounters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Warner Bros. Movie World. With its Hollywood-themed rides and attractions, it’s sure to be a hit with movie-loving families. Also, check out the all-new DC Rivals HyperCoaster, the tallest, longest, and fastest HyperCoaster in the Southern Hemisphere!
Afternoon
After lunch, head to Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast for some aquatic fun. With slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, it’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. If you’re visiting during the summer months, check out Dive’n’Movies. It is where you can watch a movie while floating in the wave pool!
Evening
End your day with a visit to SeaWorld. With its marine animal exhibits, thrilling rides, and entertaining shows, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Be sure to check out the all-new Seal Guardians Presentation, where you can learn all about the vital conservation work to protect Australia’s marine life.
Day 4: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
On your final day of the family road trip on the Gold Coast, why not get up close and personal with Australia’s native wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the sanctuary’s famous lorikeet feeding. Held twice daily, it’s a magical experience that the whole family will love.
Afterwards, take some time to explore the sanctuary’s many exhibits, including the kangaroo and koala enclosures, the crocodile exhibit, and the free-flight bird show.
Afternoon
After lunch, why not try your hand at some adventure activities? Plenty keeps the whole family entertained, from tree-top ropes courses to Segway tours. If you’re visiting during the summer months, check out Wild Island, the sanctuary’s water park!
Evening
End your day with a visit to the sanctuary’s onsite restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in stunning views of the surrounding rainforest.
A Road Trip Worthy To Be Treasured
And there you have it – the ultimate Gold Coast family road trip! With its stunning beaches, thrilling theme parks, and breathtaking natural beauty, it’s sure to be an adventure that the whole family will remember for years. So, pack up the car, buckle up the kids, and prepare for a lifetime trip!