On the Gold Coast, every day feels like a dreamy escape. As a seasoned explorer of this glittering paradise, I’ve meticulously crafted a comprehensive 9-day itinerary tailored specifically for families seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure. From thrilling theme parks to serene beach fronts and everything in between, prepare for an unforgettable Gold Coast family trip.
Day 1: Journey From Gold Coast Airport to Currumbin Beach
Finding oneself surfing long right-handers or SUPing on a crystalline creek within 10 minutes of stepping off the plane is a rarity worldwide. This rarity makes Currumbin Beach the perfect initial destination. It is mainly for families looking to improve their skills with Currumbin Alley Surf School.
Following lunch overlooking the waves at the Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Life Saving Club or enjoying bowls of açaí from The Salt Mill, spend the afternoon exploring Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Beyond the colourful rainbow lorikeets and adorable koalas that draw visitors, a tour of the Animal Wildlife Hospital offers insight into real-time conservation efforts.
Day 2: Exploring From Bilinga to Currumbin Valley
On the second day of your Gold Coast 9-day family trip, trade sandy shores for the lush greenery of nearby Currumbin Valley. Then, take a refreshing swim at Cougal Cascades in Springbrook National Park. The paved hike to the falls is only a 1.6-kilometre (one-mile) round trip, manageable even with a pram. Along the trail, you’ll encounter a disused sawmill dating back to the 1940s.
On your way back, make a stop at Ground Currumbin. Afterwards, indulge in a meal at Pasture & Co. It is where wine from Tamborine Mountain and organic coffee from nearby Byron Bay complement an all-day brunch menu. If energy levels permit, there are also excellent trees for climbing nearby.
Day 3: From Bilinga to Burleigh Heads
Start an adventure inland from Bilinga Beach to begin your day with a dip in the pristine blue waters of Tallebudgera Creek. This serene estuary is bordered to the north by Burleigh Heads National Park. Treat yourself on this Gold Coast trip to still-warm pasties de nata (Portuguese custard tart) from Custard Canteen for breakfast, adding a delightful touch to your experience.
Known as ‘good fish’ to the Yugambeh people, a stroll in the national park with Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre‘s Indigenous guides provides deep insights. Challenge the kids to spot the basalt ‘fingers’ of Jabreen, the Aboriginal Dreaming God credited with shaping the landscape.
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Days 4 and 5: Exploring From Bilinga to Lamington National Park
Ascend the ear-popping escarpment to the eco-certified O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, nestled within the Green Mountains section of Lamington National Park. Before your ascent, enjoy a picnic alongside fluffy alpacas by the creek at Canungra’s Mountainview Alpaca Farm.
While at O’Reilly’s, don’t miss the Glow Worm Tour and Tree Top Walk. For a unique experience, consider joining a Segway Tour (recommended for ages 12 and up). Then, test your balance along a track, culminating in a breathtaking view of Morans Falls.
Day 6: From O’Reilly’s to Oxenford
Transitioning from glow worms to Tasmanian devils, head to Paradise Country in Oxenford for a farm stay experience near the coast. In addition to bonding with native dingoes, emus, and wallabies, children will delight in going on pony rides and cuddling baby lambs. The bush experience continues with sheep shearing and a stockman show. Meanwhile, the whole family can try gold panning and opal digging.
Stay: Retire to your eco tent at Paradise Country Farm after the day’s activities. Farm life continues in this accommodation with sunset lawn games and wine tasting, campfire marshmallow roasting, sunrise animal feeding, and cow milking.
Days 7 to 9: Oxenford – Surfers Paradise – Gold Coast Airport
Conclude your road trip on a high note in the urban landscape of the GC. Dive into The New Atlantis at Sea World and experience thrilling rides. Among those is the Vortex after encountering seals, polar bears, and penguins.
If you visit between June and October, embark on a whale-watching adventure. Spirit of Gold Coast lets you witness breaching humpbacks on their migration.
After exhausting the family with sandcastle-building, beachfront cycling, and rounds of golf at Holey Moley, explore events at Home of the Arts (HOTA) or enjoy a nostalgic trip back to the ’50s at the Yatala Drive-In.
Pack your Bags and Embark on a 9-day Family Trip on the Gold Coast!
In conclusion, embarking on a 9-day family trip to the Gold Coast promises an unforgettable blend of adventure and relaxation centred around the importance of family fun. Each day offers a new opportunity for shared experiences and bonding. This itinerary features wildlife encounters, thrilling theme park rides, cultural insights, and opportunities for laughter and connection. Aside from that, every member of the family creates cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
You might also like: Family Fun Getaway on the Gold Coast.