With endless stretches of kid-friendly beaches, some of the finest outdoor adventure activities in the region and plenty of vibrant markets to explore, it’s little wonder why the Gold Coast is among the top holiday destinations, year on year. From fun-filled days on the beach learning to surf, kayak or canoe to watching the latest Hollywood blockbuster on the big screen, the Spring school holidays are a taste of what’s ahead this year.

If you’re planning to escape to the Gold Coast this spring and wondering what there is to do in Broadbeach and the surrounding area, here are some of the best kid-friendly activities and adventures to check out.

Theme Parks

When it comes to creating childhood memories that last a lifetime, there’s nothing quite like a family day out at a theme park. The Gold Coast is home to two fantastic choices Movie World and Seaworld. For older kids and those who enjoy white knuckle rides, adrenaline-fuelled experiences and movie-based fun, Warner Bros Movie World provides 154 acres of fun under the Gold Coast Sun. Watch one of the many family-friendly shows or experiences, tear through the sky on roller coasters and water rides, and try your hand at Hollywood stunt driving.

For a theme park that is as entertaining as it is educational, a visit to Australia’s number one marine park is recommended. Home to penguins, polar bears, dolphins, turtles, tropical fish, rays, seals and jellies, Sea World brings the world beneath the waves within reach of inquisitive minds. Throughout the year, exhibits and encounters are up for grabs, giving a more up close and personal experience kids will love. From watching animal performances to exclusive feeding experiences, there’s something for everyone at this marine-focussed park.

dolphin experience sea world

Outdoor Adventures

Located less than a 1 hour drive from Dorsett Gold Coast. Thunderbird Park, Tamborine Mountain provides the best outdoor activities and treetop escapades in the region. As Australia’s largest adventure playground, non-stop fun is guaranteed. Take on the Treetop Challenge, Thunderegg Crystal Mine, laser skirmish, Pickleball, Cedar Creek Falls, the Rock Pools, mini golf, bird feeding and the funfair. Make the most of the beautiful Gold Coast hinterland, as well as the many local villages, wineries and family-friendly attractions in the area. From dusk till dawn, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy right here.

family activities gold coast

Movie Night

Make the most of the cooler spring evenings with the latest Hollywood blockbuster and a giant bucket of popcorn at Event Cinemas - Pacific Fair. Located just a quick 5-minute walk from Dorsett Gold Coast to Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, get the whole family together and enjoy a family movie night with a variety of standard, 3D, 4D and Boutique experiences. For something extra special, why not make your movie night experience a Gold Class one, with luxury food, uber-comfortable seats and unobstructed screen views.

iFLY Surfers Paradise

Enjoy the exhilaration and adrenaline of a freefall skydive - and without ever needing to take to the skies, at iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Surfers Paradise. Located less than a 10-minute drive from Dorsett Gold Coast, it offers kids and adults a safe and fun way to experience the thrill of a skydive while keeping your feet on firm ground. Float, glide and tumble with expert instructors on hand to help make the experience as fun as possible. Suitable for kids aged 3 and above, make the spring school holidays one where they soar.

Outdoor Markets

From 4 PM to 9 PM every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets burst into life - perfect for a family night out on the Gold Coast. Sample gourmet provisions, artisanal produce, local arts and crafts, fashion, jewellery and much more, all set to the beat of live entertainment on the beachfront. A true Gold Coast icon, the beachfront markets offer a lively backdrop of shopping, dining and entertainment, with plenty of nearby local eats to enjoy. On the 2nd October 2022, the Broadbeach Art and Craft markets make for an interesting experience, with much shopping, dining and entertainment to be found. Held on the first and third Sunday of each month, the Broadbeach markets are the perfect place for the kids to stock up on a few souvenirs for friends back home.

gold coast markets

Wildlife Sanctuary

Spend an afternoon getting closer to some of the Gold Coast’s native wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Located just 20-minutes from Dorsett Gold Coast and just moments from the beautiful Currumbin Beach, creek and parklands - it’s a must for the spring school holidays. Experience nature like never before with the after dark Twilight Tours or treat the kids to an extra-special breakfast with the Koalas. School holiday programs run throughout the year, educating and entertaining little minds for hours on end. A variety of experiences and many types of animals, including dingos, crocodiles, kangaroos, koalas, lorikeets, echidna, tasmania devils, to name a few, wait to be seen. Finish your day with a tour around the dinosaur-laden ‘Lost Valley’ for a magical ending.

currumbin wildlife sanctuary

Beach Activities

No holiday to the Gold Coast would be complete without at least one day by the sea. After all, it’s what we’re famous for. When it comes to beachside activities, kids of all ages will love a game or two at Putt Putt, Mermaid Beach. For something that’s a little bit more productive, why not book the whole family in for some surf lessons with Go Ride A Wave. From complete beginners to veteran board beasts, take to the waves and learn how to ride the rip curl at your own pace. Or perhaps a family picnic, swimming and beach games are all you need, in which case, Kurrawa Beach is the perfect place to be.

Somewhere to Stay

Check into stylish and effortless accommodation in the Heart of Broadbeach, perfect for families looking to make the most of every moment of the spring school holidays. Located less than 700m from the beach, moments from Pacific Fair Shopping Centre and just a short drive from the bustling Surfers Paradise, Dorsett Gold Coast provides 313 elegantly designed rooms for the modern-day guest.

Enjoy stylish onsite facilities, bars and restaurants perfect for family holidays on the Gold Coast. Explore the best that broadbeach and the Gold Coast has to offer and experience absolute comfort and style during the spring school holidays.

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