The Gold Coast is a playground for families, packed with theme parks, natural wonders, and indoor adventures that kids will love. Whether you’re chasing thrills, looking for budget-friendly family fun on the Gold Coast, or just need a way to burn off some energy, there’s something here for every age and stage.
And while the Gold Coast is known for sunshine, it’s good to know there are plenty of great indoor options too, perfect for when the weather doesn’t go to plan. Here are 15 family activities on the Gold Coast to help plan your next Gold Coast family holiday.
1. Warner Bros. Movie World—Lights, Camera, Action!
Dive into the cinematic magic of Warner Bros. Movie World, with its many attractions, shows and character experiences. With a blend of thrills and theatrical entertainment, the Gold Coast theme park also has indoor attractions (perfect for the occasional rainy day), live stunt shows, and meet-and-greets. This fun day out will keep little superheroes entertained all day long.
2. Wet’n’Wild—Year-round Water Fun!
With heated pools, toddler zones, and thrill slides, Wet’n’Wild is a hit with kids of all ages. This Gold Coast water park is a year-round winner and is one of the top things to do with toddlers on the Gold Coast and teens alike.
3. Timezone Surfers Paradise—Arcades Galore
Whether your kids love racing games, claw machines or bumper cars, Timezone Surfers Paradise delivers. This iconic venue is an indoor haven for all ages, complete with bowling lanes and mini-golf. It's a staple on any list of indoor activities Gold Coast families can enjoy together.
4. Strike Bowling & Escape Rooms—Let the Games Begin
At Strike Bowling in Surfers Paradise, rainy days mean neon-lit bowling, high-energy karaoke and puzzle-packed escape rooms. Great for older kids and teenagers who love a challenge, it’s one of the more exciting family activities the Gold Coast has to offer indoors.
5. iFLY Indoor Skydiving—Fly Without Wings
Feel the thrill of skydiving, without jumping from a plane. iFLY Indoor Skydiving lets kids (from as young as 3!) defy gravity in a safe, controlled environment. It’s a unique adventure and one of the coolest Gold Coast theme park alternatives when it's wet outside.
6. Infinity Attraction—Step into Another Dimension
Infinity is an interactive maze filled with special effects, lights, and illusions. This sensory wonderland is ideal for older kids, offering a one-of-a-kind rainy-day adventure that feels like stepping into a sci-fi film.
7. HOTA—Home of the Arts
Explore the Gold Coast’s cultural heart with live theatre, kids’ workshops, and modern art galleries. HOTA regularly hosts school holiday programs and events, making it a fantastic indoor cultural escape for the whole family.
8. BOUNCE Gold Coast—Burn Off Energy
If the rain is keeping you indoors, let the kids burn off steam at BOUNCE, an indoor trampoline park with foam pits, wall-running zones, and ninja warrior challenges. It’s one of the top picks for indoor activities that Gold Coast visitors flock to on stormy days.
9. Planet Chill Ice Skating—Cool Fun for Everyone
Located inside Paradise Resort, Planet Chill is the Gold Coast’s only indoor ice-skating rink. Skate hire is included, and it’s open rain, hail or shine. Ideal for a bit of winter magic, even when the sun’s not out.
10. Gold Coast Libraries—Storytime & More
Local Gold Coast Libraries are treasure troves of rainy-day fun. Many branches offer free storytime, craft sessions, and activities for children of all ages. It's one of the most underrated things to do with toddlers on the Gold Coast, especially on a budget.
11. Shop Til You Drop—Retail Therapy
Treat the kids (and yourself) to a little shopping spree. Pacific Fair and Robina Town Centre offer indoor playgrounds, cinemas, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants, Gold Coast style. For bargains, head to Harbour Town Outlet Shopping Centre.
12. Dine at Kid-Friendly Restaurants
From beachside cafés to colourful burger joints, the Gold Coast is packed with kid-friendly restaurants. Head to Broadbeach for casual bites or visit Surfers Paradise for an indulgent lunch with ocean views. Many spots have kids’ menus, high chairs, and play areas to cater to little ones on holiday.
13. Enjoy the Hotel’s Family-Friendly Facilities
Make the most of your accommodation! If you're staying at one of Oaks Hotels’ Gold Coast properties, your Gold Coast accommodation becomes part of the fun:
- Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites: Located in beachy Coolangatta, this resort has a heated lagoon pool and a children’s wading pool, and spacious apartments with ocean views. It’s a top pick for family-friendly hotels Gold Coast-wide.
- Oaks Gold Coast Hotel: Steps from Pacific Fair, this Surfers Paradise gem features spa baths, heated pools, and easy public transport access to Gold Coast theme parks. With roomy studios and apartments, it’s perfect for a Gold Coast family holiday package.
14. Discover Local Animal Encounters
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a long-time favourite for families, offering a mix of indoor exhibits, wildlife shows, and close-up animal encounters. You can cuddle a koala, feed a kangaroo, or watch vets at work in the animal hospital. It’s one of the best spots for animal encounters on the Gold Coast, where families can enjoy year-round experiences that combine education, conservation, and fun.
15. Explore Soft Play Centres & Playgrounds
There are plenty of Gold Coast playgrounds outdoors, and plenty of covered ones too. Soft play centres like Chipmunks and Play Central offer climbing zones, ball pits, and obstacle courses perfect for toddlers and primary-aged kids. These centres often include cafés, making them a relaxing choice for parents too.
A Bit of Sunshine? Head to the Beach!
When the sun is out, don’t miss out on the Coast’s world-famous beaches. Whether you’re building sandcastles in Coolangatta or learning to surf at Burleigh, the beach is a sure way to have some family holiday fun. Check out our guide to the best beaches on the Gold Coast to plan your next beach break.
Plan Your Perfect Gold Coast Escape
Rain or shine, the Gold Coast is packed with activities for all ages. Whether you're adventuring through theme parks, relaxing in kid-friendly hotels Gold Coast families love, or exploring new experiences indoors, you’re guaranteed a memorable holiday.
Looking for a complete package? Discover Gold Coast family holiday packages and enjoy exclusive deals at Oaks Hotels. With beachside locations, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to the region’s top attractions, Oaks makes holidaying with kids easy.
