Surfers Paradise is the capital of the Gold Coast with its famous boardwalk along the beach, shops, and restaurants. Most families visiting the area will choose to stay in one of the many high rises in Surfers Paradise giving families on the Gold Coast the best access to all the most popular tourist attractions nearby.
Table Of Contents
Know before you go. Our top Gold Coast travel tips Where to stay on the Gold Coast with teenagers Gold Coast apartment alternative for your stay How to get to the Gold Coast How to get around the Gold Coast with teenagers What currency do I need for my family trip to Australia? Travel insurance for your Australia trip Using your phone on your Gold Coast vacation Pocket Wi-fi for your Australia Trip Things to do on the Gold Coast with teenagers Jetboating on the Gold Coast Take a scenic helicopter flight over the Gold Coast Gold Coast fun places for teenagers -Indoor Skydiving Hot air balloon ride above the Gold Coast Sky Point Observation Deck Gold Coast activities for teenagers -SkyPoint Climb Experience Gold Coast Aqua Park Gold Coast Wax Museum Use the Klook Pass Family attractions on the Gold Coast – TopGolf ArtVo Illusions 3D Art Museum Stand-up paddle boarding in Surfers Paradise More travel with teens posts Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Things to do in the Gold Coast for teenagers – Jetski experience Seaworld Movieworld Gold Coast Tickets and transport to Gold Coast theme parks Wet ‘n’ Wild Dreamworld Things to do in Surfers Paradise with teenage girls – High Tea Things to do on the Gold Coast with teenage boys – Drive a dump truck or bulldozer Drive a dump truck Drive a bulldozer Ice skating on the Gold Coast Learn to surf on the Gold Coast Swimming at the Beach Gold Coast adventures with teens -Tamborine Forest Skywalk Extreme zip line guided tour and high ropes entry – Tamborine Ripleys Believe it or not! Fun things to do on the Gold Coast – The Aquaduck Footgolf on the Gold Coast Burleigh Heads indoor rock climbing Flyboarding with teenagers Things to do on the Gold Coast for teenagers – V8 Supercar hot lap Parasailing on the Gold Coast Whale watching tour for Gold Coast teens Watch an AFL/NRL match Family fun adventures on the Gold Coast – Segway Tour Fun things to do on the gold coast at night – Laser Tag The most Instagrammable shots on the Gold Coast Pin Bowling on the Gold Coast with teenagers Axe Throwing on the Gold Coast Family holidays in the Gold Coast – Going to the cinema Escape rooms for teens Shopping on the Gold Coast with teenagers Free things to do on the Gold Coast with teens Day trips from the Gold Coast with teens Brisbane Australia Zoo Byron Bay Fun restaurants on the Gold Coast for teens Dracula’s Dinner and Comedy Cabaret Australia Outback Spectacular Dinner Show Street food in Australia Frequently asked questions about the Gold Coast What is the legal drinking age for teenagers in Australia? Is the Gold Coast a safe city to visit for families? How do I call the Police in Australia? Can you drink tap water on the Gold Coast? Is tipping required in Australia? What type of power sockets are used in Australia? Best place to stay with teens in Surfers Paradise Weather on the Gold Coast Queensland More travel inspiration for your trip to Australia
Know before you go. Our top Gold Coast travel tips
Travelling to the Gold Coast with teens can be such an enriching experience for the whole family and The Gold Coast is one of the top family destinations in Australia. Did you know that the Gold Coast is the 6th largest city in Australia, it is even bigger than 2 state capitals?
There are so many things to do on the Gold Coast with teenagers, and having information on the best place to stay, how to get around, which currency to use and more is extremely important. Below you will find some information for planning a hassle-free family vacation on the Gold Coast with kids.
Where to stay on the Gold Coast with teenagers
Great vacations with teens start with some great vacation planning. When you are planning a trip to Australia with teens you’ll never be short of options for your family accommodation on the Gold Coast . On the Gold Coast, you will find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels for families on holiday. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget on your family trip to Queensland Australia.
For luxury family-friendly hotels on the Gold Coast, you should consider staying at th e JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa , Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast and Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise. All these hotels have pools and easy access to the beach at Surfers Paradise.
Budget-friendly options for families staying on the Gold Coast include Cabins at Nobbies Beach Holiday Park , Crystal Bay on the Broadwater and Equinox Resort . These 3 properties can be booked for a family of 4, costing between $100 and $200 a night.
If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs for your teen travel holidays, we recommend using Lastminute.com.au and Expedia to find the best prices on the Gold Coast for your family vacation to Queensland Australia.
Gold Coast apartment alternative for your stay
If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation when on your Aussie trip with teenagers on the Gold Coast then an apartment is the best choice for your family vacation. Apartments are great for families who maybe want to prepare some meals or do some washing while on holiday.
There are so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options on the Gold Coast as well. We recommend searching Stay Comfy for the best apartments on the Gold Coast for families.
How to get to the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is the number one family destination in Australia for family travel with teens. Being one of the biggest cities in Australia, the Gold Coast is connected by highways, long distant buses, trains and planes all bringing people daily to the city. This makes the Gold Coast one of the easiest family travel destinations to get to in Australia.
The Gold Coast Airport is situated in the suburb of Bilinga near Coolangatta. The airport is serviced by Australian carriers such as Qantas, Virgin Australia, REX and Jetstar. You can access airports internationally through codeshare carriers such as Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand and Etihad. If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip you should consider getting a lounge pass with Priority Pass. Priority Pass have access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass If you plan to road trip with teenagers in Queensland, you can hire a car and have it waiting at the airport for you. Book with Rentalcars for the largest options.
How to get around the Gold Coast with teenagers
The Gold Coast is serviced by an efficient and reliable public transport network making it easy to visit different parts of the city. TransLink runs buses, trains and trams on their network. Visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30 for information or to plan your journey using public transport on the Gold Coast with teenagers.
What currency do I need for my family trip to Australia?
The official currency you need to use in Australia is the Australian Dollar. We recommend that you get a Revolut travel money card , that can be loaded with multiple currencies and has nearly non-existent withdrawal fees to save you money on your family holiday to Australia with kids.
Travel insurance for your Australia trip
Australia has a high quality of healthcare but in saying that, travel insurance is a must for all travellers entering the country. The last thing you want is a huge bill for medical expenses should you require care on your family holiday in Australia with teenagers. We recommend using Travel Insurance Master, their website will compare the best deals from a number of providers and present you with the best value for money policy on the market. Click through to Insurance Masters to get a free quote .
Using your phone on your Gold Coast vacation
Making calls and staying in contact when you travel with teenagers is a top priority when you are travelling with family in Australia. Plan your family trip to the Gold Coast and order your sim before you leave home to stop any stress about travelling, data and calls on your family vacation in Australia.
Pocket Wi-fi for your Australia Trip
You will be able to access free Wi-Fi at certain spots on the Gold Coast. The best solution for travelling teens staying connected to the internet is to rent a 4G Pocket Wi-Fi hotspot. These small devices can be ordered and delivered to your hotel for your stay in Australia.
Alternatively, you can purchase a mobile h otspot device to keep and use on all your travel with teens holidays. You can choose the length of time you want and the amount of daily data you will need. Order your pocket Wi-Fi today for your Gold Coast trip
Things to do on the Gold Coast with teenagers
Now that we have covered all of the essential travel tips for families here are all the very best things to do on the Gold Coast with teenagers.
Jetboating on the Gold Coast
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush and a unique sightseeing experience, jet boating is the perfect activity for you. These boats reach speeds of up to 80 km/h, giving you an extreme thrill ride down the river. Whether you’re a first-time adventurer or an experienced thrill-seeker, jet boating is sure to give you an experience you’ll never forget.
Speed through the Gold Coast channels and Broadwater doing spins and turns while also seeing Moreton Bay Marine Park, Seaworld and the mansions of the super-rich. Book your Gold Coast Jet Boat ride today .
Take a scenic helicopter flight over the Gold Coast
Soaring over Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads and taking in the beautiful view of the Gold Coast coastline is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The best Gold Coast to do things can be seen above
Going up high on a panoramic helicopter flight and seeing everything from the endless beaches to Sky point can be one of the most exciting things to do on the Gold Coast with teens. For more information and prices, search here!
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Gold Coast fun places for teenagers -Indoor Skydiving
Indoor skydiving is a new trend that is catching on with teenagers. It is a safe way to experience the thrill of skydiving without having to go through all the hassle of getting on an aeroplane and going to a place that is outside the city centre that may require transportation.
The indoor skydiving facility on the Gold Coast has been attracting many teens who are looking for something a little different and exciting on their vacation to Queensland. Book your indoor skydiving today.
Hot air balloon ride above the Gold Coast
Hot Air Ballons flights provide a different perspective on the world below. From high in the sky, everything looks so small and insignificant. The experience is peaceful and calming, as well as exciting and adventurous.
The views are also beautiful and scenic, making the flight all the more worth it. An early morning balloon flight over the Gold Coast city at sunrise provides amazing views of the skyline. Read reviews and see more pictures of the great Gold Coast experience.
Sky Point Observation Deck
Skypoint is an observation deck that provides a 360-degree view of the Gold Coast.
Gold Coast Tourist attractions
Sky Point is located on the Q1 Building’s 77th floor. The Q1 is the tallest building on the Gold Coast and has one of the best views in Australia. The observatory provides both indoor and outdoor viewing platforms. It also features a bistro with delicious food and drinks, it is a great option for lunch or dinner with a view of the famous beaches below. Book your entry tickets for Sky Point .
Gold Coast activities for teenagers -SkyPoint Climb Experience
Much like the Sydney Harbour Bridge climbing experience, Sky Point Q1 building on the Gold Coast has its own.
Extreme adventure on the Gold Coast at the Sky Point climb
This activity is certainly not for the fainthearted as you suit up and head outside the Q1 building. You will be attached to a safety rail as you make your way to a height of 270 metres above sea level to take in unparalleled views of the Gold Coast and surrounds.
This thrilling experience takes approximately 90 minutes from beginning to end. This includes the safety briefing, suiting up, The Climb, and de-gearing at the end of the climb. Book your adventure on the Gold Coast today.
Gold Coast Aqua Park
The Gold Coast Aqua Park is an amazing place with a lot to offer. It has a variety of attractions that will be perfect for anyone who visits the park. There are inflatables, jumps, and obstacles for people of all ages.
Whether you’re looking for some family-time fun or just want to relax in the sun with your friends, the Gold Coast Aqua Park has something to offer everyone. The park is open September through April close to Surfers Paradise at Southport and should be on your Gold Coast with teenagers itinerary.
Gold Coast Wax Museum
The Gold Coast Wax Museum is a museum that features wax models of celebrities and historical figures.
The Museum is Australia’s largest wax museum, with over 110 sculptures on display. It has been operating since 1989 and is located in Surfers Paradise, Queensland. The museum has a variety of attractions for all ages including the Chamber of Horrors.
The museum features sculptures from celebrities such as Kylie Minogue, Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe. You can admire the crown jewels and dodge Jack Sparrow. The Chamber of Horrors takes you through history and shows you the types of punishment people received for breaking the law.
Use the Klook Pass
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Klook offers two types of multi-attraction passes for families visiting the Gold Coast. You can choose the Dreamworld Pass or the Movie World, Sea World and Wet n’ Wild Pass.
What these passes do is offer entry to the theme parks and then you can add on entry to the attractions such as Aquaduck & iFLY Indoor Skydiving Experience, Jet Boat Ride in Main Beach with Drinks, Evening Rainforest and Glow Worm Experience, Wavebreak Island and Stradbroke Island Half-Day Tour, Natural Bridge and Springbrook Waterfalls Tour, Lamington National Park, O’Reilly’s & Vineyard Tour, SkyPoint Climb Experience, Sea World Whale Watching Cruise, Go Vertical Stand up Paddleboarding Tour.
You can turn the Klook Pass into an all-in-one pass and save heaps of money on your Gold Coast holiday with family.
Family attractions on the Gold Coast – TopGolf
The top golf concept pits friends against friends, and families against family in a driving range style target contest. Up to 6 players can compete against each other in one bay, where your smart golf ball measures how close to the different targets you get and allocates you a score.
The Gold Coast TopGolf venue has a Rooftop Terrace where you can order chef-inspired food while listening to live music, you’ll have a ball at Topgolf. Book your TopGolf fun today.
ArtVo Illusions 3D Art Museum
ArtVo is an immersive art gallery or trick art gallery where you can place yourself in a picture with famous people and objects. This Gold Coast attraction is popular with teens who love a good selfie or Instagram picture. The Gold Coast Artvo Museum features 6 different themed rooms for you to enjoy and experience. You can be pictured fighting a dragon or surfing a wave, just to name a few. Book your visit to ArtVo today.
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Stand-up paddle boarding in Surfers Paradise
If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy the water and get some exercise, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) might be just the thing.
Gold Coast adventures are waiting in the water for you
It can be done in lakes, rivers, and oceans, and is great for all ages and abilities. It’s also a great way to explore new areas and see things from a different perspective. These fun things to do on the Gold Coast with teenagers come with a short training and safety briefing before taking to the waters of the Gold Coast. Book your SUP experience today.
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Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular tourist attraction in Queensland, Australia. It is home to many native animals of the region. The sanctuary has been operating for more than 40 years and it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Queensland.
It’s a perfect place to visit on a family holiday for those who love animals. You can have close encounters with koalas and crocodiles and see kangaroos up close, as well as many other Australian animals. The Koala Conservation Centre is home to more than 150 koalas and their young joeys. Visitors can feed them, hold them, and take photos with Koalas.
The sanctuary offers a range of activities, including interactive animal presentations and guided walks through the bushland, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Things to do in the Gold Coast for teenagers – Jetski experience
Jet skiing is a great way to get your adrenaline fix! The thrill of the speed and the excitement of the action make it a popular choice for those looking for an adventure. However, before you hit the water, it is important to learn some basic skills, safety is as equally as important as having fun.
The company or tour guide will make sure you are familiar with the throttle, steering and brake controls before taking off. Jet skiing can be a lot of fun and one of the most memorable experiences you will be talking about for a long time to come.
The Gold Coast is a great location for jetskiing whether it be hiring one and doing your own thing or going on a guided tour.
Seaworld
The Gold Coast SeaWorld has no affiliation with the USA version, as it has never had any whales as part of its attractions. SeaWorld on the Gold Coast is a part theme park, a part aquarium with a little bit for everyone from high-speed rollercoasters to arena dolphin shows. There are attractions suiting anyone from little kids to thrill-seeking teens.
The theme parks are a must-do Gold Coast activity
You can partake in animal experiences with dolphins, seals, and penguins. SeaWorld also acts and promotes conservation through education and the rescue and rehabilitation of sick, injured or orphaned wildlife from all around Australia.
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Movieworld Gold Coast
If you’re looking for a place to take the family that’s sure to provide excitement and thrills, look no further than Warner Bros Movieworld Gold Coast.
There’s something for everyone at this attraction, from thrilling rollercoasters and stage shows to family-friendly fun and excitement. Plus, with DC heroes featured throughout the park, it’s sure to please fans of all ages.
Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating day out or a chance to let your hair down and have some fun, Warner Bros Movieworld Gold Coast is definitely the place to be.
Tickets and transport to Gold Coast theme parks
When it comes to entry tickets for the Gold Coast theme parks are a multitude of options from single entry day passes to three park passes and bus transfers to the parks. There is literally a pass to suit every family visiting the Gold Coast. Below, we will list some of the best options.
Dream World Entry tickets
3-day unlimited entry pass for Movie World, Wet N Wild and SeaWorld
7-day unlimited entry pass for Movie World, Wet N Wild and SeaWorld
Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild 14-Day unlimited entry Pass
Dreamworld Return Shared Transfer from Gold Coast Hotels
Movie World Shared Shuttle Transfer from Gold Coast Hotels
Wet’n’Wild Return Shared Shuttle Transfer from Gold Coast Hotels
Sea World Shared Shuttle Transfer from Gold Coast Hotels
Private Dolphin encounter at SeaWorld
Wet ‘n’ Wild
The Gold Coast is home to Australia’s largest and most popular water park- Wet ‘n’ Wild. The huge park offers something for everyone, with a range of thrilling waterslides, a lazy river, and a huge wave pool. There is also plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming, making it the perfect spot for a fun family holiday or an exciting vacation with friends.
Dreamworld
Dreamworld is a theme park located on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. It is one of the largest amusement parks in the country, with over 40 rides and attractions. The park is geared towards families and teens, with several rollercoasters and shows.
No Gold Coast trip is complete without a visit to Movieworld
There is also a water park area with several water slides and a wave pool. Dreamworld is home to several animals, including tigers, lions, and elephants. Dreamworld is the all-rounder for families, if you’re only going to go to one theme park make it Dreamworld, rollercoasters, waterslides and zoo all rolled into one.
Things to do in Surfers Paradise with teenage girls – High Tea
High Tea started out as a quintessentially British thing. This afternoon tea tradition involves savoury sandwiches, cakes, pastries, and of course, tea. For mothers and daughters, it’s a cherished ritual that often brings them closer together.
High Tea at Sky Point in the Q1 Building
High tea first became popular in the early 1800s, when aristocrats would gather in the late afternoon for a light meal. The spread would typically include cakes, tea, and sandwiches. These days, high tea is still enjoyed by many Britons and people the world over as a special treat.
If you’re looking to experience high tea firsthand, there are plenty of places on the Gold Coast to have a High Tea. But be warned – it can be quite addictive! Once you’ve had a taste of those delicious treats, you’ll likely want to indulge again and again. Some of the best Gold Coast High Tea venues are Bumbles at Surfers Paradise, Greenday’s Restaurant and Bar and SkyPoint at the Q1 building.
Things to do on the Gold Coast with teenage boys – Drive a dump truck or bulldozer
Just 30 minutes from the Surfers Paradise is this unique Gold Coast attraction, driving heavy machinery. Any boys or girls who grew up playing with Tonka trucks will go nuts for this experience.
Unusual things to do on the Gold Coast with teens
You will be taught how to operate the machinery safely before being let loose on tons of dirt! The experience of operating these big rigs will allow you will build dirt castles, dig ditches and feel what it is really like to be in control of up to 70 tonnes of machinery. Kids aged 12 and over can drive the earth-moving equipment with or without a licence and those younger can participate with their parents.
Drive a dump truck
Drive a bulldozer
Ice skating on the Gold Coast
Ice skating sounds like a strange thing to do when you are visiting one of the most popular beach destinations in Australia. This is a great activity to escape the daytime heat of the Golf Coast. For Australian teenagers, it may be a bit of a novelty as ice skating is not something we get to do all that often. You’ll have 90 minutes on the ice to hone your skills and have some fun. Book your Ice Skating session today.
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Learn to surf on the Gold Coast
What could be more Australian than learning to surf on the Gold Coast? When it comes to surfing, there are a lot of common misconceptions. Many people think that you have to be born with a natural talent in order to surf well. Others believe that the only way to learn how to surf is by going out and hitting the waves yourself. However, both of these beliefs are wrong.
The beach is one of the major Gold Coast destinations
In reality, anyone can learn how to surf – you just need some basic instruction and a little bit of practice. If you’re a beginner, your best bet is to take a lesson from an experienced instructor. They’ll teach you the basics of surfing techniques, how to read the waves, and how to stay safe while out in the water.
Once you’ve learned the basics, it’s time to hit the beach and start practising. The key is to be patient and take things slowly. Why not take a beginner’s surf lesson on the Gold Coast, literary a great way to dip your toe into this fun sport for teens. Check out a surf lesson on your vacation with teens.
Swimming at the Beach
The Gold Coast is a great place for families to visit. It has many attractions, such as theme parks and water parks. It also has many beaches that are great for swimming in the summer.
There is no shortage of great beaches on the Gold Coast
Swimming is a popular activity for teenagers as well as adults. The ocean can be safe to swim in at most beaches if you swim between the flags where lifesavers are present. Do not over-estimate your ability in the ocean and teenagers at the beach should never go in the water if lifesavers are not present if you have no experience with ocean swimming.
Gold Coast adventures with teens -Tamborine Forest Skywalk
Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is a must-go destination for any Gold Coast family. The skywalk is one of the world’s longest elevated walkways, so it’s a great place for those who love the outdoors and want to get up close and personal to nature.
Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is located in the hinterland of Queensland, Australia. It was built in order to preserve rainforest trees that were being cut down to make way for new developments. The skywalk is made up of a series of platforms that are suspended high above the ground, giving visitors an amazing view of the rainforest canopy below them. The walk spans over a kilometre and a half and is at least a 45-minute walk.
Extreme zip line guided tour and high ropes entry – Tamborine
Zip lining, also known as zip trekking or simply zipping, is a recreational activity and extreme sport in which participants use a harness to attach themselves to a cable mounted on a pair of trolley wheels.
Ziplines can be found as part of ropes courses, and there is one such course in Tamborine. At Tamborine, you will find seven long ziplines spanning 1.5km and climb ladders, manoeuvre across walkways and cross suspended bridges as you navigate your way through the high ropes course. For more information, reviews and pictures click here.
Ripleys Believe it or not!
Ripleys Believe it or not Gold Coast is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Australia. It has a number of attractions to offer, some are weird and strange, while others are wonderful. It is a place where you can spend hours exploring.
You find 2 floors of amazement with over 300 objects for you to look at from around the world. Challenge yourself on the Laserace, see a piece of the Zagami Mars meteorite or experience Ripleys 7D moving theatre. Book your Ripley’s tickets today.
Fun things to do on the Gold Coast – The Aquaduck
Discover Surfers Paradise by land and water on an amphibious tour with the Aquaduuck.
