5 Day Trips to do on the Gold Coast

If you are planning a getaway to the sunny Gold Coast with the family this year, these top 5 destinations are definitely worth considering. All located within a short distance of the Gold Coast, you can pack a picnic and make a day trip out of it that everyone will enjoy.

1. Australia Zoo – Why not spend the day with the kids exploring the world of animals that inspired the late and great Steve Irwin? This famous zoo is located only 2 hours from the Gold Coast Coast, and is easily accessible by both train and bus. You will find an animal for everyone in the family at every age group – pat a koala, hand feed a kangaroo, watch the tiger cubs or crocodiles in action, or simply watch one of the live shows. With family tickets and pensioner concessions available, you may even find yourself coming back for more.

2. The Theme Parks – You can’t visit the Gold Coast without stopping at least one of the many theme parks: Dreamworld, White Water World, WB Movie World, Wet N Wild world, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Seaworld and the Australian Outback Spectacular. It is always best to see what each park has to offer your family, and confirm opening/closing times beforehand. The earlier you arrive, the better chance you have of beating the crowds.

3.   Whales in Paradise – Located in the heart of the Gold Coast, whale watching tours depart from the Surfers Paradise terminal three times per day. Not only do Whales in Paradise guarantee that you will see a whale (or you get a free trip), you will be able to get in close enough to snap the perfect holiday pictures. Refreshments are available to purchase on board, so you can sit back with a coffee and enjoy the amazing sights of these animals in a world both known and unknown to us.

4.   The Glow Worm Cave and Natural Bridge Tour – This is a three hour adventure, where you will witness the magic of glow worms in their natural habitat. A tour guide will pick you up from a pre-arranged Gold Coast location at around 5.30pm, and take you for a short hike through Rainforest Plateau to the Natural Bridge Cave and the glow worms. In all, the tour costs about $100 per person and lasts for approximately three hours, with the option of a three course meal afterwards.

5.   Lamington National Park – If you love walking, then the Lamington National Park is the place for you. No matter what level your fitness is at, there are tracks designed for beginner, intermediate and the more experienced walker. Split into two sections, the Green Mountains and Binna Burra, the national park has several campgrounds to choose from if a day trip isn’t long enough for you and your family.