The festive season is fast approaching, and there’s no better way to soak up the Christmas cheer than by joining in some of the magical events happening across Brisbane, Ipswich, and the Gold Coast. From twinkling lights to carols under the stars, here’s your guide to the best family-friendly Christmas experiences this December.
The season wouldn’t be complete without the sound of Christmas carols filling the night air, and South East Queensland delivers in spectacular fashion.
Returning for its 14th year, this much-loved event at HOTA, Home of the Arts, promises two magical nights of festive music and family fun on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December. Tickets are required for entry, but you can also catch the live screening from the HOTA Parklands, free and no tickets required. Pack your picnic rug, grab a bite from the food trucks, and enjoy the show under the stars.
Head to Riverstage on Saturday 6 December 2025 for Brisbane’s biggest Christmas party. Featuring live music, star-studded performances, and plenty of sparkle, this annual event captures the spirit of the season perfectly. If you miss out on tickets, don’t worry, the show will also be livestreamed to Roma Street Parkland, complete with pre-show entertainment and food trucks.
For a relaxed, family-friendly celebration, the City of Logan Christmas Carols are not to be missed. Running from 3pm to 8pm on Saturday 6 December at Griffith University Logan Campus, this free event offers markets, food stalls, live music, and free rides, capped off by a spectacular fireworks finale. Tickets are not required for this one, so you can simply show up and set up your picnic!
On Saturday 13 December, Robelle Domain will light up with live performances, delicious food trucks, market stalls, and fireworks at 8:30pm. It’s a community favourite for both children and grown-ups alike. No tickets required.
This December, Broadbeach Mall will transform into a magical gingerbread village, offering free festive fun for the whole family. From Monday 15 to Sunday 21 December 2025, the space next to The Oasis Shopping Centre will burst with colour, creativity, and Christmas spirit.
During the daytime sessions (10am – 3pm daily), families can dive into festive workshops—decorate your own gingerbread cookies, enjoy Christmas craft sessions, and settle in for storytime theatre. Each one-hour session includes all activities, but bookings are essential.
Little adventurers can also take part in The Oasis Treasure Hunt, collecting a map and following clues to uncover hidden surprises throughout The Oasis Shopping Centre. No bookings required for this one.
For those in the northern Gold Coast, Christmas in Coomera brings a full weekend of free festive fun, with activities running across Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December. Families can dive into the celebrations with a lively DJ dance party complete with snow machines and surprise performances, or try their hand at the North Pole Putt Putt course. Little ones will love spotting stilt-walking candy canes, Rudolf, Hip Hop Santas and even the Grinch as they roam the precinct bringing Christmas cheer. Of course, Santa himself will make special stage appearances throughout the event.
Between face painting, photo moments in Santa’s sleigh or on his throne, and plenty of roving entertainment, there’s something to keep every age smiling. It’s also a great chance to tick off some last-minute shopping with market stalls offering unique gifts and stocking fillers, while food trucks serve up tasty bites for hungry families. If you’re looking to add a joyful, high-energy outing to your Christmas calendar, Christmas in Coomera is the perfect way to celebrate together.
For a unique twist on holiday celebrations, don’t miss Santa and Sirens at the Nicholas Street Precinct on Thursday 27 November (5pm–7pm). This free event combines festive fun with a tribute to our real-life heroes, showcasing emergency service vehicles decked out in Christmas lights. Families can snap photos with Santa, enjoy live carols by Journey Church, and stay to witness the official lighting of the City Christmas Tree in d’Arcy Doyle Place at 6:45pm.
Finally, round out your Christmas adventures with the Brisbane City Hall Light Spectacular. Beginning 5 December, King George Square comes alive each evening as dazzling projections light up City Hall’s historic façade. It’s a breathtaking visual display of festive storytelling that will delight families of all ages.
Whether you’re decorating gingerbread in Broadbeach, singing carols under the stars, or taking in some stunning lights, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate this Christmas season. Gather your loved ones, embrace the sparkle, and make this festive season one to remember.
If you’re looking for early education and care for your young family, look no further than Little Scholars!
We offer your child the very best facilities, resources and early educational, play-based programs available, which are underpinned by the early years learning framework. We also believe in fun, wide-ranging experiences so that children can begin to develop interests and passions of their own, from Bush Kinder adventures to our broad extracurricular program which includes swimming for our kindergarten children, we believe in keeping wonder and magic in childhood.
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
When was the last time you visited your local library with your children? Libraries across South East Queensland have transformed into vibrant community hubs packed with hands-on experiences, tech adventures, toy libraries, craft corners and more- and most of it is completely free! Whether you live on the Gold Coast, in Ipswich, or around Brisbane, here’s a closer look at some of the hidden gems waiting for families.
Gold Coast Libraries have a strong focus on early literacy, and their First 5 Forever family sessions are a big hit with parents and little ones. From Baby Rhyme Time (0-2 yrs) which includes songs and rhymes to help build early language skills, to Toddler Time (2-4yrs) with singing and movement, and Story time (0-5yrs), families are guaranteed to create lasting memories together.
But it’s what happens beyond storytime that really surprises families. The Gold Coast Library network includes a fabulous Accessible Resource Collection (similar to a Toy Library), where families can borrow toys, puzzles and games the way you would borrow books. You can browse in person or put things on hold online, and pick them up from your local branch. Their after school programming is also a highlight, with every branch running weekly drop in LEGO® building sessions, and also a Monthly Learners Hub for primary-school aged children designed to get them connecting, playing, and learning in fun, hands-on ways.
If you’re planning a visit to one of the Gold Coast libraries, these branches stand out as extra special for children:
This beloved library has long been a family favourite. With a slide, padded reading nooks, toys and games, it’s a space designed for children to explore, imagine and play. Once it reopens, it’ll no doubt continue to be a go-to destination for families.
It may be tiny, but parents of under-fives rave about its dedicated play space and educational toys. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed morning with little ones.
Just steps from the beach, this branch was recently refurbished and now features a bright, vibrant children’s area. It’s the perfect combo: stories and songs inside, followed by sandcastles outside.
All the branches across the Ipswich Libraries network offer a huge range of early literacy programs such as Baby Rhyme Time, Toddler Time and Story Time sessions to help build language skills from day one. Ipswich Libraries also have a few “out of the box” sessions, such as Books and Blocks and Messy Play Time, which mix movement, sensory exploration and storytelling. They also take the magic beyond the library walls, with storytime sessions in parks, Bunnings stores, and even at local pools through the Dive Into Books program – perfect for those hot Ipswich days. For children who love tinkering and exploring, STEAM ON: All Things Tech sessions introduce science, technology, engineering, art and music through robots, digital play and creative challenges.
Ipswich has taken the library experience to a whole new level with Australia’s only public library dedicated entirely to children aged 0–12. Located in the Nicholas Street Precinct, the Ipswich Children’s Library is an incredible space filled with books, interactive tech, craft activities and even two life-sized Plesiosaurs hanging from the ceiling. It’s honestly worth a visit even if you don’t live nearby.
Brisbane City Council Libraries have something for every age and stage, beginning with the First 5 Forever Baby Rhyme Time, Toddler Time and Storytime programs for babies and toddlers. They also offer family friendly opportunities such as Make and Create Afternoons, where children can drop in for art and craft sessions that blend science, technology and creativity. Robotics has a large focus here too, with after school and weekend sessions focused on robot building and basic coding and robotics.
One standout is their Annual Reading Challenge, held each July and August. Children can join the Gold Star program (6–12 yrs) or Little Stars (0–5 yrs) and work towards receiving a certificate and medallion.
If you are looking for some libraries to explore in Brisbane, two branches really stand out for families:
Garden City Library has a magical Secret Garden City theme, complete with murals of birds and butterflies, interactive floor projections (think lava flows and space scenes), and digital tabletop games.
Carindale Library has a fun children’s entryway, a Duplo wall, marble maze, interactive floor, craft zone and cosy reading corners – perfect for whiling away a rainy afternoon.
Libraries today are spaces where children can play, imagine, build, code, craft, and connect – and where parents can find community too. Whether you’re borrowing toys on the Gold Coast, exploring the wonder of Ipswich’s Children’s Library, or joining a coding session in Brisbane, there’s a hidden gem waiting for you. So next time you’re looking for something fun (and free!) to do, head to your local library. You might just discover your family’s new favourite hangout spot.
If you’re looking for early education and care for your young family, look no further than Little Scholars!
We offer your child the very best facilities, resources and early educational, play-based programs available, which are underpinned by the early years learning framework. We also believe in fun, wide-ranging experiences so that children can begin to develop interests and passions of their own, from Bush Kinder adventures to our broad extracurricular program which includes swimming for our kindergarten children, we believe in keeping wonder and magic in childhood.
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
There is something magical about creek days with little ones: bare feet in cool water, sandy toes, the sound of gentle trickling streams, and endless opportunities for simple, unplugged fun. The Gold Coast is best known for its beautiful beaches, but you can discover some incredible rockpools and creeks perfect for toddlers and young children. Here are five family-friendly spots where little feet can paddle safely, explore nature, and make a splash.
Best for: A classic hinterland swimming adventure with shallow spots for toddlers and deeper pools for older children.
Just a 15–20 minute drive inland from Currumbin Beach, this natural swimming spot is surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a local favourite for good reason.
There are BBQs, picnic tables, grassy areas and toilets, making it easy to settle in for a relaxed family day. Keep in mind that it is extremely popular on warm weekends and you will need to arrive early to get a car park!
Best for: A peaceful, easy-access creek spot perfect for younger children.
Just down the road from the Currumbin Rock Pools, Long Tan Park is a lovely, often quieter alternative for families.
It’s a brilliant spot for families with toddlers or preschoolers who want a gentle, nature-filled adventure without the hustle and bustle.
Best for: Calm, sheltered creek paddling just a short walk from the café strip.
Instead of the busy Pirate Park, Palm Beach access point to Currumbin Creek, head a little further down the road to Apex Park. Here you get easy access to Currumbin Creek for a peaceful, shady paddling experience.
Best for: A peaceful rainforest adventure with shallow natural pools.
At the very end of Currumbin Creek Road, you’ll find the Cougal Cascades walking track. This is a short, pram-friendly path through beautiful rainforest that leads to:
There are no cafes or playgrounds here, so pack snacks, towels and enjoy the serenity. It’s a lovely spot for a half-day nature escape.
Best for: Creekside paddling with a city-meets-nature vibe.
Looking for something closer to home? Tucked away just a few blocks from the bustle of Surfers Paradise, Budds Beach feels like a hidden gem.
This is a brilliant choice for families who want easy access, a quick paddle, and facilities close by without trekking too far inland.
Rockpools and creeks offer something beaches sometimes can’t: calm, clear water, natural shade, and a slower pace that suits young families perfectly. However, it is very important to ensure your day at the creek is safe and enjoyable. Supervise children closely – even shallow water can have slippery rocks or changing currents. The creeks are also home to a variety of wildlife, so always check before entering the water and don’t swim if you can’t see the bottom. Bring water shoes to help children with firm footing while exploring. Also, after heavy rain the creeks can flow faster than usual and have poor water quality. Check Council water quality reporting for updates on creek closures.
Whether it’s a rainforest dip at Cougal Cascades, a lazy paddle at Currumbin Creek, or a quiet splash at Long Tan Park, the Gold Coast has a creek adventure for every kind of family day out. So pack the towels and go exploring! These are the kinds of days little feet (and big hearts) remember.
If you’re looking for early education and care for your young family, look no further than Little Scholars!
We offer your child the very best facilities, resources and early educational, play-based programs available, which are underpinned by the early years learning framework. We also believe in fun, wide-ranging experiences so that children can begin to develop interests and passions of their own, from Bush Kinder adventures to our broad extracurricular program which includes swimming for our kindergarten children, we believe in keeping wonder and magic in childhood.
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
Are you looking for low-cost options to help the family stay cool this summer? The Gold Coast is home to a host of free or low-cost, family-friendly swimming spots that are sure to cool everyone off and provide hours of fun entertainment. Here are 8 spots to try this summer, from the northern most parts of the Gold Coast, right down to the southern Gold Coast.
Lions Park is located at the Jacobs Well Boat Ramp, and is a council-managed, netted swimming enclosure nearby the mouth of the Pimpama River. Here you will find a small sandy beach area with shade sails right up to the water’s edge, as well as barbeque and picnic facilities. This spot is great for younger children, as they can get a taste of the beach without large waves or long walks from the car to the water. Best visited at high tide, it can be a bit muddy at low tide.
Cabbage Tree Point is a small town just near Jacobs Well, with a boat ramp, small beach and Charlie Hammel Park. This is a great spot for the family to spend a morning – set up a picnic blanket under the trees by the ship-themed playground and enjoy a swim at the small, sandy beach. Again, being on the river this is best visited at high tide, but enjoyable all day long.
The Pimpama Sports Hub is the northern Gold Coast’s largest aquatic centre, with a 50-metre outdoor swimming pool, a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, learn to swim pool and a hydrotherapy pool. The children’s splash pad is exceptional, with water fountains, bubbling brooks and water at ankle depth – it’s ideal for toddler and primary school aged children.
A splash pad might be the last thing you would expect to find at a shopping centre, but Westfield Coomera has one of the best free waterplay areas on the Gold Coast. Designed to resemble a billabong, waterways weave around interactive play stations where children can play with squirting frogs and jump across stepping stones. There are excellent change room facilities available and a café next door.
Ian Dipple Lagoon is a great place to go for a swim. Protected by a large sandbank, this lagoon is wave free and perfect for little ones. There are shower and toilet facilities along the shore as well, making the pack up easy. In the evenings, the lagoon is floodlit, so it’s also a great spot for dinner time fish and chips.
The Broadwater Rockpools might be the most popular water play space on the Gold Coast, with plenty of water fountains and vibrant marine-themed equipment to play with. The water play is built to resemble a creek bed, and it works like tidal rockpools with the water receding every 5-10 minutes and then returning again. The Rockpools are watched over by lifeguards during opening hours and it’s completely free to play.
Located within the Home of the Arts precinct, Evandale Lake is a popular swimming spot for Gold Coasters. With a sandy beach around the outside, the lake has shallow edges but can be deceptively deep as you get further in. Families love to spend the day here, making the most of weekend food markets or a picnic lunch. There is a fun shaded playground by the lagoon too.
The newest water play destination on the Gold Coast, the Palm Beach Aquatic Centre opened at the end of October and now has a 50m outdoor pool, 25m outdoor pool, indoor warm water program pool, 25m indoor learn to swim pool, and an outdoor splash pad. The splash pad at Palm Beach is fairly simple in design, with plenty of sprayers along the ground as well as a few water play towers and spinners, but it is made entirely of a rubber base which is absolutely ideal for those crawling or learning to walk!
If you’re looking for early education and care for your young family, look no further than Little Scholars!
We offer your child the very best facilities, resources and early educational, play-based programs available, which are underpinned by the early years learning framework. We also believe in fun, wide-ranging experiences so that children can begin to develop interests and passions of their own, from Bush Kinder adventures to our broad extracurricular program which includes swimming for our kindergarten children, we believe in keeping wonder and magic in childhood.
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
Grandparents have always shared a special bond with their grandchildren, but nowadays they are also playing an increasingly important role as a caregiver, as children spend much more time with their grandparents than ever before. Sometimes however, the generation gap can make it hard to think of new and fun things to do together that appeal to everyone.
Whether the grandchildren are spending an afternoon, a weekend, or the school holidays with you, this list is sure to keep children and grandparents of all interests and physical abilities, entertained and making memories year-round.
Each year, World Science Festival Brisbane paints the town red and takes science out of the laboratory and into the streets, parks, museums, galleries and performing arts venues of Brisbane and regional Queensland! World Science Festival Brisbane offers interactive and informative experiences for inquisitive young minds, with a huge range of family-friendly events and workshops.
Gather your family and friends and join in a fun weekend in the Scenic Rim region, filled with live entertainment, workshops for children, cooking classes, mini photo sessions, arts, crafts and much more. Don’t forget the star of the show – strolling through beautiful sunflower fields and picking your own to take home.
Surfers Paradise beach becomes a playground of light, music and entertainment at SeaFire, Australia’s only international fireworks competition. Nations compete to take home the SeaFire Championship title, so this is a chance to see choreographed fireworks displays fired off ocean barges. Bring your picnic blanket and set up in the sand for beautiful firework vistas. There is also plenty of pre-entertainment including food trucks, music and roving performances.
5-8 pm, free!
Kalfresh Vegetables throw open the doors to their farm and factory and welcome carrot-loving visitors each June!
See how they grow, pick, wash and pack carrots, as well as celebrate all things carrot with carrot juice, carrot sausages, carrot cake and carrot bread! Everyone can get their hands dirty with carrot picking on the farm, taking home as many as you can carry.
This year’s date has yet to be released, so keep an eye on Kalfresh’s social media channels for its official date. This is held on the Scenic Rim, at Kalbar on the Cunningham Highway in the Fassifern Valley.
The Winter Harvest Festival is the Scenic Rim’s signature event where you can experience Eat Local Month in one glorious, flavour-filled day! Chefs, growers. producers, and artisans come together to showcase the region’s culinary treasures. There will be more than 60 market stalls offering fresh seasonal produce, local wines, beers and spirits, cheeses, meats, and more. Alongside these culinary delights, you’ll find a variety of handcrafted goods and local creations, all crafted by the region’s skilled artisans.
There are food displays, workshops, produce stalls and a huge festival environment where the children can take part in a variety of games, activities and food related fun.nteractive activities like tractor pulling, carrot tossing, and farm animal cuddles. They’ll enjoy face painting, garden games, and fun, educational experiences that teach them about agriculture and food in a hands-on way.
Don’t miss the annual Tractor Pull competition!
Where country meets the Gold Coast! Get up close and personal with cute animals, meet the farmers and exhibitors and taste delicious foods made from locally sourced ingredients. Watch the woodchop, and enjoy the equestrian program. Wander through the pavilions, check out the crafts and cooking, from honey to homebrew, lace to LEGO, fine arts to photography, and flowers to fruit sculptures and explore the best agriculture has to offer. Finish the day off with an incredible fireworks display!
The Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) is Queensland’s largest and most loved annual event, now in its 149th year, bringing the country and the city together for a big celebration of agriculture. Enjoy competition entries from woodchop to giant vegetables, there’s 10,000 animals from beef cattle to cats and dogs, world-class live entertainment, award-winning food and wine, carnival rides and showbags, family shopping, educational activities and much more.
The Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is a three-day weekend event that features aerobatic demonstrations by the world’s best aviators. Attendees can join in meet and greets with the pilots, check out the family zone packed with aviation themed games and activities, and relax beachfront while watching paratroopers, stunt planes, helicopters, military planes and more from around the world perform.
Immerse yourself in the family fun and excitement of the Gold Coast Show! Set on the beautiful Broadwater Parklands on the Gold Coast, this FREE show attracts tens of thousands of families annually. Enjoy woodchop, equestrian, food and beverage stalls, exhibits, games and rides. Each night also concludes with an incredible fireworks show.
Riverfire is Brisbane’s most spectacular night of the year. The launch event for the three-week Brisbane Festival, Riverfire brings families from across south-east Queensland to South Bank for a night that lights up the skies. Entertainment begins from 4pm, including an RAAF aerial display, with the main event – the state’s most spectacular annual fireworks display – lighting up the sky at 7pm.
RedFest is Redland City’s main event, showcasing musicians and artists from across the region. For two days, the Redlands Showground becomes a celebration of the amazing community, with performers sharing their skills across the showground. Families are also taken care of, with a children’s program, featuring a range of free activities including farm animals, puppet shows, rock climbing and free face painting, Sideshow alley and spectacular fireworks.
The date is still in the works, check RedFest’s social media channels for date confirmation.
SWELL is Queensland’s premier outdoor sculpture exhibition, set along Gold Coast’s Currumbin Beach. For 10 days, more than 60 small, medium and large-scale sculptures will be set up along the beachfront and boardwalk for families to view.
The Family Zone activation is always popular, with workshops, activities, a BookFest setup where children can take home a free pre-loved book, live music and chill out zones set up under the leafy trees. Go at sunrise or sunset to beat the heat and experience the sculptures in a different light.
When considering how to look after your family during the work week, look no further than Little Scholars!
We offer your child the very best facilities, resources and early educational, play-based programs available, which are underpinned by the early years learning framework. We also believe in fun, wide-ranging experiences so that children can begin to develop interests and passions of their own, from Bush Kinder adventures to our broad extracurricular program which includes swimming for our kindergarten children, we believe in keeping wonder and magic in childhood.
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
The festive season is here and the opportunities to get in the spirit are endless! Why not check your shopping list off at a Christmas market, jingle along at a carols concert or putt your way through a Christmas wonderland. To make sure you do not miss out on the festive cheer, here is your go-to guide with only the best of the best Christmas happenings picked out for you. Be sure to add these dates to your calendar!
Get ready for an exciting and interactive Santa show! Join Santa, Mrs Claus and Rudolf for a Christmas extravaganza that includes a mix of traditional carols and current pop songs.
Pacific Pines Central Park, 4-8:30pm
Image via City of Gold Coast
This free family festivity will feature live music, market stalls, inflatable fun, local restaurant specials, games and activities, plus a visit from Santa Claus.
Ron Short Park, 4-8pm
Bring your family for the largest carols event on the northern Gold Coast, an unforgettable night with fireworks, food vans, and festive sing-alongs.
Brien Harris Oval, from 4pm
Image via Northern Gold Coast Carols Facebook page
One of the all-time favourite Christmas carols will be performed in a 2-hour celebration of song and dance on the beach, with a visit from Santa, and a fireworks finale!
Surfers Paradise Beach, 5-8pm
Image via City of Gold Coast
Wind your way through the Market lanes to the sweet serenades of stunning live music, spot roving performers, snap a selfie with an elf… or meet Santa himself!
Home of the Arts, 4-9pm
The elves have been busy transforming the 9-hole mini golf course into a spectacular Christmas wonderland!
76-122 Napper Road, Parkwood
Free live music on stage, roving performers, children’s entertainment, fantastic food trucks, and Christmas market stalls. Plus see Santa making a special appearance alongside a fireworks display.
Ed Hardy Park, 4-8pm
Dine under the stars at one of the fantastic local eateries, check out the local business offerings, and visit the Christmas market stalls. Plenty of free children’s entertainment on offer throughout the program with Santa making a special appearance!
Toolona Street, Tugan, 4-8:30pm
Sing along to your all-time favourite carols, enjoy a delicious assortment of food trucks, watch Santa fly in and watch a sparkling fireworks finale!
Queen Elizabeth Park, 5:30-7:30pm
Image via Shutterstock
A truly unique festive celebration, this event will feature live stage entertainment, Christmas carols, Santa, Fireworks over the beautiful Lake Orr and much more!
Waterfront Stage, Varsity Lakes, 4-8pm
Image via Carols on the Lake Facebook page
A fabulous, family Christmas event with market stalls, food trucks, Santa, Christmas carols, live music, facepainting and free children’s craft area.
Mudgeeraba Showgrounds, 3-8pm
The City of Logan Christmas Carols is the city’s biggest annual Christmas event. This free, family-friendly event features hours of on-stage entertainment, festive activities, food trucks, and markets, all jam-packed into one magical day.
Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct, 3-8:30pm
Image via Must Do Brisbane
Experience a pop-up Christmas market brimming with a variety of local vendors, a special visit from Santa’s elves, and Mr & Mrs Claus will drop by for photos under a larger-than-life wreath, suspended above the Market Hall.
Distillery Road Market, 11am-9pm
Image via Facebook event
A free 7-minute light and sound show running at 6:30pm, 6:45pm, 7pm & 7:15pm. Get ready to catch all the “bubble snow” at the end!
Image via Redland Performing Arts Centre
If you’re looking for early education and care for your young family, look no further than Little Scholars!
We offer your child the very best facilities, resources and early educational, play-based programs available, which are underpinned by the early years learning framework. We also believe in fun, wide-ranging experiences so that children can begin to develop interests and passions of their own, from Bush Kinder adventures to our broad extracurricular program which includes swimming for our kindergarten children, we believe in keeping wonder and magic in childhood.
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
Grandparents have always shared a special bond with their grandchildren, but nowadays they are also playing an increasingly important role as a caregiver, as children spend much more time with their grandparents than ever before. Sometimes however, the generation gap can make it hard to think of new and fun things to do together that appeal to everyone.
Whether the grandchildren are spending an afternoon, a weekend, or the school holidays with you, this list is sure to keep children and grandparents of all interests and physical abilities, entertained and making memories year-round.
A beautiful day on the Gold Coast’s waterways make for some stunning views and great sight-seeing! The Gold Coast’s very own hop-on hop-off ferry is the perfect multi-generational way to spend a day. Departing hourly from five iconic Gold Coast destinations, including the famous Surfers Paradise and HOTA, Home of the Arts, you can hop on at any of the five stops, and stay aboard for the full loop (two hours) or explore the hop-off destinations at your leisure. Enjoy a drink from the onboard bar whilst the friendly captain keeps you entertained with informative commentary, music, local tips and wildlife spotting. Children can also meet the captain and have a turn driving the boat. There are a range of ticket options available, from day passes to long hops and short hops – depending on your budget and timeframes. Children under five always travel for free too!
Another way to take to the water is with the iconic AquaDuck, and while it’s touristy, it’s a really great family outing, and perfect for multigenerational passengers. Embarking in the heart of Surfers Paradise, drive down the Esplanade overlooking the beautiful beaches and head towards The Spit. Once you reach the boat ramp just past SeaWorld, the tour changes pace and you’re heading for the water! Watch as the amphibious ‘duck’ changes from bus to boat and gently glides into the water. Now you’ll head through the Broadwater to check out how the millionaires live. You’ll finally return to land and drive down Tedder Avenue, before finishing back up at Cavill Avenue. The tour takes about an hour and is very family friendly, with children offered the chance to drive the boat and get their Captain’s certificate!
While the HOTA Gallery may be designed to cater for international art exhibitions, grandparents looking to give the grandchildren some culture will feel right at home! The Children’s Gallery at HOTA Gallery lets little artists get hands on – you won’t find any “do not touch” signs here! The Children’s Gallery changes every few months, each time offering a variety of interactive exhibits that complement the main galleries. After visiting the Children’s Gallery, take a stroll through the other free Galleries where you’ll find a few installations that are interactive and the children will love. Be sure to also ride the lift to the top floor and take in the Gold Coast skyline view! Fabulous 270 degree views await and there’s a guide you can use to work out what all the buildings are.
Bamboo Down Under at Wongawallan is a garden centre with a difference. The perfect grandparent’s day out, here you can explore a species garden, meditation garden, labyrinth, sensory garden and bamboo tunnel, and get bamboozled in the bamboo maze! Children can take on the Scavenger Hunt to discover the hidden pandas, all the while having a look at some incredible ornamental species of bamboo. Don’t miss the Rainforest Walk, a very peaceful stroll through a forest of enormous bamboo varieties. Dotted throughout are information signs about bamboo, little panda ornaments and other garden statues. Don’t miss the enchanted hollow at the end of the Tunnel.
The Cascade Gardens at Broadbeach has a special addition of a sensory garden designed for seniors, but it also makes for great fun for little ones! In the sensory garden you’ll find elements including a musical gong, wayfinding design and productive gardens that encourage you to interact with the gardens through sight, touch and smell. It’s a beautiful addition to the Gardens and makes this spot perfect for multi-generational get togethers! The playground is older in style, but the children don’t seem to mind. You’ll find a flying fox, rope bridge, rock climbing wall and a carousel.
For the more active grandparents, a visit to Tropical Fruit World just over the NSW border in Duranbah is a fabulous day out for the family! Book a Farm Tour and experience a fruit tasting and a tractor-driven guided park tour. On the tour you can pick and eat bananas straight from the tree, crack macadamia nuts, feed and pat kangaroos, sheep, alpacas and miniature horses, and enjoy a short wildlife boat cruise too! At the end of the tour visit Wildlife Island and burn some energy on the flying fox, mini golf course and volleyball court. Then, check out the fruit market, café, and the huge sandpit by the grassed lawn to relax. If you live in the Tweed, Gold Coast, Byron, Lismore and Ballina, you can purchase tours at a discounted rate.
(Image with thanks to Tropical Fruit World)
The generational gap can sometimes be hardest when the grandparents are tasked with spending time with energetic little toddlers. Keeping up with their ever-changing attention span, endless energy and natural curiosity is challenging for everyone! The Messy Place at Ashmore is the ultimate creative sensory play centre on the Gold Coast, designed exclusively for children under six years of age. They offer creative and messy play sessions in a safe and enjoyable environment, where they can unleash their imagination and make a mess. Exploration is encouraged, and grandparents can feel reassured being indoors in a secure, enclosed space. Sessions are booked on a casual basis and run five days per week.
National Grandparents’ Day is celebrated in Australia on the last Sunday of October. But as we all know, Grandparents Day is any day that the grandchildren can spend precious time with their grandparents. Whether you are a parent looking for how your child can have fun with grandma and grandpa or a grandparent seeking things to do with your grandchildren, we hope these ideas will inspire your time together.
We wholeheartedly believe in the proverb ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’ Little Scholars is proud to be a part of communities across South East Queensland, and we’re happy to play a small role in childhoods across the Gold Coast, Redlands and Brisbane.
We offer you and your child the very best facilities, resources and early educational, play-based programs available, which are underpinned by the early years learning framework. Our belief is that through quality education and care for children we can also encourage, assist and support the entire family.
Our dedicated team of educators are committed to the individual needs and interests of children and their families, and thus we encourage and welcome family input and involvement.
We aim to be like an extension of your family and are very relationship-driven. We support nurturing relationships between our educators and your child, the relationships your child has with the other children who attend, and we value our relationship with you as the parent and other family members. So book a tour today to get started!
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
While many Gold Coasters head to the southern suburbs on the weekend, the northern suburbs should not be overlooked for family-friendly weekend adventures! Starting in Stapylton and reaching to Pimpama, the most northerly suburbs of the Gold Coast also include Yatala, Alberton, Steiglitz, Gilberton, Norwell, Ormeau and Jacobs Well. Here you will find unique family activities, a range of family-friendly dining options, and some of the Gold Coast’s most unique play spaces. Here is your guide to getting the most out of a day in the Northern most parts of the Gold Coast.
South-east Queensland’s last original open-air Drive-In Cinema is located in Yatala, and boasts three massive screens accommodating up to 700 cars each night. Bring your camp chairs and sit out the back of your car to watch a movie, or bundle up the blankets, pillows and sleeping bags to make yourself comfortable in the back of your van, ute or car. Perfect for wriggly children, the privacy of sitting in your own vehicle means there is no need to worry if their bouncing around is bothering other cinema patrons. Movies screen every night of the week and they often host special event screenings too.
If your family is feeling creative, or looking to get messy, a workshop at DIY Invasion is sure to tick the box. Located at Staplyton, DIY Invasion run craft workshops ranging from resin art to painting, macrame and slime making – with their School Holiday Workshops always extremely popular for children. Another unique feature is their Splatter and Splash Room, which families can book for a private experience! Choose your own dance music, while letting your creativity run wild as you fling, flick, and splash paint around the room and over your fellow participants! This is a great space to unwind and tap into creativity.
The only library located in the far northern suburbs, the Ormeau Community Lounge & Library is a hidden gem. Here you can visit the Gold Coast’s only Book Box corner, an early year’s library and play-based learning space delivered in partnership with Queensland State Library’s First 5 Forever program. Here children do not have to worry about being quiet, and they are actively encouraged to play with the many games and play resources available. Open six days a week, families can join in Story Time on Friday and Saturday mornings, or participate in Baby Rhyme Time and Toddler Time sessions during the week.
Distillery Road Market is a fresh and exciting new venue located in Eagleby, home to The F.E.D, a 2000-person food and entertainment space. Here you’ll find an expansive indoor/outdoor dining area, with a range of on-site eateries to choose from. Open Thursday – Sunday, the venue is family friendly with live music each evening and long beerhall-style tables to choose from. The best part is that diners can choose meals from six different food outlets, meaning that all tastes and dietary requirements can be catered for! The casual vibe of this venue is perfect for an early dinner with the family, where children and parents can relax, move around, dance and enjoy a great meal together.
Yatala Pies has been a landmark in the Yatala area for more than 130 years, these days selling around 3,500 pies daily! Well known as a halfway stop on the journey between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, northern Gold Coast locals are lucky to have this icon right here in their backyard. Selling some of the best pies on the Gold Coast, the quality is exceptional and the range delicious. Choose from dine in or takeaway, you can grab a hot, ready-to-eat snack pie, or take-home, oven-ready family pies and snack pie packs. With something for everyone, the family will love a stop in at Yatala Pies any time of the day.
The Norfolk Tavern has got to be the most family-friendly dining option in the northern Gold Coast. Indoors you will find a bright and spacious dining room, while outside there is a wraparound veranda with ample space for dining, opening on to a huge children’s playground. The award-winning Bistro has menu options to suit every taste, from fresh seafood to steaks, pastas, salads and all the traditional pub fare. Extremely popular on weekends, be sure to book a spot on the deck if you are dining with children for easy line of sight from your table to the playground.
A nautical themed playground appropriate for its position by the water and close by the Calypso Bay Marina, here you’ll find a pirate ship brimming with bridges, wheels, slides and nets – be careful, you might even be asked to walk the plank! Underneath the pirate ship the imaginative play space is further extended, with a small shop counter set up, tunnel frames and other interactive game panels. The swing set with all abilities swing is always popular, as is the spinners and hammock swing. There’s also a little boat for children to pretend to fish or start the engine!
While many think the most northern beach area for children to swim is at Paradise Point, there is a lesser-known spot at the very northern edge of the Gold Coast – Lions Park at Jacobs Well. With easy access from the carpark, you are at a small, shaded beach in just a few steps. The swimming enclosure here has a small sandy beach, a large shade sail over the sand, and few waves, making it ideal for toddlers and younger children gaining confidence in the ocean. Parents will love the ability to sit on a blanket under the shade and still be close enough to their children in the water.
While the playground at Outlook Park, Ormeau may be tiny, pack the bicycles and prepare yourselves for the surprise bike tracks that make this a fabulous spot to visit! Set on a steep slope, Outlook Park is laid out over three levels. At the top you’ll find a small playground best suited for toddlers, and then on the middle and lower level there are two bike tracks, perfect for racing on. While the playground is very small, the bike tracks are great for bicycles, skateboards or scooters, and children will love lining up at the start line and racing the loops to the finish. Celebrate with some pretend play medal ceremonies on the dais at the track!
Hilltop Park in Ormeau is an older park, but still delivers a great time. Split into two sections, toddlers will love the smaller, shady play area with a car, climbing frame and mini playground with slide and swing. The main playground space is better suited for children over five, with a larger playground and slide, large climbing net, balance beams, spinners and swings. Children can also climb the ramp up to the old water tower, which has been converted into a play structure.
The northern Gold Coast offers a variety of unique and exciting activities for the whole family. From classic drive-in movies to hands-on creative workshops, scenic playgrounds, and delicious dining options, these suburbs have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water or a more adventurous outing, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Next time you’re planning a family day out, consider exploring the hidden gems of Stapylton, Ormeau, Yatala, and beyond—you might just discover your new favourite weekend spot!
Little Scholars provides quality early education and care for children across South East Queensland, including five early learning campuses in Stapylton, Yatala and Ormeau.
We offer your child the very best facilities, resources and early educational, play-based programs available, which are underpinned by the early years learning framework. We believe that through quality education and care for children, we can also encourage, assist, and support the entire family.
Our dedicated team of educators are committed to the individual needs and interests of children and their families, and thus we encourage and welcome family input and involvement.
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
Everything you need to know about how Australia’s early childhood framework guides the way your child learns, grows, and thrives, explained in plain English.
The Early Years Learning Framework or EYLF is Australia’s national standard for early childhood education and care. Its full name is Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia.
Developed by the Australian Government and released in 2009 (with a major update to V2.0 in 2022), the EYLF applies to all approved childcare and early education settings for children from birth to five years of age. It sits under Australia’s National Quality Framework (NQF) and is the foundation against which services are assessed by ACECQA.
The framework doesn’t dictate a specific program or curriculum. Instead, it gives educators a shared foundation of principles, practices, and learning outcomes to guide the experiences, environments, and relationships they create for children. The goal is a consistent, high-quality early education across every approved childcare centre in Australia.
The 2022 update expanded the EYLF's principles from 5 to 8, strengthened language around sustainability, critical reflection, and collaborative leadership, and updated practices to reflect contemporary research in early childhood pedagogy. If your child's centre was enrolled before 2023, their approach has been updated to reflect V2.0.
At the heart of the EYLF are three interconnected concepts that describe how children experience the world. These pillars aren’t stages, they exist simultaneously in every child’s life.
Children develop a sense of belonging through their relationships — with family, educators, peers, and the broader community. When children feel they belong, they feel secure, confident, and connected enough to learn and explore. Belonging is the foundation all other development is built on.
Being recognises that childhood is a valuable time in its own right — not just preparation for school. Children deserve time to simply be: to play, to wonder, to form friendships, and to experience the present moment fully. High-quality early childhood education honours this.
Becoming is about growth, change, and the development of identity over time. Every experience a child has — every relationship, challenge, and discovery — shapes who they are becoming. The EYLF asks educators to see and support each child’s unique developmental journey.
EYLF principles are the core beliefs that underpin everything educators do. They reflect contemporary research, ethical practice, and what we know about how children learn best. EYLF V2.0 expanded these from 5 to 8 principles.
Children learn best when they feel safe, valued, and emotionally connected. Warm, consistent relationships with educators are the single most important factor in quality early learning. This principle places relationship-building at the centre of every interaction.
Educators and families share responsibility for children’s learning and development. Genuine partnerships — built on communication, trust, and mutual respect — strengthen outcomes for children. Parents are considered the first and most important educators in a child’s life.
Every child has the capacity to succeed. This principle calls on educators to hold high expectations for all children regardless of background, ability, or circumstance, and to actively work to remove barriers to participation and achievement.
Australia’s children come from diverse families, cultures, and communities. Educators respect and value this diversity including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing and being, and reflect it in their programs and environments.
High-quality educators are always learning. This principle commits educators to continuous professional development, critical self-reflection, and staying current with early childhood research. It’s what separates good care from exceptional early education.
Added in EYLF V2.0, this principle encourages educators to examine their own assumptions, values, and practices with rigour. Critical reflection goes beyond routine self-assessment — it challenges educators to question why they do what they do and whether it truly serves every child.
Also new in V2.0, this principle recognises that children’s futures are shaped by the health of the planet and their communities. Educators integrate sustainability into everyday learning — helping children develop a sense of environmental responsibility from the earliest years.
Quality early education is a shared endeavour. This principle values leadership at every level — from the director to each educator — and recognises that when teams learn and grow together, children’s outcomes improve. A collaborative culture underpins a high-performing centre.
If principles describe what educators believe, practices describe what they do. These are the pedagogical strategies and teaching approaches that bring the EYLF to life in the learning environment every day.
Children’s development across physical, social, emotional, and cognitive domains can’t be separated. Educators take a whole-child approach — recognising that a child who feels loved and safe learns more than one who doesn’t, and that physical play builds cognitive skills as much as desk-based activities.
Skilled educators read children closely — their moods, interests, cues, and emerging ideas — and adapt in real time. Responsiveness builds trust, deepens engagement, and ensures each child’s experience is attuned to who they are right now, not a one-size-fits-all program.
Play is the primary vehicle for learning in the early years. Through play, children experiment, imagine, problem-solve, build social skills, and develop language. The EYLF recognises both structured and unstructured play as essential — leisure and downtime are as valuable as directed learning.
Great early childhood educators don’t just supervise — they teach with purpose. Intentional teaching means making deliberate decisions about experiences, language, questions, and provocations to extend children’s thinking and scaffold their development toward meaningful goals.
The physical and emotional environment of a centre is itself a teacher. Educators design spaces — indoors and outdoors — that invite curiosity, support risk-taking, reflect children’s identities, and promote independence. A well-designed learning environment makes quality learning happen more naturally
Educators actively incorporate children’s cultural backgrounds, languages, and family practices into their programs. Cultural responsiveness goes beyond celebrating events — it means genuinely embedding diverse ways of knowing, being, and doing into everyday learning experiences.
Transitions — between rooms, between services, and into school — can be unsettling for children. Educators work proactively to ensure these transitions are smooth, supported, and built on shared knowledge of each child’s learning journey, reducing disruption and building confidence.
Ongoing observation, documentation, and assessment help educators understand where each child is in their learning, what’s working, and where to go next. Assessment in the EYLF is not about testing, it’s a reflective practice that informs planning and celebrates children’s progress.
Learning outcomes are the broad goals that the EYLF guides educators toward for every child aged birth to 5. They’re not milestones or checklists — they’re holistic developmental destinations that shape how educators plan, observe, and document learning.
Children develop confidence in who they are their strengths, their feelings, their family, and their place in the world. This outcome includes developing resilience, a positive sense of self, and the ability to make choices and act with increasing independence.
Children develop a sense of connection to their communities, the natural environment, and the wider world. They learn about their rights and responsibilities, develop empathy, and begin to understand their role as active participants in society.
Physical health, emotional wellbeing, and a sense of safety and comfort all contribute to this outcome. Children who feel well are better equipped to learn, form relationships, and navigate challenge. Wellbeing is both an outcome and a precondition for all other learning.
Children develop dispositions for learning, curiosity, creativity, persistence, and enthusiasm. They become willing to take on challenges, try new things, and engage deeply with experiences. This outcome lays the cognitive and motivational foundations for lifelong learning.
Communication encompasses verbal language, non-verbal expression, literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy. Children learn to express themselves, listen and respond, engage with stories and symbols, and use a growing range of tools and technologies to communicate and create.
Common questions about the EYLF from parents, educators, and childcare students.
At Little Scholars, the EYLF isn’t just compliance — it’s the foundation of everything we do across our 17 South East Queensland campuses. Our educators are trained to bring all 8 principles and 8 practices to life every day, in environments designed for children to genuinely thrive.
Everything you need to know about how Australia's early childhood framework guides the way your child learns, grows, and thrives — explained in plain English.
Quick Reference
The Early Years Learning Framework — or EYLF — is Australia's national standard for early childhood education and care. Its full name is Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia.
Developed by the Australian Government and released in 2009 (with a major update to V2.0 in 2022), the EYLF applies to all approved childcare and early education settings for children from birth to five years of age. It sits under Australia's National Quality Framework (NQF) and is the foundation against which services are assessed by ACECQA.
The framework doesn't dictate a specific program or curriculum. Instead, it gives educators a shared foundation of principles, practices, and learning outcomes to guide the experiences, environments, and relationships they create for children. The goal is a consistent, high-quality early education across every approved childcare centre in Australia.
At the heart of the EYLF are three interconnected concepts that describe how children experience the world. These pillars aren't stages — they exist simultaneously in every child's life.
Children develop a sense of belonging through their relationships — with family, educators, peers, and the broader community. When children feel they belong, they feel secure, confident, and connected enough to learn and explore. Belonging is the foundation all other development is built on.
Being recognises that childhood is a valuable time in its own right — not just preparation for school. Children deserve time to simply be: to play, to wonder, to form friendships, and to experience the present moment fully. High-quality early childhood education honours this.
Becoming is about growth, change, and the development of identity over time. Every experience a child has — every relationship, challenge, and discovery — shapes who they are becoming. The EYLF asks educators to see and support each child's unique developmental journey.
EYLF principles are the core beliefs that underpin everything educators do. They reflect contemporary research, ethical practice, and what we know about how children learn best. EYLF V2.0 expanded these from 5 to 8 principles.
Children learn best when they feel safe, valued, and emotionally connected. Warm, consistent relationships with educators are the single most important factor in quality early learning. This principle places relationship-building at the centre of every interaction.
Educators and families share responsibility for children's learning and development. Genuine partnerships — built on communication, trust, and mutual respect — strengthen outcomes for children. Parents are considered the first and most important educators in a child's life.
Every child has the capacity to succeed. This principle calls on educators to hold high expectations for all children — regardless of background, ability, or circumstance — and to actively work to remove barriers to participation and achievement.
Australia's children come from diverse families, cultures, and communities. Educators respect and value this diversity — including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing and being — and reflect it in their programs and environments.
High-quality educators are always learning. This principle commits educators to continuous professional development, critical self-reflection, and staying current with early childhood research. It's what separates good care from exceptional early education.
Added in EYLF V2.0, this principle encourages educators to examine their own assumptions, values, and practices with rigour. Critical reflection challenges educators to question why they do what they do and whether it truly serves every child.
Also new in V2.0, this principle recognises that children's futures are shaped by the health of the planet and their communities. Educators integrate sustainability into everyday learning — helping children develop environmental responsibility from the earliest years.
Quality early education is a shared endeavour. This principle values leadership at every level — from the director to each educator — and recognises that when teams learn and grow together, children's outcomes improve.
Want to see these principles in action? Visit one of our 17 South East Queensland campuses.
Book a tourIf principles describe what educators believe, practices describe what they do. These are the pedagogical strategies and teaching approaches that bring the EYLF to life in the learning environment every day.
Children's development across physical, social, emotional, and cognitive domains can't be separated. Educators take a whole-child approach — recognising that a child who feels loved and safe learns more, and that physical play builds cognitive skills as much as anything else.
Skilled educators read children closely — their moods, interests, cues, and emerging ideas — and adapt in real time. Responsiveness builds trust, deepens engagement, and ensures each child's experience is attuned to who they are right now.
Play is the primary vehicle for learning in the early years. Through play, children experiment, imagine, problem-solve, and build social skills. Both structured and unstructured play are essential — leisure and downtime are as valuable as directed learning.
Great early childhood educators teach with purpose. Intentional teaching means making deliberate decisions about experiences, language, questions, and provocations to extend children's thinking and scaffold development toward meaningful goals.
The physical and emotional environment of a centre is itself a teacher. Educators design spaces — indoors and outdoors — that invite curiosity, support risk-taking, reflect children's identities, and promote independence.
Educators actively incorporate children's cultural backgrounds, languages, and family practices into programs. This means genuinely embedding diverse ways of knowing, being, and doing into everyday learning experiences.
Transitions — between rooms, services, and into school — can unsettle children. Educators work proactively to ensure transitions are smooth and built on shared knowledge of each child's learning journey.
Ongoing observation, documentation, and assessment help educators understand where each child is and where to go next. Assessment in the EYLF is not about testing — it's a reflective practice that informs planning and celebrates children's progress.
Learning outcomes are the broad goals that the EYLF guides educators toward for every child aged birth to 5. They're not milestones or checklists — they're holistic developmental destinations that shape how educators plan, observe, and document learning.
Children develop confidence in who they are — their strengths, their feelings, their family, and their place in the world. This includes developing resilience, a positive sense of self, and the ability to make choices and act with increasing independence.
Children develop a sense of connection to their communities, the natural environment, and the wider world. They learn about their rights and responsibilities, develop empathy, and begin to understand their role as active participants in society.
Physical health, emotional wellbeing, and a sense of safety and comfort all contribute to this outcome. Children who feel well are better equipped to learn, form relationships, and navigate challenges. Wellbeing is both an outcome and a precondition for all other learning.
Children develop dispositions for learning — curiosity, creativity, persistence, and enthusiasm. They become willing to take on challenges, try new things, and engage deeply with experiences. This outcome lays the cognitive and motivational foundations for lifelong learning.
Communication encompasses verbal language, non-verbal expression, literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy. Children learn to express themselves, listen and respond, engage with stories and symbols, and use a growing range of tools to communicate and create.
Common questions about the EYLF from parents, educators, and childcare students.
At Little Scholars, the EYLF isn't just compliance — it's the foundation of everything we do across our 17 South East Queensland campuses. Our educators bring all 8 principles and 8 practices to life every day, in environments designed for children to genuinely thrive.
The Gold Coast is known for its abundance of good food and stunning dining options, but when you have young children in tow – often the thought of dining out can be daunting. Thankfully, many local restauranteurs have heard the call of parents seeking family-friendly dining options. We’re now seeing dining venues with amazing menus, family-friendly fit outs and features to help keep the children occupied while you enjoy a hot meal. Whether it be a playground, a simple children’s corner, or open spaces to move around safely, there are plenty of choices for you to enjoy your next meal out. Here are my top six family-friendly dining venues on the Gold Coast that you should be sure to visit!
This shopping centre café is a hidden gem, saving the sanity of parents for many years now. With opening hours stretching from 5.30am – 9pm, you can often find those parents with early-risers enjoying a hot coffee at Café 63 in the early hours. Located in the incredible “Backyard” precinct at Westfield Coomera, the outdoor dining area overlooks a fun-filled obstacle course with adventure play suited to four-eight year olds. For the youngest children, a nearby splash pad and toddler sensory zone also serve as great spaces to stretch the legs while waiting for your meals to be served. The menu here is extensive and well-priced, including a fabulous children’s menu that will please everyone.
Here you will find a huge indoor children’s playground for four-12 year olds, with a family specific dining space attached. Separate from the rest of The Wattle Hotel’s restaurant, this glassed-off dining room overlooks the playground and contains about 15 tables. Here children can easily move back and forth between the playground and the table while their parents can see them at all times. There is a great children’s menu and delicious daily specials to enjoy, this is modern bistro dining that can be enjoyed by all the family.
A café best known amongst the Coast’s cyclists thanks to its location near the Velodrome and bike shops, Cadence Café also caters beautifully to families seeking great food. Set across three terraced levels, the venue is connected by a central path and steps – at the top is the café, the middle level has plenty of dining tables and chairs, and the lower level is home to high bar tables overlooking a fenced children’s play space. All levels are shaded by a beautiful fig tree, have ramp access, and dogs are also welcome in the outdoor areas. Serving breakfast and lunch, the menu caters well to families, and you are sure to enjoy a delicious meal.
Just off the hustle and bustle of Olsen Avenue sits the Latte Lounge, a family-friendly oasis amongst the gum trees. Here you will find house-roasted specialty coffee and a delectable brunch menu, plus one of the best children’s menus you will find at a café. The open-air café is almost the second-best attraction, when you see the large, easily accessible playground right in the middle of the café. Designed for all ages, this fenced café and playground is covered by large shade sails and offers plenty of shady spots to enjoy your meal. With its central Gold Coast location, this is also an extremely popular spot for birthday parties and play dates. Thankfully, due to the size of the café and playground it never feels overly busy or crowded and is always a delightful outing.
This hidden gem on the southern end at first appears to be a juice bar, but venture inside and you will find a breezy indoor/outdoor café with children’s playground! Popular with the locals, this unassuming little spot is filled with sunshine, great food and service with a smile. This is a family-run café with its roots in healthy superfoods that taste phenomenal. Dog friendly, the outdoor deck is the place to be, with easy line of site to the children’s playground. The café kitchen is only open Thursday – Monday, but the juice and smoothie bar is open 7 days.
With beautiful coastal vibes, indoor/outdoor dining is essential on the Gold Coast, and BSKT serves it up perfectly. Located just steps away from the beach, BSKT has delicious food, ample seating and a fenced children’s play area. Pronounced biscuit, this menu is packed with vibrant colours and bold flavours, but also caters well to children. BSKT doesn’t take books and this spot is extremely popular on the weekend, but wait times are usually short. Be sure to grab a spot outside under the patio to have easy access to the play area! Why not pack the swimwear and walk over to the beach afterwards!
Find Lara’s recommendations at her website Mrs. Lardeedah.com, and follow her socials Facebook and Instagram
Let us hold your hand and help looking for a child care centre. Leave your details with us and we’ll be in contact to arrange a time for a ‘Campus Tour’ and we will answer any questions you might have!
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Let us hold your hand and help looking for a child care centre. Leave your details with us and we’ll be in contact to arrange a time for a ‘Campus Tour’ and we will answer any questions you might have!
"*" indicates required fields
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