The Gold Coast is ripe with opportunities for healthy, outdoor family fun. You’ll be bombarded with suggestions for theme parks and the like but if you’re looking for more creative things to do on the Gold Coast with toddlers, the following suggestions are bound to make for some excellent memories.
Feeding pelicans
The best bet is to head to Harley Park and Ian Dipple Lagoon (Broadwater). Charis Seafood does daily pelican feedings at about 1.30pm every day. The clever birds start massing an hour or so before (they must have watches in their massive beaks). This is an exciting and impressive activity that little kids will enjoy as they take in the wonderous size and amusing antics of these impressive water birds.
Bushwalking with toddlers
This is not an editing error! Bushwalking with a toddler in tow is possible and it can be enjoyable as well, as long as you’re prepared.
Bushwalking provides toddlers and young children with the opportunity to exercise in an entirely natural setting. It promotes an appreciation of the beautiful natural settings that we often take for granted in Australia and it’s an excellent way to spend some quality time together as a family.
The best locations for bushwalking with young children on the Gold Coast are:
- Three Sisters Walking Track (1.6 km)
- Purling Brook Falls Circuit (4 km)
- Cougal Cascades Track (1.5 km)
- Minyon Falls (4 km)
- Tarrabora Reserve (2.4 km)
- Heritage Park Trail (2 km)
- Caves Circuit (5 km)
- Federation Walk (3.5 km)
- Oceanview Walk (4.6 km)
- Palm Grove Circuit (2.6 km)
Animal experiences
The big theme parks have the crowd, the prices and the plastic. If that’s exactly what you’re hoping to avoid with your little ones, take heart! There are a number of fantastic family-friendly venues on the Gold Coast that promote sustainability and conservation. They provide families with animal experiences in a natural, respectful way that sets up a lifetime appreciation for the wonderful creatures we share our world with. These can make for excellent days out and really are one of the best things to do with toddlers on the Gold Coast.
Places you can take toddlers to see animals on the Gold Coast:
- David Fleay Wildlife Park
- Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
- Paradise Country Farm Stay
- Cedar Glen Farm Stay
- Macadamia Castle
How can nature and creativity enhance your child’s learning? Contact Little Scholars today to find out how.
