Family Friendly Attractions in Surfers Paradise

If you’re looking  for the perfect family friendly destination, bring the kids to Surfers Paradise. With pristine beaches, laid-back vibes, and an endless list of epic activities, it’s basically a family-fun jackpot. Rain or shine, these family-friendly things to do in Surfers Paradise are loved by locals big and small. From sun-kissed beach hangs to quirky museums and sky-high thrills, here are the best family-friendly attractions in Surfers Paradise to make your next holiday unforgettable.

Splash, Dig and Soak Up the Sun

A postcard-perfect, two-kilometre stretch of golden sand fringed by sparkling ocean, Surfers Paradise Beach is one of the ultimate family activities the Gold Coast has to offer - and best of all, it won’t cost you a cent. Throw a towel down at this bucket-list-worthy spot and settle in for the day. Locals tip: Arrive early to snag a prime position near the flags and bring a shade tent. The rolling surf is patrolled by three lifeguard towers, with designated swimming and surfing areas. You’ll also find public toilets and BBQ facilities, perfect for sizzling a snag or two for a sunset al fresco dinner. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Big Views and Bigger Smiles

Got a little adventurer in the family or just craving an adrenaline rush? Head to SkyPoint – a must-do when visiting Surfers Paradise with kids – and take in sweeping 360-degree views of the Gold Coast from 230 metres above, atop the iconic Q1 building.

Beyond the viewing platform, there’s a family-friendly café dishing up everything from a brekky buffet to pizzas, burgers, salads, and seafood. Local tip: Time your visit for sunset for a meal with a side of goosebump-inducing vistas. If you dare, kids 12 and up (accompanied by an adult) can scale the building on Australia’s highest external climb. It’s one of the most unforgettable family activities Gold Coast has to offer. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Location: Q1 Building, Level 77/9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise

Rainy Day? No Worries!

If the sun isn’t shining, don’t despair. Kid-friendly attractions in Surfers Paradise are actually perfect for gloomy days when you want to stay dry. Here’s what to do in Surfers Paradise when it’s raining. 

Infinity Attraction

Open seven days a week, and great for kids aged eight and above, Infinity is a mind-bending 30-minute journey into the unknown. There are 20 multi-sensory experiences to navigate through including colourful spaces, futuristic mazes, pulsating beats, amazing illusions and unique special effects. This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Opt for a family ticket (two adults and two children) to save on entry. 
Location: Chevron Renaissance Centre, 3240 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Timezone Surfers Paradise

An icon for good reason, this locally loved institution is one of the best family activities on the Gold Coast. With over 300 arcade games, bumper cars, mini golf, mini bowling, laser tag, a parents chill out zone and a massive cafe, everyone from toddlers to tweens are catered for at Timezone Surfers Paradise. There are time-and-play packages starting from one hour for $35 to two-and-a-half hours for $65. 
Location: Cavill Mall, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

Holey Moley Golf Club

Ready to tee off against your tweens? Forget traditional putt-putt, Holey Moley serves up 18 quirky holes set to vibing beats and neon lights, with a tiki bar slinging cocktails (for the adults) and snacks for the kids. It’s great value for money too - kids can swing for just $14 a game, or go for the Fun Bundle, which includes three activities (escape rooms, bowling, and karaoke) for $36. (PSA: On Fridays and Saturdays, this venue is 18+ after 8pm.)
Location: Circle on Cavill Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Padlockd Escape Rooms

There’s no better way to bond as a family than by cracking clues and working together to break free from an escape room. At this Surfers Paradise venue, you’ll find 14 rooms to explore, each with its own difficulty level and theme — from the Forbidden Jungle and Museum Heist to The School of Magic. Many Padlockd challenges are designed with families in mind, so even the little ones can join in (though it’s best suited to ages 10 and up). In a fast-paced hour, you’ll solve puzzles, crack riddles, and (hopefully) break free to claim victory.
Location: 3177 Surfers Paradise, Surfers Paradise, 4217

HOTA (Home of the Arts)

The perfect activity for toddlers and curious little minds, HOTA’s Children’s Gallery offers hours of screen-free fun. Here, you’ll find free exhibitions and immersive workshops that change seasonally. Think story times, create-your-own art, and miniature homes. Bigger kids and culture buffs can explore five levels of art, and with lifts and wide walkways, it’s pram-friendly too. With free entry and free parking, this is one of the best things to do with children in Surfers Paradise.
Location: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

A Little Bit Quirky and Cool

These out-of-the-box family-friendly things to do in Surfers Paradise will snag you instant cool points with your kids. 

The Wax Museum Gold Coast

Home to the largest collection of authentic wax figures in the Southern Hemisphere (there’s over 100 of them), get your history and pop culture fix at this Gold Coast attraction. Get up close and personal with famous faces at The Wax Museum Gold Coast - think world leaders to Hollywood heavyweights - and feel the goosebumps wash over you as you walk (or run) through the gruesome Chamber of Horrors. 
Location: 56 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium

For Surfers Paradise family fun with a twist, step into a world of the weird and wonderful at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium. Older kids and curious teens can marvel at hundreds of mind-bending artifacts – from a meteorite that fell from Mars to a towering gorilla made of tyre rubber. Cap it off by spinning through the disorienting Vortex Tunnel, if you dare.
Location: Soul Boardwalk, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

Aqua Duck

A crowd-pleaser for the whole family, the iconic amphibious bus is one of the most unique family activities on the Gold Coast. Climb aboard Aquaduck and it will take you from the bustling streets of Surfers Paradise to the sparkling Gold Coast waterways. Your guide will share local landmarks and the city's glittering history before it’s “wheels up” and you splash into the seaway. Cruise past waterfront mansions, spot marine life, and let the kids take the wheel on the water – they’ll even score their own captain’s certificate. 
Location: Corner of Cavill Ave & Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise

Planning More Family Fun?

Want to keep the good times rolling? Fortunately, the Gold Coast is packed with family-friendly attractions. Something you can’t miss: Gold Coast theme parks! Get up close and personal with stunning marine life at Sea World, step onto the sets of your favourite films at Warner Bros. Movie World, and lose your stomach on thrilling rides at Dreamworld. Best of all, they’re all just a short 25-minute drive from Surfers Paradise. 

Want to know where to feed the family? Check out Where To Eat With Kids on the Gold Coast.