Looking for things to do on the Gold Coast with teens?
Activities for teens… can feel like a challenge but thankfully the Gold Coast is the ideal destination to keep your teenagers entertained! Our beautiful city is a favourite for teens, thanks to stunning beaches, fun theme parks, and outdoor adventures.
Whether your teen loves the great outdoors, is an adrenalin seeker or prefers just chilling out, there’s an idea here they will love. And the best part? We’ve got the inside scoop on activities that won’t cost a fortune as well. Keep reading to uncover the top 10 activities and things to do for teens on the Gold Coast!
Key Takeaways:
- Teens can live their best #beachlife with surfing lessons or enjoying a day at Burleigh Beach or Currumbin Alley
- Jet boating, Go karting and GC Wake Park are all fab options for the thrill seekers
- The Treetop Challenge, Putt Putt Golf and theme parks promise fun times
- There are also plenty of free activities for teenagers, such as hiking in the Gold Coast Hinterland and checking out Art Roll, the Goldy’s free street art trail
Why is the Gold Coast a favourite destination for teens?
If you’re not a local, Queensland’s Gold Coast, in Australia, is a renowned destination for teenagers thanks to the countless attractions on offer for this age group.
With world-class theme parks like Dreamworld, Movie World, Seaworld and Wet’n’Wild, teenagers can enjoy thrill rides, live entertainment, and interactive experiences.
Burleigh Heads and Snapper Rocks provide the perfect backdrop for surfing, beach games, or soaking up the sun with friends.
Vibrant shopping hubs like Pacific Fair, Robina Town Centre and Harbour Town not only offer on-trend fashion and unique stores but also food markets, arcade games and the cinema.
For those seeking outdoor fun, the Gold Coast hinterland has well-signed hiking trails and waterfalls.
What Are the Top 13 Activities for Teens on the Gold Coast?
1. Surfing Lessons
Surfing lessons on the Gold Coast are an awesome opportunity to embrace the Goldy’s beach culture.
Young surfers can choose from a number of surfing schools offering lessons at iconic beaches such as Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, Currumbin and Snapper Rocks. Expert instructors, familiar with the coast’s tides and currents, guide students through the fundamentals of surfing, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
The combination of warm waters, consistent waves, and breathtaking ocean vistas make each lesson an adventure. These lessons not only cultivate surfing skills but also foster a deep appreciation for the ocean and the environment.
2. Theme Parks
The Gold Coast’s world-class theme parks, such as Dreamworld & WhiteWater World are still a major drawcard for teens.
At Dreamworld, they can challenge their bravery on the Giant Drop, The Claw and BuzzSaw. The park also offers wildlife interactions at Tiger Island.
Meanwhile, at WhiteWater World, Fully 6 and The Green Room are a hit with teens. The park also provides a wave pool, and a range of other fun slides.
At Movieworld, with Hollywood-themed rides and experiences there’s the DC Rivals HyperCoaster and Green Lantern Coaster. The Justice League 3D and Hollywood Stunt Driver show are also a hit for all ages.
Seaworld provides a mix of rides and wildlife encounters that teens will love. The Jet Rescue coaster, Leviathan and Vortex are popular rides. The park also hosts daily marine shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and other marine creatures. Castaway Bay battle boats are loads of fun.
Wet’n’Wild is the perfect destination for teenagers looking to cool off and have a blast on a hot day. The park has loads of water slides, such as the Kamikaze and Constrictor and the Giant Wave Pool is always a hit while the Lazy River provides a more relaxed option for lounging and taking it easy.
3. SkyPoint Observation Deck
SkyPoint Observation Deck at the iconic Q1 Building has a breathtaking panoramic view of the Gold Coast.
Visitors enjoy a 360-degree outlook that showcases the stunning GC coastline, hinterland, and glittering skyscrapers, providing an ideal backdrop for capturing Insta-worthy moments.
One for the thrill-seekers, Skypoint Climb takes the adventure to new heights, scaling the exterior of the building, in fact it’s Australia’s highest external building climb. Kids aged 12-15yrs old must be accompanied by an adult (18 yrs +).
The on-site SkyPoint Bistro and Bar provide a laid-back setting to relax and enjoy refreshments while taking in the view.
4. Jet Boating
Jet boating adventures offer an adrenaline-fueled experience, as they speed through scenic waterways around the Gold Coast.
The routes for these high-speed escapades often head along the coastline, offering panoramic views of Surfers Paradise.
There are several providers offering jet boating experiences, including Jet Boat Extreme, Paradise Jet Boating, and Gold Coast Jet X, each ensuring expert guidance for an unforgettable adventure.
5. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary takes visitors on a journey through the region’s diverse flora and fauna, interacting with native and international wildlife.
One of the most popular attractions at the sanctuary is the opportunity to hand-feed colourful lorikeets. Kangaroo feeding is also a hit, as is the Treetop Adventure, a high ropes course up in the trees above the exhibits.
The sanctuary provides educational programs that focus on wildlife conservation and the importance of preserving natural habitats and protecting endangered species. Their commitment to conservation and sustainable practices makes it an inspiring destination for environmentally conscious teenagers.
6. Glow Worm Caves
Explore the enchanting glow worm caves at Tamborine Mountain and witness the luminescent beauty of these natural wonders in a magical setting.
Guided tours through the cave systems offer a fascinating insight into the life cycle and behavior of these enchanting creatures. As you venture deep into the caves, you’re surrounded by the surreal glow emitted by thousands of tiny glow worms, creating an otherworldly feel. Teens will love seeing the twinkling glow worms in their natural habitat.
Learn more here: https://www.tamborineglowworms.com.au/
7. Go Karting
Go karting experiences on the Gold Coast means high-speed racing and competitive excitement in a safe and controlled environment.
With state-of-the-art tracks and top-notch facilities, teens can unleash their need for speed at renowned venues such as Slideways Go Karting and Game Over Gold Coast.
Tracks test the skills and determination of young racers. The overall racing experience is not just about speed, but also about strategy and precision.
8. Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Stand up paddle boarding adventures offer another perspective of the Gold Coast from the water.
Exploring the coastline on a stand-up paddleboard is an unmatched opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate breathtaking views.
The best spots for paddle boarding include Tallebudgera Creek, Currumbin Creek and around Surfers Paradise. Go Vertical SUP Hire offer tours, lessons and board hire.
9. Shopping at Pacific Fair
A shopping adventure at Pacific Fair is a much loved teen activity with a massive range of retail outlets, designer stores, and entertainment options.
With over 400 stores, Pacific Fair boasts a mix of popular youth brands such as Zara, H&M, Mecca and Sephora, Nike and stores like General Pants, Culture Kings, City Beach and Cotton On. Food options include Betty Burgers, Grill’d, Donut King, Hero Sushi, KFC, Maccas, Subway and loads more. The open-air design and chill out areas at ‘Paccas’ make it a great spot for a day of shopping.
10. Beach Day at Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads has Justin’s Park for picnics and park games, walking trails around Burleigh headland to Tallebudgera creek, weekend markets and the surf club for a meal. Teens can ride bikes or scooters along the Burleigh beach to Miami along the Oceanway walk. A short stroll over to James Street takes you to a variety of shops, restaurants and cafes.
What Are Some Free Activities for Teens on the Gold Coast?
While the Gold Coast offers plenty of things to do that cost money, teenagers can also enjoy several free activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty, cultural charm, and vibrant outdoor spaces. From hikes in the Gold Coast Hinterland and beach volleyball at Surfers Paradise, to relaxed picnics at Broadwater Parklands, there’s no shortage of cost-free experiences for teens.
11. Hiking in the Gold Coast Hinterland
Exploring the Gold Coast Hinterland is an adventure into the region’s natural landscapes. Hike along scenic trails, observe diverse wildlife, and lap up the serenity of the peaceful hinterland environment. The hinterland’s network of hiking trails offers the chance to explore waterfalls, lookout points, and hidden pockets of ancient rainforest.
12. Picnic at Broadwater Parklands
The Broadwater Parkland’s vast green fields provide loads of space for setting up a cosy picnic spot. Here you can can enjoy a relaxing day under the shade of trees. The Rockpools playground area features water jets, climbing frames, swings, slides, and more. Dive into the sparkling waters of the Broadwater Swimming Lagoon. This man-made swimming area is bordered by a sandy beach, making it perfect for a refreshing swim or lounging under the sun.
Broadwater Parklands is an ideal location for a bike ride. Scenic pathways wind along the waterfront, offering beautiful views. Broadwater Parklands offers opportunities for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. You can bring your own equipment or rent from nearby providers. There’s also an outdoor gym and several fitness stations.
13. Art Roll – Street Art Trail
Gold Coast has embraced the world of street art with the Art Roll street art trail, a cultural experience that showcases the city’s creative spirit. This trail consists of artworks located throughout the streets of Gold Coast neighborhoods, providing a feast for the eyes and a unique way to explore the city’s urban landscape.
The colorful and dynamic creations found on the Art Roll trail are often bold, edgy, and thought-provoking. Art Roll trail offers plenty of visually stunning backdrops for Insta snaps. From large-scale murals to intricate stencils and graffiti-style art, the Art Roll street art trail is free and accessible to all, making it an ideal activity for teenagers on any budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top 10 cool activities for teens on the Gold Coast?
1. Visiting the famous theme parks such as Dreamworld and Sea World.
2. Exploring beautiful beaches.
3. Going on a Treetop zip-line adventure through the rainforest at Currumbin Sanctuary.
4. Checking out the local markets and trying some meals from the food trucks.
5. Taking a surf lesson with a professional instructor.
6. Inflatable fun at GC Aqua Park
7. Trying out indoor skydiving at iFLY Gold Coast
8. Taking a guided tour of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and getting up close with Australian wildlife.
9. Going on a jet boat ride on the Broadwater.
10. Doing the challenge rooms at Hijinx Hotel
What are the best outdoor activities for teens on the Gold Coast?
1. Hiking through the scenic trails at Springbrook National Park.
2. Going on a stand-up paddleboarding adventure at Tallebudgera Creek.
3. Renting a bike and exploring the coast on two wheels.
4. Having a picnic at The Spit and watching the sunset over the ocean.
5. Playing a game of beach volleyball or soccer with friends.
Can teens hang on the Gold Coast without breaking the bank?
Yes! There are plenty of affordable activities for teens on the Gold Coast. Some budget-friendly options include visiting beaches, hiking, exploring local markets, and going to free events like beach concerts and festivals. Alternatively, check out this teen bucket list for more inspo.
What are some unique activities for teens on the Gold Coast?
1. Taking a hot air balloon ride with Balloon Aloft GC and seeing the Gold Coast from above
2. Going on a glow worm tour at Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park
3. Heading to Zero Latency VR for a virtual reality game with a group of friends
4. Escaping from Padlock’d escape room in Surfers Paradise
What are some indoor activities for teens on the Gold Coast?
1. Visiting the Infinity Attraction
2. Playing laser tag or doing clip-n-climb at Game Over
3. Watching a movie at the Event Cinemas with their luxurious Gold Class experience.
4. Going bowling or playing arcade games at Timezone Surfers Paradise.
5. Trying out indoor rock climbing at On Belay indoor rock climbing in West Burleigh
6. Playing a real life Among Us game at OtherWorldHQ in Surfers.
So, if you’re a local family, or planning a trip to the Gold Coast with teenagers, you can see there’s no shortage of activities to keep them entertained!