Make a Splash: Check out our ideas for kids water activities on the Goldy!
Sun’s out, smiles out – and the Gold Coast is calling! From calm creeks to wild slides, this place is a dream for water-loving families. So grab the sunscreen, pack the towels, and get ready to make a splash. Here’s your go-to list of water fun for every age (and energy level).
Paddleboarding: Chill Vibes on the Water
Stand-up paddleboarding or SUP, as the cool kids say, is like walking on water (but way more fun). It’s perfect for mini adventurers learning balance while soaking up the sun. The calm Gold Coast waterways make it super safe and beginner-friendly.
Top spots to paddle:
- Currumbin Creek – Calm, clear, and perfect for first-timers.
- Tallebudgera Creek – A local fave for laid-back paddling.
- Budds Beach, Surfers Paradise – Gentle waters right in the heart of the city.
- Broadwater – Wide open space for confident cruisers.
Where to learn:
- Pure Aloha Paddleboarding – On Currumbin Creek, where the water’s as smooth as it gets.
- Get Wet Surf School – Up north, they’ll have the kids gliding in no time. Offers family friendly lessons.
Hot tip: Morning paddles = calm water and happy vibes.
Kayaking: Go With the Flow
For families who love exploring at their own pace, kayaking is pure Gold Coast gold. Glide through creeks, spot fish under the surface, and maybe even a few friendly pelicans.
Try these family adventures:
- Seaway Kayaking Tours – Family-friendly guided tours made for little explorers.
- Australian Kayaking Adventures – Cruise the Broadwater without breaking a sweat.
It’s easy, peaceful, and you’ll all sleep like logs after!
Snorkelling: Dive Into a Colourful World
Got curious kids who love sea creatures? Snorkelling is the perfect intro to underwater fun, no fancy gear needed, just masks, flippers, and a sense of wonder.
Best snorkel spots:
- Wave Break Island – Calm waters, colourful fish, and good vibes all around.
- Gold Coast Dive Adventures – Run family snorkel tours that make it super easy.
Swimming in your own real-life aquarium.
Surf’s Up! Catch Those Waves
Whether your kids are total beginners or little shredders, there’s a surf school ready to get them stoked.
Best surf schools for kids:
- Currumbin Alley Surf School – Friendly instructors and mellow waves.
- Get Wet Surf School – At The Spit, where it’s all about safe, fun lessons.
- Broadbeach Surf School – Perfect if you’re staying in town.
Even if they just ride one wave, they’ll be buzzing all day.
Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast
Ready to crank the fun up a notch? These Gold Coast water parks are pure happiness on a hot day with slides, splashes, wave pools, and all the laughs you can handle.
Top picks:
- Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast – Big slides, wave pools, and a mini water park for the little ones.
- WhiteWater World – Right next to Dreamworld, with Wiggle Bay for the little ones and thrill rides for the brave.
- Gold Coast Aqua Park – A giant inflatable obstacle course floating on the water. It’s chaotic in the best way possible.
The Gold Coast’s waterparks are also a popular choice for grandparents to take their grandkids, more Gold Coast grandparent-friendly activity ideas here!
Jet Boat Rides
For families with older kids who love a thrill, a jet boat ride is the ultimate blast. Think high-speed spins, water sprays, and non-stop laughs.
Book a ride with:
- Paradise Jet Boating
- Jetboat Extreme
- Arro Jet
Warning: You’ll be talking about this one for weeks!
Amphibious City Tour
Ever seen a bus turn into a boat? Hop aboard an amphibious vehicle and cruise the Gold Coast like never before. Drive through the streets, then splash into the canals for a peaceful float past beaches, mansions, and the skyline.
Operators to check out:
- Aquaduck
- Quack’R’Duck
Kids go wild for it, it’s part sightseeing, part adventure. If you’re in Surfers Paradise for the night, we share some fantastic family-friendly places to eat here: family restaurants in Surfers Paradise
Plan Your Next Family Water Adventure!
From SUPs to slides, kayaks to jet boats, the Gold Coast is basically one big playground for water lovers. There’s something for every kid (and every kid-at-heart).
For more kid-friendly activity ideas and updates, check out schoolholidaysgoldcoast.com.au—your go-to guide for unforgettable family adventures!