The Gold Coast has long been a family-holiday favourite, and it’s easy to see why – famous theme parks, broad beaches and plenty of ways to fill a school-holiday day. But does it still earn a place on your itinerary?
In 2026, the Gold Coast feels as fresh as ever, with new rides, interactive activities and fuss-free restaurant openings showing that it doesn’t rest on its laurels. Here are four reasons to put the Gold Coast on your school-holiday shortlist – especially if you’re the person carrying the itinerary, snacks and pool towels.
1. The theme parks have new tricks up their sleeves
The Gold Coast’s beloved theme parks are not standing still, with new rides, shows and after-dark events giving first-timers and repeat visitors more to explore. Plus, a family day works better when everyone gets a proper turn with something for little ones and big kids alike.
Movie World
The crowd-favourite SCOOBY-DOO! Spooky Coaster is back open after maintenance. The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes 4-D Experience is showing at the Roxy Theatre, while the Spy Chase Stunt Show brings stunts and action to the day. The Wizard of Oz precinct includes Flight of the Wicked Witch and Kansas Twister but check height and age restrictions before you queue.
Sea World
Sea World’s ONE Dolphin Presentation is now showing at Dolphin Beach Stadium. Watch marine mammal specialists and dolphins explore their connection, then learn more about protecting the ocean through the presentation’s conservation-focused storytelling.
Wet’n’Wild
Wet’n’Wild’s new Zoom Zone brings a collection of water slides as tall as 17.6 metres, while H2Oasis gives younger children an 870-square-metre splash area. Both attractions are subject to maintenance and weather closures, so check the park’s schedule before setting out.
Dreamworld
Dreamworld Night Market turns Friday and Saturday evenings into a family outing, with food trucks, live music and street performers from 5pm to 9pm. You can also watch cartoons or sport on the big screen, or try select rides such as the Dreamworld Flyer and Deep Sea Dodgems during the market.
2. A rainy day no longer means pausing the fun
Even in the Sunshine State, sometimes the forecast has other plans. That’s why it’s useful to keep one weather-proof activity in your back pocket each day.
Dolphin Beach Stadium at Sea World now has a roof, creating a reliable place to shelter and shade when the forecast turns, while indoor spaces and animal presentations keep the day moving. Catching a show at Movie World’s Roxy Theatre is another easy way to wait out a rain shower.
3. Dinner can be delicious – even for picky eaters
Dining on holiday with a family can be a logistical challenge, but the Gold Coast’s newer food openings give you more options between park days, shopping trips and beach afternoons.
Nearby Pacific Fair is an easy indoor change of scenery, with shops, food and the new Lune Croissanterie. Lune opened at Pacific Fair in July 2026, bringing its signature pastries and open-kitchen format to the Gold Coast. What kid doesn’t love a sweet treat? You’ll find plenty to choose from, with a rotating menu every month.
Who doesn’t love a buffet? In Broadbeach, TORI serves more than 50 made-to-order Japanese favourites, from sushi and yakitori to ramen and tempura.
Munchies Sushi takes a different approach, combining Brazilian and Japanese influences in a colourful à la carte menu of handrolls, bao buns, poke bowls and more. It’s an easy choice for a relaxed dinner with the crew or a quick lunch between activities.
Venture south to Coolangatta for a beach day and grab lunch from Burrata Boy – focaccia sandwiches for little ones and salad bowls topped with creamy burrata for the adults.
4. The fun isn’t just at the theme parks
While you could spend every day at a theme park, the Gold Coast has plenty of other family-friendly activities to try when you want to change the scenery.
TRICKD in Surfers Paradise is a good place to start. This immersive, all-ages experience blends optical illusions, tactile installations and mixed-reality effects across three playful zones. Move through Dr. Enigma’s Laboratory, The Anomaly Zone and The Paradox Glitch Zone, where shifting perspectives and clever visual tricks keep the whole family involved.
Prison Island offers a more active challenge, with up to 40 themed cells filled with puzzles, physical tests and timed missions. Rather than following one set route, your group chooses which challenges to tackle and works together to collect points. It’s a good fit for children who enjoy solving problems, competing in teams or taking charge of the plan – just make sure you work together.
Paradise Point Parklands is scheduled to reopen its upgraded playground in September 2026, with a more inclusive, wheelchair-accessible play space and improved picnic facilities. Parents staying in the northern suburbs can stretch out while the children burn off some energy.
