What do local families do during the school holidays? They head to the parks, follow the footpaths, and settle into the cafés that shape daily life in Broadbeach. These attractions around the Gold Coast feel genuine and easy to enjoy.
They suit the kind of holiday that doesn’t need strict plans. This guide helps you explore at your own pace, with suggestions that fit naturally into your day.
Best Family-Friendly Attractions Around the Gold Coast
Broadbeach mornings feel fresh and open. Families find it easy to settle into a rhythm with activities that are close by and simple to enjoy.
These spots offer space to move, places to relax, and enough variety to keep everyone interested.
Kurrawa All Abilities Playground
This shaded, fully fenced playground caters to all ages and abilities. Kids move between climbing towers, swings, and gentle water play. Parents often settle in with a coffee while the little ones explore.
- Local Tip: Pack swimmers—kids rarely stay dry.
- Budget: Free
- Food Tip: Elk Espresso is just a short walk for snacks and coffee.
- Transport: 5-minute walk from Opus
Kurrawa Beach
Kurrawa Beach sits right beside the playground, offering calm water and open sand for games or barefoot walks. It’s easy to reach and rarely feels crowded in the mornings.
- Packing Tip: Bring hats, towels, and sunscreen for a longer stay.
- Budget: Free
- Bonus: Ideal for a quiet start to the day or a relaxed cool-off later on.
Pratten Park
Behind the beachfront, Pratten Park stretches out with green space and smooth paths. It’s perfect for scooters, a round of catch, or a mid-morning rest under the trees.
- Packing Tip: A picnic rug and light snacks make this stop even easier.
- Budget: Free
- Bonus: Simple to pair with Kurrawa or a visit to a nearby café.
Broadbeach Bowls Club
In the afternoon, Broadbeach Bowls Club gives families a relaxed, low-cost option. Lawn bowls, casual meals, and live music make it a standout for weekend afternoons.
- Family Perk: Kids can move freely while parents enjoy a break.
- Budget: $10 entry for bowls; meals $15–$20
- Transport: 4-minute walk from Opus
Rainy Day Fun for Every Age
When skies turn grey, Broadbeach keeps things bright with indoor spaces designed for every kind of energy level.
These attractions around the Gold Coast suit school holiday plans without pushing your schedule or budget.
Pacific Fair Broadbeach
As one of the most visited attractions around the Gold Coast, Pacific Fair balances shopping with family-friendly zones. Little Paccas, arcade games, and casual eats make it more than just a shopping trip.
- Local Tip: Weekday mornings are quieter and easier with kids.
- Budget: $20–$60, depending on the activity
- Transport: 5-minute drive or light rail from Opus
Event Cinemas Gold Coast (Pacific Fair)
Next door, Event Cinemas Gold Coast offers a school holiday staple. Morning movie sessions come with discounted pricing, and the on-site food options keep things simple.
- Editor’s Choice: Pair the film with a burger lunch at Betty’s Burgers
- Budget: ~$12–$20 per child
- Packing Tip: Bring a jumper for the cold air-conditioning
Home of the Arts (HOTA)
A short drive inland brings you to Home of the Arts Gold Coast, where creative energy fills the space. April workshops, outdoor games, and exhibitions give kids an outlet while parents enjoy the change of scene.
- Travel Tip: Book early online—spots can go quickly
- Budget: Free–$20, depending on the session
- Transport: 15–20 minute drive from Broadbeach
Mini Adventures to Keep the Energy Going
Afternoons often call for something playful. These spots bring a quick change of pace and give families a reason to keep moving together.
Putt Putt Mermaid Beach
Just a short drive from Broadbeach, this colourful mini golf venue features three creative courses that suit kids and grown-ups alike.
It’s a well-known pick among mini golf Mermaid Beach options and a favourite among families searching for things to do around the Gold Coast, Australia.
- Local Tip: Arrive after 5 pm for cooler weather and shorter lines
- Budget: Around $15–$20 per person
- Transport: Six minutes by car from Opus
- Packing Tip: Wear enclosed shoes and bring sunscreen for extra comfort
Broadbeach Markets (Optional)
This relaxed weekend market adds a local touch to your holiday. Held during the April school holidays along Kurrawa Park, it’s filled with handmade crafts, live music, and easy food options. For families staying nearby, it’s a simple way to start the day without a fixed plan.
- When: Sundays in April (check the current calendar)
- Why: Local gifts, light bites, and acoustic sets
- Budget: Entry is free; expect to spend $10–$50
- Local Tip: Arrive early to avoid the mid-morning crowd
Treats and Easy Eats for Hungry Families
After a day spent exploring, most families look for relaxed meals and a comfortable place to unwind. Broadbeach offers simple, well-loved dining options that cater to kids and adults without fuss.
Kurrawa Surf Club
A casual favourite for Broadbeach families, Kurrawa Surf Club delivers reliable food, sea views, and a relaxed local crowd.
- Why: Beachfront seating and a broad menu suited to all ages.
- Budget: Mains $20–$35, kids’ meals around $12.
Elk Espresso
Elk remains a favourite for its balance of quality coffee and food that appeals to all ages. It’s well-positioned for a late breakfast or early dinner after beach time.
Families in search of casual eats often rank it among the top spots for things to do around Gold Coast, Australia, when hunger strikes.
- Why: Friendly staff, flavourful menu, and a relaxed vibe
- Budget: Around $25–$35 per person
Broadbeach Tavern
A casual favourite with reliable pub classics and a welcoming space for families. The menu covers everything from schnitzels to salads, with plenty of room to sit and settle in.
- Why: Easy dining near the beachfront with kids’ meals and weekly specials.
- Budget: $20–$35 per person.
Stay Near It All at Opus Broadbeach
When everything is close by, you spend more time enjoying and less time coordinating. Opus Broadbeach gives your family an ideal base with easy access to attractions around the Gold Coast.
Furthermore, each apartment is self-contained and designed to support real family life space to stretch out, cook simple meals, and unwind after a busy day.
You’ll be near the best Broadbeach Gold Coast things to do without needing to plan around transport or traffic. It’s all just outside your door.
Image Credit: Broadbeach – Kurrawa Beach
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