Our Top 5 Free Activities on the Gold Coast

This boardwalk snakes its way through the mangroves along Currumbin Creek and while it’s always a bit of a mission to get the kids there, we are always rewarded with a swim or just a good connection with nature. They can spot crabs, fish, stingrays, pelicans – so many animals that make up the mangrove habitat. If you walk/ride all the way around under the bridge you’ll connect to the next path which takes you to the pirate park at Palm Beach Parklands.

Starts either end : From the boat ramp near Palm Beach Aquatic Centre on Throwers Drive or The Pirate Park at Palm Beach Parklands

Head to the Wildlife Sanctuary at 8:30am or 4:00pm to feed the lorikeets. Entry to this area of the park is free and it just costs a gold coin donation for a plate of food (so it’s an almost free activity!). It’s a good activity and never disappoints! The cafe is also open to the public, so grab a coffee or ice-cream while you’re there.

These are the 2 parks that we as locals will go to if we have to take our kids to the park. They’re the best of the bunch. Robert Neumann Park is out at Currumbin Valley and Schusters Park (as pictured) is in Tallebudgera/Elanora. Not only just for families, there is enough space at both parks to enjoy the surroundings or have a picnic. (Image Credit : mrsladeedah.com.au)

Head 15 mins west along Currumbin Creek Road and you will find yourself amongst rolling hills and beautiful creeks. The Rockpools are a beautiful spot to take in the fresh water creeks – also handy for a quick, fresh dip – or head all the way out to Cougal Cascades. You can go swimming in both places, just a bit trickier at Cougal Cascades.

Another walk (super simple with kids) and treat yourself to a gelato afterwards – our favourite is Gelatissimo in the Renaissance Building right near Greenmount! It’s great for lizard spotting and has simply stunning views for the adults. Along here is also a great access point to quieter parts of the beach for swimming.

We hope you enjoy these activities – tag us in your pics on instagram or tell us your favourite free things to do are.