The Gold Coast – A Family Favourite
If you’re travelling with kids or live on the Gold Coast, you’ll already know—it’s a pretty great place for families. With sun, sand, theme parks, wildlife parks, and more than a few great playgrounds, it’s no surprise the Goldie is loved by both locals and visitors. It’s fun, relaxed, and makes family days out feel easy.
But do you know what’s not always easy? Finding a spot to eat where the kids are entertained and you can enjoy your meal while it’s still hot. That’s where this guide comes in.
17 Best Pubs with Playgrounds on the Gold Coast
Let’s face it—a pub with a playground is a bit of a win for everyone. Good food, a relaxed atmosphere, and space for the kids to burn off some energy. There are more of these spots across the Coast than you might expect, and we’ve rounded up the best for every direction—whether you’re north, south, or heading inland.
Check out these three in-depth lists:
- 5 Best Pubs With Playgrounds – North Gold Coast
Coomera, Oxenford, and Southport - 7 Best Pubs With Playgrounds – South Gold Coast
Burleigh, Varsity Lakes, Robina, Mermaid Beach, and Mermaid Waters - 5 Best Pubs with Playgrounds – Gold Coast Hinterland
Nerang, Mudgeeraba, Tallai, Advancetown, and Tamborine
Grab a bite, let the kids play, and enjoy a moment to yourself. Everyone’s happy.
8 Family-Friendly Cafes with Playgrounds or Play Areas
Sometimes, all you need is a coffee and five quiet minutes while the kids are busy. Luckily, there are plenty of Gold Coast cafes with play areas where you can sit back while the little ones explore. Great for a casual catch-up or a much-needed outing.
Start with this in-depth list:
A good coffee and a playground? That’s a solid start to any day.
Gold Coast Travel with Kids – Where to Stay
Planning a family holiday or weekend staycation? The right accommodation can make all the difference. We’re talking resorts with pools, waterslides, kids’ clubs, and plenty to keep everyone happy.
Here’s our list of the top family-friendly places to stay:
Some are so well set up for kids, you might even manage to sneak in a nap (fingers crossed!).
Tips for Visiting the Gold Coast with Kids
Planning a trip to the Gold Coast with your little crew? Here are a few simple tips that might make things run a bit smoother.
Pack for all kinds of weather
The Goldie can be sunny one minute and cloudy the next. It’s a good idea to bring the basics—hats, swimmers, sunscreen, and maybe a light jacket or raincoat just in case.
Make the most of early mornings
If your kids are early risers, you’re in luck. Parks and beaches are quieter in the mornings, and cafes usually have plenty of space (and banana bread!). It’s a great time to get out before it gets too hot or busy.
Look out for free activities
There are loads of free things to do. Big playgrounds, rock pools, botanic gardens, splash zones—you don’t need to spend much to have a great day out with the kids.
Try not to overpack the day
It’s tempting to squeeze in as much as possible, but sometimes one big outing is enough. Plan around nap times if you need to, and leave space for rest. A chilled-out afternoon at the beach can be just as fun as a busy morning adventure.
Mix up the activities
Theme parks are great, but so are nature walks, wildlife parks, and playgrounds by the water. A mix of indoor and outdoor, big and small, helps keep things interesting for everyone.
Stay somewhere family-friendly
Look for places that really cater to families—think pools, waterslides, kids’ clubs, or open spaces to play. It makes a big difference when the place you’re staying is set up for children.
Don’t stress if things don’t go to plan
Every family trip has its moments. If the day doesn’t go exactly as planned, that’s okay. The Gold Coast has so many options—you’ll always find something to enjoy.
Final Thought
The Gold Coast really does make family time easy. Whether you’re after a great meal, a coffee in peace, or a place to stay with plenty to do, you’ll find it here, often with a playground just around the corner.
Ready to explore the Coast with the kids in tow?