5 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Queensland, Australia

By Narelle Bouveng

While Queensland is best known for being home to the iconic Great Barrier Reef, it is also regarded for its sunny beaches, beautiful rainforests and exciting cities. In this feature, we’ll share five kid-friendly activities from Narelle Bouveng to inspire your next family holiday to Queensland.

DESTINATION...

Queensland

THROUGH THE EYES OF...

Narelle Bouveng

WHEN TO GO...

April-October for best weather and diving conditions

GREAT FOR FAMILIES THAT LOVE...

Nature, diverse landscapes, water sports, wildlife/animals, cities

NARELLE'S QUEENSLAND HIGHLIGHTS...

Beautiful beaches, getting up close and personal with wildlife

1. PLAY ON THE BEACHES OF THE GOLD COAST

“The beaches are the best part about Queensland. The water is warm year-round and very clear, and the sand is squeaky clean and white. There is a mix of still water in the creeks and waves on the shore. If you are planning a beach trip, my advice would be to consider the southern end of the Gold Coast. It’s the perfect spot for families with plenty of beaches, but also enough of the smaller variety to ensure the littles are happy.”

2. SWIM WITH SEA TURTLES NEAR LADY ELLIOT ISLAND

“Everything about this trip was magical. As soon as we hopped in the water, we were swimming alongside green turtles. There is a shallow lagoon that is perfect for kids and [there are] plenty of turtles that are happy enough to come on over and check you out. It is one of the most amazing places we have had the opportunity to visit and the conservation education program is excellent for kids and adults alike too.”

3. EXPLORE THE CITY OF BRISBANE

“Brisbane is a great city, and our favourite part is the South Bank Parklands where this bougainvillea arch is. There is a giant playground, heaps of places to eat and drink and you can hop on and off the ferry that rides up the Brisbane River to other landmarks like the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, which is also a beautiful place to visit.”

Looking for more fun things to do in Queensland with kids? Check out this itinerary of family things to do in Brisbane.

4. VISIT THE KANGAROOS AT CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

“This is a sanctuary as opposed to a zoo, so the animals have been brought in from the wild at some point to be saved because they needed medical attention or a home. The aim always is to have the creatures released back into the bush. Kids love petting the kangaroos (they are very tame and placid), watching the sleepy koalas and riding on the little train that snakes around the park. Rainbow lorikeets also fly in in the afternoon. You can feed them and let them land on your arms and head if you don’t mind that.”

5. SPEND TIME IN NATURE AT CEDAR CREEK FALLS

“This is just an hour’s drive into the hills behind the Gold Coast. There are many natural waterfalls that are dotted around the coast and they are awesome to swim in on a hot day or just to sit by to connect with nature.”