Dive into waterholes and natural waterfalls
Explore Waterfalls in the Gondwana Rainforest<o:p></o:p>
If a 6-hour round trip sounds doable, Larapinta Falls is one of the most serene and hidden places the Gold Coast has to offer. Otherwise, Elabana Falls is shorter at 4 hours and includes Picnic Rock waterhole for a mid-walk swim. <o:p></o:p>
Cool off at Cougal Cascades <o:p></o:p>
Take the wheelchair accessible walk (around 1.6 kilometres) through Currumbin Creek, keeping an eye out for birdlife along the way. A short climb down is Cougal Cascades, with multiple swimming holes that make for some of the most family friendly and unique experiences Gold Coast can provide. <o:p></o:p>
The best secluded beaches Gold Coast has to offer
Family picnic at Budds Beach<o:p></o:p>
Budds Beach is a quiet suburb with river-side swimming areas that are suitably shallow for kids. Idyllic parklands border the sandy stretch – providing a great location for families to picnic on. <o:p></o:p>
Soak up the sun at Rainbow
Bay Beach
Rainbow Bay has protected, smaller waves with a short stretch of sand – making it ideal for little ones to explore. While nearby Snapper Rocks is not recommended for swimming, it does have a grassy hill to watch the sunset on at the end of day. <o:p></o:p>
Give unique experiences a go
Glow Worm Tours <o:p></o:p>
Explore the subtropical surrounds before stepping inside the caves for a different sort of ‘star-gazing’ experience. <o:p></o:p>
Beat the trend at Village Markets in Burleigh Heads <o:p></o:p>
This curated selection of stalls includes well-known and undiscovered Gold Coast gems, from clothing to beauty and skincare, as well as art and photography. <o:p></o:p>
Watch the sunrise from locally loved vantage points
Float over water at Southport Spit <o:p></o:p>
Walk the huge jetty at the northern end and watch the sun rise whilst floating over the water below. As far as hidden places Gold Coast keeps tucked away, this elevated experience will stay with you and your family for a long time to come. <o:p></o:p>
Visit the local markets
The Gold Coast is home to plenty of markets, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whether it’s the Village Markets, Bundall Markets, Palm Beach Markets, Surfers Paradise Markets, or the iconic Miami Marketta.<o:p></o:p>
