Rediscovering the Gold Coast After 8 Years with Our Kids

Eight years ago, my husband and I embarked on an adventure to Australia's Gold Coast. Now, with our two children in tow, we returned to celebrate our youngest Franca's first birthday, and this was her first long-haul flight as well. Our journey was filled with memorable experiences and breathtaking views as we introduced our kids to this beautiful part of the world.

Franca's First Birthday Celebration:

At Burleigh Heads, our first destination, we revisited the picturesque beachside suburb that had captivated us years ago. This time, as a family of four, we organized a chic seaside picnic to celebrate Franca's first birthday. Host Box Hire provided a spectacular picnic setup with stylish decor and comfortable seating, creating the perfect atmosphere for our special day. And, of course, no birthday is complete without a delicious cake, so we ordered one from Lil Crumbs Designer Cakes, which delighted both kids and adults.

Q1 Skypoint:

Our second day was dedicated to revisiting one of the Gold Coast's iconic landmarks, the Q1 Skypoint. The panoramic view of the coastline and the city from the observation deck left us in awe, just like it did eight years ago. This time, however, we had our children with us, and seeing their excitement as they looked out at the world below was a priceless moment.

Currumbin Zoo:

As animal lovers, visiting Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary was a must for our family. The kids were ecstatic to see kangaroos, koalas, and a wide variety of Australian wildlife up close.

Beach Picnics and Surfers Paradise:

The Gold Coast is known for its pristine beaches, and we made sure to enjoy every moment of our time there. We had picnics on the beach, building sandcastles and splashing in the waves. Our accommodation in the heart of Surfers Paradise provided us with breathtaking views of the beach, making our stay even more special. The golden sands and crystal-clear waters never lost their magic.

Exploring the Arts at HOTA:

We also took a day to explore the cultural side of the Gold Coast at the Home of the Arts (HOTA). The art exhibitions and performances we witnessed were not only enjoyable for us but also offered a unique and enriching experience for our kids.

A Day in Dreamland:

Our family adventure wouldn't be complete without a day of fun and excitement at a theme park. Dreamworld proved to be the perfect choice. The kids were thrilled by the rides and attractions, and their laughter was music to our ears.

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium, located in Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, is a captivating attraction showcasing bizarre and unusual artifacts. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, including optical illusions and unique items from around the world. This family-friendly destination offers a mix of entertainment and education, making it an ideal spot for those intrigued by the oddities of the world.

Nights at Timezone:

To wrap up our evenings, we spent quality time at Timezone, enjoying arcade games, bumper cars, and other family-friendly activities. It was the perfect way to end our action-packed days.