Free and Low Cost are not always words that you would consider putting in the same sentence when talking about the Gold Coast. But if you are a regular reader of this blog then you will know I picked the Gold Coast as my No. 1 Christmas Holiday destination.
Now I may be a little bit biased in my choice as we do live here. But what I’m not biased about is the fact that a trip to the Gold Coast can be very expensive. But it doesn’t have to be. There are some really great things to do that are either completely free or don’t cost an arm and a leg.
BROADWATER PARKLANDS
The Broadwater Parklands is a three-kilometre stretch of recreational parkland. Situated along Marine Parade at Southport and is the perfect spot for a family outing. It features a large playground area, suitable for a variety of ages, a jumping pillow, walking/cycle tracks, an enclosed swimming area which is patrolled by lifesavers during the summer months, as well as BBQs, toilets and showers. The area often plays host to free activities such as Movies in the Park, concerts and markets.
During summer, there is also an AquaSplash Water Park set up next to the swimming enclosure. Although not free, session rates start at $20 for 50 minutes and I can guarantee the kids will have a ton of fun.
THE G-LINK TRAMS
Getting around the Gold Coast became a whole lot easier this year with the introduction of the G-Link Light Rail System. With 20 stations stretching between Broadbeach South and Helensvale Town Centre, it is the easiest way I know to get around the Gold Coast.
A trip between Broadbeach and Cavill Avenue in the heart of Surfers Paradise will take about 10 minutes and cost about $4.00 for an adult fare. You will find it a lot cheaper than driving in and paying for parking. Trams run approximately every six minutes so you won’t have to wait for long either. The easiest way to travel on the ‘G’ is to purchase a Go-card or tickets can be purchased at the tram stations.
BURLEIGH HEAD NATIONAL PARK
Burleigh Head National Park is located at the southern end of Burleigh Heads Beach. It is one of the most beautiful spots on the Gold Coast. Its main attraction is the 1.2-kilometre cliff top walk which affords you the most spectacular views of the ocean below. It is not unusual to be able to spot dolphins playing offshore and during spring whale sightings are common as well.
There is also a 2.3-kilometre rainforest circuit walk as well. Once you have completed the walk, Burleigh Beach is the ideal spot for a swim. The foreshore park area is the perfect spot for a picnic or BBQ too. Burleigh Heads also has a fantastic selection of places to eat or grab a coffee.
DAVID FLEAY WILDLIFE PARK
As an alternative to the expensive and often crowded theme parks try a visit to David Fleay Wildlife Park. Visitors can view a range of animals from boardwalks and pathways. Or you are able to join a guided tour or attend one of several daily wildlife talks. A range of school holiday activities is also offered including the very popular Wildlife Ranger Experience. A family pass that covers two adults and two children will cost just $64.20. I think this is really is great value for the budget-conscious.
All bookings must be made online. The park is open from 9 am until 4 pm, seven days a week.
If you are travelling with teenagers it is still possible to find them lots of fun things to do without it breaking the bank.
Listen in to their podcast episode https://allaroundoz.com.au/podcasts/travelling-and-working-around-australia/
I have lovely memories of day trips to the Gold Coast with the kids. Many times we packed some food and drink and headed for Burliegh. We’d walk the paths around the headland and make our way to the quieter waters of mouth of the Tullebugerra (?) Crèek. Good times.
LOL…Tallebudgera Creek it’s called and it’s a gorgeous spot. Love it down there.
Oh good to read, I always think of a trip to the GC as being extremely costly, so great to read this.
I think it’s always good to have a couple of low-key days in between the theme parks etc so I think these options are great for that too!
Great round up of low cost GC. We love broadwater park even though it has been a while since we have been there. And I still haven’t tried the light rail. :/ Must get back up there and jump on one. Burleigh is almost a weekly stop for us. Thanks for joining in my #wednesdaywanderlust travel ink party
Great suggestions on making an expensive trip more affordable, thanks for sharing