Gold Coast · With kids

Two of the four big parks, with gentle rides and shows for younger children; multi-park passes work out cheaper across three days. Ages 4+.

Koalas, twice-daily lorikeet feeding and a wildlife hospital you can watch through glass; half a day, with a small train around the grounds. All ages.

Flat, clear, shallow water between the headland and the bridge, with grass, shade and no surf — the easiest swim on the coast for toddlers.

An hour inland to a short rainforest loop, a waterfall falling through a cave roof, and glow-worms in the dark. Ages 5+.

Swim at patrolled beaches between the flags; the surf runs stronger than it looks. Book theme parks online and go midweek outside school holidays.