Gold Coast, Australia
Gold Coast: A Sun-Soaked Christmas Getaway
25th December – 4th January
Every year, we take our families on a well-earned break to celebrate the year that was. This time, the Gold Coast played host to our KNL Christmas get-together. Nine nights and ten days of sunshine, adventure, and quality time with our loved ones.
With its golden beaches, thrilling theme parks, and laid-back coastal charm, the Gold Coast is a dream destination for families. Our trip was the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, filled with unforgettable experiences that had both the kids and adults grinning from ear to ear.
Highlights of Our Gold Coast Adventure
A trip to Australia wouldn’t be complete without meeting some of its iconic wildlife, and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary was the perfect place to do just that. From cuddling a koala to holding a snake, the up-close animal encounters were a huge hit with the kids. The sanctuary is more than just a wildlife park, it’s also home to one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the world, making it an inspiring place to learn about conservation efforts.
For families, this is an absolute must-visit. There’s plenty of space for little ones to roam, treetop adventures for the more daring, and of course, the famous lorikeet feeding that brings flocks of rainbow-coloured birds swooping down in a spectacular display.
This wasn’t just about the rides, Sea World delivered a mix of marine life encounters and adrenaline-pumping fun. The New Atlantis precinct was a standout, offering thrilling roller coasters, but it was the dolphin and seal shows that truly captivated our kids. They loved learning about these intelligent creatures and watching them perform incredible tricks.
A tip for first-time visitors, bring your togs! There are plenty of water-based attractions where you might get splashed, and on a hot day, you’ll be grateful for the chance to cool off.
For the ultimate summer escape, Wet’n’Wild was unbeatable. It was easily the kids’ favourite experience of the trip, with a mix of high-speed thrill slides, a massive wave pool, and a relaxing lazy river. The Kamikaze and other high-adrenaline rides kept the thrill-seekers happy, while the family-friendly water play areas provided endless fun for younger kids.
A word of advice, take water shoes! Running between slides on a scorching hot day can be a challenge, and having something on your feet makes a huge difference.
Where We Ate
One evening, we ventured to Precinct Brewing Co., a local brewery with a fantastic atmosphere. It had everything we were looking for. Great food, craft beers, and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.
The menu featured fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with options ranging from gourmet burgers to inventive tapas. Sitting outside with live music playing in the background, enjoying delicious food and drinks, was a perfect way to unwind. This spot is definitely worth adding to your Gold Coast itinerary, especially if you’re after a laid-back evening with great company.
Travel Tips & Recommendations
Stock up on essentials – As soon as you arrive, head to the supermarket to grab food, snacks, and supplies for the week. It saves time and makes life easier when traveling with kids.
Bring your own beach towels – Resorts and hotels often provide towels, but having your own means you’re always ready for a spontaneous beach stop.
Fireworks for families – The Gold Coast truly caters to families, even putting on an 8 PM New Year’s Eve fireworks display so kids can celebrate before bedtime.
Rent a car in advance – Booking ahead ensures you get the best rates and availability. Having your own vehicle makes it easy to explore at your own pace.
Take the tram from Broadbeach to Surfers Paradise – At just 50c per ride, it’s an easy and fun way to get around.
Venture south – Palm Beach, Burleigh, and Coolangatta offer fantastic restaurants, boutique shopping, and a more relaxed, local vibe. A short drive from the bustling Surfers Paradise, these spots are well worth exploring.
Final Thoughts
The Gold Coast was the perfect place for our KNL Christmas get-together. It gave us everything we needed. Time to unwind, endless entertainment for the kids, and moments of pure joy shared with family.
Whether you’re looking for theme park thrills, wildlife encounters, or just a place to relax by the ocean, this destination has something for everyone. We left with sun-kissed skin, lifelong memories, and a promise to return.
Ready to write your own Gold Coast story?
Whether you're chasing sunsets on the sand or thrills at Movie World, the adventure is just waiting for you. Let KNL Travel take care of the details - so all you have to do is show up and soak it all in. Get in contact with Nicola or Lea today, and let’s start planning your next escape to the sunshine coast of dreams.
