Free Things to Do With Kids on the Gold Coast This Winter

Winter on the Gold Coast is honestly a bit of a cheat code. While the southern states are rugging up indoors, we get sunny days, mild temps and - the big one - whale season. The best part? Some of the Coast's best family days out won't cost you a cent. Here are our favourite free things to do with the kids this winter.

Watch the Whales From the Shore

From July to October, thousands of humpback whales cruise the "Humpback Highway" just off our coastline, and you don't need a boat ticket to see them. Pack a picnic blanket and binoculars and head to Burleigh Hill, or walk the Ocean View Track through Burleigh Head National Park to Tumgun Lookout, an observation deck with sweeping views out to the horizon. July is peak season, so your odds of a breach or a tail slap are genuinely good.

Best for: all ages (the walk suits ages 3+, or babies in a carrier) | Location: Burleigh Heads | Cost: free

Broadwater Parklands, Southport

If you only do one free day out this winter, make it this one. Three kilometres of foreshore parklands with a four-level spiral tower playground (glockenspiel, telescopes and rope tunnels included), the Rockpools splash park, a netted swimming enclosure, a jumping pillow at nearby Washington Waters, free BBQs and plenty of grass for a picnic. Winter sun plus water play equals very tired, very happy kids.

Best for: ages 1-12 | Location: Marine Parade, Southport | Cost: free

Playground Hopping: The Coast's Best Free Parks

The Gold Coast takes its playgrounds seriously. Our winter hit list:

• Palm Beach Pirate Park - a giant wooden pirate ship right by the beach, with climbing ropes, slides and grassy picnic space. Great cafes a short stroll away for the obligatory parent coffee.
• Schuster Park, Tallebudgera - jungle-themed with two mega slides, nets, tunnels and musical play along the sand paths. Best for ages 4+.
• Bim'bimba Park, Pimpama - an award-winning all-abilities playground with a dedicated toddler zone and a basketball court for bigger kids. Brilliant if you've got a wide age spread.

HOTA and Evandale Parklands

HOTA (Home of the Arts) in Surfers Paradise is one of the Coast's best-kept free secrets for families. The Children's Gallery is free to visit and made for little hands - right now the Saltwater Heart exhibition (running until 18 August 2026) has an island hut, a story tree and a creative table where kids can make their own art. Outside, Evandale Parklands has a lake, BBQ spots and loads of room to run. Keep an eye on HOTA's what's-on page for free outdoor movie nights too.

Best for: ages 2-10 | Location: 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise | Cost: free

Currumbin Rock Pools

Winter days on the Coast regularly hit the low 20s, and the brave ones will still want a dip. The Currumbin rock pools in the Currumbin Valley are a gorgeous natural swimming spot with shallow sections for littlies, grassy banks for a picnic and that proper "we went on an adventure" feeling. Go on a sunny day, pack towels and a thermos, and let them at it.

Best for: ages 3+ (supervise closely around water) | Location: Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Valley | Cost: free

Glow Worms at Natural Bridge, Springbrook

For something magical, do the short rainforest circuit at Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park. The walk to the rock arch and waterfall is lovely by day, but after dark the cave lights up with glow worms - one of those experiences the kids will talk about for years. Winter's clear nights are perfect for it. Bring torches (pointed at the path, not the glow worms), warm layers and sturdy shoes.

Best for: ages 4+ | Location: Nerang-Murwillumbah Rd, Springbrook | Cost: free

Free Council Activities and Library Programs

The City of Gold Coast runs free and low-cost community sessions year-round - think kids yoga, scooter clinics, inflatable games and bike workshops - and the council libraries put on story time, LEGO clubs and craft sessions every week. Check the council's Active and Healthy program and your local branch's calendar, and book ahead because sessions fill fast.

Best for: ages 0-12 | Location: across the Coast | Cost: free (booking often required)

Our Winter Day-Out Tips

• Layer up in the morning. Gold Coast winter mornings are crisp but it's often 21 degrees by lunch. Dress the kids in layers you can peel off.
• Chase the sun. North-facing parks and beaches are noticeably warmer in winter. Broadwater Parklands is a winner for this.
• Pack more snacks than seems reasonable. You know why.
• Go early on weekends. The popular playgrounds fill up by mid-morning, even in winter.

Looking for more ideas? Browse the full MyLittleRewards directory for family activities near you, or catch up on the rest of our guides on The Journal.

FAQs

When is whale watching season on the Gold Coast?

Humpback whales migrate past the Gold Coast from around late May to late October, with July to September the peak. Burleigh Hill and Tumgun Lookout in Burleigh Head National Park are the best free land-based spots.

Is it warm enough for water play on the Gold Coast in winter?

Usually, yes. Winter days often reach 20-22 degrees, so splash parks like the Rockpools at Broadwater Parklands and the Currumbin rock pools are still popular on sunny days. Pack towels and a warm change of clothes.

What can we do on the Gold Coast with kids if it rains in winter?

HOTA's free Children's Gallery and the council libraries' story time, LEGO and craft sessions are great free wet-weather options. Winter is the Coast's driest season, so rainy days are thankfully rare.

Do the free council activities need to be booked?

Many do. The City of Gold Coast's free Active and Healthy sessions and library holiday programs are popular, so check the council website and book early.

Heading out on one of these adventures? Tag @mylittlerewards in your photos - we love seeing where Gold Coast families end up!