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There’s something about the Gold Coast that makes it the easiest of family holiday destinations. For children, the ‘Worlds’ are the go; the beaches are pristine and there are activities to suit all family budgets.
Arriving by air
Major development work at the airport mean serious pressure on space and facilities (especially on departure) but hey, who cares, you’re arriving for a holiday in the sun!
- Taxis (including maxis for families larger than 4) cost somewhere around $45-$50 to Surfers central.
- The Gold Coast Tourist Shuttle will also take families direct to their accommodation for a cost of $45 one way ($83 return). No need to book, just go to the desk in the arrivals hall.
Getting around
- Buses are cheap, stopping along the Gold Coast Highway before running express to all the worlds (TX1 or TX2).
- The Gold Coast Tourist Shuttle collects direct from apartments and resorts going to all worlds for $18 per adult, $9 per child. Book by 11am the day before on 1300 655 655 or http://www.gcshuttle.com.au/
- Hire car prices are competitive– at $40 per day (plus insurance) for small car, it may be worth considering if you are transporting four or five (especially for the first couple of days). Deals are often available for a 2-3 day hire.
The Worlds
Beat the queue and purchase at your resort or holiday apartment reservation area. And do check your local motoring association – there may be deals in place which offer discounts and exclusive member access hours.
Dream World
Pre-purchase an Early Entry Pass and enter from 9 am (an hour earlier than everyone else) and ride the Big 6 Thrill Rides as often as you like. Limited tickets available each day so book fast.
Best for kids – Ride in the Big Red Car at Wiggles World and soar through Jelly Fish Fields on Spongebob’s Flyworld at Nick Central.
Movie World
Kids WB! FunZone is home to the Looney Tunes characters including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Tweety, Sylvester, Wile E. Coyote, Porky Pig and Foghorn Leghorn
Sea World
It’s sunny days on the Sesame Street Beach - ride on Bert and Ernie's Big Dive; Oscar's Sweep the Beach; Elmo's Sea Subs; Big Bird Bounce; Zoe's Sub Splash; and The Cookie Monster Cup Carousel.
And for those who’ve had enough of cartoon characters and thrill rides, make time to experience the thrills of sensational (and real) horseback skills at The Australian Outback Spectacular.
Paradise Resort has a pre-Christmas offer on Resort rooms, available from $125 per room per night, with their Kids Stay and Play FREE offer. Kids will love Zone 4 Kids, which caters for babies and toddlers to 12 year olds. That’s valid for stays between 1 November to 19 December 2008 – check with the resort for full details: 1800 074 111 or www.paradiseresort.com.au
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