Things to Do in Southport with Kids
Southport often gets overlooked when people think about Gold Coast family activities — everyone heads straight to Surfers or the theme parks. But if you know where to look, Southport has some of the best family-friendly spots on the coast. Here’s what to do.
1. GC Aqua Park at Broadwater Parklands
Right on the Broadwater foreshore, GC Aqua Park is one of Southport’s best-kept secrets — or at least it used to be. Gold Coast’s only floating inflatable water park, it’s set up at Macintosh Island Park with the Broadwater as the backdrop.
Kids from age 5 can hit the slides, obstacle courses and wipeout zones. Sessions run from 50 minutes to all-day, and there’s undercover seating for parents who want to watch.
Book online here → https://gcaquapark.com.au school holiday sessions sell out.
2. Broadwater Parklands
The park surrounding the aqua park is massive and completely free. Playgrounds, open lawns, BBQ areas and a beach — it’s a full day out without spending a dollar beyond your aqua park tickets. Pack lunch and make a day of it.
3. Australia Fair Shopping Centre
If the weather turns or you need a breather, Australia Fair is right in the heart of Southport. Food court, cinema, all the usual suspects.
4. Southport Shark Park (Cbus Super Stadium)
Not always running events, but worth checking the schedule if you’re visiting. Gold Coast Suns AFLW and NRL Titans both play here.
5. Chirn Park Village
For older kids (and adults) who want proper waterslide action, Wet n
Wild at Oxenford delivers. It’s a full day out and works best for
families with kids over 8.
Plan Your Day
Best combo: start at GC Aqua Park for a morning session (book online), then lunch at Broadwater Parklands, then walk the foreshore or head to Chirn Park for coffee. Easy, affordable, and the kids will be wrecked by 2pm.
Book your GC Aqua Park session here → https://gcaquapark.com.au