5 Days Family-Friendly Itinerary for Gold Coast and Sydney

  • Day 1: Sea World Gold Coast
    25 minutes (18 kilometers) from Surfers Paradise

    Start your trip with an exciting visit to Sea World Gold Coast, a famous marine mammal park. Here, you can experience thrilling rides, watch marine life presentations, and even have a close-up encounter with sea animals. Don't miss the Dolphin Cove and Seal Harbour exhibits that showcase intelligent and friendly dolphins and seals.

  • Day 2: Bondi Beach and Taronga Zoo Sydney
    13 kilometers (30 minutes) from each other

    Head to the iconic Bondi Beach, known for its golden sand, clear waters, and perfect waves. Here, you can swim, surf, sunbath or enjoy delicious meals at beachside restaurants. In the afternoon, visit Taronga Zoo Sydney, home to over 4000 animals from over 350 species. Spot kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and penguins at the zoo while enjoying stunning harbor and city views.

  • Day 3: Australian Reptile Park and Luna Park Sydney
    75 minutes (74 kilometers) from each other

    Spend the morning exploring the Australian Reptile Park, a safe home to various Australian animals such as saltwater crocodiles, Tasmanian devils, and venomous snakes. Enjoy exciting wildlife shows and interact with friendly kangaroos and wallabies. In the evening, visit Luna Park Sydney, a historic amusement park with various rides suitable for all ages, games, and yummy carnival food.

  • Day 4: Dreamworld Gold Coast and Surfers Paradise Beach
    25 minutes (18 kilometers) from each other

    Start your day with Dreamworld Gold Coast, Australia's biggest theme park with over 50 rides, slides, and attractions. Visit the Tiger Island, WhiteWater World, and get thrilled by the Big 9 Thrill Rides. In the late afternoon, unwind at the nearby Surfers Paradise Beach, a lively and stunning beach frequented by locals and tourists. Marvel at the panoramic ocean views, grab some fish and chips, and let the kids build sandcastles.

  • Day 5: Blue Mountains and Featherdale Wildlife Park
    80 kilometers (2 hours 10 minutes) from each other

    Take a day trip to Blue Mountains, a gorgeous mountain range with eucalyptus forests, waterfalls, and sandstone cliffs. Go on a hiking trail or ride the Scenic World cable car to witness the stunning views of the Three Sisters rock formation. In the early evening, visit Featherdale Wildlife Park, a popular park with different Australian wildlife such as wombats, dingoes, and adorable koalas. Interact with these animals and take photos at their natural habitat.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Sea World Gold Coast (4 hours, $77)
  • Bondi Beach (2 hours, free), Taronga Zoo Sydney (4 hours, $46)
  • Australian Reptile Park (3 hours, $40), Luna Park Sydney (3 hours, $43.95)
  • Dreamworld Gold Coast (5 hours, $89), Surfers Paradise Beach (3 hours, free)
  • Blue Mountains (8 hours, $100), Featherdale Wildlife Park (3 hours, $32)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $428.95

Transportation

Consider renting a car or hiring a private driver to easily access the various attractions around Gold Coast and Sydney. For trips to Blue Mountains, you can join a guided tour or rent a car. Public transport is also available through buses, trains, and trams.

Costs: Car rental (starts at $37/day), private driver (starts at $60/hour), guided tour (starts at $60/person), public transport (depends on distance, tickets from $3.50).

Useful Tips

If you have more time, explore theme parks outside Gold Coast like Wet n Wild Water World or Movie World. In Sydney, take a ferry ride to visit other harbour attractions like Cockatoo Island or Manly Beach. You can also extend your day trip in Blue Mountains and try thrilling activities like abseiling or canyoning.

If you have less time, prioritize your visits depending on your family's interests. You can also skip some free-entry beaches, parks, or museums if you want to save on costs.

Airports

The Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is located in Coolangatta, approximately 25 kilometers from Surfers Paradise. The Sydney Airport (SYD) is situated in Mascot, approximately 8 kilometers from the city center.

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