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Christmas 2026 bookings open on Sunday, 30 November at 6pm.

Your Ultimate Summer Holiday Guide

Summer on the Gold Coast is the ultimate holiday experience. Think sun-drenched beach days, swimming in Tallebudgera Creek and cooling off in pristine rock pools. There's a reason why families return here every year!

Whether you’re planning a family camping trip or an adventure-filled holiday, this guide will help you make the most of the summer season.

What to Pack

Packing the right essentials ensures you're ready for whatever summer throws your way. Here are our top items:

  • Sun protection - Don't be that person that get's sunburned on day one of the holiday! The Aussie sun is strong, so pack hats, sunscreen, umbrellas and sunglasses to stay protected. SPF 50+ is also recommended.
  • Swimmers and rash vests - Another obvious one, but with world-famous beaches and pools at our parks, you’ll want to spend plenty of time in the water!
  • Beach towels and picnic rugs - Perfect for lounging on the beach or enjoying a picnic in the park.
  • Reusable water bottle - It's important to stay hydrated while enjoying our beautiful summer days!
Two young kids tossing a ball back and forth in a shallow swimming pool at Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park.

Weather - What to Expect

Let's face it, summer is hot! Summer days typically bring temperatures between 25°C and 32°C - ideal for hitting the beach or the creek.

Hot tip: While most days are bright and beautiful, we do get the occasional summer storm. They're usually a welcome reprieve from the heat and are short-lived. That said, it's important to keep up with local weather alerts. Our park teams are passionate about keeping you safe, so you'll also receive text message updates if we're expecting some wild weather.

A lifeguard tower with a beautiful beach in the background at sunrise. People are walking along the beach and swimming.

Things to Do

Whether you don't plan on leaving your campsite or are keen to explore the Gold Coast, there's something for everyone to experience during the summer. Here are our favourite activities:

  • Explore beautiful rock pools - Looking for a cool escape? Currumbin Rock Pools are perfect for families, offering calm waters and plenty of space to relax. For something a little more adventurous, head to Cougal Cascades, where a scenic rainforest walk leads you to a breathtaking waterfall.
  • Visit iconic beaches - From Main Beach to Coolangatta, there's no shortage of stunning beaches on the Gold Coast. Our top picks are Tallebudgera Creek - a family favourite that's ideal for swimming, paddle boarding and kayaking. Further south you'll find Rainbow Bay - home to the iconic Snapper Rocks. This beach is loved by locals and tourists alike for it's incredible views, rolling waves and beachfront surf club.
  • Enjoy our summer activity programs - Our activity calendars are chock-full of fun during the summer months. Think laser tag, movie nights, live music, arts and craft, wildlife shows, cultural presentations and more. Most activities are free and suitable for guests of all ages!

Hot tip: For more events like local markets, Christmas carols and family-friendly activities, visit What's On Gold Coast.

A couple sitting on the rocks near a picturesque waterfall and rockpool.
Figure: Cougal Cascades, Currumbin Valley

Summer FAQs

Do all your parks have swimming pools?

Most of our parks have swimming pools - some even have 2! The parks without pools are Jacobs Well, Ocean Beach, Burleigh Beach and our island campgrounds.

Good news is that they're only a few steps from the beach!

Can I bring my dog?

We have 2 pet-friendly parks that welcome dogs year round - Jacobs Well Tourist Park and Kirra Beach Tourist Park.

Both offer dog-friendly caravan sites and cabins, plus dog-friendly facilities throughout the parks!

Do you have activities for kids in the park?

Absolutely! Our parks are packed with family fun during the summer holidays - think wildlife encounters, arts and crafts, laser tag, live music, stunt shows and heaps more. With so many activities on offer, the kids will be entertained from sunrise to sunset!

Each park has its own unique activity calendar, designed to suit its guests and location. Most activities are free, and some may have a small fee.

Want to see what’s coming up? Head to our blog for all the details or check out the What’s On calendar to plan your holiday fun.

Ready to plan your summer escape?

Our beachfront holiday parks and campgrounds are the perfect destination for a summer getaway. Choose from 7 locations along the Gold Coast or 3 campgrounds on South Stradbroke Island. Book your stay and make this summer your best yet!

BOOK NOW

Gold Coast Things to do Local events summer

Posted: November 27th 2025

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What our guests are saying

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Sally Houghton

Jacobs Well

Lovely quiet park next to the river. Very friendly and allows dogs

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Bobbie Eaton

Jacobs Well

Locality excellent to theme parks

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Geoff Boden

Broadwater

Plenty of room. Great spot Reasonably priced Nice and clean and well maintained, Thanks