Gold Coast Animal Experiences for the Family
From humpback whales out at sea to koalas, alpacas and gentle horses in the hinterland, the Gold Coast packs in plenty of ways for kids to get up close with Australian wildlife. Here are some of the best animal encounters to add to your family itinerary.
Whale Watching Cruise from Sea World
The Whale Watching Cruise from Sea World departs the Main Beach Terminal for a close encounter with migrating humpback whales along the Humpback Highway, with 6 viewing platforms and an underwater microphone to hear whale song live. Running from June to November, this cruise is a hit with the whole family, and dolphins are often spotted along the way too.
Paradise Country Koala Breakfast
The Paradise Country Koala Breakfast runs weekend mornings in the koala nursery, with a full buffet breakfast, an educational presentation and a photo opportunity with a koala, followed by general park admission to meet kangaroos, emus and dingos. Child tickets apply for ages 3 to 13.
Historic Rivermill Alpaca Walking Adventure
The Historic Rivermill Alpaca Walking Adventure is a relaxed 30 minute hinterland walk near Mount Nathan, with a handling introduction before wandering the grounds alongside friendly alpacas. Suitable for ages 5 and up with supervision, this easygoing outing is a great fit for younger kids.
Rivermill Adult and Child Horse Ride
The Rivermill Adult and Child Horse Ride lets parent and child ride side by side on gentle Peruvian Paso horses for 30 minutes through riverside grounds roamed by alpacas, goats and pigs. Children must be 6 years or older, no riding experience is necessary, and helmets and a safety briefing are included.
Frequently asked questions
What age can kids meet koalas at Paradise Country?
Child tickets for the Koala Breakfast apply from ages 3 to 13, with the experience running on Saturday and Sunday mornings only.
Is whale watching suitable for young kids?
Yes, the Whale Watching Cruise from Sea World is popular with families of all ages, running seasonally from June to November.
How old do kids need to be for the alpaca walk?
The Historic Rivermill Alpaca Walking Adventure is suitable for ages 5 and up, with children supervised throughout the 30 minute walk.
Can young kids ride horses at Rivermill?
Yes, children aged 6 and over can ride their own horse alongside a parent on the 30 minute guided ride, with no prior riding experience needed.
When's the best time to see whales on the Gold Coast?
Whale watching season runs from early June to November, with cruises departing daily during that window.
Local tip: book the koala breakfast well ahead of time, it only runs on weekend mornings and spaces are limited to 75 guests per session.
Sort your family's Gold Coast animal encounter above, whale watching at sea, a koala breakfast, or a hinterland walk and ride with alpacas and horses. All good days are waiting.
