How to Plan the Ultimate Family Day Trip from Brisbane to the Gold Coast

Planning a day trip from Brisbane can be tricky — with so many options nearby, how do you choose where to go? From coastal escapes to hinterland hideaways, there’s plenty to explore within a few hours’ drive, but if you’re after a day that keeps everyone smiling, laughing, and a little bit thrilled, there’s one destination to include that tops them all: Dreamworld on the Gold Coast.

Just a short, easy drive from Brisbane, Dreamworld and WhiteWater World the perfect blend of excitement, adventure, and family fun — all in one place. Add in a few local Gold Coast highlights nearby, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate family day trip.

Why is the Gold Coast the Perfect Day Trip from Brisbane?

The Gold Coast is a go-to for families looking for adventure close to home. It’s less than an hour’s drive from Brisbane, making it an easy escape for a single day of fun without the fuss of overnight packing.

Whether your family loves heart-pounding rides, splashing around, meeting Aussie wildlife, or chilling by the beach, the Gold Coast has something for everyone. And right at the heart of it all sits Dreamworld — Australia’s biggest theme park — with so many worlds in one that you could easily spend your whole day exploring without needing to go anywhere else.

Starting Your Day Trip at Dreamworld & WhiteWater World

Start your adventure bright and early at Dreamworld, where you’ll find rides, slides, and wildlife encounters all within a few steps. Arriving when gates open means more time for fun (and fewer lines for your favourite rides!).

🎟️ Pro tip: Pre-purchase your Annual Pass online for the best price and instant email delivery — ready to scan at the gate.

Itinerary 1: The Ultimate Thrill Seekers Day Out

For families with teens and adrenaline fans ready to chase some serious thrills!

Morning – Big Drops and High Speeds

Kick off the day with Dreamworld’s legendary thrill rides. Start strong with the Steel Taipan, Australia’s only triple-launch rollercoaster. Then take on the Motocoaster and Giant Drop — just make sure you save lunch for after those!

Lunch – Refuel and Recharge

Grab a quick bite without slowing down the fun. Kenny’s Fried Chicken offers family favourites, while Green Bean Coffee Co. serves up great coffee and sweet treats to keep parents powered up.

Afternoon – Water, Wheels, and Views

Cool off next door at WhiteWater World, just a short walk away. Jump on slides like Triple Vortex, or kick back in the Cave of Waves pool.

If you’re chasing another rush later in the day, drive 15 minutes to Kingston Park Raceway for go-karting fun, or head to SkyPoint Observation Deck for stunning coastal views before dinner.

Evening – Dinner with a View

Round out your day with dinner at SkyPoint Bistro + Bar, where you can enjoy incredible views from 230 metres above the coast as the sun sets — the perfect way to end your Gold Coast adventure.

Itinerary 2: A Perfect Day Trip for Families with Young Kids

Designed for families with little adventurers who love rides, characters, and cuddly animals.

Morning – Dreamy Starts in Kenny & Belinda’s Dreamland

Start your day in Kenny & Belinda’s Dreamland, Dreamworld’s dedicated kids’ area filled with colourful rides and character fun. Don’t miss the Big Red Boat Coaster and the Play School Wheel, perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

Lunch – Family Favourites and Shady Spots

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at The Sandwich Shop or Food Central both offering easy options for kids. There’s plenty of shaded seating throughout the park — ideal for families with prams.

Afternoon – Meet the Animals at Dreamworld

After lunch, explore Dreamworld’s WILD with Australian Geographic, where kids can meet kangaroos, koalas, and even see crocodiles up close. Learn about native wildlife and conservation through interactive talks and shows (note: food is not available in WILD).

Evening – Dinner and Wind Down

On your way home, stop by SkyPoint Bistro + Bar for an early dinner with a view before heading back to Brisbane.

🎟️Top tip: Families visiting again soon can save with current ticket offers available through Dreamworld’s annual visitor pass.

Itinerary 3: Fun for All Ages — The Crowd Pleaser

A balanced itinerary that keeps both kids and parents happy, mixing fun, relaxation, and a touch of Gold Coast magic.

Morning – Classic Dreamworld Fun

Start your morning exploring the best of both worlds — thrills for the grown-ups, fun for the kids. Parents can take turns on Steel Taipan while the little ones enjoy nearby rides in Dreamland.

Lunch – Chill Time at WhiteWater World

Head next door to WhiteWater World for a refreshing change of pace. Enjoy lunch at Bite Me Café, then let everyone cool off on the slides or relax in a cabana while the kids play.

Afternoon – Sky-High Views

Make your way to SkyPoint Observation Deck in Surfers Paradise – included in your annual pass ticket for sweeping coastal views, and grab a meal or snack from SkyPoint Bistro + Bar while you enjoy the view.

Evening – Family Dinner and Sweet Treats

If you’re not dining at SkyPoint, wrap up your day with a relaxed family dinner nearby before heading back to Brisbane.

🎟️Ready to plan your perfect Gold Coast adventure? Start with Dreamworld — the ultimate destination for families. Explore current offers and Annual Pass options.

Day Trip FAQs

·       How long does it take to drive from Brisbane to Dreamworld?

It’s around a 50-minute drive from Brisbane to Dreamworld, depending on traffic. The park is just off the M1 at Coomera.

·       What’s the best way to get to the Gold Coast from Brisbane?

Driving is easiest, but you can also take a train from Brisbane to Coomera Station, with bus connections straight to Dreamworld’s entrance.

·       What should be packed for a family day trip to the Gold Coast?

Bring sun protection, comfortable clothes, swimmers for WhiteWater World, and your phone or camera to capture all the fun.

·       Can you do both Dreamworld and WhiteWater World in one day?

Absolutely! They’re right next to each other, and with an Annual Pass, you can visit both again and again.

·       Are there parent rooms and facilities for young kids at Dreamworld?

Yes — Dreamworld has one of the best Parents’ Centres in South East Queensland, with feeding rooms, change facilities, and quiet spaces for young children.

Wrap Up: Make Your Next Day Trip Count

Whether you’ve got thrill seekers, little explorers, or a mix of both, Dreamworld is the perfect starting point for your family day trip from Brisbane. With so many worlds in one, you’ll fit more fun into one day than you ever thought possible.

🎟️ Pro tip: Grab your Annual Pass for unbeatable value — giving you access to Dreamworld and SkyPoint all year round, plus seasonal entry to WhiteWater World.