For many families, Christmas isn’t Christmas without a tour of the neighbouring Christmas displays. From hotels and shopfronts, to harbour fronts, parks and residential homes, there’s always fun to be had when exploring light displays.

So where can you find magical Christmas lights on the Gold Coast this year? Here we take a look…

Follow the competition

Each year, the City of the Gold Coast hosts its annual Christmas Lights Competition, in which locals and tourists can cast their vote for their favourite displays. The Mayor narrows the many entrants down to twelve and from 6 to 17 December you can cast your vote and join the fun.

This year the twelve entrants are:

• 2 Tulipwood Drive, Bonogin
• 104 Dipper Drive, Burleigh Waters
• 16 Dabchick Drive, Burleigh Waters
• 14 Worley Drive, Gilston
• 3 Cuthero Court, Highland Park
• 5 Mintwood Place, Molendinar
• 28 Riverpark Drive, Nerang
• 58 Salvado Drive, Pacific Pines
• 4 Beaumont Crescent, Pacific Pines
• 70 Melinda Street, Southport
• 7 Coolara Street, Tugun
• 26 Jagera Drive, Upper Coomera

As well as voting via the City of the Gold Coast website, you can also view previous entrants and winners, such as 37 Eugaree Street, Southport. Diane and Dennis Jordan picked up the Grand Champion prize in 2014 for their incredible Christmas display, which they’ve been creating for the last five years. No expense is spared, and the home features a snow machine and more than 50 sets of lights.

Take the bus

Another great way to explore the wonder of Gold Coast Christmas lights is to hop aboard the Christmas Lights Tour Bus, which departs every night from The Arts Centre Gold Coast between 20 and 24 December. Operated by Murray’s Coaches, the buses leave at 7pm from the Bundall Road location, returning by 10pm.

Tickets start from $10 for children and $15 for adults and bookings are essential.

Visit Candy Cane Lane

Dubbed “Candy Cane Lane” due to the fact that nearly every house lights up, Forest-Oak Drive in Upper Coomera is a truly magical place. Number 26 and 52 are among the best, with one house going as far as to synchronise the display to music.

Number 26 has a unique tropical theme, while number 52 offers one of the most elegant displays on the Gold Coast.

Upper Coomera in general will wow those out and about at night, with other homes in Runaway Drive, Morgan Court, Shelduck Street, Jagera Drive, Hasemann Crescent and Pitt Street all offering some fantastic displays.

Enjoy long-time favourites

The Gold Coast is home to a whole host of friendly people who love nothing more than to bring happiness to others. Many Gold Coast homes have been decorating with lights for decades, creating lasting family traditions for locals.

1. 5 Tyalla Drive, Ashmore

For 23 years, Bob and Maureen Bottomley have been making kids smile with a spectacular transformation of their Ashmore home. The lights take months to put up, but the couple say it’s worth it to see the joy on kid’s faces. They also hide their magic elf in a different spot every night, making coming back to the home night after night to find the elf a real treat.

2. 8 Sue Court, Highland Park

When Cherylee Marques’ mother passed away, Christmas lost its sparkle. Not one to really celebrate, she tossed aside her Christmas blues thirteen years ago and vowed to make the most of the festive season instead. Not only is her home now covered in Christmas lights, her husband Alberto often dresses up as Santa and hands out presents to the kids.

3. 91 Blacks Road, Willowvale

With his acreage Willowvale property, Joe Bauer spreads the magic of Christmas across his lawn. Each year his display gets better and better and these days it includes a laser light show. Mr Bauer won the title of Grand Champion in 2012, with the judges describing his display as “amazing”.

Stay local

If you’re staying at Focus Apartments and like the idea of keeping local, then Southport is a great place to explore. Just a few minutes drive or a tram ride away, Southport is packed with beautifully decorated nonresidential and residential homes.

Shop 1066 in Australia Fair is worth a look, as is 2/59 Ferry Road. If you prefer strolling the neighbourhood, the streets around Melinda Street, Alicia Street and Eugaree Street offer lots of shimmer. 70 Melinda Street in particular is a must-see.

Take to Facebook

Social media is a great way to discover where the best Christmas light displays can be found, in particular the Facebook page, Gold Coast Christmas Lights. Offering updates on locations all over the Gold Coast, you can be sure to find a mesmerising display nearby. Many of the posts are videos, offering great insight into what to expect on a night out exploring.

Get into the Christmas spirit this year

However you decide to investigate the best of the Gold Coast’s Christmas lights this festive season, we encourage you to stay safe and embrace the magic. Lose yourself in the sparkle and enjoy the smiles on the faces you meet. Merry Christmas!

1. Try the TreeTop Challenge

This outdoor adventure centre lets you scamper about the upper reaches of unspoilt bushlands.There are flying foxes, a giant Tarzan swing, and suspended bridges all spread out over 10 acres of untouched nature. While you’ll be safe and strapped in with qualified instructors, your heart will race during this active adventure! Anyone over the age of seven can experience the TreeTop Challenge. Get set to enjoy the fresh forest air on your face as you sail along one of the 130m flying foxes!

2. Explore the love heart pool at Killarney Glen

This heart-shaped natural pool in Killarney Glen in Lower Beechmont is guaranteed Instagram likes and a picturesque Gold Coast day trip all in one. Located about a 45 minute drive from the Gold Coast, it’s part of a series of jade green creeks and swimming pools at a public recreation area. This love heart swimming hole is lots of fun to explore, and the rest of the park is gorgeous, too. While the heart pool can get crowded on weekends and school holidays, there are lots of other more secluded swimming spots at Killarney Glen.

3. You’ll love the Lamington National Park

Part of the most extensive subtropical rainforest in the world, Lamington National Park is where to head for nature walks and hikes with paths fringed by ferns and surrounded by the glorious greenery of the Hinterland. There’s a trail for every level of stamina and magnificent sites, including caves, valley views and a Tree Top Walkway on a suspended bridge.

4. Take a hot air balloon over the Hinterland

The coast may be known for its golden colour, but the landscape is a lush green that’s hard to forget. Hot air balloon rides are available over the Gold Coast Hinterland, and it’s a wonderful way to start the day. They tend to leave just before sunrise so you can watch the beauty of the day unfold, with green rolling fields beneath you and the coast in the distance. Fancy a picturesque picnic? This is your spot.

5. Visit the quaint town of Jacob’s Well

The Gold Coast may known for its bright lights, but Jacob’s Well is a great way to slow down the pace and enjoy some small town vibes. Halfway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, this river town has excellent fishing and boating on offer. You can also explore some beautiful islands on the river’s inlet.

6. Have a day out bike riding

Each hood in the Gold Coast has its own unique flavour, and bikes are a great way to explore them. Hang out with surfers or go upmarket in Main Beach – the choice is yours. Stop at a local cafe and enjoy fresh produce while you’re at it. Holidays are a great time to take in simple pleasures and watch the world go by.

7. Head to Bongo Beat at Burleigh

Love music and a carefree festival atmosphere? Every Sunday at Burleigh Heads there’s a free for all jam session at Justin’s Park. Think dancing, singing and chilled vibes. Get a taste of the local community and enjoy some local Gold Coast music for free.

8. Meet some native Australian animals at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Families and animals lovers will love meeting and greeting koalas, kangaroos, local birdlife and more at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also treetop rope courses as well. The combination of an adventure and cute animals makes this the ideal spot to take kids on the Gold Coast.

9. Try some free yoga

Had enough of kids yelling at theme parks and the thumping nightlife? Take a breathe in and relax at a free yoga class, run by the Australian School of Meditation.

Plan your next visit

There is a lot more to do on the Gold Coast beyond lying on the beach and enjoying the surf, so if you’re planning a trip, be sure to do some research and include some of these amazing outdoor activities in your itinerary.

1. Barefoot Barista

Truth is, you might have to get up early for this one as it’s so popular that queues to get in are not unusual. However, it’s worth the extra effort as the food is delicious and the service is hot. You may want to try their extra special baked beans, or their charred corn salsa served up with eggs and avocado on sourdough.

2. The Paddock Bakery

Located on Hibiscus Haven in Burleigh, the Paddock Bakery offers freshly baked bread straight from wood-fired ovens. You can even see it being baked through the glass wall. To top their bread they add locally sourced produce from free range eggs to Byron Berkshire Bacon. One of their most popular dishes is ‘dippy eggs’ which will take you right back to your childhood, plus their Nutella Bots are to die for.

3. Blackboard

Varsity Lakes is home to the hip and vibrant Blackboard, which is a definite favourite with Bond Uni students. Designed to look like a country kitchen, it’s a great informal place to gather with friends and fill up on fruit, yoghurt and honey or avocados, eggs and sweet potatoes from some of the best local suppliers in the area.

4. Bellakai

With a beachside location in Coolangatta, Bellakai, which means ‘beautiful food’, offers the epitome of relaxed beachfront dining with wonderful views and appetising food. One of their most popular dishes is homemade potato rosti topped with poached egg, smoked salmon and hollandaise sauce. Yummy!

5. Taboon

If you love the cuisine of the Middle East, you’ll love Taboon. Located on Christine Avenue in Robina, this authentically decorated eatery serves up traditional pastries and flatbreads for brunch, together with a delicious range of dips. However, you shouldn’t visit without trying their special breakfast fare, such as Sahklab porridge with spiced apples, Shakshuka – eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce or roasted field mushrooms. Vegetarians will love them.

6. 42Fifteen

42Fifteen might be located in the middle of Southport’s Davenport Street but it’s reminiscent of times gone by, with its home-baked food and comfortable, homey interior. The menu abounds with old favourites such as Toad in the Hole together with modern classics such as Pork Belly Tacos. If you don’t have time to sit back and relax at brunch time, try a ‘braffle’ and coffee, which will give you baked beans, ricotta and crispy speck all wrapped up and ready to go in a tasty waffle.

7. Plantation House Café

If tucking into a plate of corn and zucchini fritter with a poached egg perched on top sounds like your perfect brunch dish, grab a table at Plantation House Café. You’ll mix with the local hipsters amongst shelves of groceries, fresh produce and quirky vintage items.

8. BSKT

Right on Mermaid Beach, BSKT really is a place to chill out while you eat. Here you’ll find an organic menu that’s suitable for just about everyone, whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian or you’re gluten intolerant. The menu contains all the usual suspects from eggs, avocado and salsa on flatbreads to beans. However, it’s the café’s signature coconut water ice-cream that really draws in the crowds, together with the yoga classes.

9. Commune

For a heartier brunch, Commune serve up a menu made from fresh organic ingredients including a very moreish pulled pork, tortillas, corn fritters adorned with avocado, tomatoes and the obligatory poached egg, plus muesli, home-made chilli jam and home baked banana bread. And if you’re a late riser, they offer an all-day breakfast menu including some very healthy smoothies, superb coffee and freshly made juices.

10. Espresso Moto

On the Gold Coast Highway, Espresso Moto has become the place to tuck into freshly cooked bacon and egg rolls, lamb sandwiches and some of the best coffee in Palm Beach. If you prefer tea, you’ll be able to choose from a range of exciting flavours such as Chinese White and Gyokuro Green, all served up by some of the friendliest staff in the business.

Spoilt for choice – we bet you are

So there you have it. Some of the top places to have brunch on the Gold Coast. Can’t decide where to go? Perhaps you’d better try them all.

But can we let you in on a secret? The Gold Coast is home to an endless array of spectacular waterfalls and wondrous waterholes that are just magic to swim in. So pack your swimmers and dive into an organic experience amongst some of nature’s best landscape. You’ll be amazed what you find…

Currumbin Rock Pools

A fifteen-minute drive from the beach takes you to Currumbin Rock Pools, a much-loved, favourite haunt of Currumbin locals. The drive alone makes the visit worth it, which follows the creek inland through the lovely, lush Currumbin Valley.

Pool depths here vary, so whether you’re after a spot for preschoolers to paddle or you’re envisioning giant leaps off the rocks, you’ll find a pool that’s perfect. Pack a picnic, enjoy the grassy banks and soak up the sun – you can even bring some snags for the BBQ!

Purling Brook Falls

The Purling Brook Falls in Springbrook National Park are spectacular, and providing you’re willing to walk, the falls flow into incredible creeks that are magnificent for swimming in. The Falls themselves tower at over 100 metres in height, and an elevated path through the open eucalyptus forest will take you to an amazing view point. From there the path descends into a subtropical gorge where you can view the Falls from below. After crossing a new suspension bridge that’s strategically placed for excellent photo opportunities, the track will lead you to plenty of great swimming spots.

Twin Falls

Also in Springbrook National Park is Twin Falls, which punctuate the sub-tropical landscape with their mightiness. The walk begins from either Tallanbana picnic area or the Canyon lookout, and you can enjoy looking at the continuously changing scenery as you make your way along the track. Expect to see trees more than 1500 years old, interesting rock formations, very steep cliffs, an abundance of wildlife, and breathtaking views. At the base of the falls lies a large rock pool that’s perfect for a refreshing swim after a relaxing 4km walk.

Tallebudgera Creek

Framed by Burleigh Heads National Park on one side and Palm Beach on the other, Tallebudgera Creek is where everyone who enjoys swimming, picnicking, kayaking and fishing come together. The waters in the creek are known for their relative calm, making the spot hugely popular with young families. For those preferring a surf, the nearby beach offers plenty of opportunity to catch a few waves. And, after a swim, why not grab a bite to eat at the Tallebudgera Surf Lifesaving Club, which offers great daily specials, salads, grills and seafood?

Cougal Cascades

Take a drive through Currumbin Valley and step back in time when you visit an old 1940’s saw mill underneath the commanding Mount Cougal. Explore the creek which flows into rock pools created from the force of the water for over a thousands of years. The walk to the mill is short and offers a small viewing platform of the cascades. Further down you’ll find the pools, and while there’s no path to guide you, the pools are accessible if you don’t mind a bit of a climb. Just be sure to pack some good walking shoes.

Cedar Creek Falls

One of the most delightful walks in the Tamborine area is the Cedar Creek Circuit (3.2km), which explores the creek’s various cascades, rockpools, flora and fauna. This section of the park is easily reached via Tamborine Mountain Rd, with the turn off to Cedar Creek Falls Rd being just past the information map stopping bay. Home to a ton of picnic tables, be sure to pack a lunch. Once you’ve enjoyed a bite to eat, you can make your way down the track for a swim. The track is sealed, making it good for children – but leave the stroller at home as there are lots of stairs.

Elebana Falls

The Elabana Falls make up a part of a beautiful set of falls and swimming holes set along Canungra Creek in Lamington National Park. Breathtaking and serene, the falls are layered in stages, each one with its own unique flow and surroundings. Being shaded, the water is cool – you’ve been warned! But after a long walk on a hot day, it can be hugely refreshing. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the Lamington Cray, which is bright blue in colour and roams the forest floor.

Araluen Swimming Hole

This scenic little pot of gold is a secret between Tallebudgera Valley locals, so we hope we’re not stepping on toes by letting the secret out! Tucked in the foothills of Springbrook National Park and close to the corner of Araluen Road and Tallebudgera Creek Road, you’ll find a fresh water hole for splashing, a rope swing for airborne fun, and a grassy field for picnicking.

Love Heart Waterhole

About a 35-minute drive from Nerang lies Killarney Glen Waterfall and a heart-shaped waterhole that’s absolutely picturesque. On the way there you’ll pass the Government’s Kokoda Training facility – in fact, a large part of the Lower Beechmont area is a military training zone. With this in mind, be prepared for signs about live ammunition! After applying some mozzie repellant, follow the track down for about 30 minutes to the waterfalls. Here you will find a few areas to swim, and more than likely you’ll see some adventurous types jumping into the love heart-shaped pool. Not a place for toddlers, but a great spot for older kids and the young at heart.

For parents on a budget, finding ways to lower your holiday costs is crucial. And the good news is, whether you live at the Gold Coast or you’re paying visit, lowering costs might not be as hard as you think!

The first step to planning an affordable holiday is to choose your accommodation smartly. Look for an apartment that’s equipped with a good kitchen, as this will allow you to make breakfast and prepare snacks or other meals in your apartment, rather than always eating out.

Your accommodation should also come with enough facilities to keep the kids entertained when you and your partner need some downtime. At Focus Apartments, kids can enjoy a heated pool and spa, huge gardens, a full size tennis court, a basketball shooting area and table tennis. They’ll always be entertained!

The next step is to plan a range of activities outside of your accommodation that don’t cost a thing. The Gold Coast is great for this, with heaps of things on offer that will keep your wallet full and you happy.

The beach

Of course we’re going to start this list with the beach – we’re talking about the Gold Coast after all!

The Gold Coast is renowned for its beaches, which stretch from the southern end of Rainbow Bay all the way to South Stradbroke Island in the north. Popular beaches include Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, Broadbeach, Mermaid Beach and Kirra Beach, but there’s plenty more to choose from.

Tallebudgera Creek

The waters of Tallebudgera Creek are renowned for their calm water, and is a popular campground families from all over return to each summer. Framed by the Burleigh Heads National Park on one side and Palm Beach on the other, it offers a picturesque scene and is a relatively safe swimming spot.

Public playgrounds

The Gold Coast is known as “Australia’s playground”, and maybe that has a little something to do with the actual playgrounds located here! Kurrawa Pratten Park in Broadbeach is a hit with both kids and parents; surrounded by cosmopolitan cafes, parents can sip their lattes in peace knowing the kids are having plenty of fun. Palm Beach is home to both the Pirate Park and Laguna Park, which are also some great, kid-friendly destinations.

However, one of the best spots has to be Southport Broadwater Parklands, which stretches 3 km along the foreshore and offers plenty of play equipment including a bouncy pillow, flying fox and giant seesaw. It’s also home to the Rockpools water playground, which has cool fountains and vibrant marine themed equipment.

Mount Tamborine

A drive out to Mt Tamborine is a must with kids, especially if your holiday plans include exploring all of the best things nature has to offer. Highlights include Cedar Creek Falls, with its easy to access lookout over gorges, a waterfall and rockpools. If you’re not afraid of a bit of walking, zig zag down the hill on a Class 3, 900 metre return track, and enjoy swimming in the magnificent rockpools.

Another excellent bushwalk with kids is the Joalah section of Mt Tamborine National Park, which allows you to immerse yourself in the beautiful rainforest. Alternatively, visit the Mt Tamborine Botanical Gardens and enjoy its spectacular Japanese garden.

The Arts Centre

There’s always something to see and do at the Gold Coast Arts Centre, and most of it is completely free! A quick hop on the website will tell you what’s happening in terms of family entertainment, but even when there’s not a free exhibition or show to enjoy, you can always visit the gallery to feast your eyes on some incredible artworks. Entry is free, however a donation is warmly welcomed.

Currumbin Rockpools

The Currumbin Rockpools are a secret swimming hole, a mere fifteen minutes from Currumbin Beach. Popular with locals, the drive alone is worth it, following the creek inland through the lovely, lush Currumbin Valley. Your kids will swing on ropes, leap off ledges, and lounge around like lizards on rocks, making lifelong memories they’ll always treasure.

BBQ and water watch

The Gold Coast waterways are full of adventure, and your kids will enjoy sitting back to watch the constant stream of jet skis, fishing boats and jet boats whizzing past. A great place to perch up and enjoy all the action is at Budd’s Beach, just off the Gold Coast Highway at Ferny Avenue. Home to lots of shade, an amenities block and plenty of BBQs and picnic tables, it also offers safe swimming away from big waves and rips.

O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk

O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk allows you to walk through a canopy of flowering and fruiting trees covered by vines, and explore the epiphytic orchids and ferns that are home to many birds and animals. The first of its kind in Australia, it’s 180 metres in length and is made up of nine suspension bridges. Much of the walkway is 15 metres above the ground, and it’s totally free!

Active & Healthy Program

The City of Gold Coast’s Active & Healthy Program is designed to get the whole family active. The program provides activities for young kids, teenagers, parents and even grandparents to do together. Activities include fishing, rock climbing, family fitness fun, drumming, craft and more.

Movies Under the Stars

Running from September through to April, the Movies Under the Stars program offers free family movies in a range of Gold Coast parks. To see which parks are being transformed into outdoor cinemas this weekend, visit the City of Gold Coast website.

BMX and skate parks

The Gold Coast is home to the most skate and BMX parks in Australia. Check out the world-renowned Pizzey Park Bowl, the newly completed Ormeau Skate Park, or Nerang Skate Park, which has floodlights for night time fun. For advanced BMX freestyle riders, you can’t go past the Upper Coomera Adventure Parklands.

When you take your kids travelling you’re completely changing how they will forever see the world, and teaching them how to fully unplug and connect with what’s around them. Travelling teaches kids to notice the details, exposes them to new surroundings and unfamiliar foods, and offers a multitude of opportunities in which to make precious memories.