

Gorgeous sun-kissed beaches fringed by pandanus palms. Lush hinterland known as ‘the green behind the gold’. Pristine creeks that flow out to the sea.
This is the Gold Coast, one of Australia’s most beautiful stretches of coastline with its apt tagline ‘Famous for Fun’.
Sure, the 2018 Commonwealth Games are the big-ticket drawcard these school holidays, but let’s face it, even athletes don’t compete 24/7.
When you’re not cheering on the Aussies, let your kids ride like they’re Cadel Evans, run like Cathy Freeman and walk like Jane Saville. With endless kilometres of footpaths, walking tracks and cycle ways, it’s super easy to get active with the kids on the Goldy.
‘The Green behind the Gold’
Described as the ‘green beside the gold’, the Federation Walk Coastal Reserve is a sprawling area of dunes (93 hectares) where a network of paths and tracks offer birdwatching, the sound of crashing waves, and the chance to take a swim, minus the crowds. Starting in the carpark opposite the entrance to Sea World, the Federation Walk weaves in and out of native bush, and finishes at the Gold Coast Seaway (The Spit) where you can take in expansive views of the coastline – South Stradbroke Island to the north; the towering skyscrapers of Surfers Paradise to the south. The popular yet secluded path, made of compacted gravel, is great for both walking and cycling. Be sure and bring your water bottle and hat!
The trail is approximately 3km (6km return) and will take one-two hours depending on how many stops you make for swims and photos. Plan your walk or ride during The Games at getsetforthegames.com.

Burleigh Headland Stroll
This is a terrific coastal walk to do with kids steady on their legs (or parents willing to carry littlies on their shoulders for some of the way). Start from the rocky headland at Tallebudgera Creek, passing through coastal heath and mangroves to southern Burleigh. From there either loop back to where you started or travel via the Rainforest circuit and Tumgun Lookout. The short climb to the lookout rewards walkers with incredible vistas of the southern Gold Coast, with the glittering towers of Surfers in the distance. Along the way, there are bearded dragons to spot, as well as gorgeous sea views framed by pandanus groves. Have a swim at Tallebudgera Creek, a local’s secret, when you’re done.