TWEED COAST & Gold Coast FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
By a local photographer who grew up here… and now raises her kids here too.
The Tweed Coast is one of those places you fall in love with fast. Warm water. Slower mornings. Endless beaches. It is the kind of place where kids seem happier, families breathe a little deeper and the days unfold at a gentler pace.
As a local mum and family photographer, I have explored every corner of this region through both grown-up eyes and the eyes of a child.
This guide brings together the best things to do with kids while you are here - beaches, local adventures, hidden gems and a few places visitors often miss.
These are the places I genuinely recommend when my families ask, “What should we do while we’re on holidays?”
Beaches and Coastal Spots
1. Greenmount and Coolangatta
An easy family beach with gentle waves, long stretches of sand and plenty of food options close by.
2. Rainbow Bay
Clear water, sheltered swimming, a great playground and a relaxed pace. A favourite for families with younger children.
3. Kirra Beach
Known for surf culture, soft sand and a comfortable swimming zone for kids while adults watch the surfers.
4. Hastings Point
Consistently rated as one of Australia’s best beaches. Rockpools, shallow inlets, gentle swimming and a stunning place for sunrise or sunset.
5. Cabarita Headland
An easy climb with sweeping ocean views. Children love exploring the paths and rocks. This is also one of my favourite family photo locations – it is not just a day at the beach, it is an experience the kids will remember.
6. Fingal Head and Lighthouse Walk
Unique basalt formations, a historic lighthouse and quiet swimming coves. A peaceful outing with plenty of cultural significance.
7. The Anchorage (Tweed Heads)
Loved by locals for its calm river water, shady paths and laid-back swimming spots. Excellent for toddlers and families who prefer river swimming over surf.
Animal and Farm Adventures
Sunflowers, farm animals, paddock-to-plate meals and a relaxed farm atmosphere. A beautiful family outing.
Farm tours, fruit tasting, tractor rides and peaceful views. A great experience for curious kids and food-loving families.
A super fun, hands-on experience that young kids adore. Calming, memorable and wonderful for photos.
Water Play and Local Pools
11. Murwillumbah Pool
A classic local favourite (I grew up going here). The long waterslide winds down the hill, there are huge grassy areas for picnics, a canteen, indoor and outdoor pools and plenty of shade. Affordable and perfect for a full day out.
12. Tweed Billabong Big 4 Waterpark
Day passes available. Kids love the slides, splash zones and the relaxed holiday atmosphere.
Outdoor Adventures and Active Fun
Hire bikes and ride the scenic trail along the old railway line. The route passes through farmland, historic bridges and countryside, with cafés along the way.
14. Surf Lessons - Salty Girls & Kirra Point Surf School
Kirra is great for young beginners, while Hastings Point offers a beautiful and empowering surf program for tween girls.
15. Cabarita Headland Walk & Playground area
A short, family-friendly walk with panoramic ocean views and a playground for the kids.
16. Stand-Up Paddleboarding and Kayaking on Cudgen Creek
Gentle water and calm conditions make this perfect for beginners.
Affordable and Easy Days Out
Indoor roller skating with music, retro lights and learn-to-skate sessions. Great fun for all ages.
18. Jack Evans Boat Harbour
A large fenced playground, grassy areas, calm water and BBQ facilities. Ideal for relaxed family days.
19. Community Markets
Pottsville and Kingscliff markets offer great food, handmade goods and a relaxed family atmosphere.
20. Local Playgrounds
Salt, Pottsville and Kennedy Drive along the river all have excellent playgrounds and shaded picnic areas.
21. Tenpin Bowling, Tweed Head
Perfect for hot days or rainy weather.
Smaller than the Surfers Paradise version but great for a couple of hours of indoor fun.
Food and Relaxed Family Friendly Spaces
23. Husk Distillery and Earth Brewery
Both offer large outdoor areas where parents can relax while kids wander safely through the grounds.
24. Tumbulgum Village & Pub
A peaceful riverside spot with picnic areas, BBQs, water activities and a historic pub with a playground and outdoor seating.
Local Day Trips
Beautiful gardens, crystal displays and a calming atmosphere.
26. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Koalas, kangaroos, shows and the small train ride. A full and fun day, especially for younger kids.
27. Gold Coast Theme Parks
Dreamworld, Movie World, Sea World and Wet’n’Wild are all within an hour’s drive.
28. Byron Bay
A scenic day trip with shops, markets, food and beautiful beaches.
29. Capture Your Holiday Memories With Wonderland Photography
If you would like to take home something meaningful from your holiday, I offer short, relaxed holiday mini sessions designed specifically for families visiting the Tweed Coast.
These sessions are quick, fun and easy for kids while still giving you beautiful, connected photographs of your time here.
Holiday Mini Sessions include:
• 15 minutes
• Selected weekdays in the scholl
• 10 images included
• Upgrade options available
• Fingal, Cabarita or Kingscliff locations
These sell out quickly each school holiday period.
If you prefer a slower, more in-depth session with more time and more images, I also offer full storytelling sessions. Feel free to contact me if you would like help choosing the best option for your family.
