If there’s one place on the Gold Coast where you can shop till you drop, eat your body weight in quality nosh, do some srsly cool stuff, and wander amongst stunning natural parklands, it’s Robina.  There’s also a hospital, a train station and a sports stadium, one of which is exciting enough to make our list (hint; it’s not the hospital or the train station).

In honour of this central GC gem, we’ve compiled a list of 14 reasons why Robina peeps love their ‘burb, and why wider GC locals travel en masse to experience all it has to offer.

Pasta Emporium
With their Euro background and extensive experience in the food industry, mum and daughter duo Natalie and Sonia have created an artisan pasta boutique store like no other. Made with a high-quality durum wheat semolina (rich in fibre, protein, vitamin B and also digestion friendly), their fresh-as pasta can be paired with a selection of nasty-free slow cooked sauces. The.Best!
Where: Easy T Centre, 514 Christine Avenue, Robina

Palmer Golf Course
Carved out of 65 hectares of native woodlands with fairways lined by towering gum trees, this uniquely designed course is in the top 30 resort courses in the country #noice. A 6078-meter, 18-hole, Par 71 championship golf course (Aust Course Rating 72) designed by the Marsh / Watson team, its rolling fairways, manicured greens, towering eucalyptus and natural water course make it a local and visitor fave.
Where: Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina

Zone Bowling / Timezone
This dual-branded entertainment venue is an uber-exciting entertainment experience, combining Zone Bowling and Timezone in one renovated super space. Perfect for a birthday of any vintage and for corporate functions, you’ll find ten pin bowling, the latest arcade games, a laser tag arena with a ‘futurism/apocalyptic robots’ theme, and super fun spin zone bumper cars (coming later this year). Just yay!!!
Where: Robina Town Centre, 1 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

My French Pastries
A venue called My French Pastries needs no introduction but since it’s amongst the cream of the crop here on the GC, we’ll give them one anyway. Jen and Antonio Marchesi have created something really spesh with French pastries made from scratch. Think key lime Chantilly, lemon meringue, blueberry and chocolate tarts, and if you’re not salivating, you must be unwell. A special shout-out must go to the scrumptious savoury goodies, providing a well-rounded experience for your tastebuds.
Where: Robina Quays Shopping Centre, 5/361 Robina Parkway, Robina

Eddy + Wolff
The trendiest of the Robina bunch, Eddy + Wolff opened in early 2019 bringing exceptional, modern Asian eats to the people. It’s a sleek, 22-seat venue serving up ten-outta-ten eats, just like it’s northern brother from the same mother, Can Tho Kitchen at Runaway Bay. The menu features BBQ-style dishes, snacks, larger plates and sides, all of which are designed to share and hail from Thao and Vien’s home country of Vietnam, China, Japan and Korea to name a few. The drinks list is tight and perfectly curated to match the food with an unmissable lemon sake. An absolute fave.
Where: 44 Commerce Drive, Robina 

The Kitchens
Fact; foodie marketplace-style situations are one of life’s greatest gifts. The Kitchens is precisely that, with an array of exceptional venues all in the one beautifully appointed area. Think tasty teppanyaki, big ‘ole burgers, a vegan foodie venue and even a craft beer bar offering delicious eats to name a few. There is more choice here than you can poke a stick at and bonus; it’s attached to one of the region’s best shopping centres #UnicornsDoExist.
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina 

El Camino Cantina
A good time Mexi-joint at Robina Town Centre, what’s not to love? Rocking one of the most colour-filled interiors you ever did see, a menu packed with family-friendly Mex-cellent eats, and frozen margaritas, it’s love at first sight/bite/sip. The legendary venue is one of seven Queensland restaurants, synonymous with funky neon signage, sweet sombreros, and an all-round winning ambience. Gather the crew and get on it.
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

CBUS Super Stadium
Home of our beloved Titans, CBUS Super Stadium is one of the best regional stadiums in Australia and it’s ours, all ours (insert wicked snigger). Not only do Gold Coasters spend their weekends cheering on the boys here, but we’ve also been lucky enough to watch A-league and international football games, the Nitro Circus, and the Rugby 7s as part of the Commonwealth Games. High five to CBUS for being our homegrown hub of sporting joy.
Where: Centreline Place, Robina

Robina Pavilion
A tried and tested (regularly. Very regularly….) favourite, Robina Pav features a sleek look’n’feel, dreamy deck overlooking the water, a specialised kids area, and plenty of good vibes. Boasting a menu packed with epic eats from woodfired pizzas to stacked burgers, it would be rude not to get involved with the impressive cocktail menu #IfWeMust. It’s the perfect spot for sun-soaked afternoon sessions with you posse.
Where: 229 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina

Robina Parkway Dog Park
Obviously one for the locals with hairy mates but if you live further afield and have a furry friend in tow, we highly recommend. There are all kinds of fun things for your doggo to explore including tunnels and hurdles, and they’re bound to make a new buddy or two in the process. If you don’t have a pooch, get down there anyway and score free pats a-plenty #GoodForTheSoul.
Where: Lot 21, Robina Parkway, Robina

The Sporting Globe
The spacious, sports-themed bar and restaurant made a big splash on Robina Town Centre when it first moved in and continues to do so in 2023. Within The Sporting Globe there are no less than 50 high definition screens including two 5m2 screens and a nine-screen video wall, so yeah nah, you’re not missing a single second of the action. They’re also serving up perfect sport-watching food, frosty bronsons galore, and an all-round cracking good atmosphere. It’s a sure thing.
Where: The Promenade, Robina Town Centre, Robina

Cheltenham Park
If open spaces and oodles of greenery, in the middle of a city no less, is your thing (yes please), Cheltenham Park is the business. There are plenty of areas for the kids – human and fury – to run themselves ragged (#yeahmums!) bushwalking tracks, and big leafy trees to stretch out beneath with a picnic and your favourite people. Perfect for escaping the rat race without chewing through the petrol in search of a tree change.
Where: Cheltenham Drive, Robina 

Alpine Indoor Climbing
Robina’s state-of-the-art climbing centre is positively R.A.D if you’re somewhat of an adrenalin junkie, or someone looking for a new sporty-spice-esk challenge. Alpine Indoor Climbing is a favourite amongst both professional and beginner climbers (including those lacking in coordination, AKA us). There are varying levels of challenges and you can go across, straight up, or anyway you like really, and there are cushioned pads underneath should you lose your grip. Good times.
Where: 86 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

Words by Bianca Trathen

Looking for ways to keep the ankle biters entertained on the Gold Coast? Too easy!

Whether your little legends are bouncing off the walls (literally), exploring the great outdoors, or just looking for a bit of magic, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a rundown of kid-approved activities that’ll keep the young (and young at heart) entertained all day long. Plus, don’t forget to check out our discounts page, where you can score vouchers for a bunch of these fun-filled spots and save a few bucks while you’re at it!

Theme Parks
Let’s be real, the Coast’s theme parks are basically our crown jewels, and visitors can’t get enough of them. Movie World brings the magic with themed rides, roaming movie stars, and cartoon characters you’ll want a selfie with. Dreamworld? Big thrill energy with rides that’ll have you screaming your lungs out. Then there’s Sea World, where stunning sea creatures and jaw-dropping live shows steal the spotlight. Let’s not forget WhiteWater World – the ultimate water-filled oasis! Open seasonally, it’s a mix of chill and thrill, with something for everyone. Wet’n’Wild is all about epic waterslides and the massive wave pool that feels like summer in a nutshell.

For a side of Aussie charm, The Australian Outback Spectacular delivers with stunning special effects, a heartwarming outback tale, and some truly beautiful animals. And if you’re keen to be whisked into authentic Aussie farm life, head over to Paradise Country – Australia’s premier farm experience. It’s as hands-on as it gets, with interactive experiences like tasting traditional billy tea, learning to make damper, and soaking up the excitement of the Ram Parade and Sheep Shearing Display in a historic shearing shed.

Trampolines, adventure features, and airbags galore make BOUNCE an adrenaline playground where kids can perfect flips and unleash their inner acrobat.

A 30-minute sensory journey awaits at Infinity Attraction, with futuristic maze-like worlds full of illusions, mesmerizing soundscapes, and groovy vibes that are perfect for kids over eight and anyone seeking a touch of magic.

Packed with curiosity, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! offers 15 interactive galleries and over 300 fascinating artifacts, with the Impossible LaseRace adding an extra thrill as visitors shimmy through a maze of laser beams like spies.

History, fantasy, and a touch of fright combine at The Wax Museum, where wax celebrities, the eerie Chamber of Horrors, and replicas of the Crown Jewels make for a memorable visit.

For larger-than-life optical illusions, ArtVo in Robina Town Centre provides endless photo opportunities, letting kids step into wild scenarios and themed zones where the art seems to come alive.

Indoor skydiving at iFLY Gold Coast lets you soar like a bird in a 365-degree glass tunnel, offering packages for first-timers and seasoned flyers looking for an unforgettable rush.

Hair in need of a little extra sparkle? H&H Hair Braiding (at Pacific Fair and Surfers Paradise) and Surfers Paradise Hairwraps are the dream team for colorful wraps and braids – an absolute hit with little girls who want to channel their inner princess or mermaid vibes!

Animal Encounters
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Gold Coast has animal experiences that’ll make your heart melt.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a sprawling 27-hectare haven where kids can feed kangaroos, cuddle koalas, and catch incredible shows like the Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show. Don’t miss the Lost Valley for encounters with exotic animals.

David Fleay’s Wildlife Park is a quieter gem in Burleigh Heads, offering intimate encounters with Queensland’s unique flora and fauna. Spot the platypus, meet nocturnal creatures, and chat with passionate rangers.

Arcade Adventures
The arcade offerings on the Coast are next-level, with Broadbeach’s Level Up Arcade offering a mix of classic games and virtual reality arenas, plus a prize redemption system that’s sure to win over the kids.

Bumper cars, laser tag, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, and over 250 arcade games make Timezone in Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta a sensory overload of fun in the very best way.

High ropes, Clip ‘n Climb courses and an arcade combine at iPlay Adventure, delivering a mix of challenges and pure fun that has something for everyone to enjoy.

Escape Rooms + VR
Escape rooms and virtual reality adventures are the perfect mix of brain-teasing fun and high-stakes excitement. It’s like a race against time — and let’s be real, no one is ever quite as good at solving puzzles when there’s a countdown looming! But hey, whether you’re celebrating a victorious escape or drowning your sorrows in a glass of wine, it’s definitely a win for family fun. Who knew unlocking mysteries could come with so much drama?

Eclipse Escape Rooms, Escape Hunt, Padlock’d and Fox in a Box all offer themed challenges that’ll have your family working together to solve mysteries and escape in time.

Meanwhile, Sandbox VR and Other World HQ are redefining virtual reality experiences with cutting-edge tech and immersive fun. Sandbox VR takes things up a notch with a haptic vest, motion sensors, and VIVE Focus 3 headsets, putting you in the heart of the action like never before.It’s a thrilling, real-time group adventure that goes beyond what home VR systems can offer. At Otherworld HQ, prepare to step into realms of exciting, unconventional games. Featuring the Saboteurs Arena, you’ll need strategy and skill to outwit your friends and enemies in this high-stakes adventure.

Prepare to get wet
Cool off with these water-based adventures that’ll have the whole family splashing with joy.

Located in Broadwater Parklands, Gold Coast Aqua Park is an inflatable paradise packed with slides and obstacles.

For those looking to catch a wave, Hang Ten Surf Co provides surf coaching with friendly instructors who are passionate about helping the whole family ride the waves like pros.

If you’re after a unique adventure, Aquaduck offers a fun blend of city and river cruising on the Gold Coast’s amphibious icon. Kids even get the chance to take the wheel and feel like the captain!

For an adrenaline rush, Paradise Jet Boating and GC Jetboating and Parasailing both deliver thrilling spins and slides through the Broadwater.

Smack some golf balls
If your little ones love a good game of golf, the Gold Coast has no shortage of fun places to swing a club. Putt Putt Mermaid Beach is an iconic local spot with three awesome 18-hole courses, each offering its own unique challenge. Plus, they have neon glow balls to light up your night-time putting!

TopGolf is a year-round winner, with indoor bays and plenty of food options to keep your energy up while you perfect your swing.

Day Trip Fun
If you’re looking to explore a little further afield there are plenty of fun activities for the kids that are only a short drive away.

Dig It Mini Excavator Park at Thunderbird Park lets kids graduate from sandcastles to operating real excavators. With construction-inspired activities and safety-first operators, it’s the ultimate hands-on experience.

Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk offers breathtaking views and a chance to stroll among the treetops. It’s an easy walk suitable for families, with photo ops aplenty.

Over at Mountview Alpacas, kids can hand-feed these fluffy friends while parents kick back with a coffee or wine in hand. It’s a win-win situation.

Words by Belinda Symons

Hiking. It’s an acquired taste but if walking long distances for the sheer joy of it floats your boat, where better to indulge than the picturesque Gold Coast. Particularly at the height of summer.

There are many places to trek around outside the comfort of your Netflix binge zone and here are five of them (from a literal walk in the park to the mother of all hiking adventures, in that order). Don’t forget water bottles and snacks.

Apple Tree Park Tracks
Sounds delightful doesn’t it. The park itself is actually a possible starting point for entry onto The Great Walk but allows your tired bones a bit of respite if 54km of walking is slightly out of your comfort zone (yes, hi). You can pretty much walk as far as you like, for as long as you like and then turn around and walk back for a picnic in the park. Take healthy foods so your walk doesn’t feel like it’s in vain.
Start: On Springbrook Rd next to the Springbrook Mountain Chalets

Natural Bridge
No doubt you’ve (at least) seen snaps of the stunning little spot that is Natural Bridge. A literal rock bridge in the middle of the rainforest complete with a sparkly waterfall and so much beautiful greenery and fresh air and relaxing wilderness noises. It’s a stunner and a fairly cruisy downhill walk to get there (bit slippery on the bridge so watch your step) and through the trees. Obvs it’s uphill on the way back but you won’t even notice you’ll be so chilled out. Make sure you’ve got a camera to capture the magic.
Start: Follow the signs towards Springbrook and then you will see signs for Natural Bridge on Natural Bridge Rd

South Stradbroke Island
Saying you’ve circumnavigated something is, quite frankly, a dream that’s always been somewhat unattainable. Until now. It’s possible to walk the entire way around South Straddy and, while it might take you awhile (it’s 21km long and 2.5km wide) it’s well worth it for the breathtaking views. Walking from the western side to the east will only take you around an hour so that’s quite relaxing. All the way around will take you at least a day so ensure you pack provisions. Once you’re done you should definitely stop in at McLarens Landing (the pub) because a hard earned thirst needs a big cold beer.
Start: Take the ferry from Hope Island and start your walk from wherever your little heart desires

Toolona Creek Circuit
Keen for a day of walking? Neither, but there are some folks who might be. To those people we say, get on board the Toolona Creek Circuit. The first part will take you to Picnic Rock and along the Toolona Creek to the falls. From there you can detour to the lookout for a rest and gaze lovingly out at the Tweed Valley, Mt Warning, Byron Bay and Straddy (hi hiking friends). Sounds chill enough except the entire track will probably take you around seven hours too. Prepare before you go and if it gets too much, turn yourself around and head home. Good luck.
Start: Head to Canungra and follow the signs to Lamington Plateau, Green Mountain Car Park aka O’Reillys.

The Great Walk
Go hard or go home right. This one’s a doozy and you might want to carve out a good chunk of time for the 54km trek. It’s best to start at Lamington National Park and finish at Springbrook and they say to allow three days to complete the walk (sheer joy remember). You’ll skirt around the rim of the Tweed Volcano and pass through the ancient lands of the Yugambeh people. Maybe put in a bit of practice with the walks below before you set out on this little adventure, it ain’t for the faint hearted. Take plenty water, camping gear and ensure you’re equipped for all weather possibilities.
Start: From the Pacific Motorway, take the Nerang exit (exit 69 from the north, exit 71 from the south) and follow the signs to Lamington National Park.

Words by Kirra Smith