Coolangatta Beach (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Coolangatta Beach?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Flagged swimming zone, shaded playground and picnic BBQs keep children engaged, yet parents must watch strong surf outside the flags and there is no fenced play or splash pad.
Positives:
- Lifeguard Supervision: Flagged swim zones are patrolled 8 am–5 pm for water safety.
- Shaded Play Areas: Foreshore playgrounds have shade sails to protect kids.
Challenges:
- Limited Parking: Marine Parade meters fill up quickly on weekends.
- Strong Sun Exposure: UV levels are high; reapply sunscreen often.
What is Coolangatta Beach?
- A 1.6-kilometre stretch of white-sand coastline at the Gold Coast’s southern tip, bounded by Kirra Point and Greenmount Headland on the Queensland–New South Wales border
- A surf beach exposed to consistent Pacific Ocean swells and home to the Coolangatta Surf Life Saving Club
- An urban shoreline with lifeguard-patrolled swimming zones, a paved Oceanway promenade and adjacent foreshore parklands with public facilities
What is so special about Coolangatta Beach for with kids?
- Swim safely between lifeguard flags in calm waters
- Discover shaded playgrounds and picnic spots by the foreshore
- Rent boogie boards for easy wave riding fun
- Enjoy a flat heritage walk with ocean views
- Spot whales from the headland in winter months
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit lets kids swim, play and explore without tiring them.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Coolangatta Beach
Swim between the flags:
Coolangatta Beach lifeguards patrol the red and yellow flagged area.
Tip: Always swim between the flags for safe, calm waters.
Foreshore playground:
Shaded slides, swings and boat-style play equipment under shade sails.
Tip: Bring sand toys and a picnic blanket for a full play session.
Boogie-board hire:
Rent kids’ boogie boards from local shops for fun on small waves.
Tip: Book online in advance or arrive early for best selection.
Coolangatta Heritage Walk:
Flat, self-guided trail with ocean views and historic plaques.
Tip: Download the free map and start near Greenmount Hill car park.
Greenmount headland stroll:
Short walk up to a lookout with panoramic coastal views.
Tip: Go at sunset for cooler air and potential whale sightings.
When is the best time to visit Coolangatta Beach (Gold Coast, Australia)?
December–February brings calm summer waves but high UV—swim early. June–October you may spot humpback whales from the headland.
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Reviews of Coolangatta Beach (Gold Coast)
Chantelle Lagos
Cooly is my FAVOURITE beach on the Gold Coast! Been going for years as it’s the perfect proximity to shops, cafes and restaurants and retail galore along the strip! Has everything you need within walking distance, and the beach is a hidden gem that looks as though you have walked into some unknown paradise. Just next door is Greenmount where it’s a beautiful place for a picturesque picnic, and you...
Super Porex Bros.
In the late afternoon near evening, you can clearly see the waves and sea reflecting sunlights, which is very bright but beautiful.
Charles West
Photos taken during the week of 'Cooly Rocks On' 2025 a beautiful beach.
Nathanael Y
Coolangatta is such a great place! And of course, the beach is beautiful as well! You can enjoy the view of the Gold Coast skyline while you swim or just walk along the trail and it is just breathtaking! The beach is also not overcrowded and was not destroyed much by the cyclone so its landscape is well kept! Together with the overall vibe of Coolangatta it just gives chill vibes, much different c...
ambie 11110
Beautiful beach. Great for waves. On a clear day you have a perfect view of surfers paradise and the coastline of the Gold Coast. Lovely place to hang out and just chill. Great place for a nice summers day. Parking can be tricky to find though.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Boogie-board hire (2 boards) | AUD 16 |
| Metered parking (2 hours) | AUD 8 |
| Picnic supplies | AUD 30 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 54 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Coolangatta Beach
- Arrive Early: Come before 9 am to find parking easily and avoid crowds.
- Pack Beach Snacks: Bring water and snacks to skip busy cafe queues.
Map of Coolangatta Beach
Address: Coolangatta Beach, Queensland, Australia
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