When you think of ice skating, Gold Coast probably isn't the first locale that comes to mind. Even during the coldest time of year, Gold Coast/Kombumerri weather errs on the side of mild. Besides the odd shower or cold snap, winter looks a lot like sunny days and a fresh breeze. You could basically make it the whole season rarely reaching for an umbrella and jumper.
So, if you're chasing that white winter feeling in the Sunshine State, you may be surprised to know you're in luck. There actually are a few places defying the moderate temperature of our subtropical climate, and pushing the bounds of physics to provide a bit of transeasonal fun. In a region where the sunscreen industry is eternally booming, you can still lace up and hit the frost at the best ice skating rinks on the Gold Coast.
Planet Chill
122 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 | $20 for 2 hours
Somewhere you might not expect there to be an enormous ice skating rink is smack-bang in the middle of the Gold Coast's most famous Glitter Strip. If it seems alien, then that’s probably why they call it Planet Chill.
Located within the Paradise Resort, this rink runs two-hour sessions for just $20 a pop. Watch the ice skating show for inspo on the rink, or plant your mitts on the handles of a helpful penguin if you're new to the skate game. It's the most surreal break from the sunshine and sand at this frosty ice skating rink. Book here.
Iceworld Olympic Ice Rinks
1179 Beaudesert Rd, Acacia Ridge QLD 4110 | From $29 for 2 hours
Before Steven Bradbury competed on Survivor, he worked hard to be an Olympic-level speed skater. Where do you think that talent was honed? Right here in Queensland, mate—and most likely at Iceworld.
This is the only Olympic-sized rink in South East Queensland and offers training facilities for competitors at a national, international, or Olympic level. It also offers a skate school for $200 per term and welcomes skaters 3 years and up. This is, hands down, one of the best spots to ice skate around the Gold Coast. Book here.
Winterfest
Dreamworld, Dreamworld Pkwy, Coomera QLD 4209 | From $10 + Dreamworld Entry Price
Consider this your answer to the best ice skating Gold Coast home's for the winter. Fresh powder falls but once a year between June 28 and July 20 at Dreamworld and transforms this summer lovin' locale into an iceskating hotspot.
The Gold Coast's only regular pop-up ice rink, Dreamworld's Winterfest features snow slides, tobogganing and snowflake scavenger hunts for the littlies, or you if that's your style. I reckon it's pretty cool that entry is free with your Annual Pass. Book here.
Image Credit: Supplied