ROCK AND A GREAT PLACE
THIS is the perfect Gold Coast Christmas tradition.
Instead of hitting the sales on Boxing Day, hit the water at Currumbin Rock Pools.
Go full blown Aussie by warming up with a bit of backyard cricket on the banks of the waterhole before cooling off in this emerald gem of the Hinterland.
The rock pools are a stretch of smooth sloping rocks, large boulders and pebbled pathways filled with fresh – and cool – mountain waters.
There are plenty of shallow wading areas for the little ones to explore as well as running rapids and gentle waterfalls on a very small, family friendly scale.
There is also a deeper pool into which daredevils leap from swinging ropes. Some may be tempted to jump off the perfect rocky ledges, but beware: this can be a dangerous – and deadly – pursuit.
Out of the water, there are plenty of paths to explore, rocks to overturn and creatures to find. For those who find the water too refreshing, get flat out like a lizard drinking on the hot, flat rocks surrounding the water.
Pack a picnic full of Christmas Day leftovers and literally spread out on the grassy banks or, if you can find the energy, grill some snags on the barbie.
There are picnic tables and toilets close by and the pools are only 15 minutes inland from Currumbin Beach through beautiful Currumbin Valley.
Best of all, you can even bring man’s best friend along for a swim. Just remember to be a responsible dog owner – not everyone will consider a cuddle with your pooch as all their Christmases come at once.