The Rockpools @ Southport

by Michelle Upton (subscribe)

After hearing great things about Broadwater Rockpools, a water playground for children, I decided to hunt down this hidden gem with my children. I had often driven past Broadwater Parklands, located in Southport on the Gold Coast, and had seen the jumping pillow and large playground from the road. I hadn't realised that there was a man made creek with rockpools and water jets just a short walk away.



We parked at the main entrance of Broadwater Parklands. This is located at the traffic lights and intersection of Nind Street and Marine Parade in Southport. Here there is a pay and display car park which is reasonably priced. It is free to use the Rockpools and there are lifeguards on duty. Changing facilities and toilets are also found next to it.



As soon as we'd changed into our togs the fun began. This man made creek is shallow from start to finish and is perfect for toddlers and young children. It begins with a tree like tower being filled with water and then emptying over the children who are excitedly waiting underneath. This water then flows down the creeks twists and turns where it reaches the whirlpool at the end. My children loved to lie down in the water as it drained away because they got gently spun round by the current. Once the water disappears the process starts all over again.



Along the creek you find a variety of pop jets squirting water at timed intervals. So be careful where you stand as you may get unexpectedly wet. You'll come across unusual animals and water fountains with different textures to explore. Most of which shoot out water. My children loved climbing onto these and playing with the water as it squirted out.





The Rockpools themselves are built up a little higher than the creek. The day we went it was really hot so the saltwater was warm. The pools are really relaxing for the adults as well as the children.



There is plenty of seating for parents along the creek and if you get there early enough you can get some shade from the umbrellas that are provided.



From the Rockpools you get great views of Broadwater. Looking over the water you can see SeaWorld and plenty of people having fun on jetskis and jet boats.

It's a great place to take a picnic but you can also visit Cafe Rockpool which is right next door. It had a great selection of cakes, and a breakfast and lunch menu. Throughout the day we purchased coffee, hot chips for lunch, and the children had an ice cream just before we left. You could dine in or take away and there was seating outside to take in the views of the park.



While eating our ice creams we decided to walk down the pier. This too is next to the Rockpools. This pier is modern with funky seating areas and a large grill at the end which you can stand on. Here you can see the water underneath you. My children loved exploring this area. There are more great views of The Broadwater from here and you can see the skyline of Surfer's Paradise in the distance.





The Rockpools at Broadwater is a great family friendly place to visit. It was perfect for my young children. They could explore water safely and in a different way than your typical swimming pool. So now you know where it is, make sure you put it on your list of things to do.

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Why? Fun and FREE this water playground is perfect for young children

When: Dec - Jan 7am till 7pm, Feb - April 8am till 6pm, May - Nov 9am till 5pm, Closed every Tuesday morning 7am till 9am for maintenance

Phone: 07 5581 6984

Website: www.gcparks.com.au

Where: The Rockpools

Cost: FREE

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