!School Holidays Queensland 2026 Spring Activities
Quick Answer Box
Queensland Spring School Holidays 2026: Saturday, September 19 to Monday, October 5, 2026 (17 days)
Term 4 Starts: Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Labour Day Holiday: Monday, October 5, 2026 (coincides with the last day of holidays)
Queensland Spring School Holiday Dates 2026
The Queensland Spring school holidays for 2026 run from Saturday, September 19 through Monday, October 5, 2026. This gives Queensland families a generous 17-day break to enjoy the beautiful spring weather that the Sunshine State is famous for.
Spring is arguably the best time for school holidays in Queensland. The weather is warm but not yet the intense heat of summer, making it perfect for outdoor activities, beach visits, and exploring the great outdoors. With average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 26°C in Brisbane during September and October, families can enjoy comfortable conditions for all types of activities.
The timing of these holidays also coincides with the Labour Day public holiday on Monday, October 5, which means many families get an extra day to relax before the school term resumes. This makes the spring break an ideal time for longer getaways or simply enjoying quality family time at home.
For more information about Queensland public holidays throughout the year, visit our comprehensive guide to QLD Public Holidays 2027.
Term 4 Start Date
Queensland students return to school for Term 4 on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. This marks the beginning of the final term of the school year, leading up to the summer holidays and Christmas break.
Term 4 is typically a busy period for students, with end-of-year assessments, graduations, and school celebrations. The spring holiday break provides an important opportunity for students to recharge before this demanding final term.
Parents should note that Monday, October 5 is a public holiday (Labour Day), giving families one extra day of relaxation before the school routine resumes. This is particularly helpful for families who have been traveling, allowing an extra day to return home and prepare for the new term.
Top Activities Brisbane
Brisbane comes alive during the spring school holidays, offering countless activities for families with children of all ages. Here are the top picks for 2026:
South Bank Parklands
South Bank remains Brisbane’s premier family destination. The man-made Streets Beach is perfect for swimming and sandcastle building, while the adjacent playgrounds cater to different age groups. The Wheel of Brisbane offers spectacular city views, and the nearby Queensland Museum provides free educational entertainment.
Queensland Museum and Sciencentre
Located at South Bank, the Queensland Museum offers free general admission with fascinating exhibits on Queensland’s natural and cultural heritage. The SparkLab Sciencentre (paid entry) features hands-on science exhibits that will keep curious minds engaged for hours.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Just 12km from the CBD, Lone Pine is the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary. Kids can cuddle koalas, hand-feed kangaroos, and learn about Australian wildlife. Spring is an ideal time to visit as the weather is perfect for walking through the outdoor exhibits.
Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha
These stunning gardens offer free entry and feature the Tropical Dome, Japanese Garden, and Bonsai House. The Hide ‘n’ Seek Trail is specifically designed for children, making it both educational and fun. Spring brings beautiful wildflower displays and blooming gardens.
CityCat River Adventure
Take a CityCat ferry ride along the Brisbane River for a unique perspective of the city. Kids love traveling by boat, and you can hop on and off at various points including South Bank, New Farm Park, and the CBD. It’s an affordable adventure with regular services throughout the day.
Roma Street Parkland
Known as “the world’s largest subtropical garden in a city centre,” Roma Street Parkland features the popular Children’s Garden with water play areas, climbing structures, and discovery trails. The parkland also hosts the Spectacle Garden with its stunning spring floral displays.
Victoria Park Golf Complex
This family-friendly venue offers mini-golf, driving ranges, and a fantastic playground. The Bistro provides great food options, and the open spaces are perfect for running around and burning off energy.
Gold Coast School Holiday Ideas
The Gold Coast is synonymous with family fun, and the spring school holidays are the perfect time to experience everything this coastal playground has to offer.
Theme Parks
The Gold Coast’s famous theme parks are must-visit destinations:
– Dreamworld: Australia’s biggest theme park with rides for all ages, Tiger Island, and Dreamworld Corroboree showcasing Indigenous culture
– Movie World: Experience Hollywood on the Gold Coast with thrilling rides and character meet-and-greets
– Sea World: Marine life shows, aquariums, and family-friendly rides
– Wet’n’Wild: Perfect for spring weather, with heated pools and slides for all thrill levels
– Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Native Australian animals, the Extinction Trail, and the TreeTop Challenge
Beaches
The Gold Coast boasts 57 kilometers of pristine coastline. Popular family beaches include:
– Burleigh Heads: Protected swimming areas and excellent facilities
– Currumbin Beach: Calmer waters perfect for younger children
– Main Beach: Close to Surfers Paradise with lifeguard patrols
– Coolangatta: Less crowded with great surf breaks for older kids
Spring water temperatures are refreshing but comfortable, typically around 21-22°C, making beach days enjoyable without the summer crowds.
Springbrook National Park
Just a short drive from the coast, Springbrook offers stunning natural attractions:
– Natural Bridge: A beautiful rock arch with a waterfall, best visited at night to see glow worms
– Purling Brook Falls Circuit: A 4km return walk suitable for families with older children
– Best of All Lookout: Spectacular views across to Mount Warning and the Tweed Valley
Hinterland Adventures
The Gold Coast Hinterland provides a cooler alternative to the beach:
– Tamborine Mountain: Visit the Glow Worm Caves, Rainforest Skywalk, and Gallery Walk
– O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat: TreeTop Walk and feeding wild parrots
– Cedar Creek Falls: Beautiful swimming holes and waterfalls
Broadwater Parklands
Located at Southport, this award-winning parkland features the Rockpools water playground, a jumping pillow, and extensive picnic areas. It’s free and provides hours of entertainment for children of all ages.
Sunshine Coast Activities
The Sunshine Coast offers a more relaxed alternative to the Gold Coast while still providing plenty of family-friendly activities during the spring school holidays.
Australia Zoo
Made famous by Steve Irwin, Australia Zoo is a full-day adventure featuring:
– The famous Crocoseum shows
– Tiger Temple and Africa exhibits
– Kangaroo feeding and koala cuddles
– Bindi’s Island with lemurs and tortoises
– The Wildlife Hospital viewing area
Spring is an excellent time to visit as the weather is comfortable for walking the expansive grounds.
SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast
Located in Mooloolaba, this aquarium features:
– The 80-meter Ocean Tunnel with sharks and rays
– Seal Island with daily presentations
– Touch pools for hands-on learning
– The new Jellyfish Kingdom exhibit
Beaches
The Sunshine Coast beaches are renowned for their natural beauty:
– Noosa Main Beach: One of Australia’s few north-facing beaches, perfect for swimming
– Mooloolaba Beach: Protected waters and excellent facilities
– Kings Beach: Features a free water fountain playground
– Alexandra Headland: Great for surfing and bodyboarding
Big Pineapple and Wildlife HQ
The iconic Big Pineapple has been transformed into an exciting destination:
– Wildlife HQ with native and exotic animals
– TreeTop Challenge high ropes course
– The Big Pineapple train rides
– Local food and produce markets
Noosa National Park
This coastal gem offers:
– The Coastal Track with stunning ocean views
– Fairy Pools for safe rock pool swimming
– Dolphin and whale spotting opportunities (spring is whale migration season)
– Multiple entry points with different difficulty levels
Ginger Factory and Rainforest Train
Located at Yandina, this unique attraction offers:
– The Ginger Train ride through tropical gardens
– The Ginger Story museum
– Live bee shows and honey tasting
– Beautiful gardens and playgrounds
– Boat rides on the lake
Maleny and Montville
These charming hinterland towns provide:
– Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World
– Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve with rainforest walks
– Art galleries and boutique shopping
– Stunning views of the Glass House Mountains
Free and Cheap Activities
Keeping the kids entertained during school holidays doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are the best free and low-cost activities across Queensland:
Brisbane Free Activities
– City Botanic Gardens: Free entry, beautiful walks, and the Bamboo Grove
– New Farm Park: Huge playground, rose gardens, and riverside walks
– Mount Coot-tha Lookout: Free entry with stunning city views
– Brisbane Square Library: Regular free children’s activities and workshops
– Museum of Brisbane: Free entry with interactive exhibits about the city’s history
– Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park: Great for picnics, rock climbing, and watching the city lights
Libraries and Community Centers
Queensland libraries offer extensive school holiday programs:
– Storytime sessions for younger children
– STEAM workshops and coding clubs
– Arts and crafts activities
– Movie screenings
– All programs are typically free but may require booking
Parks and Playgrounds
Queensland has incredible public playgrounds:
– Frew Park, Milton: Aviation-themed with flying fox and climbing structures
– Darlington Parklands, Yarrabilba: Massive regional playground with water play
– Robelle Domain, Springfield: Multiple play areas, water park, and lagoon
– Hercules Road Park, Hamilton: Pirate ship playground and riverside location
Nature Walks and Bushwalking
– Daisy Hill Conservation Park: Free koala viewing and bushwalking trails
– Boondall Wetlands: Boardwalks and bird watching
– Tamborine National Park: Multiple free walking tracks and waterfalls
– Mount Ngungun: A manageable climb in the Glass House Mountains with rewarding views
Markets and Community Events
– Eumundi Markets (Sunshine Coast): Free entry, live music, and vibrant atmosphere
– South Bank Markets: Weekend markets with family-friendly entertainment
– Carrara Markets (Gold Coast): Largest permanent markets in Queensland
– Jan Powers Farmers Markets: Various locations, great for fresh food and atmosphere
Beach Days
All Queensland beaches are free public spaces. Pack a picnic, bring the beach toys, and enjoy a full day of free entertainment. Don’t forget to swim between the flags!
Geocaching
Download the free Geocaching app and turn your local area into a treasure hunt. There are thousands of caches hidden throughout Queensland, providing free adventure wherever you go.
Outdoor and Nature Activities
Spring in Queensland is the perfect time to get outdoors and connect with nature. The weather is ideal for active adventures and wildlife encounters.
Whale Watching
September and October are prime months for whale watching along the Queensland coast. Humpback whales migrate north to the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef, passing close to shore.
Best whale watching locations:
– Point Cartwright, Mooloolaba: Land-based viewing platform
– North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island: Excellent vantage points
– Byron Bay (just across the border): Australia’s most easterly point
– Gold Coast: Multiple whale watching cruise operators
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Calm spring conditions are perfect for water sports:
– Brisbane River: Guided kayak tours past the city skyline
– Noosa Everglades: One of only two everglades systems in the world
– Tallebudgera Creek: Calm waters ideal for beginners
– Pumicestone Passage: Paddle between Bribie Island and the mainland
Cycling
Queensland has excellent family cycling paths:
– Brisbane River Loop: 35km circuit, suitable for older children
– Gold Coast Oceanway: 36km coastal pathway from the Spit to Point Danger
– Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway: Connecting multiple beaches
– Rail Trails: Converted railway lines in the hinterland with gentle gradients
Camping
Spring is ideal camping weather before the summer heat arrives:
– North Stradbroke Island: Beach camping and wildlife
– Moreton Island: Sandboarding, snorkeling, and wild dolphin feeding
– Bribie Island: Accessible 4WD beach driving and camping
– National Parks: Book early for popular spots like Noosa and Lamington
Fishing
Spring brings excellent fishing opportunities:
– Land-based fishing: Plenty of jetties and rock walls suitable for kids
– Estuary fishing: Calm waters perfect for introducing children to fishing
– Beach fishing: Whiting and dart are common catches from the surf
Remember to check size and bag limits, and ensure children are supervised around water.
Wildlife Spotting
Spring is an active time for wildlife:
– Koalas: Look up in eucalyptus trees, especially around dawn and dusk
– Kangaroos and wallabies: Common in suburban areas near bushland
– Birds: Spring is nesting season – perfect for birdwatching
– Marine life: Turtles, dolphins, and dugongs are regularly spotted
National Parks
Queensland’s national parks offer incredible natural experiences:
– Lamington National Park: Ancient rainforests and waterfalls
– D’Aguilar National Park: Close to Brisbane with diverse landscapes
– Great Sandy National Park: Fraser Island and Cooloola sections
– Conondale National Park: Wilderness camping and challenging walks
Indoor Activities (Rainy Day Options)
Even in sunny Queensland, spring can bring occasional rain. Here are the best indoor activities for those wet weather days:
Museums and Galleries
– Queensland Museum: Free general admission with rotating exhibitions
– Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA): The Children’s Art Centre offers free hands-on activities
– Queensland Art Gallery: Family-friendly programs during school holidays
– Sciencentre: Interactive science exhibits that engage all ages
Indoor Play Centers
Perfect for burning energy when outdoor play isn’t possible:
– Flip Out trampoline parks: Multiple locations across Queensland
– Inflatable World: Giant jumping castles and obstacle courses
– Timezone/Laserzone: Arcade games and laser tag
– Clip ‘n Climb: Indoor rock climbing with auto-belay systems
Cinemas
Spring school holidays typically feature new family-friendly releases:
– Event Cinemas: Cinebuzz membership offers discounts
– Reading Cinemas: Often has school holiday specials
– Independent cinemas: The Elizabeth Picture Theatre and New Farm Cinemas offer unique experiences
Shopping Center Activities
Major centers provide indoor entertainment:
– Indoor playgrounds: Most large shopping centers have free play areas
– Timezone and similar arcades: Located in major centers
– Mini golf: Indoor courses at various locations
– Art and craft workshops: Often run by shopping centers during holidays
Libraries
Queensland’s libraries are more than just books:
– Maker spaces: 3D printing, robotics, and coding workshops
– Recording studios: Some libraries offer free access to creative facilities
– Gaming zones: Console gaming and Minecraft sessions
– Movie screenings: Free family movie sessions
Cooking and Baking
Rainy days are perfect for kitchen activities:
– Baking sessions: Cookies, cupcakes, and simple recipes
– Cooking classes: Many venues offer school holiday cooking programs
– Decorating: Pre-made items that kids can decorate themselves
Home Activities
Sometimes staying home is the best option:
– Board games and puzzles: Dust off the classics
– Movie marathons: Theme days with favorite film series
– Arts and crafts: Stock up on supplies before the holidays
– Indoor camping: Set up a tent in the living room
– Science experiments: Simple kitchen science projects
Educational Activities
School holidays don’t have to mean a break from learning. These activities combine fun with educational value:
STEM Activities
– The Cube at QUT: One of the world’s largest digital interactive learning spaces, free entry
– SparkLab Sciencentre: Hands-on science exhibits at South Bank
– Brisbane Planetarium: Shows about space and astronomy
– Coding workshops: Many libraries and tech centers offer holiday coding camps
Cultural Experiences
– Queensland Performing Arts Centre: School holiday shows and workshops
– Aboriginal cultural experiences: Learn about Indigenous history and culture
– Historical sites: Commissariat Store, Old Government House, and Newstead House
– Cultural centers: Various venues offer traditional craft and music workshops
Nature Education
– Environmental centers: Multiple locations offer guided nature walks and workshops
– Wildlife hospitals: Behind-the-scenes tours at Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital
– Marine education centers: Learn about ocean conservation
– Botanic gardens workshops: School holiday programs focused on plants and nature
Creative Arts
– Art galleries: Holiday workshops at QAGOMA and regional galleries
– Drama workshops: Many theaters offer school holiday programs
– Music workshops: Learn instruments or join a holiday band
– Dance classes: Intensive programs for all skill levels
Language and Culture
– Language camps: Immersion programs for learning new languages
– Cultural festivals: Spring often features multicultural events
– Cooking classes: Learn about different cuisines and cultures through food
Career Exploration
For older children, holidays can be a time to explore interests:
– Work experience: Arrange short placements in areas of interest
– University open days: Many institutions hold holiday information sessions
– Skill workshops: Photography, filmmaking, writing, and more
Holiday Programs and Camps
Structured programs can provide engaging care while parents work, or simply give children new experiences:
Vacation Care (OSHC)
Most schools offer vacation care programs with:
– Incursions and excursions
– Sports and active play
– Arts and crafts
– Cooking activities
– Flexible booking options
Sports Camps
Queensland’s sporting culture extends to holiday programs:
– Cricket camps: Queensland Cricket runs holiday programs
– Swimming intensives: Perfect for skill development
– Multi-sport camps: Variety of activities in one program
– Specialized sports: Tennis, gymnastics, soccer, and more
Creative Camps
– Art camps: Multi-day programs developing artistic skills
– Drama camps: Culminating in performances
– Music camps: Band and orchestra intensives
– Dance camps: Various styles and skill levels
Adventure Camps
– Outdoor education centers: Challenge courses and team building
– Surf camps: Learn to surf on the Gold or Sunshine Coast
– Horse riding camps: Rural experiences near Brisbane
– Sailing camps: Learn water skills at sailing clubs
STEM Camps
– Robotics camps: Build and program robots
– Coding bootcamps: Intensive programming courses
– Science camps: Experiments and discovery
– Minecraft camps: Educational gaming experiences
Overnight Camps
For a more independent experience:
– YMCA camps: Multiple locations across Queensland
– Scout and Guide camps: Available for members
– School-based camps: Many schools offer holiday camps
– Specialty camps: Horse riding, surfing, or adventure-focused
When choosing a camp, consider:
– Age appropriateness
– Staff qualifications and ratios
– Safety protocols
– Cancellation policies
– Inclusions (meals, equipment)
Day Trips from Brisbane
Brisbane’s location makes it perfect for exploring Southeast Queensland on day trips:
North (Sunshine Coast Direction)
Australia Zoo (1 hour)
A full-day experience at Steve Irwin’s legacy. Arrive early to catch the main croc show at 12pm.
Noosa (1.5 hours)
Combine the national park walk with Hastings Street shopping and beach time. The Coastal Track to Hell’s Gates offers spectacular views.
Glass House Mountains (1 hour)
Multiple peaks to choose from, with Mount Ngungun being the most family-friendly. Combine with a visit to the township for lunch.
Maleny and Montville (1.5 hours)
Charming hinterland towns with stunning views, art galleries, and the Maleny Botanic Gardens.
South (Gold Coast Direction)
Gold Coast Theme Parks (1 hour)
Choose one park for a full day, or combine nearby parks. Movie World and Wet’n’Wild are adjacent.
Springbrook National Park (1.5 hours)
Visit Natural Bridge in the morning, then Purling Brook Falls. Pack a picnic as dining options are limited.
Tamborine Mountain (1 hour)
Gallery Walk for shopping, Rainforest Skywalk, and Curtis Falls walk. Multiple wineries offer lunch with views.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (1 hour)
Closer than Australia Zoo with excellent native wildlife experiences and the TreeTop Challenge for older kids.
West (Toowoomba Direction)
Toowoomba (1.5 hours)
The Garden City offers beautiful parks, the Cobb+Co Museum, and in spring, the famous Carnival of Flowers (if dates align).
Cunningham’s Gap (1.5 hours)
The main range offers beautiful rainforest walks and is the gateway to the Darling Downs.
Islands
North Stradbroke Island (requires early start)
Ferry from Cleveland. Visit Point Lookout for whale watching, gorge walks, and beautiful beaches. A full day is needed.
Moreton Island (full day trip)
Micat ferry from Brisbane. Sandboarding, snorkeling at Tangalooma Wrecks, and wild dolphin feeding (if staying for evening).
Tips for Day Trips
– Leave early to maximize your day
– Pack snacks and water
– Check traffic conditions and ferry schedules
– Have a backup plan for weather
– Book ahead for popular attractions
– Consider accommodation for longer distances
FAQ Section
When do the Queensland Spring school holidays start in 2026?
The Queensland Spring school holidays for 2026 begin on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
When do the Queensland Spring school holidays end in 2026?
The holidays conclude on Monday, October 5, 2026, which coincides with the Labour Day public holiday.
When does Term 4 start in Queensland for 2026?
Term 4 begins on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.
How long are the Queensland Spring school holidays in 2026?
The spring break is 17 days long, including weekends and the Labour Day public holiday.
Is Labour Day a public holiday during the school holidays?
Yes, Labour Day falls on Monday, October 5, 2026, which is the last day of the school holidays. This gives families an extra long weekend.
What is the weather like in Queensland during the spring school holidays?
Spring in Queensland features beautiful weather with average temperatures between 15°C and 26°C in Brisbane. It’s warm but not yet the intense heat of summer, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Are the Gold Coast theme parks busy during spring school holidays?
Yes, spring school holidays are a popular time for theme parks. We recommend booking tickets online in advance and arriving early to beat the crowds. Weekdays are typically less busy than weekends.
Related Resources
For more information about school holidays and public holidays across Australia, check out these resources:
– Australian Public Holidays – Your comprehensive guide to public holidays across all Australian states and territories
– QLD Public Holidays 2027 – Plan ahead with Queensland’s public holiday dates for 2027
– School Holidays QLD – Dedicated resource for Queensland school holiday dates and activities
– Queensland Department of Education – Official term dates and school calendar information
– Tourism and Events Queensland – Official tourism information for planning your holiday activities
Last updated: August 2026
Planning your school holiday activities in advance ensures you get the most out of this beautiful spring break. Whether you’re exploring Brisbane’s attractions, heading to the beaches of the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, or venturing into the hinterland, Queensland offers endless possibilities for family fun during the September-October school holidays.
