For a long weekend with kids, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove gets the balance just right: a resort that feels grown-up and elegant, with a lagoon pool, wild kangaroos and a Club lounge that solved dinner for us every night.
First Impressions
The resort is set in lush gardens with a calm, village feel, and the Great House, the grand main building, sets an elegant tone without ever feeling stuffy. The kids were instantly taken with the tropical gardens, and I loved the open, airy spaces.
The Room
Our room was spacious, with a view over the marina, comfortable beds and a fresh coastal design. The bathroom had a bathtub, which was perfect after a long day by the pool.
Dining
Breakfast at the Cove Café was a hit with the kids, with pancakes, pastries and fresh fruit, and the quality was excellent. For something more refined, The Fireplace serves wood-fired dishes that are a step up from typical hotel food.
The Club Lounge
We had a Club room, which comes with access to the lounge for afternoon tea and evening drinks and nibbles. The nibbles were substantial, with a cheese platter, charcuterie, canapés and hot chips for the kids, and we were too full for dinner every night.
A relaxed drinks-and-nibbles dinner is so much easier with kids in tow. Ours made friends with the other children, and there were games like Jenga and chess, so afternoon tea turned into a family games session.
Pools and Activities
The lagoon pool, with its sandy beach-style entry, was the kids’ favourite spot. There’s also a separate pool on the terrace and a hot tub, plus tennis and bike hire. The highlight for the kids was the wild kangaroos that wander around the grounds.
Location
It feels secluded, but you’re close enough to explore the Gold Coast. Fly into Gold Coast or Brisbane airport; the resort is about an hour’s drive from both.
Lena’s Tips
- Book a Club room. The lounge covers afternoon tea and an easy early dinner.
- Ask for a marina view. It’s a lovely outlook from the room.
- Look out for kangaroos. Early morning and evening are best.
- Don’t over-plan. The lagoon pool will happily fill a whole day.
The Verdict
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove is the perfect weekend mix of family fun and proper downtime. It’s full of thoughtful touches for kids, but it never feels overrun by them. Would I go back? Absolutely.
More from Queensland: read my Noosa guide and Hamilton Island guide.
“Book the Club room. Nibbles, a games table and kangaroos on the lawn is my idea of a family weekend.” – Lena
