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The Gold Coast has set the tone for hit films and world-class surfing activities, so it’s no wonder that the most charismatic city in Queensland wants a detailed guide to explore its best properties. The star draw of the Gold Coast is its beaches, including Surfers Paradise’s world-renowned strip of sand. There’s more to this multifaceted area, however than at first sight.
This Gold Coast guide will take you from the beach to the bush!
Why the Gold Coast?
With over 70 kilometers of glistening beaches, Gold Coast houses the highest concentration of amusement parks in the southern hemisphere and a vibrant arts and entertainment community. A nature lover or an adrenaline junkie? The Gold Coast vibe fits all sorts of tourists.
Things to do
Visit the famous beaches of the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is famed for its beaches of white sand that reach over 57 kilometers of coastline. Pick from the sheltered waters or the famous surfing breaks at Main Beach or Burleigh Heads. With getting Wet Surf School at The Spit, Surfers Paradise. Located just off Main Shore, Wave Break Island offers excellent snorkeling and diving, with over 50 fish species.
Fun at Theme Parks
The Gold Coast is equally renowned for its world-class theme parks. With its intense waterslides, such as Kamikaze and the Hurricane, Wet’n ‘Wild is a paradise for water lovers, lots of kid-friendly attractions and the opportunity to encounter lovely animated characters, Movie World is perfect for families. With big rides, like The Giant Plunge, Tower of Terror, and Buzz Saw, Dreamworld caters to thrill-seekers.
Or rise above it all
Marvel at the sights of the Gold Coast with the Gold Coast Skydive when free falling from 12,000 ft. The ride’s height helps you take in the spectacular views of the white sandy beaches and the enchanting hinterland. The parachute trip would leave you lost for words after the extreme freefall with the seafloor immediately below you as you float onto the fluffy white sand of beautiful Kirra Beach.
Explore the green hinterland of the Gold Coast
Switch away from the beach and discover the enchanting hinterland of the Gold Coast. In this three-day Gold Coast Hinterland Great Trek, which passes through an ancient volcano and Gondwana Rainforest, adventure seekers may try their legs. Stroll through the rainforest canopy 15 meters above ground at O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk in Lamington National Park or book a 4WD Rainforest Eco Safari to see Springbrook’s stunning waterfalls, including the Natural Bridge.
Hire a bicycle to visit coastal communities
At Surfers Paradise, rent a cycle and pedal to the luxurious Broadbeach for 20 minutes. There are plenty of restaurants and stores here, including the Cardamom Pod vegetarian eatery and the Pacific Fair’s main shopping center. The famous Burleigh Heads surfing spot is another 30-minute ride south. Or proceed down the path to the Wildlife Sanctuary of Currumbin, where you can feed a kangaroo, get next to a crocodile or cuddle a koala.
Restaurant Hopping
The Gold Coast boasts a vibrant culinary scene that rivals Sydney and Melbourne. Head to Hit Elk Espresso or No Name Lane at Broadbeach for your morning caffeine, or sit down at Barefood Barista in Palm Beach for a classic Australian snack. Travel to Gemellini at Nobby’s Beach for refined Italian cuisine and order various antipasti or oven-roasted scallops.
Stay in style
Treat yourself to fabulous five-star hotels such as the Main Beach Palazzo Versace, the high-rise Hilton or sophisticated QT, all in the heart of Surfers Paradise, or Broadbeach’s Sofitel. Besides a lagoon-style bathing pool, opulent suites, and various restaurants and bars, The Sheraton Mirage provides absolute beachfront accommodation.
Playing a golf round at the best courses.
Choose a resort course, such as the Palmer Gold Coast, the RACV Royal Pines Resort, or the Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove, which allows you access to the courses of The Palms and The Pines. Alternatively, consider Parkwood International’s public methods or Ties Hope Island, only a 20-minute drive from the Gold Coast. Try a game of Topgolf, near most of the big theme parks, for a little family fun.
Some beer at a local brewery
Drop by Burleigh Brewing Company-founders of the Gold Coast’s craft beer revolution, get a taste of the area. The best hinterland place to quench your thirst is Fortitude Brewing Co., on Mt Tamborine. You’ll find Balter in Currumbin, a venture made up of four Australian pro surfers. Finally, don’t skip the new kid on the block Miami’s Lost Palms Brewing Company, where you can indulge classics in colorful surroundings alongside Kombucha infusions.
Relish the Aboriginal past at The Red Sand Spirits
Jarrah’s story shows the experience of his family with colonial settlers and relates the tales of love, modesty, and victory that grew along the way. Beenleigh’s “set” is part of a true town of the 19th century, complete with a church, bar, and Aboriginal village. The suspense and excitement are amplified by the show’s talented actors, their characters influenced by actual people and based on real incidents.
Best time to visit Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is bestowed with 300 days of sunshine and can be visited throughout the year.
