Craving surf beaches, theme parks, and sun-soaked fun? Head to Australia’s Gold Coast! Located in Queensland, the Gold Coast is a top destination for families, thrill-seekers, and beach lovers alike. With skyscrapers lining sandy shores, lush hinterlands just inland, and endless attractions, it’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Gold Coast, Australia Highlights:

  • For Beach Lovers: Soak up the sun at Surfers Paradise – Iconic beach with golden sand, great surf, and a lively esplanade.
  • For Families: Spend the day at Dreamworld or Warner Bros. Movie World – Thrilling rides, character encounters, and live shows for all ages.
  • For Nature Enthusiasts: Explore Springbrook National Park – Rainforests, waterfalls, glowworm caves, and scenic lookouts await.
  • For Shoppers: Browse Pacific Fair Shopping Centre – One of Australia’s largest malls, offering luxury brands and casual fashion.
  • For Adventure Seekers: Try jet boating or parasailing at Broadwater – Get your adrenaline fix on the water with guided tours and rentals.

Best Time to Visit the Gold Coast

The best time to visit the Gold Coast is from May to October for pleasant weather, sunny skies, and low humidity. Summer (December to February) is warmer and great for the beach but also busier with holiday crowds. Whale-watching season runs from June to November.

How to Get to the Gold Coast

  • By Air: Fly into Gold Coast Airport (OOL) at Coolangatta, with domestic and international flights. Brisbane Airport (BNE) is another option about 1.5 hours north.
  • By Train: The Airtrain connects Brisbane to the Gold Coast, with stations from Helensvale to Varsity Lakes.
  • By Car: The Pacific Motorway (M1) links the Gold Coast to Brisbane and beyond.

Where to Stay in the Gold Coast

  • Recommended for Families: Sea World Resort – Beachside hotel with direct park access, pools, and kid-friendly dining.
  • For Couples: Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise – Luxury high-rise with oceanfront suites and a romantic setting in the heart of the city.
  • For Budget Travelers: Island Gold Coast – Chic, affordable boutique hotel near shops, dining, and the beach.

Best Things to Do in the Gold Coast

Live the Thrill at Dreamworld


Ride coasters, meet tigers, and dive into Australia’s biggest theme park adventure

Live the Thrill at Dreamworld

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  • What is Dreamworld?
    • Say hello to Australia’s largest theme park, Dreamworld. An epic destination for kids and kids at heart, Dreamworld gives you access to Australia’s best rides, animal experiences, water slides, simulators, and more all in one place.
  • What attractions are available for young children at Dreamworld?
    • The youngest visitors to the park will love themed experiences in the ABC Kids World, Dreamworld Corroboree, Dreamworks Experience, and Troll Village.
  • What wildlife encounters can visitors experience at Dreamworld?
    • Older children are bound to enjoy up-close and personal encounters with all kinds of exotic animals, including rare wildlife such as tigers, wombats, koalas, and kangaroos.
  • Does Dreamworld have a water park?
    • Are water parks more your thing? Dreamworld’s got you covered with its Whitewater World and Flowrider.
  • What other attractions can visitors explore at Dreamworld?
    • Don’t forget to drop by equally popular destinations like the Lego Store and the Redline Simulators.
  • Where is Dreamworld located?
    • Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera, Queensland 4209, Australia, Phone: 617-55-88-11-11

Catch World-Class Waves at Snapper Rocks


Famed breaks, sun-drenched sand, and a surfer’s paradise right on the point

Catch World-Class Waves at Snapper Rocks

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  • What is Snapper Rocks?
    • Get your wet suits on and your boards waxed, mates, because you’re in for an epic surf break at Snapper Rocks. Located towards the north end of Point Danger at the Gold Coast’s Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks is a small rocky outcrop that offers some of the most consistent breaks in Queensland.
  • What makes Snapper Rocks famous?
    • Not only does this iconic point break spot play host to world-class surfing competitions like the World Surf League’s Quicksilver and Roxy Pros, but it’s also a great place to learn from the best of the best.
  • What can surfers expect at Snapper Rocks?
    • Surfers hitting up Snapper Rocks can look forward to legendary quality waves, multiple barrel sections, and some of the longest and hollowest waves in the world.
  • Where is Snapper Rocks located?
    • Coolangatta, Gold Coast Area, Queensland, Australia, Phone: 617-55-82-82-11

Step Into Rainforest Magic at Springbrook National Park


Waterfalls, glow worm caves, and ancient beauty await in this lush hinterland escape

Step Into Rainforest Magic at Springbrook National Park

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  • What is Springbrook National Park?
    • If you’ve come to the Gold Coast eager to experience the best of its lush forests, then the Springbrook National Park ought to have a spot on your itinerary. Situated in the hinterlands, just a 45-minute drive from the beaches, Springbrook was formed roughly 23 million years ago after the eruption of an ancient volcano.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Springbrook National Park?
    • Today, explorers can hike up the ancient volcano, trek past glorious waterfalls, and peer into the depths of colorful canyons.
  • What kind of wildlife and plant life can be found at Springbrook?
    • Beneath Springbrook’s canopy, an exotic and unexpected world awaits to be discovered. Rare birds are waiting to be spotted, while even rarer plants lie all around.
  • What unique natural features does Springbrook have?
    • Keep your eyes peeled for glow-in-the-dark mushrooms, strangler figs, and epiphytes, or stand in awe as massive vines tangle themselves around ancient trees and boulders as large as homes.
  • Where is Springbrook National Park located?
    • Old School Road, Springbrook, Queensland 4213, Australia

See the Gold Coast from the SkyPoint Observation Deck


Soar 77 floors above the sea for panoramic views and sunset sips

See the Gold Coast from the SkyPoint Observation Deck

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  • What is the SkyPoint Observation Deck?
    • Swing by the only beach-side observation deck in Australia at SkyPoint Observation Deck. Located on the 77th level of the world’s tallest residential structure, the Q1 Building, SkyPoint is perfect for daredevils who aren’t afraid of heights.
  • What is the SkyPoint Climb?
    • The SkyPoint Climb is, without a doubt, the most epic activity at this location, as it allows guests to climb atop the building for a 90-minute open-air adventure. Fearless climbers will rise 270 meters into the air through this external building climb, which also happens to be the highest one of its kind in the country.
  • What if I am afraid of heights?
    • If the thought of being that high in the open air makes you a bit queasy, opt to settle in at the bistro and bar for a great meal while you enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Gold Coast.
  • Where is SkyPoint Observation Deck located?
    • 3003 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise, Queensland 4217, Australia, Phone: 617-55-82-27-00

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

Splash into Nonstop Fun at Wet’n’Wild


From thrill slides to lazy rivers, this waterpark keeps the whole family cool

Splash into Nonstop Fun at Wet’n’Wild

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  • What is Wet’n’Wild?
    • Slide into a world of fun at Wet’n’Wild, Australia’s largest and most popular water park. Guests at this beloved water park can splash, swim, and slide their way into an epic day with exclusive experiences and unbeatable attractions.
  • What are the main attractions at Wet’n’Wild?
    • It’s a no-brainer that the most popular attractions at Wet’n’Wild are their slides and thrill rides, of which there are six. For maximum thrill level, head to the Tornado Water Slide, the Surfrider, or the Constrictor Raft Ride.
  • What are the most thrilling rides?
    • Brave souls can also try the AquaLoop body water slide, the Black Hole, which is a tube water slide, and the Kamikaze, a tube water slide that will have you screaming till you get to the bottom.
  • Where is Wet’n’Wild located?
    • Pacific Motorway, Oxenford, Gold Coast, Queensland 4210, Australia, Phone: 13-33-86

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Breathe in the Charm of Tamborine Mountain


Vineyards, walking trails, and artisan shops make this a perfect hilltop day trip

Breathe in the Charm of Tamborine Mountain

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  • What is Tamborine Mountain?
    • An easy 30-kilometer drive from the Gold Coast is Tamborine Mountain, a popular destination for nature enthusiasts from all over Australia and the globe. Known for its unique beauty, the mountain features breathtaking vistas, crisp and clean mountain air, and an unbelievably abundant wildlife.
  • What can visitors do at Tamborine Mountain?
    • There’s more to discover than just nature, however, as Tamborine Mountain is also home to award-winning wineries, local arts and crafts, and a booming cottage industry.
  • What are the accommodation options?
    • Stay at a romantic couple’s cottage to celebrate special occasions or take a trip on the wild side with your family and friends. Whatever your cup of tea is, Tamborine Mountain is bound to have you covered.
  • Where is Tamborine Mountain located?
    • Great Dividing Range, Queensland, Australia, Phone: 04-88-82-62-67

Cheer Like a Local at Metricon Stadium


Catch an AFL match or live event in this pulse-pounding home of the Suns

Cheer Like a Local at Metricon Stadium

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  • What is Metricon Stadium?
    • Metricon Stadium, also known as the Carrara Stadium, is a sports landmark and attraction on Queensland’s gorgeous Gold Coast. It is the eighth-largest Australian Football League ground in the country, with a capacity of 25,000 people, and is frequented by footy fans regularly.
  • What events are held at Metricon Stadium?
    • Beyond sporting events, the Metricon Stadium is also host to world-class performances and musical concerts, so visitors can be sure that there’s always something fun on the way to the stadium’s gates.
  • Which team calls Metricon Stadium home?
    • As the home ground of the Gold Coast Suns, sports enthusiasts are more than welcome to drop by for a stadium tour and get an inside look at what goes on behind the scenes of every game.
  • Where is Metricon Stadium located?
    • Gate 6, Nerang-Broadbeach Road, Carrara, Queensland 4211, Australia, Phone: 617-56-44-62-00

Cuddle Koalas at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary


Up-close encounters and conservation come together in this hands-on animal haven

Cuddle Koalas at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

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  • What is the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
    • Ready for a close encounter with the wild kind? Jump right into incredible animal experiences or hunt the mysterious Gruffalo at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Get up close and personal with an incredible variety of animal residents, including lorikeets, koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, crocodiles, dingoes, Tassie devils, and more.
  • What animal experiences are available?
    • Guests can meet and interact with a wide range of wildlife in their natural habitats. From feeding lorikeets to observing crocodile behaviors, there’s no shortage of exciting animal experiences.
  • What shows can visitors watch?
    • There’s a ton of action to catch at one of the sanctuary’s awesome shows. Meet incredible birds native to Australia at the Wild Skies Free Flight Bird Show, or experience the Australian outback at the Australiana show. Guests are also welcome to meet Currumbin Wildlife’s snappiest residents at the Crocodile Behaviors Show or celebrate Australia’s rich local heritage at the Aboriginal Dance Show.
  • Where is the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary located?
    • 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin, Queensland 4223, Australia, Phone: 617-55-34-12-66

Unwind with Style at Burleigh Heads


Swim, surf, stroll—and watch the sun set behind surfers from your picnic blanket

Unwind with Style at Burleigh Heads

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  • What is Burleigh Heads?
    • Smack dab between the north’s Surfers Paradise and the south’s Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads is a distinctly Gold Coast destination and is the ideal place to head to if you’re looking for a way to simply pause and enjoy the now.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Burleigh Heads?
    • Landlubbers and beach bums alike will have something to enjoy at Burleigh Heads. The beach is popular with both surfers and swimmers, while the Burleigh Heads National Park is a treat for avid hikers thanks to a number of unique walking trails within the park.
  • Where can visitors eat and drink in Burleigh Heads?
    • Looking for something great to eat or drink? Drop by the Burleigh Brewing Company, Grandad Jack’s Craft Distillery, The Fish House, or Paddock Bakery, to name a few.

Where to Eat in the Gold Coast

  • Recommended for Families: Pancakes in Paradise – Casual all-day breakfast and dessert heaven for kids and adults alike.
  • For Fine Dining: Rick Shores (Burleigh Heads) – Pan-Asian cuisine with beachfront tables and stunning views.
  • For Local Flavor: Miami Marketta – Vibrant night market with global street food, live music, and local crafts.

If you are interested in local events:

  • For Motorsports Fans: Gold Coast 500 (October) – Supercars race through the streets of Surfers Paradise.
  • For Music Lovers: Blues on Broadbeach (May) – Free live performances across Broadbeach’s beachside precinct.
  • For Foodies: Taste Gold Coast Festival (dates vary) – Celebrate regional produce and top chefs with tastings and demos.

Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of the Gold Coast:

  • For Wine Lovers: Mount Tamborine (45 min) – Sample local wines, walk rainforest trails, and visit the famous Skywalk.
  • For Nature Lovers: Lamington National Park (1.5 hrs) – UNESCO-listed park with hiking, birdwatching, and canopy walks.
  • For City Explorers: Brisbane (1–1.5 hrs) – Explore art galleries, South Bank Parklands, and the Queensland Museum.
  • For Beach Escapes: Kingscliff and Cabarita Beach (30–45 min) – Quieter coastal towns with laid-back charm just over the NSW border.
  • For Families: Australian Outback Spectacular (30 min) – Dinner and live show featuring Aussie horses, stunts, and storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where can you find sun, surf, and sand in Australia?
    • If you’re looking for sun, surf, and sand in Australia, there’s no shortage of it!
  • Which parts of Australia have great beaches?
    • Practically every coast in the country has amazing beaches and attractions to see.
  • What is the most iconic beach destination in Australia?
    • There’s no denying, however, that the most iconic beach destination in the country is its shimmering Gold Coast.
  • What makes Gold Coast special?
    • Known for being the place where high-rise apartments meet the gorgeous beach, Gold Coast is characterized by youthful charm, stunning sunrises and sunsets, relaxing water temperatures, countless adrenaline-pumping surf breaks, and reliably sunny days.
  • Why is Gold Coast important in Australian surfer culture?
    • A true testament to Aussie surfer culture, the Gold Coast is bound to impress and amaze with countless activities and attractions to try out.

Plan Your Trip