The Gold Coast is an Australian city famous for its stunning beaches, theme parks, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a popular destination for tourists worldwide looking to enjoy the sunshine and experience a unique beach culture. This guide will take you on a tour of the best things to do on the Gold Coast so that you can make the most out of your visit.
Exploring the Beaches
The Gold Coast is famous for its pristine beaches, and there’s no better way to start your trip than by exploring them. Our top picks include Surfers Paradise Beach, Burleigh Heads Beach, and Coolangatta Beach. Each has its unique vibe, offering beautiful scenery and excellent opportunities for surfing, sunbathing, and swimming.
Surfers Paradise Beach
Surfers Paradise Beach is undoubtedly one of the most iconic beaches on the Gold Coast. It’s a must-visit spot for any traveler in the area, and for a good reason. The beach is a long stretch of golden sand that runs parallel to the main street, of Surfers Paradise. It’s a lively and bustling area that’s always buzzing with activity.
The beach is also renowned for its excellent surfing conditions. Surfers from around the world come to this beach to catch the perfect wave. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are plenty of waves to suit all skill levels, depending on weather conditions. The beach is patrolled by experienced lifeguards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
If surfing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Surfers Paradise Beach. You can stroll along the Esplanade, enjoy the stunning ocean views, or rent a bike or rollerblade to explore the area. There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops in the area, so you can easily spend the whole day at the beach and still have plenty to do in the afternoon or evening.
At night, Surfers Paradise Beach takes on a different vibe. The beachfront comes to life with street performers, and musicians, at the famous Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets. It’s a fantastic atmosphere; you surely will enjoy it.
Overall, Surfers Paradise Beach is a must-visit attraction on the Gold Coast. With its excellent surf conditions, stunning views, and lively atmosphere, it’s a place that you will not fast forget.
Burleigh Heads Beach
Burleigh Heads Beach is a very popular and picturesque beach on the Gold Coast. Located between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta, it’s a favorite spot for surfers, swimmers, and beachgoers alike. The beach boasts stunning coastline views, and the clear turquoise waters are perfect for a refreshing dip.
What sets Burleigh Heads Beach apart from other beaches in the area is the lush greenery that surrounds it. The headland at the beach’s southern end is home to Burleigh Head National Park, a beautiful natural reserve ideal for hiking, photo shooting, and exploring. The park offers trails that wind through the native bushland and provide excellent ocean views and stunning outlooks.
The beach is also a popular spot for surfers, with consistent swells that make it a favorite among locals. If you’re new to surfing, several surf schools in the area offer lessons for beginners.
For those who prefer to stay on land, Burleigh Heads Beach offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. You can take a walk along the beach or enjoy a picnic in the park while taking in the stunning views. The beach also has BBQ facilities and shaded picnic areas, making it the perfect spot for a family day out.
Across the street, you will find James Street, a popular dining and shopping precinct. Its trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops make it a great place to relax after a day at the beach. It’s also a perfect place to start the day with a traditional Australian Breakfast.
In summary, Burleigh Heads Beach is a must-visit destination on the Gold Coast. With its stunning natural beauty, excellent surf conditions, and bustling dining and shopping precinct, it’s a place that has something for everyone.
Coolangatta Beach
Coolangatta Beach is a beautiful and peaceful beach located at the southernmost end of the Gold Coast. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine sand, and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a quiet and peaceful day by the ocean.
The beach is perfect for swimming and surfing, with great waves suitable for surfers of all levels. The area is patrolled by experienced lifeguards, ensuring it’s safe for swimmers and surfers. Many facilities are available, including showers, toilets, and barbeque areas, making it ideal for a family day out.
In addition to swimming and surfing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Coolangatta Beach. You can take a leisurely walk along the beach, explore the rock pools, relax on the sand, and soak up the sun. Plenty of nearby cafes and restaurants offer delicious food and drinks, making spending the whole day at the beach easy.
Coolangatta Beach is also a great spot to watch the sunset from the famous point at Snapper Rocks. During the migration season between June and October, you can spot humpback whales from the beach, adding an extra touch of magic to your visit.
Overall, Coolangatta Beach is a fantastic place to unwind and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the busier Gold Coast beaches. Coolangatta Beach is worth visiting if you want to enjoy the waves, soak up the sun, or enjoy the peaceful local atmosphere.
Visiting the Theme Parks
The Gold Coast is home to some of the best theme parks in the world, and they’re a must-visit if you’re in the area. Our top picks include Dreamworld, Movie World, and Sea World. Each one offers a unique experience, from thrilling rides to animal encounters, and there’s something for visitors of all ages.
Dreamworld
Dreamworld is one of the best theme parks on the Gold Coast, and it’s a must-visit attraction for families and thrill-seekers. With over 40 rides and attractions, there’s something for everyone at Dreamworld. From thrilling roller coasters to child-friendly rides, it’s a place that will keep you entertained for the whole day.
One of the park’s most popular rides is the Giant Drop, a 119-meter free fall that will leave your heart racing. The park is also home to some of Australia’s most iconic animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles. You can even book a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about these fascinating creatures.
Dreamworld has plenty of activities for the little ones too. The ABC KIDS World is a popular area for younger children, and it’s full of rides and attractions suited for them. The park also has a range of dining options and shops, so you can easily spend the whole day there.
Overall, Dreamworld is an excellent choice for a day of fun and adventure on the Gold Coast. With its wide variety of rides and attractions, there’s something for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
Movie World
Movie World is another popular theme park located on the Gold Coast. It’s owned and operated by Village Roadshow and is a must-visit destination for movie and superhero fans. The park features a range of movie-themed rides, attractions, and shows, including the DC Rivals HyperCoaster, the Green Lantern Coaster, and the Batwing Spaceshot.
One of the main highlights of Movie World is the chance to meet your favorite movie characters, including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and the Looney Tunes characters. You can also enjoy live shows and parades featuring your favorite movie characters throughout the day.
In addition to the movie-themed attractions, Movie World also has a range of family-friendly rides and attractions for all ages. There are also plenty of dining options, from quick-service restaurants to sit-down eateries and various shops selling souvenirs and merchandise.
Overall, Movie World is an exciting and entertaining theme park for visitors of all ages. Movie World is an excellent choice whether you’re a movie buff, a thrill-seeker, or just looking for a fun day out.
Sea World
Sea World is another one of the top theme parks on the Gold Coast, and it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves marine life. The park has a range of attractions and experiences that are perfect for visitors of all ages.
One of the most popular attractions at Sea World is the dolphin show. You can watch as these intelligent and friendly creatures perform a range of tricks and stunts and even get a chance to feed them. The park also has a range of other marine animals, including seals, sharks, and penguins.
For thrill-seekers, Sea World has a range of rides and roller coasters. The Storm Coaster is popular with twists, turns, and drops that take you through a water-filled adventure. The Jet Rescue is another famous ride where you can experience a high-speed chase on a jet ski.
SeaWorld also has a range of educational experiences for visitors. You can learn about marine conservation and sustainability and get close and personal with some of the park’s animals. The park has a range of interactive exhibits where you can touch starfish and sea cucumbers and even get a chance to swim with dolphins.
Overall, Sea World is a fantastic place to visit on the Gold Coast. With its range of marine animals, thrilling rides, and educational experiences, it’s a park with something for everyone.
Exploring the Hinterland
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Gold Coast Hinterland is the perfect place to explore. Our top picks include Lamington National Park, Tamborine National Park, and Springbrook National Park. These areas offer a range of activities, including hiking, bird watching, and exploring waterfalls.
Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in the hinterland of the Gold Coast. The park is renowned for its lush rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, and incredible views. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to experience the natural beauty of Australia.
One of the most popular activities in Lamington National Park is hiking. There are plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The courses take you through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and up to breathtaking viewpoints. The most famous hiking trail is the Border Track, a 21-kilometer trek that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the park.
Another popular activity in Lamington National Park is bird watching. The park is home to an incredible array of bird species, including the iconic Australian king parrot, the satin bowerbird, and the noisy pitta. The best place to go bird-watching is at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, which has a designated bird-watching area.
Overall, Lamington National Park is an incredible destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re looking to hike, bird watch, or soak up the stunning scenery; there’s something for everyone in this natural wonderland.
Tamborine National Park
Tamborine Mountain is a natural wonderland located in the Gold Coast hinterland. The mountain is home to Tamborine National Park, which offers a range of activities for nature lovers. You can stroll through the rainforest, spot unique wildlife, and explore stunning waterfalls.
The Curtis Falls track is one of the most popular walks in Tamborine National Park. It’s an easy 1.5 km walk that takes you through the lush rainforest to a beautiful waterfall. The track is suitable for most ages and with moderate fitness levels and is a great way to spend a morning or afternoon.
Try the Palm Grove Circuit if you’re feeling more adventurous. It’s a 4.4 km walk that takes you through various landscapes, including rainforest, eucalypt forest, and palm groves. You’ll see stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys along the way.
Tamborine Mountain is also famous for its unique flora and fauna. The mountain is home to a range of rare and endangered species, including Albert’s lyrebird, which can be heard singing in the rainforest. You might also spot pademelons, wallabies, and koalas.
In addition to the natural beauty of Tamborine National Park, the area is also known for its charming cafes, galleries, and shops in its close proximity. You can explore the village, sample local produce, or browse the unique art and craft stores. There’s something for everyone in this charming mountain village.
Springbrook national park
Springbrook National Park is a beautiful, pristine rainforest in the Gold Coast hinterland. It’s a natural wonderland with a wide variety of plant and animal species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. The park is home to many picturesque walking tracks, which lead to stunning waterfalls, lookout points, and other natural attractions.
One of the most popular spots in the park is the Natural Bridge, a unique rock formation treated by the waterfall that cascades into a cave below. It’s a beautiful sight to see, especially at night when the glow of the resident glow-worms illuminates the cave Visitors can also tip in the rock pools beneath the falls during the day, making it a perfect spot to cool off on a hot day.
Another attraction in Springbrook National Park is Purling Brook Falls. This breathtaking waterfall is 109 meters high and is one of the most impressive sights in the area. Several walking tracks lead to the falls, including the Purling Brook Falls Circuit, a 4-kilometer loop that takes you through the lush rainforest and offers stunning views of the falls from multiple angles.
Overall, Springbrook National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its unique landscapes, waterfalls, and lush rainforest provide a serene escape from the busy Gold Coast city. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a relaxing day out, Springbrook National Park is a place you shouldn’t miss.
Enjoying the Nightlife
The Gold Coast has a vibrant nightlife scene with something for everyone. These areas offer a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants, and you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Our top picks include Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and Burleigh Heads.
Broadbeach Nightlife
Broadbeach is one of the Gold Coast’s most popular and vibrant destinations for nightlife. The area is home to various bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a quiet night out or a wild party, Broadbeach has something for everyone.
The Star Casino is a popular spot in Broadbeach, offering a range of entertainment options, including gaming, live music, and dining. The casino is open 24 hours a day. It provides a variety of games, from classic table games to modern electronic machines. You can also catch a live show or concert at the casino’s theatre.
Broadbeach has plenty of bars and lounges to choose from if you’re in the mood for a more laid-back night out. You can enjoy a few drinks and live music at one of the many beachside bars, or you can head to one of the more upscale venues for a cocktail or two.
Several nightclubs in Broadbeach offer a lively and energetic atmosphere for those who want to dance the night away. You can expect to hear the latest music from local and international DJs, with plenty of space to dance and socialize with friends.
Overall, Broadbeach’s nightlife scene is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and exciting night out on the Gold Coast. With so many options, you can find the perfect spot to suit your mood and preferences.
Surfers Paradise Nightlife
Surfers Paradise is known for its bustling nightlife, with a range of bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues to suit all tastes. The famous Cavill Avenue is a great place to start, with numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants lining the street. There’s always something going on here, from live music performances to street performers and vibrant nightlife.
Surfers Paradise is home to many iconic venues with great food, drinks, and lively atmospheres. One popular spot is the Surfers Paradise Beer Garden, which offers a large outdoor space for enjoying live music and DJs. Visitors can also check out other venues with different themes and vibes to find the perfect place to enjoy the nightlife scene.
The Island Rooftop is a must-visit for those who prefer a more sophisticated setting. This stylish rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the beach, with a great selection of cocktails and live music performances.
Surfers Paradise also has a lively clubbing scene, with several nightclubs. SinCity is one of the most well-known clubs, offering a luxurious and upscale atmosphere with various music genres to dance the night away.
Surfers Paradise nightlife is vibrant, diverse, and constantly buzzing with activity. Whether you’re looking for a casual drink, a night of live music, or a club, there’s something for everyone in Surfers Paradise.
Burleigh Heads Nightlife
Burleigh Heads is a popular beachside suburb that offers a more relaxed and intimate nightlife compared to the bustling Surfers Paradise. Burleigh Heads is a great spot to start your night, with a variety of bars and restaurants offering delicious food and refreshing drinks with ocean views.
If you’re looking for something casual, head to one of the local pubs like The Burleigh Hotel, a popular spot for eating and pub fare. For craft beer lovers, the Burleigh Brewing Company is a must-visit spot, offering a range of award-winning beers and a laid-back atmosphere.
For a more sophisticated night out, visit the restaurant Rick Shores, serving contemporary Asian cuisine with breathtaking ocean views. Alternatively, head to the whiskey bar, Lockwood Bar, which offers a range of premium whiskeys and cocktails in a stylish setting.
Overall, Burleigh Heads offers a diverse range of nightlife options to suit everyone’s preferences. Whether you’re after a relaxed drink with ocean views or a sophisticated night out, this beachside suburb has something for everyone.
Final Thoughts
The Gold Coast is a fantasizing destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the theme parks, or immerse yourself in the local culture, there’s no shortage of things to do. We hope this guide has been helpful, and we look forward to hearing about your experiences on the Gold Coast.
