Experience all the glitz and glamour of the Gold Coast this summer! Whether you’re planning a short stay or a longer escape, there are plenty of things to do on the Gold Coast to make your holiday a memorable one. Read on to discover our list of the top Gold Coast attractions.
1. Gold Coast Restaurants
Gold Coast restaurants seem to be popping up every week. The suburbs of Palm Beach and Miami (Queensland, not Florida!) are exploding with new eateries and pubs. Choose from healthy cafes, craft beer hang-outs or Oceanside dining experiences such as Seaduction Restaurant in Surfers Paradise.
2. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Hold a sleepy koala, feed a colourful lorikeet, hop on a train ride, take a Segway tour, visit the onsite animal hospital or visit the resident crocodile…there’s plenty to do at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary!
3. Springbrook National Park
Within an hour’s drive west of the Gold Coast, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beauty in Springbrook National Park. Hike to breathtaking waterfalls, take in spectacular views of the hinterland or visit the Natural Bridge rock arch.
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
4. Gold Coast Theme Parks
Even if you’re not into rollercoasters, it’s still worth visiting the Gold Coast Theme Parks. From Movie World’s White Christmas celebration to Sea World’s playful polar bears to the Australian Outback Spectacular’s dinner and show, you’re guaranteed to have a good time at a Gold Coast theme park.
5. Mount Tamborine
Head to scenic Mount Tamborine in the Gold Coast hinterland for a wine tasting tour, rainforest walk, a bit of shopping or dining with spectacular views.
6. Stradbroke Island
Hop over to South Stradbroke Island (or ‘South Straddie’ to the locals), for a day of sun, surf and sand. The island is easily accessible from the northern end of the Gold Coast, making it a great option for a day trip. Or, head to North Stradbroke Island, just a short drive and ferry ride away. Amity Point is famous for delicious seafood and stunning sunsets or you can check out the Point Lookout Markets, held most Sunday mornings.
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland/Jason Charles Hill
7. Harbour Town
For the best bargains on designer goods, head to Harbour Town, the Gold Coast’s only outlet mall. You’ll find fashion, homewares, restaurants and a movie theatre at this popular Gold Coast shopping centre, so why not make a day of it?
8. Gold Coast Markets
For some late night shopping for those all-important souvenirs, visit the Surfers Paradise markets on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday nights from 4pm to 9pm. The Surfers Paradise markets are located on the beachfront at the end of Cavill Mall and feature over 100 stalls. On the first and third Sunday of each month, head to the Broadbeach markets in Kurrawa Park between 9am and 2pm. Grab a bite to eat, enjoy live music and browse the many crafts on offer.
9. Gold Coast Beaches
The Gold Coast is home to some of the best beaches in the world. Visit a different one each day and tick them off your list! Our top picks are Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Currumbin and Burleigh Heads.
10. Quiksilver Pro
The first event on the WSL (World Surf League) Men’s Championship Tour takes place around the beginning of March each year (yes, we know it’s not technically summer anymore!). Head to the famous surf break at Snapper Rocks in Coolangatta for this awesome surfing event that you won’t want to miss.
Credit: ASP / K. Scholz
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