What to do in Gold Coast

Activities, attractions and tours

Gold Coast
Gold Coast
Coolangatta which includes a high-rise building, a sunset and general coastal views
Gold Coast
Gold Coast

Gold Coast Attractions

With more than 30 miles of golden sandy beaches and 300-plus sunny days per year, it’s not surprising that the Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. Choose between big resorts and quieter, more secluded spots. Hang out on a choice of more than 30 patrolled beaches or explore 250 miles of canals and waterways, almost ten times as much as Venice. Discover Surfers Paradise, one of the surfing hangouts in the world, chic Broadbeach and traditional seaside fun at Burleigh Heads. Inland there are huge national parks complete with rainforest walks and waterfall swimming spots.

Areas & Neighbourhoods on the Gold Coast

Southport - The main commercial centre of the Gold Coast with top shopping options and a range of facilities geared towards tourists.

Surfers Paradise - A sublime surfing beach and suburb with plenty of attractions to try out during your stay.

Broadbeach - Another busy suburb (although slightly less so than Surfers Paradise) with a casino and excellent choice of restaurants.

Burleigh Heads - The beaches here are very popular with both families and surfers, with a compact commercial area just off the beach.

Gold Coast Hinterland - It’s not all about the shore on the Gold Coast. Head inland and you can discover mountain ranges and protected national park areas covered in pristine rain forest.

Things to See on the Gold Coast

Take your pick of more than 30 miles of golden sandy beaches, with most patrolled by lifeguards (but always remember to swim between the flags). If you don’t feel like swimming in the surf, then the Tallebudgera Creek is a swimming lagoon which is very popular with families. Take in the stunning views from Greenmount Beach or enjoy a picnic here. Often known as the ‘green behind the gold’ the hinterland is full of wineries and national parks to explore. Discover quaint country towns like Tamborine Mountain and Springbrook. Walk through the rainforest, keeping your eyes peeled for exotic flora and fauna.

Things to Do on the Gold Coast

Go on a Gold Coast whale adventure, taking a boat out to see if you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these elusive creatures. There are some great wildlife opportunities on land too, at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary where you can meet cuddly koalas, kangaroos and even crocodiles. There are plenty of theme parks here where you can go to get your adrenaline rush, as well as water parks where you can cool off, including Wet ‘n’ Wild. There’s a huge range of dining options along the coast, with food from all over the world. And the nightlife varies between cosy and comfortable to swanky lounge bars. There’s even a casino if you feel like rolling the dice.

You can also book top Gold Coast hotels and great Gold Coast package deals right here on Expedia.co.uk.


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What to do in Gold Coast


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise showing a city, a sunset and a sandy beach

Surfers Paradise

Visit one of Australia’s most popular vacation spots and dive in the waves, spot humpback whales, go shopping or enjoy the fun family attractions and nightlife.

Surfers Paradise
Broadbeach which includes a sandy beach, a high-rise building and skyline

Broadbeach

Visit one of Queensland’s most popular holiday spots with sparkling beaches, scenic canals, high-rise hotels, nightclubs, festivals and modern malls.

Broadbeach
Coolangatta which includes a high-rise building, a sunset and general coastal views

Coolangatta

Enjoy the beaches, sip a coffee at a groovy café and enjoy the simple pleasures of an ocean-front vacation.

Coolangatta
Burleigh Beach showing a high-rise building, city views and general coastal views

Burleigh Heads

Enjoy this perfect weekend getaway destination with world-class surf breaks, white sands, restaurants, bars and nature walks to suit every type of traveller.

Burleigh Heads
Sunny view of Palm Beach and Tallebudgera Creek on the Gold Coast

Palm Beach

Palm Beach is known for its pristine beaches, and you can make a stop by Tallebudgera Creek and Tallebudgera Beach while in the area.

Palm Beach
Main Beach featuring general coastal views, a skyscraper and a sandy beach

Southport

This stretch of coast in the heart of the Gold Coast offers the perfect mix of sun-soaked beaches, wildlife encounters and leisurely shopping.

Southport

 

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Day trip destinations from Gold Coast

Frequently asked questions

Is Gold Coast worth visiting?
Known for its surfing and cafes, discovering awesome things to do in Gold Coast is simple. Don't forget to add Surfers Paradise Beach to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Gold Coast?
After you've visited leading attractions like Surfers Paradise Beach and Slingshot, spend the rest of your day discovering the food and retail options in Gold Coast.
What is the top tourist attraction in Gold Coast?
Surfers Paradise Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Gold Coast and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Gold Coast?
Three days in Gold Coast is enough to visit the city's major highlights. Many travellers spend three days on average. Surfers Paradise Beach, Broadbeach Beach and Dracula's Cabaret are among the most popular sights. Want to experience more? Stick around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots like Tweed Heads.
Is Gold Coast a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Gold Coast is a good destination to experience on foot. Wander between Surfers Paradise Beach and Broadbeach Beach. Then take a stroll around Surfers Paradise, located 2 kms (1 mile) from downtown, and Broadbeach, which is roughly 2 kms (1 mile) away.
What are some activities to do in Gold Coast with kids?
What to do in Gold Coast for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Gold Coast for adults including Burleigh Brewing Company and Balter Brewing Company.
Are there free things to do in Gold Coast?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Gold Coast is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without opening your wallet. Surfers Paradise Beach is one place that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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