TL;DR
Experience the best of the Gold Coast, from iconic beaches and thrilling theme parks to lush hinterlands and lively dining scenes.
This guide covers everything you need: must-see attractions, insider tips on where to stay and how to get around, budget guidelines, safety advice, tours, and when to visit for the perfect adventure.
Jump directly to detailed things to do
Your First Look: Why Gold Coast Belongs on Your Travel List
I’ve lived on the Gold Coast for several years, and what keeps drawing visitors back is its unique blend of sun-soaked beaches, adrenaline-pumping activities, and verdant natural escapes—all framed by a vibrant local culture.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a foodie, Gold Coast offers experiences that stay with you long after you leave. Let me share some of the best ways to explore this energetic city and its surroundings with tips only locals know.
Top Things to Do in Gold Coast, Australia – Local’s Picks
Explore Surfers Paradise Beach—The Heartbeat of Gold Coast
Nothing captures Gold Coast’s spirit like Surfers Paradise. Stretching over 3 kilometers, this golden sandy beach is my go-to for early morning sunrises and endless surfing opportunities. The vibe is electric, whether you’re catching waves, swimming, or strolling along the esplanade dotted with cafes, lively markets, and street performers. Pro tip: Head there on a weekday morning to avoid crowds.
SkyPoint Observation Deck – 230 Meters Above the City
For breathtaking panoramic views of the entire coast and hinterland, SkyPoint atop the Q1 building is unbeatable. I recommend timing your visit around sunset and grabbing a cocktail at the bar inside—watch the horizon turn brilliant hues as the city lights flicker on. For the adventurous, the SkyPoint Climb is an adrenaline-packed way to connect with the city skyline safely harnessed at the summit.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary—Up Close with Aussie Fauna
Visiting Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary feels like stepping into an animal lover’s paradise. Here, I loved feeding the rainbow lorikeets and cuddling a koala—true Australian bucket list moments. The sanctuary also features exotic species and spectacular live shows. Don’t miss the Lost Valley walk-through area for a fascinating glimpse at red pandas, lemurs, and more.
Springbrook National Park—Immersive Nature & Waterfalls
Just an hour from the city, Springbrook is my personal sanctuary for lush rainforest hikes, spectacular waterfalls like Purling Brook Falls, and magical bioluminescent fungi at night. The Best of All Lookout delivers one of the most stunning views of the coastline. Pack your hiking shoes, and prepare for a day of pure wilderness adventure.
Theme Parks—Dreamworld, Sea World & Warner Bros. Movie World
For families and thrill-seekers alike, Gold Coast’s world-famous theme parks are a must. Dreamworld offers adrenaline-pumping rides and encounters with native wildlife. Sea World combines marine education with exciting attractions, while Movie World brings movie magic alive with live shows and themed rides. Pro tip: Buy tickets online in advance and plan to arrive early to beat queues.
Pacific Fair & Harbour Town – Retail Therapy and Dining
Whether you want luxury shopping or outlet bargains, the Gold Coast’s shopping hubs have you covered. Pacific Fair blends upscale brands with local boutiques and diverse dining options, while Harbour Town offers huge discounts on big-name labels. My insider tip? Visit Harbour Town on weekdays for the best shopping without the crowds.
Gold Coast Hinterland—Scenic Drives & Hidden Gems
Venture beyond the coast to the Gold Coast hinterland, where ancient rainforests, quaint villages, and waterfalls await. My personal favorite is Tamborine Mountain, with its boutique wineries, artisan markets, and rainforest walks. For a quiet escape and stunning sunset views, this area is perfect.
Water Sports & Whale Watching
Beyond surfing, the Gold Coast water offers kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and, during June-October, unforgettable whale watching tours along the Humpback Highway. I recommend joining a guided tour for the best chance to see these majestic creatures close-up. On land, sunset whale watching spots like Point Danger offer spectacular vistas.
Dining & Nightlife—Experience Gold Coast’s Culinary Scene
From casual beachside cafés to high-end restaurants, Gold Coast’s food scene is diverse and delicious. Favorites like Miami Marketta offer vibrant street food markets with live music, and spots like Rick Shores at Burleigh Heads serve fresh local seafood with ocean views. At night, Surfers Paradise pulses with lively bars and clubs.
Stay Safe and Explore Smart
Gold Coast is generally very safe, but standard travel vigilance applies—especially in crowded or nightlife areas. Always stay hydrated, apply reef-safe sunscreen, and adhere to surf safety flags on beaches. Emergency contacts here include 000 for police, fire, and ambulance. I recommend downloading local guide apps for safety updates and transport info.
Emergency contact number: 000
Planning Your Trip: When to Go, Getting There, and Budgeting
Best Time to Visit
The Gold Coast shines year-round, but the ideal time to visit is from March to May or September to November when the weather is pleasant, crowds are thinner, and accommodation costs drop slightly. Winter (June to August) is cooler but excellent for whale watching.
Getting There & Getting Around
Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is well connected domestically and increasingly internationally. From Brisbane Airport, you can take a 1-hour train or shuttle. Local transport includes efficient buses, trams around Surfers Paradise, and reliable rideshares. For full freedom, renting a car is my recommendation, particularly if you plan to visit hinterland areas.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options range from luxury oceanfront resorts in Broadbeach to cozy Airbnbs in Burleigh Heads or budget-friendly hostels near Surfers Paradise. For families, theme park proximity in the northern suburbs may influence your choice.
Budget & Typical Costs
Day-to-day costs can vary: meals typically range from AUD 15 (casual cafes) to AUD 60+ (fine dining). Theme park tickets start at AUD 80–120 per adult. Public transport fares are AUD 3–6 per trip. A moderate daily budget allowing for meals, activities, and transport would be around AUD 150–250.
Money-Saving Tips
- Book theme park and tour tickets online ahead of time for discounts.
- Use local buses and trams instead of taxis when possible.
- Visit markets and street food vendors for authentic, affordable meals.
- Travel outside peak school holiday periods for better rates and fewer crowds.
Find Your Way Around Gold Coast
Interactive map including major beaches, parks, theme parks, and transport hubs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Gold Coast
What is the best length of stay for the Gold Coast?
For a thorough experience of Gold Coast’s beaches, theme parks, hinterland and dining, plan for at least 4 to 6 days. This allows time to relax and explore without rushing.
Is it safe to swim at Gold Coast beaches?
Yes, most beaches are patrolled by lifeguards year-round. Always swim between the red and yellow flags and heed warnings about jellyfish and currents.
Do I need a visa to visit the Gold Coast?
Most international travelers require an Australian visa or electronic travel authority before arrival. Check the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website to confirm requirements.
How do I get from Gold Coast Airport to the city?
You can take a direct shuttle, taxi, rideshare, or bus. Shuttle services are frequent and affordable, especially for solo travelers or families.
Are there tours to explore the Gold Coast hinterland?
Yes, various operators offer guided tours to Springbrook, Tamborine Mountain and Lamington National Parks. These include hiking, wildlife spotting, and winery visits. I recommend booking in advance for a seamless day trip.
Final Pro Tip
Try to mix your itinerary with early mornings on the beach, a midday rainforest walk, and an evening exploring the lively dining scene—this balance captures the Gold Coast’s diverse charm. Also, download offline maps and a local safety app to stay informed and comfortable during your trip.
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors such as pricing, hours, or location details.
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