Things To Do
in Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is a sun-drenched subtropical coastline in Queensland known for long sandy beaches, high-rise skyline around Surfers Paradise, and a lively outdoor lifestyle. It pairs world-class surf breaks and family-friendly theme parks with lush hinterland rainforests and waterfalls a short drive inland. The city is a popular holiday destination for domestic and international visitors, offering a strong café/brunch culture, seafood, and relaxed beachside nightlife.
Beyond the coast, national parks like Springbrook and Lamington offer dramatic lookouts, waterfalls, and excellent hiking opportunities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the golden sands of Surfers Paradise, feeling the cool ocean breeze on your face. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a beachfront café, where you can savor fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies. Take a moment to watch the surfers catch waves as the sun rises higher in the sky.
After lunch, indulge in some beach activities such as paddleboarding or jet skiing, making the most of the warm Australian sun. Visit the famous Surfers Paradise Beach Markets where local artisans showcase their crafts and delicious street food. Spend some time lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun and listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
As the sun sets, stroll along the beach and marvel at the stunning views of the skyline illuminated against the night sky. Choose from a variety of seaside restaurants for dinner, enjoying fresh seafood while listening to live music. End your day with a walk through the vibrant nightlife of Surfers Paradise, where you can enjoy cocktails and dance the night away.
Begin your adventure at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can meet and feed kangaroos in a natural setting. Explore the lush gardens and enjoy guided tours that introduce you to Australia’s unique wildlife, including koalas and colorful parrots. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the incredible free-flight bird show showcasing native Australian birds.
After a delightful lunch at the sanctuary café, take part in hands-on experiences such as holding a koala or engaging with other animals. Explore the various walking trails that wind through the sanctuary, offering a chance to learn about native flora and fauna. Spend some time at the adventure park, where you can zip line through the treetops for an exhilarating experience.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up before dining at a local restaurant that specializes in bush tucker cuisine. Savor dishes made with native ingredients while enjoying the cozy ambiance. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll along the Currumbin Estuary, taking in the tranquil waters as the sun sets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $4-6 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $7-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi / rideshare (5–10 km) | $10-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and reliable surf culture
- Excellent outdoor and nature activities in both coast and hinterland
- Strong café culture and diverse dining options
- Year-round activities with mild winters and many sunny days
- Can be very crowded and pricier during peak summer and school holidays
- Strong sun and surf hazards require vigilance
- Some attractions (theme parks, popular restaurants) can have long lines
- Traffic congestion on routes to Brisbane or during peak holiday times
Places to Visit in Gold Coast
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic sunrise and sunset shots with the high-rise skyline meeting the surf—great for golden-hour photography and long exposures.
Panoramic city and coastline views from one of the tallest residential towers—ideal for sweeping landscape photos and cityscapes.
Rocky headland overlooks with surfers below and dramatic coastline views—excellent for action surf shots and wildlife (turtles, dolphins) sightings.
A mossy, photogenic waterfall arch inside the rainforest—best captured with a tripod and slower shutter for silky water effects.
Mountain-fed pools and clear water ideal for nature photography and relaxed outdoor portraiture, especially in the early morning.
Modern architecture, beachfront parks, and night photography opportunities around resort lights and nightlife venues.
Food in Gold Coast
Gold Coast Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic beachside staple—fresh battered or grilled local fish served with chips. Available at takeaway shops and beachfront kiosks across the coast.
Must-Try!
Sweet, tender shellfish often prepared grilled, in butter sauces or as a feature at premium seafood restaurants such as those along the Burleigh Heads waterfront.
The café scene is strong—expect high-quality coffee, smashed avocado on sourdough, acai bowls, and creative brunch plates in suburbs like Burleigh, Nobby Beach and Broadbeach.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Night markets most evenings with street food stalls, snacks, souvenirs and local crafts; good for casual bites and people-watching.
Rotating food trucks, live music and eclectic street food (check dates); ideal for trying a mix of cuisines in a lively atmosphere.
Weekend markets offering fresh produce, tropical fruit, baked goods and local artisan foods—great for sampling seasonal produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are informal and friendly—greetings like 'G'day' or 'Hi' are common. Dress is relaxed; beachwear is appropriate near the shore but avoid wearing swimwear inside shops or restaurants.
Follow lifeguards and beach flag systems—swim between the red and yellow flags. Don't enter protected or roped-off areas; these rules are enforced for safety.
Be mindful of cultural heritage sites in the hinterland and observe signage. Stick to marked trails, take rubbish with you and respect wildlife.
Be on time for booked activities, tours and restaurant reservations—operators often run tight schedules.
Safety
Tipping in Gold Coast
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is optional and not expected; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated but not required. Small tips for taxi drivers or helpful hotel staff are common but discretionary.
Cards (Visa, Mastercard, and increasingly contactless payments like Apple Pay/Google Pay) are widely accepted. Carry a bit of cash for small markets or remote areas; ATMs and currency exchange services are available in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid and often sunny with afternoon thunderstorms. Peak tourist season with crowded beaches, higher prices, and warm ocean temperatures—use sunscreen, hydrate, and heed beach flags.
Warm days and cooling evenings with fewer crowds; good beach conditions and pleasant weather for outdoor activities and hinterland hikes.
Mild, dry and very pleasant daytime temperatures (ideal for beach walks and hiking), cooler nights; less crowded and often the best time for clear skies and whale-watching cruises start in June.
Warming temperatures, blossoming hinterland and peak whale migration viewing (September–November); variable weather—some days are beach-perfect, others stormy as the season transitions.
Gold Coast at Night
Hiking in Gold Coast
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic loop with dramatic ocean views, ideal for sunrise walks and spotting surfers and dolphins.
Rainforest walks featuring a unique rock arch, glow-worms (in some areas), waterfalls and lush vegetation—great for half-day excursions.
Longer, more remote trails through ancient Gondwana rainforest with excellent birdwatching and waterfall views—suitable for day hikes or overnight camping.
Accessible rainforest trails, lookouts and waterfalls with local arts and food precincts nearby—good for a relaxed day trip.
A popular sunrise hike for panoramic views from the summit; allow for a full-day trip and verify seasonal access and permits.
Airports
How to reach Gold Coast by plane.
The closest airport (Coolangatta) with domestic flights and some international services; about 20–30 minutes drive to southern Gold Coast suburbs, longer to central Surfers Paradise depending on traffic. Shuttle buses, taxis and car hire are available.
Major international and domestic hub about 60–90 minutes drive north on the M1 (time varies with traffic). Trains, airport transfers, shuttles and rental cars connect Brisbane Airport to the Gold Coast.
Further north (useful if combining a longer Queensland trip); not the most convenient for Gold Coast but an option for extended regional itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many suburbs are family-oriented with parks, schools and community facilities—family tourism is a major part of the economy.
High seasonal influx of visitors from across Australia and international markets, especially surfers, sun-seekers and theme-park visitors.
Attractive climate and lifestyle draw interstate retirees and 'sea-changers' who relocate for a coastal lifestyle; this influences local services and communities.
Griffith University campuses and vocational colleges contribute to a noticeable student population, energizing suburbs with cafés and affordable housing options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A cornerstone of local culture—both a recreational activity and competitive sport with many surf schools and clubs.
The Gold Coast Titans represent the region in the NRL and games attract local support and community involvement.
Cricket is popular in summer and Australian Rules Football (AFL) has a growing following with local clubs and supporters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gold Coast.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available—most cafés offer egg-, cheese- and plant-based dishes; many restaurants have dedicated vegetarian mains or can adapt plates.
Vegan choices are common in the café scene (plant milks, smoothie bowls, vegan burgers). Ask staff—many places can adapt dishes or point to vegan-friendly venues.
Gluten-free menus and options (GF breads, pasta and dessert alternatives) are widespread. Tell servers about severe allergies as cross-contamination can occur in busy kitchens.