7 Things To Do in Gold Coast (2024)

Explore the vibrant attractions and endless possibilities with our guide to things to do in Gold Coast. From the sun-kissed beaches and exhilarating theme parks to the lush hinterland and bustling nightlife, discover an array of activities for every traveler. Dive into aquatic adventures, experience thrilling wildlife encounters, or unwind on the golden sands.

Gold Coast is a lively and vibrant city celebrated for its lively nightlife and thrilling theme parks. A favorite among backpackers and tourists alike, Gold Coast exudes a welcoming atmosphere, making it a genuinely tourist-friendly destination. With its fantastic nightlife and captivating attractions, it’s an ideal place to create unforgettable holiday memories.

Whether you seek family-friendly fun, outdoor adventures, or vibrant cultural experiences, Gold Coast offers a diverse range of options to make your visit unforgettable. Plan your itinerary with our curated list and maximize your time in this enchanting Australian destination.

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About Gold Coast

Nestled in the Queensland state of Australia, the vibrant city of Gold Coast is just approximately 75 kilometers from Brisbane, making it a trendy tourism destination. Initially recognized as the South Coast, it earned its moniker, Gold Coast, due to the escalating real estate prices and the flourishing goods and services sector.

This dynamic city hosted the prestigious 2018 Commonwealth Games, showcasing its global appeal and capabilities as a major event destination.

For an ideal visit, the best time to explore Gold Coast is between May and October, when the weather is delightful. Boasting tropical weather with year-round sunshine, Gold Coast invites visitors to revel in its attractions and experiences. Plan to stay at least 4 to 5 days to make the most of this vibrant city.

How to Get to Gold Coast?

Gold Coast is a trendy destination in Australia and is easily accessible from all major cities.

By Air

Situated in Gold Coast is the Gold Coast Airport, formerly known as Coolangatta Airport. Jetstar, a budget airline, offers convenient connections from major cities to Gold Coast. Located approximately 30 kilometers from the city, the airport provides easy access through shuttles between the airport and the city. For more details, inquire at the information desk within the airport premises.

By Road

Driving from Brisbane City to Gold Coast is a convenient option. The distance is a mere 75 kilometers, and the journey takes about an hour, making it a swift and straightforward drive to reach Gold Coast from Brisbane.

The journey on the east coast from Sydney to Gold Coast covers a considerable distance of approximately 845 kilometers, requiring about 9 hours of driving time. Despite the substantial distance, the road trip is an epic adventure, featuring numerous noteworthy places along the way that can turn the journey into a memorable trip.

Where to Stay in Gold Coast?

Gold Coast offers diverse accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets. Some popular areas to consider for your stay in Gold Coast:

1. Surfers Paradise: Known for its iconic beach and vibrant nightlife, Surfers Paradise is a central hub with many hotels, resorts, and apartments. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a lively atmosphere and easy access to the beach.
2. Broadbeach: This area boasts upscale dining, shopping, and entertainment options. It’s a family-friendly destination with a mix of luxury hotels and self-contained apartments.
3. Burleigh Heads: Burleigh Heads is an excellent choice for a more laid-back and bohemian vibe. It offers a beautiful beach, a national park, and a range of boutique accommodations.
4. Main Beach: Located just north of Surfers Paradise, Main Beach is known for its exclusive feel and proximity to popular attractions like SeaWorld. It features luxury resorts and upscale dining.
5. Coolangatta: Situated at the southern end of the Gold Coast, Coolangatta offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for surfers and beach lovers, with a mix of accommodations from resorts to holiday apartments.
6. Hinterland: If you prefer a tranquil setting surrounded by nature, consider staying in the Gold Coast hinterland. Places like Mount Tamborine offer boutique retreats and bed-and-breakfast options.

When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as your preferred location, budget, and the experience you want to have in Gold Coast. Whether you are looking for a beachfront resort, a family-friendly apartment, or a secluded retreat, Gold Coast has something to offer every traveler.

Here are some renowned 5-star hotels you can consider for your stay in Gold Coast:

1. Palazzo Colonnades Gold Coast: Located in Main Beach, this opulent hotel is known for its sophisticated design, waterfront views, and luxurious spa facilities.
2. Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast: Situated in Main Beach, this beachfront resort boasts lush tropical gardens, multiple swimming pools, and elegant rooms with ocean or garden views.
3. The Star Grand at The Star Gold Coast: Found in Broadbeach, this integrated resort and casino offers stylish accommodations, fine dining options, a theater, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
4. QT Gold Coast: Nestled in Surfers Paradise, QT Gold Coast combines modern design with quirky touches. It features stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and a trendy restaurant.
5. Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach: Located in Broadbeach, this upscale hotel offers luxurious rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and a spa. It is known for its French elegance and coastal charm.
6. Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise: Situated in Surfers Paradise, this iconic tower offers luxurious apartments with panoramic ocean views, a spa, and a beachfront location.
7. RACV Royal Pines Resort: Located in Benowa, this resort offers upscale rooms, golf courses, multiple dining options, and extensive leisure facilities.

These 5-star hotels in Gold Coast cater to travelers seeking a premium and indulgent experience with a range of upscale amenities, stunning views, and impeccable service.

Review of Monte Carlo Resort

I had an exceptional stay at Monte Carlo Resort – Hosted by Coastal Letting in Gold Coast, undoubtedly one of the finest accommodations I have experienced. Ideal for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, especially in the heart of the action, this property is a perfect choice. Nestled in Surfers Paradise, Monte Carlo Resort occupies one of the buildings that offers captivating beach views. Its strategic location places it near all major tourist attractions. Despite being situated on a bustling street, the property maintains a secure environment, requiring an authorized pass for building access.

My stay at this apartment was delightful, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. The balcony offered breathtaking views, and the apartment’s convenient proximity to the city center added to its appeal.

Contact Details

• Website: Booking.com
• Cost for a one-bedroom apartment is AUD 145 per night.
• Address: 38 Orchid Avenue Suite 36, Surfers’ Paradise, Gold Coast, 4217, Australia.

Things To Do in Gold Coast

Theme Parks

Gold Coast holds the title of the theme park capital of Australia, boasting a diverse array of theme parks that can easily occupy visitors for days. Here are some of the prominent theme parks in the region:

• Ripley’s Believe it or not.
• Warner Bros Movie World.
• Sea World.
• Wet n Wild.
• Dreamworld.
• Whitewater world.
• Infinity attraction.

Convenient shuttle buses operate between the city and these theme parks, providing pick-up and drop-off services. Tickets can be acquired at the respective ticketing offices within the theme parks.

A cost-effective tip: consider purchasing tickets as part of a combo package for added savings.

Nightlife

Renowned for its vibrant nightlife, the coastal city boasts the best nocturnal scene in Australia. Pubs and bars keep their doors open until late, with partygoers reveling throughout the night. The plethora of options makes Gold Coast an ideal destination for immersive pub hopping, offering a brilliant and lively nightlife experience.

Quack R Duck

An adorable attraction to explore is the Quack R Duck boat ride. Priced at AUD 38 per person, this one-hour bus/boat ride is a unique experience where the bus transforms into a boat.

Surfers Paradise Observation Deck

The views of Surfers Paradise are absolutely breathtaking and well worth experiencing. Visiting the observation deck provides a stunning perspective of the coastal line that is truly spectacular, both during the day and at night. I highly recommend going to the observation deck for an unforgettable sightseeing experience.

Beaches

Gold Coast boasts an extensive 70-kilometer coastline with numerous beaches offering the perfect setting to relish the amazing tropical weather. Among them, Rainbow Beach is my favorite, where I had the incredible experience of spotting dolphins right by the shore. It was indeed a remarkable encounter.

Crazy Cat Cafe

For fellow cat enthusiasts like myself, indulging in a coffee session with these charming little creatures is an absolute delight. Witnessing the playful antics of these kittens and cats while enjoying some cuddle time is genuinely adorable. As a self-professed crazy cat lover, I thoroughly enjoyed the cafe experience.

Do note that there is an entrance fee to access the cat lounge, and tickets can be conveniently purchased on their website.

Whale Watching

The Gold Coast’s coastline is an excellent vantage point for observing humpback whales during their annual migration season. These majestic creatures migrate from south to north and back along the east coast between May and October each year.

Additionally, Sydney is another fantastic location for spotting humpback whales. Refer – Whale Watching in Sydney.

Closing Notes

My affection for Gold Coast is undeniable, and I find myself drawn back to this incredible city repeatedly. Having visited four times, one trip solely dedicated to reveling in its vibrant nightlife, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring this city, especially if you have a penchant for partying and soaking in the infectious happy vibes it exudes.