Overview

Gold Coast is a vibrant city located on the east coast of Australia in the state of Queensland. Known for its shining beaches, stunning skyline, and exciting entertainment options, the Gold Coast offers something for every type of tourist. With a mix of urban experiences and natural beauty, this city is a must-visit destination.

Top attractions

• Surfers Paradise Beach: Famous for its golden sand and excellent surfing conditions.
• SkyPoint Observation Deck: Offers panoramic views of the coastline and hinterland from Australia’s tallest building.
• Gold Coast Hinterland: Home to lush rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning wildlife.
• The Star Gold Coast: A popular casino and entertainment complex.
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Provides opportunities to interact with Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos.

Outdoor activities

• Theme parks: Several world-class theme parks including Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Sea World offer thrilling rides and entertainment for all ages.
• Surfing and water sports: Take surf lessons, try paddleboarding or jet skiing.
• Scenic walks and hikes: Explore Lamington National Park, Springbrook National Park, and Burleigh Head National Park for breathtaking views and hiking trails.

Dining and nightlife

• Broadbeach: Known for its food scene, offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars.
• Surfers Paradise: Vibrant nightlife with numerous clubs, pubs, and bars catering to different tastes.
• Fish markets: Enjoy fresh seafood and dine by the water at the Gold Coast Fisherman’s Co-op.

Shopping

• Pacific Fair Shopping Centre: One of Australia’s largest and most luxurious shopping destinations with over 400 stores.
• Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets: Open-air markets offering unique arts, crafts, fashion, and jewelry.
• Harbour Town Outlet Shopping Centre: Bargain hunters can find discounted brand-name goods.

Other attractions

• Q1: Iconic skyscraper with a SkyPoint Climb experience for panoramic views of the entire Gold Coast.
• Wax Museum: Home to over 110 life-sized wax figures of celebrities and historical figures.
• Sanctuary Cove: A luxury residential and resort area with marinas, golf courses, and upscale dining options.

Getting around

• Public transportation: TransLink’s buses, trams, and trains provide convenient access to various areas of the Gold Coast.
• Tourist shuttles: Hop-on-hop-off shuttles offer a flexible way to explore the city’s key attractions.
• Bicycles and scooters: Bike and scooter rentals are available for exploring at your own pace.

Best time to visit

• Gold Coast experiences a subtropical climate, making it an ideal destination year-round.
• Peak tourist season is during summer (December to February), but other seasons offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Safety tips

• Swim only between the flags on patrolled beaches.
• Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen while spending time outdoors.
• Be cautious of marine wildlife such as jellyfish during certain times of the year.