Welcome to the Gold Coast, where the sun-kissed beaches meet the nightlife that never sleeps, endless nature, and more bars and restaurants than you can count! This place is a traveler’s paradise, and it’s not hard to see why.
Nature lovers, you’re in for a treat! With over 1,700 different plant species and 500 animal species, the Springbrook National Park is a dream come true. Explore the lush rainforest, marvel at the magnificent waterfalls, and feel the refreshing mist on your face. For a more peaceful hike, head to Lamington National Park, and soak up the breathtaking views.
But wait, there’s more! Adrenaline junkies, get ready to have your mind blown. The Gold Coast is the place to be for some serious fun. Kayaking, jet-skiing, and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters are just the beginning. How about soaring through the skies with skydiving or paragliding? Or zipping through the emerald green paradise of Mt. Tamborine? The possibilities are endless!
But let’s not forget the surfing. Whether you’re a pro or a newbie, the Gold Coast is a surfer’s paradise. Head to Surfer’s Paradise, Broadbeach, or Coolangatta, and catch some of the best waves in the world.
With so many fun things to do on the Gold Coast, you’ll be spoiled for choice. So pack your bags, grab your friends, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Here’s our picks of the best things to do whilst your here:
1. Soak up the sun on Surfers Paradise Beach
Experience the iconic Surfers Paradise Beach, with its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and perfect waves for swimming and surfing. You can also enjoy people watching, take a walk along the beachfront promenade, or simply relax in the sun.
2. Take a stroll through the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens
Explore the lush botanical gardens of the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, spanning over 31 hectares. The gardens feature a range of themed sections, including a sensory garden and a butterfly garden, and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
3. Visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Get up close and personal with Australia’s unique wildlife at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Home to koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and more, the sanctuary offers interactive experiences and daily wildlife shows. The park offers a General Admission entry ticket but we recommend the General Admission + TreeTops challenge all-in-one ticket for about $30 more (adventure-seeking kids will absolutely lovely this!)
4. Explore the Gold Coast Arts Centre
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at the Gold Coast Arts Centre, featuring a rotating lineup of exhibitions, performances, and workshops. From theater and dance to music and visual arts, there’s always something to see and experience.
5. Get your adrenaline pumping with a jet boat ride
Experience the thrill of a jet boat ride along the Gold Coast’s waterways, with 360-degree spins, high-speed turns, and plenty of splashes. This adventure-packed ride is sure to get your heart racing. Book your Gold Coast jet boat ride here.
6. Take a scenic drive through the Gold Coast hinterland
Discover the stunning beauty of the Gold Coast hinterland on a scenic drive. The hinterland is home to charming villages, rolling hills, and breathtaking views of the coastline, making for a perfect day trip. There’s simply so much to do in this wonderful part of the world! For those wanting a bit more of unique perspective of the hinterland we recommend this Hinterland Hot Air Balloon Flight with breakfast and wine included.
7. Enjoy a day of family fun at the theme parks
Have a blast at the Gold Coast’s famous theme parks, including Dreamworld, Sea World, Movie World and Wet’n’Wild. With rides, water slides, and animal encounters, these parks offer something for visitors of all ages. If you’re looking to deep dive into a few of the theme parks, our tip is grab one of the following multi-day passes:
- Movie World, Sea World, and Wet n’ Wild 3-day pass
- Movie World, Sea World, and Wet n’ Wild 7-day pass
- Movie World, Sea World, and Wet n’ Wild 14-day pass
If you’re in the mood for something a little more laid back, we recommend checking out the Australian Outback Spectacular Dinner and Show which is located right next to Wet n’ Wild.
8. Go whale watching
Get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see humpback whales up close on a whale watching tour between June and November. Several tour operators offer guided tours to see these majestic creatures during their annual migration along the coast. Book your Gold Coast whale watching tour here.
9. Catch a wave at a surf school
Learn to surf or improve your skills at one of the many surf schools along the coast. With experienced instructors and top-quality equipment, you can catch the perfect wave in no time. Here’s a couple we recommend that are quite central:
10. Take a hot air balloon ride
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Gold Coast hinterland from above on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. This unforgettable experience offers stunning views and the chance to capture some amazing photos. Book your Gold Coast hot air balloon ride here.
11. Shop at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre
Indulge in some retail therapy at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, the Gold Coast’s premier shopping destination. With over 400 stores, including high-end fashion brands and local boutiques, there’s something for every style and budget.
12. Explore the coastline on a stand-up paddleboard or kayak
Discover the stunning coastline from a different perspective by stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking. These activities offer a fun and active way to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise. There’s an abundance of paddleboard and kayak hire businesses around the coast, but if you’re in for a more immersive experience we recommend jumping on a tour! Our picks: Cruise along the calm waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater on this 2 hour Standup Paddleboarding Tour, or if kaying is more your thing we recommend joining the Wave Break Island Kayaking and Snorkeling tour.
13. Climb to the Eagles’ Nest at SkyPoint Observation Deck
For a unique experience, climb to the top of SkyPoint Observation Deck, where you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Gold Coast beaches and the Pacific Ocean. You can take the elevator to the 77th-floor Observation Deck or opt for the 90-minute climb, which is equally impressive. You can choose to climb during the day or at night and even enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views.
14. Go on a wine tasting tour at the nearby Mt Tamborine
Discover the rich flavors of the Gold Coast’s wine country on a wine tasting tour. You’ll visit some of the region’s top wineries and taste a variety of wines while learning about the winemaking process. You can jump on the tour from either Brisbane or the Gold Coast. Book your Gold Coast wine tasting tour here. If wine is your thing but you’d rather assess your options, we’ve put together our picks for the 10 best wineries in and around the Gold Coast and Brisbane that’s worth a look!
15. Visit the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
Explore the lush Tamborine Rainforest on a guided tour of the Skywalk. You’ll walk along elevated walkways through the treetops, discovering stunning views of the rainforest and its wildlife. Our tip – jump on the Springbrook and Tamborine Adventure tour where you’ll visit the glow worm caves and get entry to the Skywalk all in one. You can book the Sprinbrook and Tamborine Adventure here.
16. Have a picnic in Burleigh Head National Park
Enjoy a picnic in Burleigh Head National Park, a scenic reserve featuring walking trails, ocean views, and plenty of spots for a picnic. Pack a lunch and enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning park. Our tip – park up at Burleigh and take a short stroll (~10mins) around the headland to arrive at Tallebudgera beach for a day of some of the clearest water on the Gold Coast. Then, head back to the Burleigh Hill for a picnic on the hill for the afternoon. A must-do experience on a saturday/sunday afternoon!
17. Scuba Diving (introductory) with the Sea Critters
Explore the crystal blue waters of the Gold Coast and come face to face with the colorful school of fish during a scuba diving session. After hopping on a short cruise to Wave Break Island, you’ll get your gear on and dive into the water to see Australian Bass and Sea Mullet fish. With multiple scuba dive stops along the way meant for different levels, your instructor guides each visitor to jump safely based on their level. Book your Wave Break Island Scuba Diving tour here.
Love this type of thing but not quite ready for a Scuba experience? We recommend jumping on the Snorkel with Turtles Gold Coast experience which is located a short 40 minute drive south of Surfers Paradise.
18. Take a dip in the Natural Bridge rock pools
Cool off in the refreshing waters of the Natural Bridge rock pools, located within Springbrook National Park. The pools are surrounded by lush rainforest and offer a picturesque swimming spot.
19. Jump on the Aquaduck River Cruise and City Tour
Explore the Gold Coast’s Land and Sea Take your pick from a variety of boats and ferries to explore the beauty of the Gold Coast, starting with the Aquaduck River Cruise and City Tour and the Quack’rDuck Bus Tour. Both tours traverse both land and sea for optimal views of the city and nature. Hopo Gold Coast Ferry is a Hop on Hop off bus tour that easily gets you around the Gold Coast’s many districts, from Surfer’s Paradise to Marina Mirage and more. Book your Aquaduck City and River Tour here.
20. Take a day trip to the world-famous Byron Bay
Take a day trip to the stunning Byron Bay, a laid-back beach town known for its surf culture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scene. This tour also includes a visit to the charming village of Bangalow. Book your Byron Bay, Bangalow and Gold Coast Day tour here.
Looking for more things to do in and around the Gold Coast? We recommend checking out GetYourGuide for a huge range of amazing options.
