Whether you’re heading north to catch the sun and warmer waters or fulfilling a promise to take your kids on a theme-park getaway, the Gold Coast is a popular holiday destination for good reason!
Famous for beaches and thrills, the Gold Coast is also home to countless nature activities, delicious city dining, and cultural experiences for local and overseas travellers alike.
We’ve compiled a handy list of top things to see and do to add to your Gold Coast bucket list—not to mention superb G’day Parks to make your trip extra special.
GOLD COAST THEME PARKS AND THRILLS
Warner Brothers’ Movie World
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Movie World’s rides range from kid-friendly to hair-raising. Twist and turn on The Flash: Speed Force, take on one of the steepest drops in the Southern Hemisphere on the Green Lantern Coaster, and travel at the speed of light on the Superman Escape. Say ‘G’day’ to your favourite cartoon characters and superheroes (and maybe even snap a selfie with some dastardly villains).
Sea World
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At Australia’s premier marine theme park, Sea World, get up close with dolphins, sea lions, and polar bears. Stroll past exhibits and catch daily stunt shows. Kids will love the Sky Fortress play structure in Castaway Bay and snapping a photo with SpongeBob SquarePants at Nickelodeon Land, plus Sea World has plenty of thrill rides (like the Leviathan and Vortex) for adventurous folks.
Wet’n’Wild
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On sunny days, you won't find a better place to hit the slides than Wet’n’Wild. Race your mates on the Super8 Aqua Racer, or hold on tight as you splash through Mammoth Falls. Extreme slides include the pitch-black darkness of the Black Hole, the steep drop of the Kamikaze, and the funnel-shaped fun of the Tornado. Those who prefer to relax can while away a day floating around Calypso Beach.
Dreamworld
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Dreamworld has a reputation for the greatest thrills the Gold Coast has ever seen. Take on the frightful Steel Taipan rollercoaster, ride the twists of The Claw, or freefall 119 metres on The Giant Drop. There are also family-friendly rides and kids’ attractions for those who prefer to keep two feet on (or, at least, closer to) land. Dreamworld also has wildlife experiences; see kangaroos, dingoes, crocodiles, koalas, bilbies, and tigers! Get your day pass or combine your entry with the SkyPoint observation deck.
WhiteWater World
Co-located alongside Dreamworld, WhiteWater World offers a splashing good time. Funnel into The Green Room, get sucked into The Rip, or challenge your friends to a race on The BRO (Blue Ringed Octopus). Although it closes over the cooler months, when the sun comes out, WhiteWater World comes to life. For combined entry into Dreamworld, WhiteWater World, and the SkyPoint Observation Deck, visit Experience Oz.
SkyPoint Observation Deck
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For 360-degree city views of Surfers Paradise, extending along the golden coastline down to the Queensland–New South Wales border, visit the SkyPoint Observation Deck. To further your experience, challenge yourself to the SkyPoint Climb during the day or at twilight!
Jet Boat Ride
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Buckle up as you speed and swerve on the water’s surface. There are jet boat rides leaving from both Surfers Paradise and Main Beach, delivering all-ages excitement along the sparkling coast.
BOUNCE Gold Coast
Play all day at BOUNCE Gold Coast in Burleigh Waters. Jump, leap, and (of course) bounce to your heart’s content on interconnected trampolines, and play airborne games of dodgeball and basketball.
iFly Indoor Skydiving
Let the weight of the world fall away with iFly Indoor Skydiving. Kit up with a flying suit, goggles, and helmet, then feel the freefall.
ART AND CULTURE
Jellurgal Aboriginal Culture Centre
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To appreciate the Gold Coast’s Indigenous history, visit Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Local art is displayed at their Aboriginal art exhibit. Book a Jellurgal Walkabout Tour for a guided walk along the coastal rainforest walkway, as your guide unveils the Aboriginal history and culture of this incredible landscape.
HOTA
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HOTA truly is the ‘Home of the Arts’ in the Gold Coast, from cinema screenings to art exhibitions. Little ones will love hands-on ArtLab workshops, while art aficionados can browse the gallery and settle into the theatre for a live show.
The Australian Outback Spectacular
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Combine dinner and a show at the Australian Outback Spectacular, with a three-course meal and drinks included. This captivating story of two Aussie farmers is told through impeccable stagecraft and special effects, with horses, cattle, camels, sheep, dogs, and chickens playing roles in the production.
ArtVo
ArtVo features 14,000m2 of hand-painted murals and optical illusions. Round up your friends or family, strike a pose, and make sure to bring a phone or camera to capture the fun!
NATURE AND WILDLIFE
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
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Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has an impressive variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles for animal lovers to adore. Daily shows include an Aboriginal Culture Show, Pelican and Eel Show, and Wildskies, where you’ll be wowed by some of Australia’s most beautiful birdlife. Book in an encounter or experience, including Breakfast with Koalas, a behind-the-scenes tour of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or their TreeTop Challenge.
Paradise Country
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Nestled amongst the theme parks, Paradise Country is a wildlife park offering unique Aussie experiences, from pony rides and koala photos to gold panning and tractor rides. It’s not uncommon to see baby animals, while Shaun the Sheep is often spotted walking around and at his daily show. (Special tip: with G’day Parks, you can even stay overnight at Paradise Country on a site or eco tent!)
Hike the National Parks
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The Gold Coast Hinterland is brimming with natural treasures; explore Springbrook National Park, Lamington National Park, and Tamborine National Park for lush rainforests, rushing waterfalls, and distant green hills. Burleigh Head National Park is perched on the coastline, leading from the rainforest to the foreshore with ocean views.
Thunderbird Park
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Family fun awaits at Thunderbird Park! Walk the Treetop Challenge, or zipline through the trees across Cedar Creek Canyon. Experience Oz also packages this experience with a 4WD tour. A daily bird feeding session at 2pm attracts Albert’s Lyrebirds, bowerbirds, butcher birds, wedge tailed eagles, and rainbow lorikeets.
Waterfalls
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The hinterland has its fair share of beautiful waterfalls to explore. Visit Twin Falls, Purling Brook Falls, and Warringa Pool in Springbrook National Park, Cougal Cascades in the Currumbin Valley, or Cedar Creek Falls in Tamborine Mountain.
Glow Worm Caves
Tamborine Mountain is home to magical glow worm caves for a once-in-a-lifetime sight. Join an evening tour through the rainforest, including your national park fees, flashlight, and dessert.
Botanic Gardens
Open all year, the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens are an ideal picnic location for all ages. There’s an off-leash area for dogs, and a sensory garden with delights to smell and touch. Stroll along the boardwalks, explore the mangroves, and find a fluttering friend in the native butterfly garden.
Cruise the Canals
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Hop aboard a cruise through the Gold Coast’s waterways. From the landmarks of Surfers Paradise to the sights and wildlife of the canals, there’s so much to see from the ocean point of view. The Aquaduck leaves every day from Surfers Paradise; kids even get to drive the Duck while on the water and collect their Captain’s Certificate!
BEACHSIDE
Surfers Paradise
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Bordered by skyscrapers and the stunning blue ocean, this iconic sandy stretch is a must-see in the region. Pack your picnic or pop into Cavill Lane for takeaway after a big day of surfing, swimming, shopping, and exploring. Many activities are based in or depart from Surfers Paradise, so it’s bound to overlap with your other city adventures.
Gold Coast Beaches
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Swim and surf your troubles away on the Gold Coast’s blue and gold beaches. From Tweed Heads on the Queensland–New South Wales border all the way up to Main Beach, there’s swimming, snorkelling, and sailing waiting for you. Bring your towel, buy an ice cream cone, and enjoy takeaway for dinner as the sun sets over the waves—whether it’s Mermaid Beach, Coolangatta, Broadbeach, or South Stradbroke Island.
Learn to Surf
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Surfers are a fixture along the Gold Coast, and you could become one of them. If you’ve always wanted to hang ten, lessons take place from Surfers Paradise to The Spit at Main Beach. Learn the tips and tricks to catch a wave and begin your surfing journey on the picturesque coast.
Whale Watching
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From June to October on the Gold Coast, the mid-morning is your best chance to spot a migrating whale. Why not book a dinner cruise or multi-hour whale watching tour from Surfers Paradise or Sea World?
Walk the Gold Coast Oceanway
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A 36-kilometre-long series of pathways lines the coast, ripe for walking and bike riding. Whether you’re up for a leisurely stroll in the fresh air or pounding the pavement on a morning run, the Gold Coast Oceanway is a great way to combine fitness with views.
GOLD COAST EVENTS, SHOPPING, AND DINING
Markets
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Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets are held on the foreshore every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday night (4pm to 9pm). It’s free to enter, so you can spend generously on the talents of local artists, growers, and creators. Enjoy live music, food stalls, kids’ activities, and unique Gold Coast souvenirs. In the mornings, hit up the Palm Beach Farmers Market every Saturday from 6am to 11.30am, or the Sunday Beachside Art and Craft Markets, hosted at Broadbeach, Coolangatta, and Burleigh Heads on rotating weekends.
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre
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For retail therapy, look no further than Pacific Fair Shopping Centre in Broadbeach, where palm trees and shallow ponds give the centre a relaxed feel. From luxury to lifestyle brands, Pacific Fair has more than 400 stores, plus delicious eateries for a mid-shop feed. You can also find popular brands and a cinema at Australia Fair in Southport.
High Tea
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Add a touch of indulgence to your getaway by treating yourself to high tea. There are many elegant hotels and restaurants dotted along the coast, so research their menus to find one that takes your fancy. Our suggestion? Le Jardin at the Imperial Hotel has an impressive range, from kids’ options to their luxury Couture High Tea.
Miami Marketta
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Packed with food stalls, trendy bars, and live music, Miami Marketta is a feast for the senses. This night market opens from Wednesday to Saturday from 5pm, and it’s also home to select ticketed events. Sample global cuisines alongside local wines and beers for a laneway dining experience like no other.
STAYS
G’day Parks is lucky to have four brilliant parks only a short distance from the Gold Coast’s attractions. They’re all winners, so you can’t go wrong!
Nobby Beach Holiday Village
Nobby Beach Holiday Village, in the centre of the Gold Coast, welcomes families, couples, and groups looking for excellent, affordable accommodation.
The park provides access to an unparalleled mix of sun-soaked beaches, thrilling theme parks, excellent shopping, world-class surf breaks, and local restaurants and bars, plus close access to a breathtaking tropical hinterland.
Ashmore Palms Holiday Village
Just a short drive from the world-renowned attractions of Surfers Paradise, Ashmore Palms Holiday Village boasts quality accommodation and fantastic resort facilities for the whole family, including lagoon swimming pools, a tennis court, BBQs, and a playground in a relaxed caravan park with resort-style comfort.
Pyramid Holiday Park
Tweed Heads is a self-driving family holiday mecca on the far northern coast of NSW, offering proximity to swimming and fishing at great local beaches, theme parks, World-Heritage-listed rainforests, and shopping and dining experiences.
At the centre of the action is Pyramid Holiday Park, with affordable cabin accommodation and caravan and camping sites.
Paradise Country Farmstay
At Paradise Country Farm Stay, pair your Gold Coast adventure with a wildlife retreat. In-park activities include animal feeding, egg collecting, twilight animal tours, and campfires, plus you can book a package for discounted access to nearby thrills and attractions.
Your site or eco tent is just moments away from theme parks, as well as the Gold Coast's famous sand and sun.
Inspired by this ultimate list of Gold Coast things to do and enjoy?
From the thrill of theme parks to the golden sand of Surfers Paradise, the Gold Coast is a destination like no other. Add a dash of sunshine to your next trip and book your dream holiday to the Gold Coast today!
