Top 30 Things to See and Do on the Gold Coast

Published
21 Jan 2025
Image credit
Tourism and Events Queensland

 

Whether you’re heading north to catch the sun and waves or fulfilling a promise to take your kids on a theme-park getaway, the Gold Coast is a certified holiday destination for good reason! Known for beaches and thrills, it’s also home to countless nature activities, delicious dining, and cultural experiences. We’ve compiled a handy list of things to see and do—not to mention superb G’day Parks to make your stay extra special. 

THRILLS

Warner Brothers’ Movie World

 

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

 

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 there are plenty of thrill rides (like the Leviathan and Vortex) for adventurous folks.

Wet’n’Wild

 

On sunny days, hit the slides at 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

 

Dreamworld has a reputation for the greatest thrills. 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) the ground. 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 alive. For combined entry into Dreamworld, WhiteWater World, and the SkyPoint Observation Deck, visit Experience Oz.

 

G’DAY REWARDS MEMBERS GET UP TO 10% OFF EXPERIENCES WITH EXPERIENCE OZ.

SkyPoint Observation Deck

 

For 360-degree 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 Boating

 

Buckle up as you speed and swerve on the water’s surface. There are jetboating experiences 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

 

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 beachside rainforest walkway, as your guide unveils the Aboriginal history and culture of this incredible landscape.

HOTA

 

HOTA truly is the ‘Home of the Arts’, 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

 

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, 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

 

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, or their TreeTop Challenge.

Paradise Country

 

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 on a site or eco tent!)

Hike the National Parks

 

The Gold Coast Hinterland is brimming with natural treasures; visit Springbrook National Park, Lamington National Park, and Tamborine National Park for vibrant 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

 

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

 

The hinterland has its fair share of beautiful waterfalls. 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. There’s an off-leash area for dogs, and a sensory garden with delights to smell and touch. Stroll along the boardwalks, inspect the mangroves, and find a fluttering friend in the native butterfly garden.

Cruise the Canals

 

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

 

Bordered by skyscrapers and the stunning blue ocean, this iconic sandy stretch of paradise is a must-see. 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 adventures.

Beaches

 

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, or Broadbeach.

Learn to Surf

 

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

 

From June to October on the Gold Coast, the mid-morning is your best chance to spot a migrating whale. Why not book a multi-hour whale watching tour from Surfers Paradise or SeaWorld?

Walk the Gold Coast Oceanway

 

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 sun or pounding the pavement on a morning run, the Gold Coast Oceanway is a great way to combine fitness with views.

SHOPPING AND DINING

Markets

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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, 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 the region’s quintessential beaches, as well as its theme parks.

Add a dash of sunshine to your next trip and book your dream holiday to the Gold Coast today!