What to do in Gold Coast

Activities, attractions and tours
Gold Coast
Coolangatta showing a high-rise building, a city and general coastal views
Gold Coast
Gold Coast
Gold Coast

Gold Coast Tourist Attractions & Activities

You don’t have to travel too far from home to find a holiday destination that’s just right. Pack your bags for a getaway to the Gold Coast, a beach-front region in Queensland known affectionately as “Goldie”. There are plenty of sun-drenched things to do in Gold Coast—from surfing and snorkelling to hiking—plus indoor options like shopping and fine dining. Each district has its own unique atmosphere, and you can see, taste, and do it all. Whether you’re ready to chase waves in Surfers Paradise, itching to make some feathered friends in Currumbin, or anything in between, the travel experts at Expedia.com.au can’t wait to tell you about some fun-filled and awe-inspiring Gold Coast activities. Keep reading!

What to Do in Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise is hands down the most popular place to be in the Gold Coast. Locals and travellers agree that’s because of the beautiful 3-km beach and big-city skyline, which includes the SkyPoint Observation Deck—a 230-m-high platform on level 77 of the Q1 Building. Climb to the top and take a look around the 360 degree views covering the city, surf, hinterland and everything in between. Can you see the theme parks from there? This is the “Theme Park Capital of Australia”, after all. Get your kicks on the coasters of Movie World, meet some marine life at Sea World, and slide the day away at Wet’N’Wild water park. The thrills are endless in Gold Coast.

When you’ve had your fun and you’re ready for a walk on the quiet side, trek into the lush hinterlands for a hike through Lamington National Park, located on the south side of the Goldie. Besides the secluded scenery, this smashing natural reserve is home to extensive walking trails, waterfalls, and a kingdom of colourful wildlife. Speaking of wildlife, don’t miss your chance to meet and learn more about Australia’s indigenous creatures at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Yes, you can get cuddly with a koala and even sponsor a rescued animal. Crikey, that sounds like fun!

There’s plenty more fun where these activities came from. All these and more great Gold Coast attractions await along one of Australia’s most beloved shorelines for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. Book your holiday to Queensland’s glittering southeast coast with Expedia.com.au and get ready for waterfront fun and hinterland beauty. Get all your travel details—airfares, accommodation, and activities—booked in one place and save extra money for trotting the globe and cruising the coast.


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Most fun & popular experiences in Gold Coast

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What to do in Gold Coast


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Surfers Paradise showing a city, a sunset and a sandy beach

Surfers Paradise

Cavill Avenue and Home of the Arts are a few top attractions in Surfers Paradise. Hop around the city on the metro at Cypress Avenue Station or Florida Gardens station and check out the area's stunning beaches, luxurious spas and popular shops.

Surfers Paradise
Broadbeach which includes a sandy beach, a high-rise building and skyline

Broadbeach

The stunning beaches, first-class casinos and popular shops are notable features of Broadbeach. Make a stop by The Star Gold Coast or The Oasis while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Broadbeach South Light Rail Station to get around town.

Broadbeach
Coolangatta which includes a high-rise building, a sunset and general coastal views

Coolangatta

The stunning beaches and popular shops are just a few highlights of Coolangatta. Make a stop by Kirra Beach or Coolangatta Beach while you're exploring the area.

Coolangatta
Burleigh Beach showing a high-rise building, city views and general coastal views

Burleigh Heads

A noteworthy feature of Burleigh Heads is its stunning beaches. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Burleigh Beach and Burleigh Head National Park.

Burleigh Heads
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Palm Beach

Palm Beach is known for its pristine beaches, and you can make a stop by Tallebudgera Creek and Palm Beach while in the area.

Palm Beach
Main Beach featuring general coastal views, a skyscraper and a sandy beach

Southport

Beaches, spas and theme parks are some highlights of Southport. Make a stop by Australia Fair Shopping Centre or Broadwater Parklands while you're exploring.

Southport

 

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Day trip destinations from Gold Coast