Gold Coast Tourism And Travel Guide

Tourism in Gold Coast is a mix of varied experiences, activities and an overall feeling of awe. This diverse city has something to offer to each visitor. From its thrilling water sports to the stunning nightclubs, from the hinterlands surrounding the city to many of the adventure activities in water as well as on land, Gold Coast is sure to leave you spellbound. A year-round destination, Gold Coast can be easily reached by air, road as well as rail. Let us be your travel guide to Gold Coast and give you a sneak peak into what's on offer in this vibrant city. 

By Air:

The Nearest airport to Gold Coast is Coolangatta Airport situated on the border of New South Wales and Queensland. It is located 30 minutes away from Surfer’s Paradise and has connections to all major cities of Australia and a few international connections as well.

By Rail:

Gold Coast does not have its own railway station. Brisbane’s Roma Street and Central Stations are the ones nearest to the Gold Coast. Further, from these stations, you will have to travel by car, bus or coach.

By Road:

Brisbane is the nearest city to Gold Coast which has regular buses and coaches plying. The journey takes about an hour and a half and the buses are pretty comfortable and economical. The Sydney Express Coach, however, takes 14 hours to reach Gold Coast. Other major cities are also connected to Gold Coast by the excellent roadways. You are permitted to drive yourself if you possess an international driving licence.

Getting Around in Gold Coast:

The public transport in Gold Coast is very well connected to all parts of the city. The buses ply at regular intervals round the clock. For the ease of travel, you can purchase a GoCard which can be used on all modes of public transport. Taxis and bikes can also be used to get by in the city.

Gold Coast is known to enjoy over 300 sunny days each year. This translates to the city being a year-round destination. Having said that, since this is such a popular destination for all age groups of travellers, you would do well to avoid the school holiday season in Australia to avoid the crowd of local travellers. Another time to avoid is the Schoolies Week which happens in November and high school grads partying on the beaches may get rowdy. You wouldn’t want to be in the vicinity then.

Peak summer months of November and December may become unbearably hot at times. So if we were to choose, we’d suggest the months of April and May which will be moderately pleasant and you can avoid the local crowds and get great deals on accommodation, as this happens to be the shoulder season.

Theme Parks:

Known to host the largest theme parks in the entire continent, your trip to Gold Coast will surely be incomplete without visiting them. The theme parks guarantee an entire day of fun and frolic for the entire family. Take your pick between the thrilling rides of Dreamworld, the Movie Parade at Warner Bros Movie Worlds, the Oceanariums of Sea World or the zipping water slides of Whitewater World. All theme parks have rides, shows and a number of restaurants and souvenir shops.

Surfing:

If you haven’t gone surfing at Surfer’s Paradise, you’ve surely not been to Gold Coast. Hop onto your surfboard and ride a few waves as you feel the adrenaline pumping in those veins. Fret not if you aren’t a trained surfer, lessons can be taken at the beach. If you aren't a surfer, you can always indulge in a host of other water sports at the beach.

Hot Air Ballooning:

Seeing the sunrise on this beautiful city from up above will surely be a mesmerising experience. Hot Air Balloon Gold Coast offers these rides in the early mornings. An optional tour of a winery and a breakfast can be added to your ride. The ride lasts for approximately 30-45 minutes and is one that shouldn’t be missed.

Nightlife:

The nightlife in this upscale city is like none other. Many people come into the city to enjoy its crazy partying scene. For the best experience, head to Orchard and Cavill Avenues which have the city’s best nightclubs, each with their own unique feel.

Dracula’s:

Probably the oldest continuously running cabaret show in all of Australia, the show will surely make for an evening to remember. The sexy raunchy take on horror is sure to grab your eyes and keep you entertained all night long. Club it with their stand up comedy and live performances as you sip a nice glass of Australian wine; you’re set for a memorable night.

Hinterlands:

If the Glitz and Glamour of the city make you want to take a break from the fast-paced life, take a trip to the Hinterlands. The trip will take you through lush greens, scenic hills and give you spectacular views of nature at its best. Easily accessible by car or coach, take in the mesmerising beauty of the cascading waterfalls. Or get awed by the beautiful glow worm caves. Horse Riding and taking a dive in the rock pools is also an option.

Head to Commune for breakfast. It operates meat-free on Mondays and a must-have dish is the Corriander and corn fritters with their in-house chilli jam. For a hearty lunch with a laid-back seating, the Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Life Saving Club is the place. With a child-friendly menu including fish n chips, burgers and salads, a meal here will surely give you the true feel of a vacation. Grab your dinner at the Night Quarter Markets which have over 60 food stalls to leave you spoilt for choice. Make this into a fun activity with all the other shopping and art stalls also on display. The entry to the market is $3 per person with children under 12 being given a free entry.

While Gold Coast is not the place to head to for a shopping spree, you can still find some amazing wares on sale. The Carrara Markets cover a large area hosting over 400 stalls selling handicrafts, clothes, foods, and lifestyle accessories. You might even get some great souvenirs here. For branded shopping, we suggest you head to the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre which has over 400 stores included most of the iconic brands. At Harbour Town Outlet Shopping Centre, you may come across some great deals at the factory outlets of major brands.