Gold Coast
Sun-soaked beaches, theme parks, and rainforest hinterland
About Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is Australia's playground — a dazzling stretch of golden coastline flanked by world-class theme parks and a lush subtropical hinterland. With 57km of uninterrupted beaches, 300 days of sunshine a year, and a skyline of glittering high-rises, the Gold Coast draws millions of visitors annually. But beyond the surf and sand lies a surprisingly diverse destination, from the ancient Gondwana Rainforests to buzzing dining precincts and a growing arts scene.
Quick Facts
- Population: 700,000
- Airport: Gold Coast (OOL)
- Time Zone: AEST (UTC+10)
- 57km of coastline
- Known for: Beaches, theme parks, surfing, hinterland
Top Highlights
Surfers Paradise
The Gold Coast's iconic beachfront strip combines golden sand, world-class surf breaks, a vibrant nightlife scene, and the famous Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets operating every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday evening.
Theme Parks
Australia's theme park capital is home to Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, and Wet'n'Wild. From roller coasters to animal encounters, these parks offer entertainment for all ages and are a quintessential Gold Coast experience.
Lamington National Park
Part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, Lamington features ancient Antarctic beech trees, the spectacular Tree Top Walk canopy experience, 160km of walking trails, and vivid subtropical birdlife.
Burleigh Heads
A more relaxed alternative to Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads offers one of Australia's best point breaks for surfing, a headland walking trail through coastal rainforest, and the hip James Street dining and shopping precinct.
Beaches & Surfing
The Gold Coast's 57km of coastline is a surfer's paradise in every sense. From the powerful breaks at Snapper Rocks (host of the world surf league opening event) and Kirra to the gentler waves at Coolangatta and Currumbin, there's a beach for every level. The beaches are patrolled year-round, and the golden sand stretches unbroken from South Stradbroke Island to the NSW border. The Spit and Main Beach are popular for families.
Hinterland Escapes
Just 30 minutes from the coast, the Gold Coast Hinterland rises into lush green mountains and valleys. Tamborine Mountain features artisan galleries, cheese and wine tastings, and the Glow Worm Caves. Springbrook National Park offers spectacular waterfalls, the Natural Bridge rock arch with its resident glow worms, and the Best of All Lookout with views across the caldera to the coast. O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat in Lamington National Park is a beloved family destination.
Dining & Nightlife
The Gold Coast dining scene has matured beyond the typical tourist fare. Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach have become dining hotspots with award-winning restaurants like Rick Shores (Asian-inspired beachfront dining) and The Collective. Broadbeach's restaurant precinct rivals Brisbane's best, while Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach offer buzzing nightlife. The Paddock Bakery and Commune are perfect for the Gold Coast's beloved brunch culture.