The Gold Coast, Australia, is renowned for its stunning beaches, thrilling theme parks, and lush hinterland, offering a diverse range of activities for all types of travelers.

Here are 11 of the best things to do in the Gold Coast:

Hit the Beaches: The Gold Coast boasts 57 kilometers of coastline with numerous world-class beaches.
- Surfers Paradise Beach: The most iconic and bustling beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the surfers.
- Burleigh Heads Beach: Known for its relaxed vibe, fantastic surf break, and beautiful headland walk.
- Coolangatta, Greenmount, and Rainbow Bay: These southern beaches offer more sheltered swimming conditions, ideal for families.
Immerse Yourself in Theme Park Thrills: The Gold Coast is Australia’s “Theme Park Capital” and a must-do for families and thrill-seekers. Consider a multi-day pass to get the most value.
- Warner Bros. Movie World: Experience Hollywood glamour with movie-themed rides, stunt shows, and character meet-and-greets.
- Sea World: A marine animal park with animal exhibits (dolphins, seals, sharks, polar bears, penguins), educational shows, and family-friendly rides.
- Dreamworld: Australia’s largest theme park, offering a wide array of thrill rides, family attractions, and wildlife experiences including Tiger Island and the Australian Wildlife Experience.
- Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast: A massive water park with exhilarating slides, wave pools, and leisure areas for all ages.
Ascend SkyPoint Observation Deck (and SkyPoint Climb): Located on levels 77 and 78 of the Q1 Building in Surfers Paradise, Australia’s only beachside observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Gold Coast coastline, hinterland, and city. For the adventurous, the SkyPoint Climb takes you even higher, externally scaling the building.
Connect with Wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Get up close with native Australian animals like kangaroos, koalas, emus, and even participate in daily lorikeet feeding. The sanctuary also features a wildlife hospital and various shows.
Explore the Gold Coast Hinterland’s National Parks: Escape the coastal buzz and discover ancient rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, and scenic lookouts.
- Springbrook National Park: Home to the stunning Natural Bridge (known for glow worms at night) and numerous waterfalls like Purling Brook Falls.
- Lamington National Park: Offers extensive hiking trails, ancient trees, and diverse wildlife. Consider the O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk.
- Tamborine Mountain: Features charming villages, wineries, local markets, and easy walking tracks to waterfalls like Curtis Falls. You can also do a Treetop Challenge here.
Go Whale Watching (May to November): During the migration season (May to November), embark on a cruise from Sea World or other operators to witness majestic humpback whales as they travel along the “Humpback Highway.”
Learn to Surf: With so many incredible beaches, the Gold Coast is the perfect place to try surfing. Many surf schools offer lessons for all ages and skill levels, particularly at beginner-friendly spots like The Spit or Burleigh Heads.
Experience a Jet Boat Thrill Ride: For an adrenaline rush on the water, take a jet boat ride from Surfers Paradise. These high-speed adventures involve spins, slides, and maneuvers across the Broadwater.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Flight: See the Gold Coast from a unique perspective with a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Soar above the hinterland with panoramic views of the city skyline and coastline, often followed by a champagne breakfast.
Stroll through Burleigh Head National Park: This small but beautiful national park offers an easy coastal walk around Burleigh Headland, providing stunning views of the ocean, Surfers Paradise skyline, and rocky foreshore. It’s a great spot for whale watching during migration season.
Discover the Gold Coast’s Waterways on a Cruise or Kayak: Beyond the ocean, the Gold Coast has an extensive network of canals and the Broadwater.
- Sightseeing Cruises: Take a relaxed cruise to see the city from the water, passing luxury homes and yachts.
- Kayaking/Snorkeling Tours: Paddle to Wavebreak Island or explore areas like Currumbin Creek or Tallebudgera Creek, often with opportunities to spot marine life.