🗺 Tourism Information
Located on the sun-drenched coastline of southeast Queensland, the Gold Coast is one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations, with its unique combination of world-famous beaches, exciting attractions, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle. It is also now grown into Australia's sixth-largest city.
Stretching for more than 57 kilometres along the Pacific Ocean, the region is renowned for its golden sandy beaches, excellent surfing conditions, vibrant dining scene, and year-round subtropical climate. In addition, it is easily reached via Gold Coast Airport or by road and rail from Brisbane in around one hour driving and two hours if taking the train from Brisbane Airport.
You can explore beautiful beaches such as Burleigh Heads, Coolangatta, Broadbeach and Currumbin, enjoy scenic walks through Burleigh Head National Park, or venture inland to discover the rainforests, waterfalls and walking trails of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rainforests.
The Gold Coast is Australia's premier destination for pristine beaches, surfing and outdoor water activities! 
As well, it offers World Heritage UNESCO rainforests, abundant waterfalls, and beautiful picturesque scenery to admire, hike, and explore. The region is home to Australia's largest collection of major theme parks, including Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Dreamworld and Wet'n'Wild, making it especially popular with families.
The Gold Coast is also a paradise for thrill-seekers, thanks to its many world-class theme parks and adventure attractions. These make it an ideal destination for families, groups of friends, couples, and anyone looking for excitement, speed, adrenaline, and unforgettable experiences. The Gold Coast offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, modern attractions and the laid-back Australian coastal lifestyle, waiting to be explored!
The Gold Coast enjoys a pleasant subtropical climate throughout the year.
Summers, from December to February, are hot, somewhat humid and ideal for beach and relaxing holidays, with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 26°C and 33°C, while evenings remain comfortably warm at around 20°C to 25°C.
This is the perfect season for swimming, surfing, island cruises and other outdoor activities, although occasional afternoon thunderstorms and tropical downpours can occur.
❗Attention: Remember packing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and plenty of water, as the Australian sun can be extremely strong even on partly cloudy days!
Winters, are from June to August. It is the most pleasant time to visit the region for comfortable outdoor activities. Waters may be more fresh, but if you do not mind that at the beginning beaches are still popular to visit and people often still swim.
Daytime temperatures generally range between 18°C and 25°C, with cooler mornings and evenings of around 12°C to 15°C. Rainfall is lower than during summer, skies are often clear and humidity is much lower, creating excellent conditions for sightseeing, hiking in the nearby hinterland, visiting theme parks or enjoying coastal walks.
The Gold Coast experiences over 300 sunny days each year! Regardless of the season, ultraviolet radiation in Australia is among the highest in the world, so applying high-factor sunscreen and wearing sun protection is highly recommended.
With more than 300 sunny days each year, the Gold Coast is a perfect destination for travellers seeking blue skies and warm weather. However, the Australian sun can be extremely strong, so visitors should take precautions by using sunscreen, wearing a hat and staying hydrated while enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities! When arriving at Gold Coast Airport, (the closest airport to the beaches) you can board the frequent Translink bus number 777 connecting the airport with major coastal destinations. The trip takes 30min and only costs AUD$ 0.50! You can also ride the bus to the final destination at Broadbeach South, where you can connect to the tram which goes along the entire Gold Coast. (from 2026 extended to Burleigh Head Station.
The G:Link tram provides frequent connections along the entire Gold Coast! If you opt to travel from Brisbane Airport (or the city) you can use the Airtrain to Helensvale Station before transferring to the G:link light rail tram, which serves many of the Gold Coast most popular locations and beaches. The trip from Brisbane Airport would take about 2 hours.
The Gold Coast is also connected via regional trains from Brisbane to Helesvale. Once in the Gold Coast, the city's public transport system is operated by Translink and consists of the modern light rail trams and buses. The G:link light rail is the most convenient way to travel between Helensvale, Southport, Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads, while buses extend services to beaches, shopping centres, theme parks and surrounding suburbs. Each trip is only AUD$ 0.50! You can pay with contactless card or phone or the Tramslink card. (Day passes are capped at AUD$ 1.50).
For tram station information and the maps visit: Ridetheg.com.au.
Busses around the Gold Coast depart every 20-30min, while the airport express bus 777, is every 15 min on peak times. The Gold Coast is better known for its outdoor experiences than its historical landmarks, it has a rich Indigenous heritage dating back thousands of years as the traditional land of the Yugambeh people.
Today, visitors come to enjoy over 57 kilometres of golden beaches, world-class surfing, vibrant waterfront dining, bustling markets and a subtropical climate that encourages outdoor activities throughout the year. Beyond the coastline, the nearby UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforests, waterfalls and mountain villages provide a striking contrast to the city's beaches, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting and scenic drives.
The Gold Coast is also famous for its collection of major theme parks, making it one of Australia's top family holiday destinations.
Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, nature or family-friendly attractions, the Gold Coast offers an unforgettable blend of coastal beauty, modern facilities and the laid-back Australian lifestyle!
Below are some of the highlights of what to see and do while on your trip in the Gold City!
Surfers Paradise, (neighbourhood and Beach): Surfers Paradise is famous for its long stretch of golden sand, modern skyline and lively atmosphere. The area combines a world-class surfing beach with shopping, dining, entertainment and nightlife, making it a popular destination for families, couples and solo travellers.
The neighbourhood offers plenty to see and do both day and night. Visitors can relax on Surfers Paradise Beach, stroll along the beachfront promenade, browse the shops and restaurants on Cavill Avenue, or enjoy panoramic views from the SkyPoint Observation Deck (see more below).
Surfers Paradise is the highlight of any trip to the Gold Coast! 
It is the ideal location, for leisure, shopping, and entertainment. 
After sunset, Surfers Paradise becomes the most lively place. SkyPoint Observation Deck: Located at the top of the iconic Q1 building in Surfers Paradise. Rising approximately 230 metres above the beach, it offers spectacular 360-degree views of the city's skyline, golden beaches, lush hinterland, and the Pacific Ocean. Its central location makes it an easy stop while exploring Surfers Paradise and the surrounding attractions.
Admission to the Observation Deck starts from approximately AUD $33 for a fixed-date adult ticket. Buying online via booking agents will offer cheaper prices.
With a prime location, the Q1 building offers a great opportunity to see the entire Gold Coast! 
At the top of floor 77 is a large cafe and a 360 view! 
Spend as much time as you lilke at the top admiring the views. Coolangatta Beach & Kirra Beach: Located on the southern end of the Gold Coast. They are known for their relaxed atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and excellent surfing conditions. Both beaches are connected by a scenic oceanfront walkway, making it easy for visitors to explore the area on foot.
The main attraction here, is relaxing on the wide sandy beaches, swimming in the calm waters, watching surfers tackle the famous waves at Kirra, and enjoying the coastal walking paths that offer beautiful ocean views. Visitors can also explore nearby cafés, restaurants, beachfront parks, and lookouts such as Kirra Hill Lookout.
Other beaches: Rainbow Bay and Currumbin are popular for swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and watching the sunrise, while Tallebudgera Creek provides calm waters that are ideal for kayaking, families, and snorkelling.
Burleigh Head National Park: is one of the Gold Coast's most iconic natural attractions, located 15 Km south of Surfers Paradise. You can access there with the tram.
Walking to the national park is short and easy. The park offers a peaceful escape from the city's busy beaches while remaining easily accessible. Entry to the park is free!
The park is best known for the Oceanview Walk, a picturesque coastal trail that winds around the headland, providing spectacular views of the coastline, rocky cliffs, and the sparkling ocean. Along the walk, visitors could often spot migrating whales during the winter months, as well as dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of native birdlife. You can also enjoy swimming and surfing at nearby Burleigh Heads Beach, have a picnic overlooking the ocean, or simply watch the sunset from the grassy headland.
Burleigh Head National Park is an easy short hike. 
In the Winter months you can be lucky to spot migrating whales! 
The National Park offers a respite from the sun too ideal for picnics and seeking shade. ✔️Tip: After the park, visit the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Located at the base of the National Park in Burleigh Heads, the Cultural Centre is the region's only dedicated Aboriginal centre, offering visitors an insight into the history, culture, and traditions of the local Yugambeh-speaking people. Explore the art gallery, authentic Aboriginal artefacts, and informative displays. Entry to the cultural centre is free, while guided cultural tours are available for an additional fee.
There is also a shop and art works available for sale! 
Inside you will find authentic aboriginal artefacts, and informative displays! 
The cultural centre is only a few minutes walk after you come down from the National Park. Gold Coast Theme parks, the Gold Coast region is Australia's theme park capital, offering some of the country's biggest and most exciting family attractions. Located mainly in the northern suburbs between Oxenford and Main Beach, these parks attract millions of visitors every year with world-class roller coasters, live entertainment, marine animal experiences and family attractions. The main ones are:
Warner Bros. Movie World is located in Oxenford, around 25 km north of Surfers Paradise. Often described as "Hollywood on the Gold Coast," the park features some of Australia's best roller coasters, including the DC Rivals HyperCoaster, Superman Escape, and the new Wizard of Oz precinct. Single-day tickets generally start from AUD $99 when booked in advance.
Sea World is located at Main Beach, just a few minutes north of Surfers Paradise. Combining a marine park with family rides, it offers dolphin and seal presentations, penguins, sharks, polar bears, and exciting attractions such as the Leviathan wooden roller coaster. Single-day admission also starts from approximately AUD $99 when purchased online in advance.
Gold Coast has the biggest amount of theme parks located all close together! Also in Oxenford is Wet'n'Wild Gold Coast, one of the largest water parks. It features giant water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers and children's splash zones, making it especially popular during the warmer months. Standard admission is usually around AUD 89–99 per adult.
For families seeking a mix of thrill rides and wildlife, Dreamworld is another major attraction located in Coomera, just north of the Gold Coast. The park offers roller coasters, family rides, Tiger Island, native Australian wildlife and seasonal events throughout the year. Adult admission generally starts from around AUD 119, with discounted online tickets often available.
Lastly, visitors looking for a more traditional Australian experience can also visit Paradise Country, situated beside Warner Bros. Movie World in Oxenford. The attraction showcases farm life, sheep shearing demonstrations, wildlife encounters and interactive animal experiences. Entry is typically around AUD 59 with combination tickets available alongside the neighbouring theme parks.
Activities and Fun experiences! The Gold Coast is great for outdoor adventures and sightseeing tours, with many experiences departing directly from Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, or nearby beaches. Whether you want to explore the coastline, enjoy panoramic aerial views, or experience the region's waterways, these activities provide an excellent way to discover the city's natural beauty.
Surf Lessons are available at several beaches including Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, and Coolangatta, all located within 0–30 km of the city centre. The Gold Coast is famous worldwide for its consistent waves, making it an excellent place for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Group lessons usually cost AUD $60–$90 per person, while private lessons are generally AUD $120–$180.
Want to learn how to surf? Here is the ideal place to learn! 
Classes and introduction to surfing are run daily all year round for all ages and levels! Whale Watching Cruises depart mainly from Main Beach Marina, around 4 km from Surfers Paradise. Between June and October, visitors can watch thousands of humpback whales migrate along the Queensland coast, often accompanied by dolphins and sea turtles. Tours usually last 2.5–3 hours and cost approximately AUD $89–$130 per adult.
Gold Coast Canals Cruises operate from Surfers Paradise and Marina Mirage, within 0–4 km of the city centre. These relaxing cruises travel through the famous waterways lined with luxury homes, yachts, and waterfront mansions while offering views of the city skyline. Prices generally range from AUD $35–$60 per adult.
Lime E-Bike Riding, exploring the Gold Coast by Lime e-bike is one of the most enjoyable and convenient ways to experience the city's famous beaches, waterfronts, and vibrant coastal lifestyle. Along the way, riders can stop at golden beaches, enjoy ocean views, visit local cafés and restaurants, or simply soak up the city's laid-back outdoor lifestyle.
Renting a Lime bike is simple through the Lime mobile app. Riders typically pay an unlock fee plus a per-minute riding charge. In the Gold Coast, rides start from AU$1 to unlock plus AU$0.55 per minute, although its cheaper to buy a 30min or 1hour pack via the APP.
Exploring the Gold Coast by Lime e-bike is one of the most enjoyable and convenient ways to experience the city's famous beaches! Jet Boating experiences depart from Main Beach, approximately 4 km from Surfers Paradise. These high-speed rides combine sightseeing with exciting spins, power slides, and fast turns through the Broadwater while passing beaches, islands, and waterfront properties. Most tours cost AUD $75–$95 per adult.
Parasailing is available from Main Beach and Marina Mirage, about 4 km from Surfers Paradise. Participants are lifted high above the Broadwater for spectacular views of the coastline, beaches, islands, and city skyline. Flights usually last around 8–10 minutes, with total tour times of about an hour. Prices range from AUD $95–$130 per person.
Hot Air Balloon Flights usually launch from the Gold Coast Hinterland near Canungra, around 40 km from Surfers Paradise. Sunrise flights offer breathtaking panoramic views of rainforests, farmland, mountain ranges, and the Pacific coastline before concluding with a light breakfast. Prices generally range from AUD $320–$420 per adult.
Scenic Helicopter Flights depart from Main Beach, approximately 4 km from Surfers Paradise. Flight options range from short coastal tours to extended flights over the city skyline, beaches, South Stradbroke Island, and parts of the hinterland. Prices typically start from AUD $95 for shorter flights and can exceed AUD $350 for longer scenic experiences.
Taking a Helicopter flight is a great way to see the Gold Coast from above! Kayaking at Tallebudgera Creek, around 15 km south of Surfers Paradise. The calm, crystal-clear waters are ideal for beginners and provide a peaceful way to explore the creek, mangroves, and nearby Burleigh Head National Park. Kayak hire and guided tours usually cost AUD $30–$80 per person.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding is also popular at Tallebudgera Creek, around 15 km from Surfers Paradise. The sheltered waters make it one of the best paddleboarding locations on the Gold Coast, with beautiful scenery and opportunities to spot fish and seabirds. Equipment hire generally costs AUD $25–$40, while guided sessions are typically AUD $60–$90.
HOTA (Home of the Arts) is the Gold Coast's premier cultural and entertainment precinct, offering visitors a blend of art, performance, nature, and dining in one vibrant destination. The precinct is easily accessible by car, public bus line 731, or via the scenic HOTA Green pedestrian Bridge connecting it to Surfers Paradise.
Visitors can explore the impressive HOTA Gallery, home to world-class exhibitions and one of Australia's largest regional public art collections. The precinct also features cafés, the award-winning Palette Restaurant, rooftop bars with panoramic skyline views.
Entry to the HOTA permanent gallery collection is free, although special exhibitions, cinema screenings, and live performances may require a paid ticket.
To reach HOTA (Home of the Arts) is easy from Surfers Paradise over a connecting bridge or by bus 731. 
Around the area, you will find cafés, rooftop bars with panoramic skyline views and nice walks. 
Entry to HOTA permanent gallery collection is free. The Gold Coast is an excellent base for exploring some of South East Queensland's most spectacular natural landscapes and charming towns. From World Heritage-listed rainforests and waterfalls to coastal villages and mountain retreats, there are numerous guided day tours that allow visitors to experience the region's scenery, wildlife and local culture. You have the option to rent a car or combine some of the destinations with a guided tour which is great to learn more about the natural habitats. The following tours and destinations are within a day trip from the Gold Coast:
Springbrook National Park – 45 km from Gold Coast
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed rainforest, Springbrook National Park is renowned for its ancient forests, dramatic waterfalls, panoramic lookouts and the Natural Bridge rock formation. Popular highlights include Purling Brook Falls, Twin Falls Circuit, Canyon Lookout. Guided day tours typically range from AUD $85–130 per person, with longer combination tours costing more. Tours also stop at the Hinze Dam for photos and toilets.
Springbrook National Park Photo Gallery
Tamborine Mountain – 30 km from Gold Coast
Tamborine Mountain is one of the most popular day trips from the Gold Coast, combining rainforest walks, waterfalls, boutique wineries, local art galleries and the famous Gallery Walk shopping precinct. Visitors can also explore the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk or the Glow Worm Caves (see below), making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and families alike. Full-day guided tours generally cost between AUD $100–160 per person.
Info: The Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves are one of the Gold Coast region's most unique natural attractions, offering visitors the rare opportunity to see hundreds of glowing insects during the day. Tamborine Mountain is located approximately 45 km from Surfers Paradise, the attraction is set within Cedar Creek Estate in a peaceful rainforest environment. Unlike wild glow worm sites that can only be visited after dark, these purpose-built caves allow visitors to experience the magical glow year-round on guided tours. General admission is AUD $29 for adults. Guided tours typically last around 30 minutes, and advance online booking is recommended.
❗Attention: Look out for the time of the tour activities, as those which start in the evening will take you to see the natural glow worms in the nature. These tours will be conducted in small groups, and you will be given a red flashlight to go down the rainforest pathway to the location of the glow worms. However, this is not the cave. The evening tours are performed in the open nature.
Evening tours, also stop over for cake and a hot chocolate before the walk to the worms. 
Evening tours also go to the Tamborine Mountain Glow Worms but they spot the natural ones out in the open. Lamington National Park & O'Reilly's – 90 km from Gold Coast
Lamington National Park offers some of Australia's finest rainforest scenery, with towering trees, abundant birdlife, walking trails and the famous O'Reilly's Tree Top Walk. Visitors can enjoy spectacular mountain views, feed colourful parrots and learn about the area's rich ecological significance. Full-day tours usually cost around AUD $130–150 per person.
Byron Bay – 95 km from Gold Coast
Just across the New South Wales border, Byron Bay is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, surf culture and artistic community. Most tours visit Cape Byron Lighthouse, Australia's easternmost point, together with local beaches, cafés and scenic coastal lookouts. Guided day tours generally start from AUD $100 per person.
Brisbane – 80 km from Gold Coast
Queensland's capital offers a mix of modern city attractions, cultural landmarks and riverside scenery. Popular stops include South Bank Parklands, the Brisbane River, City Botanic Gardens, museums, galleries and Queen Street Mall. Organised sightseeing tours from the Gold Coast typically cost around AUD $100 per person. Alternatively you can also catch the tram to Helensvale, where you switch to the trains which run into Brisbane city centre every 30 minutes. (Total trip duration from the Gold Coast takes 2 hours one way). Want to know more about Brisbane? Check out our travel guide!
Brisbane is Queensland's capital and offers a mix of modern city attractions. 
Check out popular stops in Brisbane like the South Bank Parklands and the Brisbane River. Taking the tram + train to Brisbane from the Gold Coast takes about 2 hours. The Gold Coast offers one of Australia's liveliest nightlife scenes, centred around Surfers Paradise, where bars, pubs, rooftop venues, nightclubs, live music, and late-night restaurants stay busy until the early hours.
Nearby Broadbeach provides a more sophisticated atmosphere with stylish cocktail bars, fine dining, and entertainment at The Star Gold Coast casino. Families can enjoy cinemas at Pacific Fair and Australia Fair, while attractions such as Dracula's Cabaret offer comedy, live performances, and dinner shows.
Night transport is convenient with the G:link light rail, buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services operating throughout the main tourist areas, with selected night services on weekends. The Gold Coast is generally considered a safe destination, although visitors should take normal precautions around busy nightlife districts and beaches after dark.
Surfers Paradise is the centre for nightlife entertainment! 
After sunset the fun is about to begin with numerous bars, pubs and restaurants open until late! Shopping on the Gold Coast ranges from luxury boutiques and designer brands to beach markets and artisan products. Pacific Fair Shopping Centre in Broadbeach is the city's premier shopping destination, featuring international fashion labels, Australian brands, department stores, electronics, and a wide variety of restaurants.
Nearby, Harbour Town Premium Outlets is popular for discounted designer and sportswear brands, while Australia Fair in Southport offers everyday shopping and local retailers.
For boutique shopping, James Street in Burleigh Heads is known for independent fashion, homewares, cafés, and lifestyle stores, while Cavill Avenue in Surfers Paradise is the main tourist shopping street, filled with souvenir shops, surfwear outlets, beach fashion, jewellery, and gift stores. You will find as well a mall right in the centre of the Surfers Paradise called the "Paradise Centre"
Paradise Centre Mall offers local shops, grocery shopping as well as restaurants and cafes in the heart of Surfers Paradise. 
Conveniently located in Cavill Avenue, the Paradise Centre caters for everyday shopping. Popular souvenirs include boomerangs, Aboriginal-inspired artwork, locally made skincare products, macadamia nuts, Australian honey, Tim Tams, kangaroo leather goods, and surf brands such as Billabong, Rip Curl, and Quicksilver.
Visitors can also explore the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets, held several evenings each week, for handmade jewellery, artwork, crafts, clothing, and locally produced gifts. Weekend farmers' markets across the Gold Coast and Hinterland offer fresh tropical fruit, vegetables, cheeses, baked goods, and regional produce, providing an excellent opportunity to sample local flavours while supporting small businesses.
The Gold Coast offers accommodation for every budget, from backpacker hostels to luxury beachfront resorts. Surfers Paradise is the most popular area for first-time visitors, providing easy access to beaches, nightlife, shopping, restaurants, and public transport. However, it is also the most expensive area and at times it can be noisy in the evening due to the nearby pubs, bars and clubs.
Broadbeach offers a quieter atmosphere with excellent dining, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, and The Star Gold Coast, while Burleigh Heads is ideal for travellers seeking a more relaxed beach lifestyle with cafés and scenic coastal walks. Families often choose Main Beach or Southport for their quieter surroundings and attractions.
As of 2026, a comfortable mid-range hotel typically costs around AUD $180–300 per night, while budget hotels range from AUD $100–170, depending on the season. Good-value options include Bunk Surfers Paradise, Mantra on View Hotel, Novotel Surfers Paradise, and Meriton Suites Broadbeach.
Backpackers can find affordable hostels such as YHA Main Beach, BUNK Surfers Paradise, and Tequila Sunrise Hostel. Holiday apartments are extremely popular throughout the Gold Coast, with many offering kitchens and ocean views, while Airbnb provides thousands of apartments, houses, and holiday homes suitable for couples, families, and larger groups.
✔️Tip: Book as early as possible your accommodation to secure the best prices, since it's a busy location year-round. Staying the weekends are considerably more expensive, but if you combine longer stays, it can often benefit the total price.
Most major Hotel chains are present in Gold Coast. 
Surfers Paradise offers the best location, but comes at a much high cost! A stay of 3–5 nights is ideal for exploring the Gold Coast when travelling solo or with friends/couples. But if you are travelling with the family, 4 to 5 nights would be more relaxing. This allows enough time to enjoy its famous beaches, experience the theme parks, visit the lush hinterland, and take part in outdoor activities such as surfing or whale watching.
When visiting the Gold Coast don't miss out these highlights!
• Surfers Paradise & SkyPoint observatory
• Burleigh Heads National Park
• Springbrook National Park
• Tamborine Mountain & Glow Worm Caves
• Theme Parks: Warner Bros. Movie World or Sea World
• Whale Watching (seasonal)
Day and evening time, come to Surfers Paradise and stroll along the Esplanade, one of the must see places whilst in the Gold Coast!
