Known for its endless summer vibe and good feels, the Gold Coast is a tourist playground with lots of sparkle.
With its world class surf beaches and surfing history, it’s fitting it is home to Queensland’s only surfing museum.
It’s also known for its iconic Meter Maids, who topped up meters wearing gold bikinis.
Attractions
Golden beaches that seem to stretch forever plus exciting theme parks with rides that get the adrenalin pumping, are just some of the drawcards for holidaymakers.
Add in a mild climate and heaps of sunny days, a rainforest hinterland to wander in, good cycling and walking trails and you have a perfect holiday destination.
For family fun visit Dreamworld, Seaworld, Wet n Wild Water World and Movie World, get up close to the birds at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary where rainbow lorikeets love to be fed. For the best birds’ eye view of the Gold Coast head to the Q1 building. It’s also a great place to learn to surf and the Outback Spectacular show inspires the Aussie spirit.
Stay
There’s heaps of accommodation on the Gold Coast that stretches 66 kms from the NSW border almost to Brisbane.
High rise apartments line the beaches, along with resorts, hotels and motels with Surfers Paradise, the capital of the area.
There’s accommodation at Seaworld and luxury hotels such as Q1 Gold Coast and the upmarket Palazzo Versace. The Gold Coast Big 4 is perfect for families with cabins, camping and motel rooms plus swimming pool and tennis courts.
The 56 suite five-star Darling hotel completes the total overhaul of The Star casino and The Star Grand hotel.
Dine
The Gold Coast is emerging as a food and wine haven with new hip restaurants popping up bringing tempting new tastes.
Broadbeach has lots of eateries including Social Eating House and Bar and for Japanese it’s Etsu Izakya at Mermaid Beach.
Labart, a sleek restaurant at Burleigh Heads, Glass Dining at Main Beach and Lost Palm Brewing Company at Miami also have a following. Fancy Italian? Balboa serves Italian inspired dishes at its Palm Beach restaurant.