Long sandy beaches, inland canals, theme parks and ancient rainforests sum up the Gold Coast. The Gold Coast region is located at the most south-eastern part of Queensland, 66km south of Brisbane.
Busier than its northern counterpart, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast is home to an array of suburbs, from bustling Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach to the more laidback Currumbin and Coolangatta.
Gold Coast beaches
Did you know? There are over 20 beaches along the 70km coastline, starting at the Spit in the north and Snapper Rocks in the south. On Gold Coast beaches, you'll find surfers, families, and all those in between. There's a beach for everyone, no matter what you're into.
Best beaches for surfing
Part of the World Surfing Reserve, Burleigh Heads attracts surfers from all over the globe. Snapper Rocks, home to the annual Quiksilver Pro surfing competition, is also a great place to catch a wave or two.
Best beaches for a family day
Coolangatta Beach is the perfect place to take your family for a swim. This north-facing beach is patrolled by lifeguards every day of the year. The calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek are another top pick for parents, with plenty of sand and shade for a picnic too!
Best beaches for escaping the crowds
Kirra Beach is a local favourite, with its clear waters feeling a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Froggies Beach is as secluded as you're going to get on the Gold Coast, sheltered from both the elements and the crowds.
Things to do with kids on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is home to some of the largest theme parks in Australia. Experience thrilling rides and a tiger sanctuary at Dreamworld, meet stars and superheroes at Movie World and get close-up to marine life and watch live shows at Sea World. There's something for everyone in the family!
If you've got a little animal-lover in the family, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is the place to be. Start the day by checking out the resident animals, before being amazed at all the live shows on offer. Next, get up close and personal with koalas, then visit the wildlife hospital and learn about what it takes to be one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the world.
For unbeatable, 360-degree views of the Gold Coast, you can't go past SkyPoint Observation Deck. Holding the title of Australia's highest external building walk, SkyPoint Observation Deck is a must-do attraction for the whole family.
Free Gold Coast activities for kids
Less than an hour inland lies the picturesque Gold Coast hinterland, with both Lamington National Park and Springbrook National Park at your disposal. Take the kids up to Natural Bridge or challenge the family to the Twin Falls hike. Cool off with a dip in Cedar Creek Falls followed by a picnic beside the creek.
The Currumbin Rock Pools are a well-kept secret on the Gold Coast, located just a 15-minute drive away from Currumbin Beach. Bring a floatie, a picnic rug and your favourite snacks and spend the day away from the hustle and bustle.
For rock pools that are a little more manmade, the Broadwater Parklands are packed with things to do to keep the kids entertained for hours.
Where to eat on the Gold Coast
Gold Coast restaurants with a view
For endless ocean views, it's hard to look past Cooly Breeze Rooftop Restaurant & Bar. This trendy restaurant brings the Mediterranean to the Gold Coast, while keeping a focus on locally sourced and produced ingredients.
Edgewater Dining & Lounge is one of the Gold Coast's most favoured waterfront dining destinations, serving up modern Australian cuisine with views to match.
Hidden gems on the Gold Coast
Le Jardin Cafe sits among the leafy trees and will have you feeling like you've stepped onto the streets of Paris. Enjoy hot coffee and specialty French pastries as you watch the world go by.
Tucked away down a quiet alley, you'll find Fig and Frankie's, an ambient tapas bar serving up coastal-inspired fare through their à la carte menu, with the option of chef's banquets if that's more your style.
Tide Bar and Kitchen combines fresh seafood with classic Thai culinary traditions for a feast that is both innovative and modern. This highly-rated restaurant has rave reviews, and it's not hard to see why.
Casual dining on the Gold Coast
Dalas Kitchen, with locations in Nobby Beach and Palm Beach, is the Gold Coast's only gourmet salad bar and offers an impressive range of salads, soups and sandwiches. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy lunch or catering for a team, Dalas Kitchen has you covered.
Sogno Italiano serves up authentic Italian courses in a relaxed Burleigh Waters setting. There's something for everyone, from fresh pastas to traditional pizzas.
Best time to visit the Gold Coast
The sub-tropical Gold Coast is aptly named, with around 300 days of sunshine every year.
From swimming and surfing in the summer to whale-watching in the winter, there's no bad time to visit the Gold Coast.
In the summer, temperatures range from a balmy 20-29°C, with water temperatures ranging from 24-28°C.
While Gold Coast locals might call it freezing, winter temperatures range from 11-22°C, with the mercury dropping a few degrees up in the hinterland.
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