travel show gold coast

Free Event - Register Now!

Upcoming events, brisbane - friday, 21st & saturday, 22nd june 9:30am - 4:00pm voco brisbane city centre, an ihg hotel, don't see your city listed let us know in the form further down the page.

What is The Greatest Travel Show?

Are you eager to embark on your next adventure? Inspiring Vacations is excited to announce the 2024 return of our popular event, The Greatest Travel Show, coming to a city near you!

We'll be showcasing the world's most iconic destinations with live presentations from our travel experts. It's your opportunity to meet us in person, ask questions, and get inspired to plan your next holiday with the assistance of our travel specialists.

Attendance to our events is free, but please note that spaces are limited, so we encourage you to secure your spot by completing the registration form above. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to give us a call at 1300 88 66 88 or reach out via email at [email protected]. Our team is here to assist you.

We look forward to seeing you there!

About Inspiring Vacations

Inspiring Vacations is a leading, award-winning tour operator dedicated to creating exceptional, value-for-money travel experiences for customers across the globe.  Proudly Australian owned and globally operated, we offer a wide range of tour packages to the world’s most iconic destinations across all seven continents. Our packages are carefully crafted to ensure that each trip is unique and unforgettable, with options ranging from fully guided tours to self-drive adventures, luxury cruises to iconic train journeys, and so much more.

Our head office is in Melbourne and our team of experienced travel experts here and across the globe are here to support you throughout your entire experience. From the moment you book your trip to after you return home – and on your next journey, as so many of our customers travel with us again! – we are here to ensure that your touring experience is seamless, stress-free, and inspiring.

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Gold Coast Look Up Celebration with Will Graham

Gold Coast Marathon – Presented by ASICS Sport & Leisure Expo

24 - 27 July

ANZCVS Science Week 2024

29 - 30 July

The PIE Live Asia Pacific

TSS Foundation Business Breakfast David Crisafulli

Your Local Wedding Guide Gold Coast Expo

6 - 8 August

Australian Cotton Conference

10 - 13 August

HGSA 47th Annual Scientific Meeting

16 - 17 August

SPAR Trade Show

21 - 22 August

SPLASH Trade Expo

Cold Chisel 50th Anniversary Tour “The Big Five-0”

UB40 Red Red Wine Tour with special guest Eagle-Eye Cherry

14 - 16 October

Wounds Australia 2024 Conference

22 November

TSS Foundation Business Breakfast with Perry Cross

5 - 9 December

2024 AASCF Nationals – Cheer & Dance

14 December

Deck the Halls 2024

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Travel Expo Gold Coast

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Travel Expo Gold Coast 2023 happens in Gold Coast, Australia Oct, 2023 focus on Transportation. The cycle of the trade fair is , organize by Flight Centre Limited at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

7 - 7 Oct , 2023

Flight Centre Limited – Organizing 14 Trade Shows or Exhibitions, Conferences and Trade Fairs happenings in .

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AHTE Shanghai

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Northern Gold Coast

Australia’s theme park capital and home to an awe-inspiring stretch of beach, Gold Coast’s northern region is an absolute must.

Central Gold Coast

Home to cute cafes, craft breweries, modern shopping centres and marketplaces, plus some of the best live music venues on the Coast.

Escape the seaside and head to our lush hinterland. Unearth a piece of the city that’s as magical as the sandy coastline that made it famous.

Southern Gold Coast

With a world famous point break, sprawling beaches, the Southern Gold Coast’s laidback vibes is renowned for its casual coastal culture.

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Gold Coast, Queensland

Guide to the Gold Coast

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• Getting to the Gold Coast
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From theme parks to shopping, surfing to ancient rainforest, here’s how to make the most of the Gold Coast.

The Gold Coast's star attraction is its beaches, including the world-renowned stretch of sand at Surfers Paradise. Beyond the beaches, discover laid-back neighbourhoods, a booming culinary scene and the Gold Coast's famous theme parks. And be sure to leave enough time for a trip into the subtropical hinterland for rainforest walks and waterfalls.

The Gold Coast can be reached by international and domestic air travel into two nearby airports.

• Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is 30km (19mi) from the city and services domestic and international arrivals
• Brisbane International Airport (BNE) is 80km (50mi) from the city and services domestic and international arrivals
• Once you have landed at either airport, you can easily hire cars or catch taxis, rideshares and shuttle services to the city centre

The Gold Coast is serviced by a variety of dependable trains, buses, taxis and ferries. When using public transport, be sure to get a go card as this electronic ticket can be used for transport services in South East Queensland.

With about 300 sunny days a year, you're likely to get good weather on the Gold Coast any time you visit. Soak up the tropical rays of summer or enjoy crisp winter days with cooler mornings and evenings. Although the climate here is temperate, expect the hinterland areas to be cooler than the beaches.

• High season: Summer holidays (November to January)
• Low season: Autumn, winter, early spring (March to August)
• Don’t miss: The major events happening in the Gold Coast

Travellers with accessibility needs will love exploring the Gold Coast, which offers a range of accessible accommodation and experiences .

• Arrival: Gold Coast Airport caters to travellers with accessibility needs , including  hidden disabilities .
• Getting around: The G:link tram system is a handy way to travel between key locations, with all services and stations accessible for passengers with limited mobility.
• Accessible experience highlights: Enjoy a day at one of the Gold Coast’s famous surf beaches with complimentary beach wheelchairs and matting , or charter a wheelchair-accessible cruise boat with Pacific Wind .
• Helpful resources: Find accessible facilities with the City of Gold Coast’s detailed mobility maps .

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3 days on the Gold Coast

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16-day family road trip: Gold Coast to Cairns

4-day road trip through Queensland’s Scenic Rim

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The 20 best things to do on the Gold Coast

Whether you're in the mood for relaxing, exploring or partying, these activities have you covered

Photograph: Tourism Australia | Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast

With its golden sands and laid-back holiday vibe, the Gold Coast has always been a favourite destination for those seeking a relaxed seaside escape. However, this famous Queensland holiday spot offers more than just a day at the beach. 

With its rich Indigenous heritage, vibrant markets, heart-pumping adrenaline activities and thriving live music scene, there is plenty to keep you entertained along the coastal strip. For a change of pace, head to the naturally beautiful Gold Coast hinterland where you’ll find an oasis of calm and stunning scenery. Bring your swimsuit and your sense of adventure. It’s time to discover a different side of the Gold Coast.

RECOMMENDED: These are the most luxurious hotels and resorts on the Gold Coast .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do on the Gold Coast

1.  go for a twilight climb at skypoint.

What is it?  At 270 metres above street level, this is one of Australia's highest external building walks and begins on level 77 of Surfers Paradise’s Q1 building. 

Why go?  Trust us, it’s worth facing your fears and swapping the beach for the clouds on a twilight climb.  Upon reaching level 77 and stepping out onto the SkyPoint Observation Deck, y ou'll get to admire stunning 360-degree views of the Gold Coast region, including its golden beaches, city skyline and lush green hinterland. 

2.  Take a stroll in Burleigh Head National Park

What is it? An ocean-facing natural headland featuring two scenic walking tracks through rainforest, mangroves, rocky foreshore and sand. 

Why go? Stretch your legs on the leisurely and flat 1.2-kilometre Oceanview Track, which winds around the rocky headland, connecting Burleigh Head with Echo Beach and Tallebudgera Creek. For a bite more adventure, tackle the 2.3-kilometre Rainforest Circuit. This route rewards you with a climb to the 88-metre summit at Tumgun Lookout, where you can enjoy panoramic views stretching towards Snapper Rocks. Keep an eye out for humpback whales during winter and spring.

3.  Hit the seas with Sun Sailing Gold Coast

What is it? Take to the seas on an intimate excursion aboard this comfortable  38-foot yacht. Husband and wife team, Catherine and Grant (plus their canine companion, Wilson), offer  morning, midday, afternoon and sunset tours for up to ten guests, with bites and bevs included.

Why go? Soak up the sunshine and feel the breeze in your hair as you cruise along the beautiful Gold Coast waterways. Keep your eyes peeled for playful bottlenose dolphins dancing in the crystal-clear waters as you enjoy breakfast on board or sparkling wine and snacks at sunset. 

4.  Explore HOTA Gallery

What is it? A world-class fine art gallery spread across six levels, including a 1,000msq special exhibition space for touring shows, a children's activity zone, and four permanent exhibition floors showing an entertaining and vibrant selection of Australian contemporary art.

Why go? The multi-coloured high-rise building is fun to navigate, offering various views to enjoy as you climb the stairs. The art is equally captivating, with strong collections in 1970s abstraction, ceramics (through the International Gold Coast Ceramic Art Award), photography (through the Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Photography Award) and Indigenous art. Naturally, there is a strain of art inspired by the Gold Coast itself. 

5.  Relax at Native State

What is it? An uber-luxe, European-inspired bathhouse and holistic gym studio that sits on the picturesque shores of Kirra Beach. 

Why go? Find your ultimate state of zen with a sneaky session at Native State. Warm your insides with a ten to 15 minute session in the infrared sauna,  steam room or traditional cedar sauna. Then transition between the heated 37-degree vitality pool and the ice-cold plunge pool. Native State also offers  more than 35 weekly fitness and yoga classes for those who like to stay active on holiday, ranging from strength and circuit training to breathwork and meditation.

6.  Watch the sunset on the beach

What is it? Forget Surfer’s Paradise. The Gold Coast boasts more than 35 beaches spread across 70 kilometres of coastline, offering plenty of secluded spots to watch the sun go down.

Why go? While the Gold Coast’s beaches are beautiful during the day, we think they’re even more magical at golden hour. If you’re hoping to escape the crowds at Main Beach or Surfers Paradise, try the equally majestic Mermaid Beach, Burleigh Heads or Rainbow Bay. Pack a towel and a picnic, and watch as the sky paints the water in vibrant hues of orange, yellow and pink.

7.  Go on a walkabout tour with Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre

What is it? The Gold Coast's only dedicated Aboriginal cultural centre, located at the foot of  Burleigh Head National Park. Their Indigenous guides run  walkabout tours in the national park.

Why go?  Connect with the Gold Coast’s rich Indigenous culture on an engaging two-hour walking tour around the 'Dreaming Mountain', Jellurgal. As you wander along the 1.2-kilometre beachside rainforest walkway, you'll hear Dreamtime stories about the creation of Jellurgal and learn facts about bush tucker, fishing, hunting and  the traditional sites used by the Yugambeh people.

8.  Stay at a luxe resort

• Luxury hotels

What is it? Splash some cash on your next getaway and sample Champagne living, Queensland style.

Why go? You’ll find plenty of glitzy places to stay on the Gold Coast, but our top pick is the five-star Langham hotel .  The three crystalline towers are like jewels in the Surfers Paradise skyline, complete with a health club and day spa, two swimming pools, six dining venues and panoramic ocean views. Further south, you'll also find the brand-new Kirra Point Holiday Apartments . This coastal-luxe accommodation sits moments from the sand offering fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas and uninterrupted ocean views from the expansive balconies.  

9.  Meet animals at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

What is it? A home for native Australian animals – big, small, thriving and endangered – offering exciting daily talks and shows, behind-the-scenes tours and adorable animal encounters. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to one of the world’s busiest wildlife hospitals, caring for more than 12,000 animals per year.

Why go? Make friends with koalas, echidnas, capybaras, reptiles and more at the Gold Coast’s top wildlife sanctuary. Plan your adventure around the free experiences, including rainbow lorikeet feeding and free-flight bird shows. You can even slot in breakfast with the koalas, farmyard encounters or a twilight tour featuring traditional bush tea.

10.  Hit up Miami Marketta

What is it? A live music venue and  hawker-style  street food market in the Gold Coast suburb of Miami.

Why go?  Transport yourself to the bustling back streets of  Thailand, Barcelona or New York City with a visit to this neon-lit open-air night market. The free live music line-up showcases homegrown talents and is just as impressive as the street food line-up, where you'll find food from Japan and Korea to Greece and Spain. Miami Marketta opens Wednesday through to  Saturday from 5pm, with seating for 500 people.

11.  Day trip to Tamborine National Park

What is it? A day trip to the picturesque Gold Coast hinterland.

Why? Mt Tamborine is an easy 40-minute drive from the Gold Coast but feels like a world away. Galleries and cafés line the cute main street, and Queensland’s oldest national park, (Tamborine Mountain National Park) offers impressive views of the distant Pacific Ocean. Stop by Cedar Creek Falls for a swim in the park's  only natural swimming hole and soar high above the canopies on the leisurely 1.5-kilometre Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk.

12.  Hop between the theme parks

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What is it? Australia’s ‘theme park capital’ offers six thrilling parks to suit every thrill-seeker's appetite. 

Why go? If you’re into theme parks then the GC is the place to be. There’s Warner Bros Movie World for buffs, Dreamworld for thrillseekers, Sea World for dolphin lovers, Wet’n’Wild for waterslides and WhiteWater World for – well, more waterslides. Buy tickets online to avoid the queues.

13.  Eat a bug roll at one of the Gold Coast's top restaurants

What is it? T he Gold Coast’s most iconic snack  typically features beer-battered Moreton Bay bug, sandwiched between a soft milk bun with gem lettuce, mayo, lemon and herbs. 

Why go?  You'll be hard-pressed to find a waterfront diner on the Gold Coast that doesn't serve these pint-sized bug rolls. The celebrated Rick Shores in Burleigh serves up arguably the city's most famous version, featuring fried Moreton Bay bug with bug mayonnaise and sriracha. Australia's first floating beach club, La Luna, offers its own twist with sweet and sour sauce, while Broadbeach's  glamorous bar and grill,  Kōst, serves it with their mysterious "signature sauce".

14.  Explore Surf World Gold Coast

What is it? Queensland's only surfing  museum that's home to Australia’s largest surfboard collection and loads of other surfing-based souvenirs.

Why go?  You'll find more than 100 surfboards dating from 1915 to the present at Surf World Gold Coast. This museum takes you back in time with its impressive array of boards, trophies, photographs, clothing and other memorabilia. Exhibitions and events change frequently so you'll never get board (oops, bored). Plus, the terrific gift shop is ideal for those seeking a souvenir that’s a little different. 

15.  Grab a drink at Burleigh Brewery Co.

What is it? A fascinating (and tasty) tour of one of the Gold Coast’s most famous craft breweries.  

Why go? Explore the boutique Burleigh Brewery Co. with a brewmaster to learn the tricks of the trade and drink beers with the guy who created them. You’ll sample four of their most popular beers, like the signature slow-brewed Burleigh Beer. Tours run at 4pm every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

16.  Go on a whale watching cruise

What is it? A chance to see the gentle marine giants from a boat, available from May to October.

Why go? The Gold Coast has one of Australia’s longest whale-watching seasons and offers the chance to see humpback whales and even the occasional orca whale if you’re lucky. Dolphins, flying fish, turtles and sharks are also spotted regularly during these scenic boat tours run by Spirit of the Gold Coast or Whales in Paradise .

17.  Grab a pastry at Bam Bam Bakehouse

What is it? Bam Bam Bakehouse captures the maximalist, fun-loving nature of the Gold Coast in the form of baked goods. 

Why go? Sitting a block back from the crashing waves of Mermaid Beach, the popular bakery and café is all about rich flavours in fun vessels, like their popular, positively oozing Nutella cruffins. Traditionalists won’t be disappointed here, though, with to-die-for almond croissants that they also sell in bake-at-home form. Don’t leave without ordering their luxurious salted caramel eclair, which you can order at the counter, or pre-order for a giant eclair that feeds six people.

18.  Learn to surf with Get Wet Surf

What is it? An award-winning surf school on the Gold Coast.

Why go? The Gold Coast is famous for surfing so you would be crazy not to try it at least once. It’s a fun atmosphere as everyone practices their surf moves on the beach before the instructors charge into the water with the class to help everyone learn how to hang ten. Wetsuit, on.

19.  Take a thrill ride with Jetboat Extreme

What is it?  Hold onto your hats for this thrilling jetboating trip which leaves from Surfers Paradise.

Why go? Get your heart racing with an adrenaline-packed hour spent zipping around sandbars and zooming past pelicans. Hang on tight as the driver cuts across the wake from larger boats, teasing the wheel so the jetboat dances across the waves. 

20.  Stay at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

What is it? A historic guesthouse located in the heart of Lamington National Park.

Why go?  Detox from city stress at this luxury resort in the heart of one of Queensland's most precious natural wonders.  If you prefer to spend your downtime a little more active,  Lamington National Park is filled with walking trails, gushing waterfalls and jewel-bright native Australian birds. Don’t miss the tree treetop canopy walk which has a 30-metre-high observation deck. 

More great things to do on the Gold Coast

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Gold Coast to host Australian Tourism Exchange 2023

The 43rd edition of Australia’s premier tourism event, Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE), will be held on the Gold Coast at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in 2023.

At the conclusion of the ATE22 Live event in Sydney, Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison confirmed next year’s ATE would be held on the Gold Coast, in partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ).

“We look forward to working closely with TEQ to deliver ATE23 on the Gold Coast next year and provide operators with another chance to network and do business with key players around the world,” Ms Harrison said.

“Trade events like ATE are more important than ever for connecting Australian tourism suppliers with international travel wholesalers and retailers to help support the industry’s recovery from the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“The long-term benefits from ATE are substantial – the relationships and future business it establishes can grow Australia’s tourism industry by up to $100 billion.”

“At this year’s ATE in Sydney we were able to welcome back international buyers and sellers for the first time since the pandemic began, and it was an enormous success with around 1,100 buyers and sellers attending the in-person event.”

Queensland Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Gold Coast was one of Australia’s premier conference and holiday destinations.

“The Gold Coast is the perfect destination to remind international travel buyers of the unique, world-class tourism experiences Queensland and Australia have to offer,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“Creating and maintaining strong connections with key overseas tourism decision makers is critical to rebuilding Australia’s international visitor industry.

“The Gold Coast knows how to stage a first-class event, putting the southern hemisphere’s largest international travel event in a safe pair of hands for 2023.”

ATE, which is Australia’s largest travel trade event, is delivered by Tourism Australia to provide tourism operators around the country with the opportunity to meet and do business with international buyers from around the world.

ATE Live was held at ICC Sydney from 15 to 18 May and attracted around 550 international buyers and 550 Australia sellers. ATE Online will run from 24 to 26 May to connect those unable to make it to the live event.

FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES CONTACT: 

Beau Mitchem M: +61 413 254 708  E:  [email protected]

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Gold Coast Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 3, 2023

For most travelers, visiting the Gold Coast means spending time in the most famous city in the area, Surfers Paradise (a name which dates all the way back to 1917). This is a major stop for travelers and backpackers looking to get some sun, surf, and spend time partying.

Surfers (as it’s colloquially known) is a fun place to visit but my advice is to avoid spending a lot of time here and head to some of the better, less crowded cities like Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta instead. When you get out of the city, you get to see a lot of nicer beaches, watering holes, local spots, and places with cheaper prices (and fewer tourists).

This Gold Coast travel guide will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in the popular getaway destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the Gold Coast

Top 5 Things to See and Do on the Gold Coast

1. Learn to surf

It isn’t called “Surfers Paradise” for no reason! Up and down the coast, you’ll find some of the best surfing in Australia . Even if you don’t know how to surf, you’ll be able to find cheap lessons anywhere along the coast. A two-hour group lesson costs around 75 AUD. If you don’t need lessons and just want to surf, you can rent a board for around 60 AUD per day. Rainbow Bay, Greenmount, and Burleigh Heads and some of the best surf spots for beginners in the area.

2. Visit the Q1

Opened in 2005, this supertall skyscraper was once the world’s tallest residential tower (it was the tallest from 2005 to 2011). Today, it’s the 13th tallest residential tower in the world as well as the tallest building in Australia at 322 meters (1,058 feet). For views overlooking the coast, this place can’t be beaten. Admission to the SkyPoint Observation Deck, which offers 360-degree views, is 29 AUD.

3. Explore the hinterland

There is more to the Gold Coast than beaches. Head into the “hinterland” for great rivers, swimming holes, hiking, and parks. During the weekend, you can snap up some local produce at a farmer’s market or tackle one of the many rainforests walks available on Tamborine Mountain. Some suggested hikes include Curtis Falls and Lower Creek Circuit (easy), Knoll Walking Track and Cameron Falls (easy), and Palm Grove Circuit to Jenyns Circuit Loop (moderate).

4. See the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

This massive compound spans almost 70 acres and is home to aviaries, crocodiles, dingos, emus, wombats, and more! A part of the Queensland heritage Register, the sanctuary opened in 1947 and has a mini railway so you can easily explore and navigate the park. A huge free-flying population of lorikeets (colorful parrots) visits daily and you can watch the birds eat and fly around. Admission is 54.95 AUD for adults and 41.95 AUD for kids under 13.

5. Hit the beaches

The region has more than 70 kilometers (43 miles) of fantastic beaches and Surfers Paradise is home to some of the “best beaches in the world” according to some. Popular beaches include Southport, Broadbeach, Nobby’s, and Coolangatta. I personally like Coolongatta the best.

Other Things to See and Do on the Gold Coast

1. walk the burleigh hill.

Make like the locals and stretch your legs along Burleigh’s esplanade before heading around the hill. The track, located halfway between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta, is bordered by lush rainforest on one side and stunning views north to Surfers Paradise and south over Tallebudgera Creek. It takes around 45-minutes to walk (it’s only 2.3 kilometers).

2. Go whale watching

Between June and October, humpback whales make their migratory journey from the Antarctic to warmer waters where they mate and give birth. Later in the season, the whales make their return journey, swimming with their calves beside them. It’s also common to see bottlenose dolphins, huge loggerhead turtles, and orcas. Tours start at about 89 AUD.

3. Experience the nightlife

“The Goldie” is one of the biggest party destinations in Australia. There are countless bars, clubs, and pub crawls here. Surfers Paradise has the biggest nightlife and is where most people party, but Coolangatta is just as good and less touristy (and cheaper).

4. Explore Infinity

If you are looking to do something completely different, check out Infinity Attraction. This mirror and sensory maze is filled with funky music, dazzling lights, sound effects, and mirror illusions. It’s like a super fun carnival maze but way more interactive and high-tech, with 20 different rooms to explore. It’s a good activity to do with kids. Admission is 28.90 AUD.

5. Check out the Currumbin Valley rock pools

At the end of the drive through Currumbin Valley, you’ll find an easy pathway through the rainforest leading you to some rock pools. Fresh mountain water flows over the hills of boulders and it makes for the perfect place to have a swim and cool off (especially in the hot summer months). There are picnic tables, rope swings, bathrooms, and even a snack bar to get something to eat.

6. Hike the Lost World Valley

Although it’s only a short drive from Surfers Paradise, the Lost World Valley is an off-grid, deep-in-the-jungle hiking trail in Lamington National Park, a World Heritage Site that spans 206 square kilometers (80 square miles). At the end of your rainforest trek, you’ll find private swimming holes and waterfalls. There are dozens of hikes here. Some of the most popular are the Coomera Circuit (moderate), Morans Falls (moderate), and the Green Mountains Albert River Circuit Loop (hard).

7. Hang out at Miami Marketta

This diverse food market is home to pretty much every type of cuisine there is. You can find Thai food, tapas, and everything in between. There are also all kinds of events and live music here too (tickets required). The market is open Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 5pm until late. Bring an appetite!

8. Visit the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre

At the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre you can hire an Indigenous guide to lead you through Burleigh Head National Park. You’ll hear traditional stories and learn about the historical sites used by the Yugambeh people, allowing you to connect with some of Australia’s most fascinating indigenous cultures. Walkabouts start at 39 AUD.

9. See Twin Falls

Twin Falls is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in South East Queensland, located in Springbrook National Park. It only takes 15 minutes of hiking to get there, and it’s actually best to visit after heavy rainfall. All you need to do is follow the road through the Settlement Camping area and then just beyond Canyon Lookout for the road leading to the Twin Falls Circuit.

For more information on other cities in Australia, check out these guides:

• Alice Springs Travel Guide
• Brisbane Travel Guide
• Broome Travel Guide
• Cairns Travel Guide
• Fraser Island Travel Guide
• Melbourne Travel Guide
• Perth Travel Guide
• Sydney Travel Guide
• Whitsunday Islands Travel Guide

Gold Coast Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorms with 4-8 beds start at 40-53 AUD per night. There aren’t really any larger dorms here. Private rooms start at 85 AUD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities so you can cook your own food.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot without electricity costs around 30 AUD per night for two people.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 120 AUD, though options are limited for two-star hotels. Expect the standard amenities like Wi-Fi, TV, and AC. Most hotels in the region are three-star and up, costing closer to 200 AUD per night.

For Airbnb, private rooms start at 75 AUD but average closer to 150 AUD per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 150 AUD (though prices average triple that so be sure to book early).

Food – Most meals at a restaurant cost 20-30 AUD. For a three-course meal with a drink, expect to pay around 50 AUD. Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 13 AUD for a combo meal while a medium pizza is 17 AUD. If you want international food like Thai, Chinese, or Indian, meals cost between 15-20 AUD for a main dish.

Beer is around 8-9 AUD while a cappuccino or latte is 5 AUD. Bottles of water cost 2.50 AUD.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay 75-90 AUD per week for staples like pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic foodstuffs.

Backpacking the Gold Coast Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 75 AUD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly free activities like lounging on the beach, swimming, and hiking. If you plan on drinking more, add 10-20 AUD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 225 AUD per day, you’ll be able to stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out most of your meals, do a couple of paid activities (like surfing), take the occasional taxi to get around, and enjoy a few drinks at the bar. You won’t live large but you’ll be comfortable.

On a “luxury” budget of 475 AUD or more per day, you can stay at a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink all you want, do more expensive tours (like whale watching), and hire a rental car to get around. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AUD.

Gold Coast Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

The Gold Coast can be very expensive (it’s a popular tourist getaway after all) to visit. Fortunately, there are still some ways to save here. Here are ways to cut down your costs so you don’t break the bank:

• Free transport – Some accommodation provides free transport to and from the airport. If you are going to Surfers Paradise, they might also pick you up for free at the bus station. Book accommodation with a shuttle to save a few bucks.
• Eat cheap – Eating out can be very expensive; however, there are a lot of sandwich shops around that can keep your costs down. Avoid the sit-down restaurants, and instead, grab a sandwich or some delicious Asian or Indian food (which tends to be a little cheaper).
• Stay with a local – Accommodation on the Gold Coast is pricey. If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host. This way, you not only have a place to stay, but you’ll have a local host that can share insider tips and advice.
• Drink goon (box wine) – Goon is infamous on the Australian backpacker hostel trail. This cheap box of wine is the best way to drink, get a buzz, and save a lot of money at the same time.
• Work for your room – Many hostels offer travelers the chance to work for their accommodation. In exchange for a few hours a day of cleaning, you get a free bed. Commitments vary but most hostels ask you to stay for at least a week.
• Cook your own meals – The best way to reduce your costs is to cook as many meals as possible. Book a hostel or Airbnb with a kitchen so you can save money on food costs. It’s not glamorous but you’ll save a fortune!
• Book tours as a package – This country has a lot of exciting activities and tours that eat into any budget. Booking activities together through a hostel or tour agency may get you a discount and save you hundreds of dollars. Always ask if there are package deals available.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water in Australia is safe to drink. Bring a reusable water bottle with you to save money and lower your plastic use. LifeStraw makes a bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay on the Gold Coast

There are only a handful of hostels along the Gold Coast so be sure to book early. Here are my suggested places to stay at:

• BUNK Surfers Paradise (Surfers Paradise)
• Budds In Surfers (Surfers Paradise)
• Coolangatta YHA (Coolangatta)

How to Get Around the Gold Coast

Buses – Buses can get you just about everywhere you need to go on the Gold Coast. TransLink is the largest public transit operator and has buses that run from the south to the north side of the coast (and beyond). There’s also a NightLink night bus service for buses after midnight.

Fares start at 2.76 AUD and go up depending on how far you travel and whether you’re traveling off-peak or on-peak. Make sure you get a reloadable Go Card to save money as fares are much cheaper with one. Cards cost 10 AUD and are refundable.

Unlimited travel on Translink is 10 AUD per day.

Light rail – G:link, the regions light rail, runs along the Gold Coast highway. You’ll be able to reach all the main tourist spots and the fares are the same as the Translink public bus system. As with the bus, the Go Card will save you money on fares.

Ferries – You can explore the Gold Coast’s waterways (including Stradbroke Island) by using the region’s ferry and water taxi services. The vehicle ferry to Stradbroke Island costs around 88 AUD while the pedestrian ferry is 18 AUD return.

Taxi – Taxis are expensive here and should be avoided. Prices start at 4.50 AUD and go up by 2.50 AUD per kilometer. Skip them if you can!

Ridesharing – DiDi is the main ridesharing app here and is cheaper than taxis.

Bike rental – There are tons of bicycle trails around the Gold Coast! Daily rates per bicycle rental start around 35 AUD.

Car rental – You can get just about anywhere along the Gold Coast via public transit, but if you want to get off the tourist trail or travel inland, having a car rental is ideal. You can find rentals for around 60 AUD per day for a week-long rental.

When to Go to the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is busy year-round thanks to its consistent weather and nearly 300 days of sunshine per year. That’s what makes it such a great place to visit!

One of the best times to visit is near the end of April throughout May because the average daily temperature is between 17-27°C (62-80°F), making it one of the most comfortable times to be here. There aren’t too many crowds during this time and hotel prices are lower.

Mid-November to early December should be avoided if possible due to Schoolies Week, when students and their parents take holidays. The beaches get crowded, as do all the attractions. This extends through summer (which, in Australia, lasts until February). Daily highs hover around 27°C (80°F).

In October there’s the Gold Coast 600 (a car race), which brings in some 200,000 people — with inflated prices to boot. Be sure to book early if you’re visiting during this time.

How to Stay Safe on the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is an incredibly safe place. People are friendly and helpful and you’re unlikely to get into trouble. Violent crime here is rare. Theft is rare but it does occur. When you go to the beach, leave your valuables at home just in case.

Most incidents tend to occur because visitors are not used to the country’s unique climate, so be sure you have plenty of sunscreen and stay as hydrated as possible. If you’re venturing out of the city, be mindful of wildlife, especially snakes and spiders. If you’re bitten, seek immediate care.

If you’re swimming, heed the red and yellow flags. Yellow flags indicate swimming conditions may be dangerous; red flags mean the beach is closed.

Solo female travelers generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web that can help more!

If you’re worried about travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here . There aren’t many in Australia though.

If you experience an emergency, dial 000 for assistance.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Gold Coast Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. Just enter your departure and arrival destinations and it will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost. It’s one of the best transportation websites out there!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Australia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Australia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Sydney

Where to Stay in Brisbane: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Brisbane

The Best Walking Tours in Melbourne

The Best Walking Tours in Sydney

Where to Stay in Melbourne: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Gold Coast

10 BEST Places to Visit in Gold Coast (2024)

South of Brisbane, you’ll find The Gold Coast. This city’s skyscrapers rub shoulders with sun-kissed golden sand beaches and an intricate inland canal system (it actually has more than Venice), giving the city a unique but cool vibe! Head a little out of the biggest city in Australia that’s not a state capital to find an array of theme parks!

In this post, we’ll be taking a closer look at the best places to visit in The Gold Coast. Hopefully, we’ll be able to help you work out how to see The Gold Coast and find activities suitable for you and whoever you’re travelling with! We’ll also help you with where to stay and how to stay safe. What can we say – we want you to have an awesome vacation in The Gold Coast!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Gold Coast:

These are the best places to visit in gold coast, faq on the best places to visit in gold coast, final thoughts.

Surfers Paradise

One of the liveliest neighbourhood in the region, Surfer’s Paradise is our pick for where to stay on the Gold Coast if you’re looking for a great night on the town. Packed with bars and clubs, this neighbourhood really comes alive as the sun goes down.

• Admire ocean views as you drink sophisticated cocktails at Stingray.
• Gaze out 230 meters into the horizon from the SkyPoint Observation Deck.
• Catch a live act at the iconic The Avenue.

Seeing as this city is spread out along 70 kilometres of coastline, there are a lot of accommodation options all over the show! That’s why we’ve put together a guide on where to stay in the Gold Coast . Be sure to check it out so you know you’ve got a place to rest your feet at the end of the day!

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#1 – Dreamworld – Awesome place to visit in the Gold Coast with kids!

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• Visit the biggest theme park in the Gold Coast
• Feel the adrenaline on one of the 5 huge rollercoasters
• See native Aussie animals at the Corroborree section

Why it’s awesome: If you’re travelling kids and are unsure what to do in the Gold Coast, there are plenty of theme parks to help you with that. And Dreamworld is the biggest of the lot! There’s something for kids of all ages. Little ones will love ABC Kids’ World and the DreamWorks experience, complete with characters from Madagascar and other family favourites. Even the most inexpressive teen will have a smile on their face (or maybe they’ll cry) on the likes of the BuzzSaw and the Hot Wheels Sidewinder!

What to do there: Where to start! Obviously, since it’s a theme park you’ll want to try all the cool rides. However, it can get pretty busy so do a bit of research beforehand and make a beeline for your favourites early. You’ll avoid the queues that way! If you get a bit tired of rides, take a break at one of the many places to eat or cafes. The Corroborree part of the park means that you can learn about Aboriginal culture and native Australian wildlife, perhaps even getting a cuddle from a koala!

#2 – Surfers’ Paradise

• The coolest neighbourhood in The Gold Coast
• Catch a wave!
• Have brunch at one of the best places to eat on the Gold Coast

Why it’s awesome: Surfers’ Paradise is the iconic stretch of Australian beach, stretching 3km along the shore of the Pacific Ocean. It’s guarded 365 days a year by lifeguards, so there’s no need to panic about sharks. You’ll get plenty of warning! It also happens to be the coolest area in The Gold Coast – a great place to shop, eat, sleep, and sightsee! After you’ve spent time sunning yourself, swimming, and maybe even tried a surf lesson, head to Cavill Avenue at the heart of the neighbourhood.

What to do there: Let’s start with the beaches. Experienced surfers love it here as there are some great waves. However, it’s not a bad spot for beginners either and if you only surf once in your life it may as well be here! The beach is a wide stretch of golden sand, so it’s also a fantastic spot for jogging or just taking a leisurely stroll. After sunset, Cavill Avenue is where it’s at. Also known as the Glitter Strip, you’ll find some of the best bars, nightlife, and places to eat in the Gold Coast around here! If you want to take your vacation up a notch, you can even charter a yacht from the Gold Coast , which will take you around the best of the Gold Coast waters.

With a Gold Coast City Pass , you can experience the best of Gold Coast at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – A very cool place in The Gold Coast to go for a day

• Get up close and personal with cute Australian wildlife!
• Escape the hustle and bustle of city life
• Snap a selfie with a quokka

Why it’s awesome: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is an iconic wildlife park, easily one of the most famous places in The Gold Coast. You can wander through acres of the Currumbin rainforest petting cuddly koalas and feeding kangaroos along the way. Don’t worry, the crocodiles aren’t kept in open enclosures! It’s the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy and the kids are sure to love it. From a humble sanctuary, Currumbin has added a treetop canopy rope course and a miniature train to make it as fun as possible.

What to do there: You’ve come all the way out to the Gold Coast Hinterland, so you may as well meet the residents! Take part in feeding sessions on rainbow lorikeets and koalas and learn all about unusual animals found nowhere else in the world! If you happen to fall in love with a particularly mischievous marsupial or a boisterous bird, you can continue to support the centre after your visit with their adoption scheme. What’s really awesome is this is a non-profit organisation, and all your money goes back into the centre!

#4 – Sky Point Observation Deck

• Get a unique perspective on one of Australia’s most recognisable skylines
• Try the highest external building climb in Oz
• One of the coolest attractions in The Gold Coast

Why it’s awesome: The Gold Coast has one of the most iconic skylines in Australia, but have you thought about what it looks like from the top of one of the skyscrapers? Well, if you have just head to the Q1 Building. It’s the only beachside observation deck in the whole of Australia, and you won’t regret taking the lift (or climbing) to the top of this amazing piece of architecture.

What to do there: There’s plenty you can do at the highest landmark in The Gold Coast. Of course, start off by taking in the awe-inspiring views and make sure you get a few killer shots for Insta! If you’re feeling really brave, then this also offers the highest building climb in Australia. Reach the 270m summit of the skyscraper which offers unparalleled views of the Gold Coast and out to the ocean. If you’re travelling with a friend but you’re not so crazy on heights, you can always wait for them inside the restaurant, which is one of the best places to eat in The Gold Coast!

#5 – Wet ‘n’ Wild

• Gold Coast vacation idea if you’re travelling with kids
• Escape the hustle and bustle of the city
• Don’t miss the Aqualoop – lots of fun!

Why it’s awesome: If there’s one thing that screams holiday more than anything else, it’s a water park. And since the Gold Coast boasts the best one in Australia, we simply had to put it on our list! Everyone knows Wet ‘n’ Wild – it’s famous all over the world. And this one has everything you’d expect – relaxing lazy rivers, huge adrenaline junkie slides, and lots of places for the little ones if you’re travelling with family! It’s the perfect place to keep mum, dad, and the kids entertained.

What to do there: Get wet! Get wild! It’s the perfect place for a fun day away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Just make sure you keep topping up your sunscreen during the day, as the heat can get pretty relentless here. There’s more than just slides too. The Skycoaster is an adrenaline-fuelled activity that should only be attempted by the bravest! The FlowRider is a cool way to test out your surfing skills in a totally safe shark-free environment!

#6 – Springbrook National Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in The Gold Coast

• Head to this UNESCO World Heritage site, perched atop an ancient volcano
• Spot different birdlife in the National Park
• One of the major points of interest in Queensland

Why it’s awesome: So, this one isn’t actually in the Gold Coast, but we couldn’t overlook such a beautiful spot. You don’t even need to drive out into the Gold Coast Hinterland for an hour to find this absolutely stunning national park. Swap the golden sands for lush green rainforest to have a real outdoor adventure and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city! Springbrook gives you a chance to add wildlife watching, hiking, and a whole host of other activities to your Gold Coast itinerary!

What to do there: It’s good to plan a little in advance for your trip to Springbrook, as there a few things that you may not have considered bringing! First up is your swimsuit. The National Park has some of the coolest swimming spots in Queensland and you’ll not want to leave without taking a dip. Binoculars are a must-have for ornithologists, as Springbrook has diverse birdlife which you’ll be lucky to see outside of captivity! Of course, one of the best ways to see the park is on foot, so bring some comfy boots and get out onto the hiking trails!

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#7 – Miami Marketta – A must-see for foodies

• One of the best places to eat in The Gold Coast
• Head here on a weekend to try a range of street food
• Enjoy music and cocktails too!

Why it’s awesome: Want to transport yourself to the markets of Bangkok? How about a Barcelona tapas bar? Australia is pretty far away from anywhere by plane, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get authentic and tasty food from across the globe! Miami Marketta just happens to be the best place in the Gold Coast for that. There are over 25 food vendors to choose from, so your Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday dinner is sorted. There’s sure to be something that’ll tickle your taste buds!

What to do there: It’s a great spot for foodies, so why not spend the first half hour or so just wandering around and taking in the different aromas before settling on your final option. Although the good thing is you can order loads of little small dishes from the range of different choices on offer! That’s definitely what we’d do… To accompany the delicious food, why not sample a cocktail or just enjoy the great live music that’s always on. Miami Marketta really is a feast for the senses!

#8 – Burleigh Heads National Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in The Gold Coast

• Take a dip in the protected waters of Burleigh Heads
• Pick up some artisan souvenirs from the arts and crafts market
• A great spot for a picnic when visiting the Gold Coast

Why it’s awesome: If you liked the sound of Springbrook National Park but it seemed a bit of a hassle to get to, there’s one much closer that is another gorgeous outdoor space within a stone’s throw of the city! Burleigh Heads is wedged between Surfers’ Paradise and Coolangatta (where you’ll find some of the Gold Coasts best hostels if you’d like to stay in the area), and it’s a popular spot with locals as well as tourists. Spend the day here to escape from the concrete jungle of The Gold Coast and come back feeling refreshed and recuperated!

What to do there: Where to start?! There are some fantastic swimming spots in Burleigh Heads . The protected waters are a lot quieter than those further north at Surfers’ Paradise, so you’ve much less chance of having to dodge a rogue surfboard! Another great activity is taking the walk track from Burleigh to the stunning Tallebudgera Creek. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for Aussie wildlife such as koalas, echidnas, and even the odd sea eagle!

#9 – Gold Coast Wax Museum and Chamber of Horrors – Quite the quirky place in The Gold Coast

• Visit the largest wax museum in the Southern Hemisphere
• Enter the chamber of horrors if you dare
• One of the more unusual things to do in The Gold Coast!

Why it’s awesome: So, first of all, we should state that this isn’t on your standard Gold Coast itinerary. But we’re going to tell you why this intriguing place should be on yours! Like the famous Madame Tussaud’s in London, it’s filled with waxworks of world leaders and some of the most famous people of our time. However, this bizarre attraction in The Gold Coast has a bit of a twist which will leave you chilled to the bone! Probably…

What to do there: After you’ve posed for photos or taken a selfie with Gandhi, Jack Sparrow, or the British Royal Family, it’s time for the chamber of horrors. In here, you’ll find Dracula, Frankenstein, and loads of werewolves. Of course. If that’s not enough, there are genuine torture devices and waxwork recreations – it’s often hard to tell them apart! If you’re a horror movie fan or looking for a touch of the macabre, don’t miss this weird Gold Coast must see!

#10 – Cable Park and Southport Cable Hut – An unknown (but awesome) place to visit in The Gold Coast!

• See an impressive yet understated beacon of technology
• Relax in the shade of the palm trees
• One of the lesser visited points of interest in The Gold Coast

Why it’s awesome: Just a short walk from Main Beach, you could be forgiven for not really noticing this place. And sure, it’s probably not a place to visit for the aesthetics. However, when it comes to history and feats of engineering, this little non-descript hut might just be the most impressive place in the Gold Coast. The reason it’s so special is that this hut housed the Pacific cable, which ran 4,000 miles from Australia to the US. Even more surprising is that it was laid on the ocean floor with no problems!

What to do there: Visiting the Southport Cable Hut and Cable Park is more of a quick activity. Do it on the way to Main Beach or to catch a bit of a break from the sun, sea, and sand. Nonetheless, it’s an interesting Gold Coast landmark and there is some information in the park where you can find out more. Astoundingly, this little hut played an important role in news and information being transmitted in both World War One and Two!

Get insured for your trip to Gold Coast!

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They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Gold Coast

What is a free place to visit in the Gold Coast, Brisbane?

Hiking around the UNESCO heritage site, Springbrook National Park, is one of the best free activities on the Gold Coast.

What is the best place to visit in the Gold Coast?

The best part of the Gold Coast is its wildlife. For that reason, the best place to visit on the Gold Coast is Dreamworld.

What is the most popular beach on the Gold Coast?

Surfers Paradise is the most popular beach on the Gold Coast.

Is the Gold Coast safe at night?

The Gold Coast is the most active city in Austraila for robbery and muggings, especially for tourists who let their guard down at night. Make sure you have your wits about you.

So, there you have it. That’s all for our list of the best places to visit in The Gold Coast. Hopefully, you’ll have found this list useful and informative and a good mix between tourist favourites and some of the more unusual things to do in The Gold Coast!

Whether you want gorgeous beaches, cosmopolitan restaurants and bars, or trips out into the Australian Bush, you can do all of that here. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to see native Aussie wildlife! Think cute kangaroos, inquisitive emus, and weird platypuses! Whether you choose to see them at an animal sanctuary or search for them in the wild is completely up to you.

Not only do we want you to find the best places in the Gold Coast, but we also want you to live like a local! After all, it’s probably the best place to enjoy a new city. Our list will hopefully help you to do that. One thing’s for sure, it’ll make it easier to explore the Gold Coast!

Derek Cullen

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The 10 best things to do at the Gold Coast Show

Most importantly: buy all of the showbags. 

For a whopping 113 years the Gold Coast Show has been a favourite local event.

From traditional wood chopping to prize cattle, there are plenty of reasons to head the show from August 30th to September 1st but, in the interest of keeping things short and sweet, here are the top 10.

Camel rides If you have yet to experience the absolutely hilarious thrill that is riding a camel, you’ve been missing out. But miss out no longer because you can now do exactly that at the Gold Coast Show. On the beach no less. How good.

Go on rides all day long Guys, all day rides. HELLO. Spend the day on as many spinning, dropping and stomach curdling rides as you like, what could be better? Hot tip: don’t eat show food before said stomach curdling rides.

Buy all the showbags One of the highlights of childhood was undoubtedly choosing a showbag (or five) from the great hall of goodies and participating in a mass sugar high. As is the case with many of the best things in the world (wine), showbags have only improved with age so get in early to nab the best ones.

Container Bar and Rooftop Because it’s got beer and wine, what more do you need. Maybe after you’ve tested out the rides though.

Watch the pig racing They may not be fast, but they sure are cute, especially when the little squealers are racing through an obstacle course. Thanks to Noah’s Farm, all proceeds raised will go to Variety.

Eat tasty foods There’s a HUGE array of food on offer at the show every year but 2019 has upped it’s game. There’s pulled pork burgers and crazy doughnuts to name a few. Arrive hungry.

Try your luck at sideshow alley You haven’t visited the show unless you’ve attempted to throw a ball into the mouth of a clown to win a giant stuffed toy you definitely don’t need. There’s even more games to try this year so make sure you schedule enough time to try them all.

Marvel at the fireworks No celebration is complete without them. Watch as the night sky is lit up with one of the Gold Coast’s most impressive firework displays of the year.

Keep an eye out for deep fried lasagne So word on the street is, there was a competition for best deep fried foods and the prize was the opportunity to sell at the show. The winner, amongst MANY worthy contenders was good old deep fried lasagne (on a stick no less). Let us know how that goes.

Alpacas display Hilarious little creatures Alpacas aren’t they. Not usually seen so much around these parts but on display for you to ogle over the show weekend. Cute.

Your ultimate winter school holiday survival guide

School holidays. Two words that can strike fear and dread into the hearts of parents far and wide. But fear not mums, dads, grandies et al, you’re reading this which means you’ve got this (fist pump emoji… and a wine glass emoji for good measure. Maybe two).

Now the next couple of weeks don’t need to be totally heckers – just filled with a good balance of physical, mental, and creative activities to bust boredom and preserve sanity (yours that is). And with the majority of suggestions on this list not costing anything more than the fuel to get there, just shut up and (don’t) take my money!

So, pull up your calendar app, hatch some srsly cool plans, and make some memories with your mini-me’s.

Pacific Fair School holidays feeling like a grind? Kick board-om to the kerb as skate fever hits Pacific Fair these holidays! Back by popular demand, Skatefest sees the car park (above Target) transformed into a shred-tastic concrete wonderland from June 21st to July 1st. Design your dream skate tee at Design Skool, then build those skills at Skate Skool with sessions for all levels. Plus, watch pro skaters tear it up and compete for a chance to win a share in over $5K in prizes at Demo Night and more. Who’s ready to shred! Where: 2 Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach Waters

Robina Town Centre Got kidlets bouncing off the walls? Corral your crew towards Robina Town Centre and let Robina Arena channel that boundless energy into a series of action-packed challenges! They’re throwing down the gauntlet with a Jump Test, Canoe Course and Steady Skater challenge to put those sporting skills to the test. Plus, after conquering the course, little champions can decorate their very own cookie medals at one of the free cookie sessions – running half-hourly from 10 am–1.30 pm, every second day (24 June, 26 June, 28 June, 30 June, 2 July, 4 July) bookings are essential. Where:  Robina Town Centre , Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

Paradise Centre Paradise Centre is really ramp ing up the fun these holidays as Skate Paradise returns from 22 June to 7 July 2024. Roll into Surfers and get the groms around some rad skateboarding action as the beachside precinct transforms into the sickest skate haunt going! Budding boarders will flip out with daily entertainment, free kids skate workshops and daily skate shows from the crew at Rock N Slide. Kick it to live beats with sunset DJ sets on select dates, or catch one of the custom sneaker art sessions with Kiel Tillman from 26 to 28 June. Rad! Where: 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Naturally GC NaturallyGC holiday programs are FREE and specifically designed to connect kids with nature and encourage outdoor play and learning. The Totally Wild vibing workshops cater to all interests and ages with a range of nature-based activities on offer across the holidays. There’s Waterbugs Under the Microscope or Creepy Crawly sessions, native Wildlife Encounters, Boomerangs and Rock Art workshops, and more… but get a wriggle on, the popular sessions book fast! Register online here . Where: Various Gold Coast locations

SkyPoint This school holiday season, the wow-factor of SkyPoint’s crowning 77th level destination will ascend to all new heights! Magical Circus combines the stunning 360-degree views with awe-inducing Las Vegas-style performances, complete with high-energy feats of balance, juggling and illusion. Running every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from June 25th to July 18th, the twice-daily shows at 11:30am and 1pm are included with your SkyPoint entry. Talk about levelling up your entertainment! Where: SkyPoint Observation Deck, Level 77, Q1,  Surfers Paradise

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Every-bunny knows Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary’s school holiday programs are the bee’s knees! Now offering Wild Adventurers Junior (5-8 year olds) half-day sessions and the classic full-day experience for kiddos aged 9–12, budding zoologists can walk on the wild side and get up close to some of the Sanctuary’s star residents. For $34.50 and $69.00 per child respectively, they’ll have a blast becoming Zoo Scientists for a Day, Animal Trainers for a Day, Vets for a Day, or Wildlife Keepers for a Day. Smashing! (90’s kids know).

Tickets for holiday programs always fly out the door – so if you don’t land a spot, the park itself is always a hoot! Go wild with animal encounters, shows, a zipline Treetop Challenge, and brekkie with the koalas five days a week. Plus, the classic Rainbow Lorikeet feedings at 8am and 4pm daily are always a hit (unless you’re afraid of birds, in which case, maybe sit this one out). Where: 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin

HOTA Hosted by HOTA’s Children’s Gallery, multi-disciplinary Australian artist Abdul Abdullah invites you to step into his immersive and whimsical sanctuary, Kingdom of Kindness. A special place of belonging, at this interactive all-ages exhibit audiences are free to explore hands-on activities and make friends with the rock characters, bringing them to life with their creativity. Rock on!

From Wednesday 26 Jun–Wednesday 3 Jul, HOTA is inviting creative minds aged 8-12 years for an awesome ARTCATION – a six-day crash course on all things art and culture! With a different focus every day, the multi-day program is the ultimate vacation care with an artsy twist. For $60 per day, kiddos can catch the whole week or take their pick of topics such as ‘Junior Engineer Coding’ and ‘Music Mashups’. Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

Dreamworld There’s snow chance we’re missing Dreamworld’s coolest Winterfest yet! Don your beanie and head on down between 29 June– 4 July for one brrrr-illiant blizzard of family fun. Have a blast with ice slide tobogganing, interactive winter-inspired activities, scavenger hunts, and some extra special snowy surprises. Glide across the full sized, pop-up ice skating rink, then warm up with some with some satisfying Euro-inspired fare. Where: Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera

Warner Bros. Movie World Holy smokes, Batman! Get in on the all-star action this winter school holidays as DC Super Heroes and Super-Villains descends upon Warner Bros. Movie World. Main Street will become the ultimate goodies vs baddies battleground, with appearances and shows from all the most legendary havoc-makers and justice-defenders. Keep your eyes peeled as you cruise around your favourite attractions for meet and greets with Batman, Robin, The Joker, Harley Quinn, and more. Where: Pacific Mwy, Oxenford

ArtVo Fun-filled school holidays antics are a glow at ArtVo this June! If your mini’s can never resist the chance to clown around, booking a spot at one of the Circus School sessions on Tues 25, Wed 26 or Thur 27 June be a no brainer. For $20 per child (use code CIRCUS), tickets include entry and interactive 45 min class covering all the big top basics – juggling, twirling, ball and balance skills, along with entry to the interactive ArtVo exhibit when you’re done!

The fun doesn’t stop there, with an epic Glow Room Dance Party going down from 10am – 4pm daily (5pm on weekends). Use code FUN to nab kids’ tix for $20 with a paying adult. Talk about having a ball! Where:  Robina Town Centre , Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

Slick Surfaces, Surface Festival   Round up the munchkins and roll on over to Miami Marketta this Sunday June 23rd, to jumpstart the school holidays at Slick Surfaces! An all-ages activity program geared to towards primary schoolers, this one-day event combines DJ workshops, skateboard clinics, urban art activities, brickspert-led LEGO Masterclasses and tonnes more. Bummer, dude – these hot tickets have now been snapped up, but you can still try your luck on the waiting list (note to self: book early next year!) Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami

The Strand Got a budding baker on your hands? Definitely donut miss the The Strand’s free winter-themed treat workshops these school holidays! From Monday 1 July – Wednesday 10 July, they’ll be bringing the (baked) goods with complementary Cookie & Doughnut decorating between 11am – 2pm daily. Let your mini master chef go to town on the icing, sprinkles and snowflakes someplace other than your house, and, if you’re lucky might even let you share in the spoils without having to invoke #MumTax privileges. Plus, you could also score one of 4x $100 Baskin-Robbins vouchers for your trouble. Sweet! Where: 72-80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Farm & Co Fun times for the whole fam are on the menu at Farm & Co these winter holidays! With Kids Eat Free Fridays on until 30 August, why load up your crew and hit the road for a day of farm-style frolicking. Make a day of it with a farm pass, then finish with the ultimate family-friendly dining experience at Farm & Co Restaurant . Kiddos can free range on the restaurant lawn with a new kids’ play area to explore, while the parentals are treated to to farm-to-plate dining at its finest.

Can’t get enough of Cudgen’s crisp country air? Pack the picnic blanket and head back on Sunday 30th June for the ‘Day on the Lawn’ festivities. Hosted on the last Sunday of every month, kick back in the sunshine with lawn games, live tunes and crafty activities for the kids. Entry starts at $5 and word to the wise, tickets for this day out sell lickety split! Where: 529 Cudgen Rd, Cudgen

Words by  Kellie Leader

15 things to do on the Gold Coast with kids

Feels like it’s been five minutes since the kids were on holidays and low and behold, the schools are letting them loose again. Sigh .

Keeping them occupied— and you sane — will need some carefully considered tact. But let’s face facts here: you are on the Gold Coast. That means beaches ,  shopping  and theme parks on your doorstep that other people would vacation here for. Nevertheless, what happens when the kids are keen for something a bit more diverse to pass the time?

Never fear, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of some of our favourite things to do on the Gold Coast when school is out.

Level Up Arcade The Arcade is the 80s and 90s incarnate. Found on the first floor of the Oasis Shopping Centre in Broadbeach , Level Up features 62 of the best games from this era. With Lane Master Bowling, pool table, 3D pong, limited edition pinballs, a classic arcade with 40 of your old school games, LA Lakers hoops, big buck hunter, Jurassic Park, down the clown, ring toss and plenty more. Worn out kids by the end of the day are guaranteed. Where:  The Oasis Shopping Centre , 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Padlock’d With 60 minutes on the clock, you and the family are left in a mysterious room to solve puzzles, crack riddles, open locks and escape the madness. It’s a fast-paced hour where you will either come out with big old smiles on your faces — or in need of a big old glass of wine. It’s such a fun time either way though. Where: 3177 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Ripley’s Believe it or Not Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium is Surfers Paradise’s most unusual and far-fetched attraction . Found in Soul Boardwalk , Ripley’s offers sixteen individually themed galleries of unbelievable artifacts and interactive exhibits where you will come face to face with remarkable relics and rare treasures from around the world. Experience the weird and unbelievable, see shrunken heads, survive a walk through the spinning vortex tunnel, unusual artwork, and things that make you go eww. Get a discount here ! Where: Soul Boardwalk , Cavill Mall, Surfers Paradise

Currumbin Boatshed Found at the edge of Currumbin Creek , Currumbin Boatshed Bait and Tackle offers plenty of choices to ensure you and the kids get to have the best possible time on the water. They’ve got fishing gear, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, surfboards and much more. All are available for purchase or they also have hire options for kayaks, SUPs and fishing gear. Ever seen somebody on a SUP and thought you’d like to give it a go? Well, here’s your chance folks, as they offer regular SUP lessons for beginners! Where: 1/2-4 Thrower Drive, Currumbin

Lollie Land It’s the perfect place for big and small kids alike. Spend some time choosing from over 1,000 different sweet treats, American brands like Hershey’s, Reese’s, Trolli, Twizzler and Cheeto’s, to your local favourites like Allen’s and Nestle. There’s also a wide variety of liquorice, rock candy and pick and mix sweets to choose from. From gobsmackers to chocolate fudge, you’re sure to find something to satiate your taste buds. Where: Shop 1/3179 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Mini Golf What child doesn’t love a bit of mini-golf? None, as far as we know. Luckily, the Gold Coast is home to a collection of enjoyable putt-putt spots, and they are dotted throughout the city — so you could even make a day of it and visit several of them — should that be your kind of thing! Our favourites are  King Tutts  and  Mini Golf  in Surfers Paradise and Putt Putt Mermaid Beach . Where: Various locations

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature-based institution that’s been delighting families for the last 70 years. Check all your favourite Aussie animals, watch the bird show Wild Skies or wander through  Lost Valley and gaze at some of the magical creatures that existed when Australia was part of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. If you haven’t been before or it’s been a while, it’s about time you went and spent a fun day in Currumbin with some furry and feathered friends. Where: 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin

Infinity It’s an incredible journey through a world of illusion at Infinity. Think futuristic, maze-like world of wonder with unique rooms and sensory overloads that will have you laughing, jumping, and feeling as though you’re in a dream. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Get an exclusive discount here ! Where: Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, G31/3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Theme Parks It goes without saying the Coast’s theme parks are some of our biggest attractions for visitors. From  Movie World with its themed rides, wandering movie stars and cartoon characters; to Dreamworld with its big thrill rides; Seaworld ; with impressive sea creatures and mind-blowing live shows; Wet n Wild  with all of the epic waterslides and a giant wave pool; Outback Spectacular  with incredible special effects, a story of outback Australia and some absolutely beautiful animals. All SUCH a good time and the kids will be thrilled to be at any one of them.

Walkin on Water Walkin On Water Surf School can be found at Greenmount Beach in Coolangatta and uses the town’s beautiful beaches to their full potential — which are the perfect places for all levels of surfer. These guys pride themselves on offering group and private lessons for all ages and surfing abilities, from the age of 4 right through to those in their 80’s. Greenmount is an amazing location for beginners and early intermediates, having a good amount of protection from southerly swells it is renowned, amongst others, as the ideal learn-to-surf location on the Gold Coast. Get $25 OFF  here . Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta

FREE ACTIVITIES

Go for a picnic Relaxation, good views and all of the food. It’s an almost free activity (you have to buy the food we’re afraid) and when choosing the right spot (maybe nearby a playground), can fill up a whole day. Check out our list of the best places to throw down a rug  here .

Broadwater Parklands For a real fun time hit up Broadwater Parklands in Southport . There’s a huge range of free activities including the rockpool water playground, giant bouncy pillow, BBQ areas, eats and a little train that fits big kids (you) and little ones. Where: Marine Parade, Southport

Miami Marketta Known as the Gold Coast’s favourite family-friendly nightspot for tasty street food, fun cocktails , boutique shopping and live bands, Miami Marketta is so so good. Save some coins and share a couple of tapas-style plates amongst the whole family. Oh, and make sure you check out the dessert area too. Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami

Currumbin Rock Pools If you’re looking for something more adventurous and exciting to do, Currumbin Rock Pools is just the ticket. The beautiful scenic drive through Currumbin Valley is enough of an attraction in itself, taking you straight to the natural swimming pool next to Currumbin Valley Primary School. In utter tranquillity, you may just want to cool down and splash in the water or enjoy some family time over a BBQ at the designated picnic area. Where: Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Valley

Local Markets Take the family and stroll along one of our many local markets on the coast . There’s everything from fresh locally grown produce to fashion, homewares, souvenirs, arts and crafts. Our top three favourite markets are Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets (4pm-9pm Wednesday, Friday & Sunday nights) and Carrara Markets (7am-4pm every Saturday & Sunday). Check out the rest here .

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

17 family-friendly Gold Coast restaurants

At some point during the week (usually Monday for us) you get sick of preparing meals, decide to throw in the tea towel, and round up the rugrats so one of our fine establishments can handle that exhausting little song and dance. Only to be faced with a whole new issue – the prospect of taking the munchkins out for munches #cuepanic

To save you the ‘find-something-everyone-can-eat-without-too-many-tears’ (namely yours) struggle entirely – we’ve collected our very favourite purveyors of good vibes, welcoming atmospheres and of course, bulk ice cream and chippies.

So without further ado, here is a list of family-friendly Gold Coast restaurants to treat you and your cherubs to some chow, so you can have a reprieve from slaving over the stove for a night.

From north to south.

The Wattle Hotel A hidden gem in Upper Coomera, The Wattle Hotel is the perfect playground for parents and kiddies. The adult menu is filled with all your fave pub-style dishes while the littlies menu has all their favourites for $12 bucks including a drink and dixie cup – a barg and a half, especially when you consider the inbuilt perk of those blissful sounds of serenity (the kind only a Cheeseburger could buy). 10/10 kids also agree the whopper playground is the bees knees (ok, so that stat is more of an educated guess, we hope you can let it ‘slide’…) Gather the kiddies and get down and see for yourself. Where: 1 Reserve Road, Upper Coomera

Charis Seafoods Found in Harley Park, Labrador, Charis Seafoods offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a sweet view to boot. Enjoy your fish and chips by the Broadwater while the kids play in the park or swim in the lagoon. There’s a huge variety of seafood on offer and everything is of the freshest and highest quality. This Gold Coast icon is also renowned for its pelican feeding at 1:30pm daily where close to a hundred pelicans gather for their special feed of fish! Where: 371 Marine Parade, Labrador

Historic Rivermill Less restaurant, more full-blown adventure day – Historic Rivermill might be an overachiever, but either way a meal at this beaut spot will delight you and your little people. The outlook from the cafe is breathtaking with views to the bushland beyond and plenty of space, including a cute ‘lil playground, for the kids to explore.

This pretty riverside spot boasts its own petting zoo, so the animal encounters are a must-do for the munchkins. Feed the turtles or alpacas, and and don’t sweat it when your little people grow peckish, of course the cafe boasts plenty of yummy goodies for the human-folk too. Including coffee, which we absolutely will require after herding the critters (we’ll let you decide which we’re referring to). Do yourself a favour and take a drive out there with the whole family. Where: 950 Beaudesert-Nerang Road, Mt Nathan

Southport Sharks For families, the beloved Frenzy’s buffet will be the first (and second, and third…) port of call as a sacred eats place adored by all – but especially our mini salad dodgers. There’s also a stacked kids zone – including a rock climbing wall, mini basketball court and theatrette – that will be a slam dunk among all, as the small ones frolic supervised, and you kick back and enjoy a frosty beverage. Plus there’s a stunning fish tank (with real sharks) which is always a winner among the little ones. Frenzy’s is open breakfast, lunch and dinner, with à la carte and buffet options seven days a week.. aka any old time you’re struck by the urge to escape the kitchen. Where: Olsen Ave and Musgrave Ave, Southport

Café Catalina Found in Southport, overlooking the Broadwater is Café Catalina , open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Pop in for a bit to eat, treat yourself to some tapas and a wine or two, let the kids enjoy some tasty Spaghetti Bolognaise off their designated kids menu and then wander down to the giant playground and let them run rampant before bedtime. It’s win win. Where: Broadwater Parklands, 10/11 Gold Coast Highway, Southport

TGI Friday’s With all of the epic US-style eats you could hope to demolish in one sitting, TGI Friday’s at Robina Town Centre, and overlooking the ocean in the refreshed Paradise Centre at Surfers – is the perfect place to take the family for a night out. With everything from their famous ribs and burgers plus a kids menu packed with goodies like Macaroni Cheese , Chicken Fingers and a Cheeseburger to name a few, everyone will leave happy and very satisfied. Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina and Level 1, Paradise Centre Beachfront Dining, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Outback Steakhouse Outback Steakhouse has a casual atmosphere and plenty of good vibes for everyone to enjoy. Meaty morsels like Perfectly seared steaks, Burgers and Ribs make up much of the adult’s menu, but for your mini-me’s there’s also plenty of kid-endorsed options like Chicken fingers , Mac & Cheese and Mini ribs , 2,4,6,8.. bog in, don’t wait! All the kid’s meals start from just $9 and include a drink, pretty sweet ‘eh? Where: Pacific Fair , Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach

Mermaid Beach Surf Club Surf clubs are family friendly on principle but the Mermaid Beach Surf Club in particular has got the goods in the form of a playroom that will keep the kids entertained for hours. Some of us here have been in there and can attest it’s a good time. Of course, they have lots of child-friendly menu options AND on Monday nights kids eat free with any main meal purchased. How good. Where: 172 Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach

Mermaid Beach Tavern These days we’re treated to some next level Tavs, Pavs and Clubs, having broken free of the former beer dungeon status we once associated with our friendly local – and we only need to look as far as Exhibit A: Mermaid Beach Tavern to prove our point. This stunner of a spot is 10’s all round – easy on the eyes, plenty of space and classic pub-style eats that appeal to the whole family.

Putt wait, there’s more… the Putt Putt Meal deal takes this outing from good to great. Enjoy a round of Putt Putt and grab an adult main meal for just $15 and a kids meal for $10. Where: 2500 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Miami Marketta Less a restaurant, more a market-style dining situation is Miami Marketta – and relaxed eats is kind of the whole objective when we’re talking feeding the oft-rambunctious rugrats. Open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights with food stalls and (often) live music, kids absolutely adore running around, dancing and eating all the things. Same. There’s a ridiculous array of next-level desserts and a bar so that’s pretty much all your bases covered we think. Always a fun time. Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami

Robina Pavilion Anyone else sensing a theme here? Key to chillaxed eats with kids in tow = proximity for perambulating outside a must. And Robina Pav has this in spades – you and your rowdy rascals can revel on the lakeside lawn or on the sun drenched deck – rain, hail or shine – thanks to the retractable roof. Good news if you also ‘like piña coladas’ (we do) but not so much ‘getting caught in the rain’ (hard pass).

So regardless of whatever whack weather our trusty BoM app is advising – gather your boisterous brood, chow down on some classic pub nosh and throw back a couple’a bomb Pavilion Coladas while the dishes do themselves… ah, life’s goooood. Where: 229 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina

Woodchoppers Inn Family owned since 1995, Woodchoppers Inn launched a reimagined menu in 2017 to bring North American BBQ to the Gold Coast. Complete with a dedicated kids play area and kids menu, including the likes of Spaghetti and Meatballs and Margherita Pizza – we’d be envious, but we’re too busy tucking in to a 6hr BBQ pork short rib stack, tbh. All kids meals can be upgraded with a drink and ice cream for $2, which we think you’ll agree is pretty good bang for your buck. The entire family will love the perfectly smoked and seared dishes, and the plethora of beers and hand-crafted spirits will go down a treat with the grown ups. Where: 64 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Burleigh Town Hotel We here on the GC sure do love getting around an all-rounder, and not that we’re superficial or anything – but a tidy $4.5 mil revamp has skyrocketed this spot in the popularity stakes (though the steaks are top notch, also) among locals – and *especially* parents.

Of the sprawling space – a perk particularly favoured among families is the spacious open-air area, with plenty of space for the kids to roam (run wild). With a bistro, beer garden x2, patios and pergola’s aplenty, you can basically take your pick – then promptly perch up and partake in one of the favourite past times of parents everywhere: sit-ervising (or sip-ervising, as the case may be). This is livin’. Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads

The Collective A well known family-friendly spot on the highway in Palm Beach, The Collective has a HUGE menu for the kids with five types of cuisine on offer including Mexican, Greek, Asian, American and Italian eats. Everything is reasonably priced and the bar is pumping out some of the tastiest cocktails around for Mum and Dad’s enjoyment. Highly recommend for a night out with the team. Where: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Dune Cafe Enjoy everything the Gold Coast stands for at Dune Cafe. There’s beautiful views, a laidback atmosphere, top quality local produce and delicious coffee plus it’s found right at Palm Beach Parklands where there’s plenty of space for the kids to run around, Currumbin Creek for a quick dip and the huge Pirate Park playground will provide hours of entertainment while Mum and Dad kick back. Where: 945 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Currumbin RSL Sitting pretty (and we do mean pretty – she’s not like a regular RSL, she’s a cool RSL) right on the banks of Currumbin’s beloved Creek, families flock to this spot in droves. It’s hard to determine if the bigger draw card is the stunner of a creekside outlook or the mix of contemporary and crowd-pleasing bites (the ice cold beers surely don’t hurt either).

Treat the raucous ones to a bambino meal upgrade, and even the fussy eaters will be rapt with a Cheeseburger or Chicken nugs , soft drink and gelati cup or cone (+ obligatory fries and tom sauce, of course – anything less would be unhinged). To appeal to the adults (and it really, really does) – Sticky Chilli Koji Chicken Wings, Hawker Style Bao Buns , and, if you wanna keep it classic, Chicken Parmigiana . With a fully-fenced park adjacent, you’re on to a winner here. Where: 165 Duringan St, Currumbin

Pasture & Co Parents, carers, and all other wranglers of tiny humans, add Pasture & Co to the rolling list of – and, we defy any millennial that can resist channelling their inner Dixie Chicks as they read this – *wide open spaaaces*-adjacent havens that have it all. And by that we mean, delicious food and satisfying sips that we can savour (a) at a leisurely pace (b) at their intended temperature and (c) in relative peace while the cherubs burn off some of that circus-vibing energy (aka the holy grail).

While this one is technically more of a café–restaurant hybrid, every Friday & Saturday arvo the fully licensed weekend menu and extended 7pm trade kick in, which certainly lends itself to the latter as far as kid-friendly dinners are concerned (bc while we love them inexplicably – we also want them fed, and in bed no later than 7.31pm, thankyouverymuch). Perch up with Pizzas and Milkshakes for them, House buffalo wings and Chilli marg for you – happy days. Where: 639 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Valley

Words by  Kellie Leader .

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