Where to stay
"Choosing where to stay on the Gold Coast can be a challenge. There are just so many wonderful resorts, hotels, and other options to consider. The trick to making the right decision is knowing what the neighbourhoods are like.
For instance, Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach have high rises and a bustling night scene. Meanwhile, Burleigh and Coolangatta are more laidback with a streak of cool. Finally, Currumbin and Palm Beach are the best areas to stay for nature lovers."
Things to do
As Queensland's top holiday destination, you’ll find there are many things to do on the Gold Coast. You'll need to stay for at least a weekend or a week to properly savour the experience. Swim and surf at different beaches, enjoy the nightlife, and feel the rush at a theme park. You can even enjoy a few sporting events if you time your holiday right!
Getting Around
With a variety of Gold Coast transport options available, it’s easy to get to your destination. For longer stays, make sure you get a go card as this electronic ticket can be used for buses, trams, and trains that service South East Queensland. You can buy one from convenience stores and transport stations.
Many hotels can call you a cab or you can hire one yourself with apps or by calling their numbers. If you prefer getting around the Gold Coast and exercising at the same time, you can walk or bike along urban streets or on nature trails.
Where to eat
Trying to answer ""where to eat on the Gold Coast"" can be a fun exercise. There’s plenty of fresh seafood and other ingredients around for the local chefs to work with. There are seaside eateries, fine-dining restaurants, cosy cafes, and market stalls serving whatever you crave.
You can eat vegetarian dishes, sip healthy fruit shakes, get generous pub food, or indulge in rich desserts. Wherever you go, you'll always find something delicious on the Gold Coast.
Shopping
Apart from swimming, surfing and sightseeing, there’s another activity that you should definitely do on the Gold Coast: shopping. There’s something for everyone in this region, so leave some space in your suitcase for all your new goodies.
Wind your way through al fresco markets, large shopping centres in Broadbeach, Southport, Biggera Waters and Robina, and retail precincts situated just off the beach. Want to know what to look for and where to go? Here’s your Gold Coast shopping guide.
Best time to travel
There’s rarely much to complain about when it comes to the weather on the Gold Coast. Located in South East Queensland, the region enjoys sunshine for at least 300 days of the year. This means you can go to the Gold Coast any time.
Beaches
With several kilometres of coastline to choose from, there will definitely be a Gold Coast beach to suit your mood. If you want to soak up some atmosphere as well as the sun’s rays, go to Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, or Broadbeach. If you want a more relaxing swim, try Palm Beach or Burleigh Heads. If you’re after some invigorating waves, try Currumbin or Coolangatta. Wherever you choose to go, you can always enjoy the fine white sand and beautiful blue waters of all Gold Coast beaches.