The Gold Coast's secrets: the best places to travel in 2025

The Gold Coast is one of Australia's most popular tourist destinations, known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate and abundance of recreational activities. Here is a comprehensive travel guide to the Gold Coast to help you plan the perfect itinerary. Here, long stretches of coastline meet turquoise blue waters to create the perfect vacation landscape. Whether you're a surfer, shopaholic or foodie explorer, the Gold Coast has activities and experiences for everyone!

1. Travel Preparation

• Visa.
  • A visa is required to visit Australia. Depending on your nationality, you may apply for an Electronic Travel Visa (ETA) or another type of visa. It is advisable to apply in advance to avoid any hassle prior to departure.
• Baggage.
  • The Gold Coast enjoys a warm climate, with temperatures in summer (December to February) usually ranging from 25-30°C, making light summer clothing and bathing suits suitable; in winter (June to August) temperatures are a little cooler, usually ranging from 10-20°C, so light jackets and long pants are recommended.
• Insurance.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, lost luggage and flight delays to ensure you have a worry-free trip.
• Currency.
  • The Gold Coast uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Some cash can be exchanged prior to departure and ATM withdrawals are also available on arrival.
• Cell phones and data services.
  • It is recommended to always have a travel esim for your trip to Australia, PhoneSIMGo's esim packages are designed for traveling tourists.
• Knowledge of local customs.
  • Learn about Australian culture and etiquette before traveling and respect local customs, such as paying attention to the environment and following public etiquette.

2. Travel Highlights

The Gold Coast is a vibrant and diverse destination, and here are some of the region's key highlights, detailing the uniqueness of each and activity options.

Breathtaking beaches

• Surfers Paradise.
  • This is the Gold Coast's most famous beach, known for its fine white sand and surf culture. The beach is suitable for all levels of surfers and you can take surfing lessons, rent boards or simply sunbathe and bathe in the sea.
  • ACTIVITIES: Experience the local culture at the weekly Sunday beach market offering local crafts and food.
• Burleigh Heads.
  • Famous for its beautiful beaches and spectacular coastline, Burleigh Heads is perfect for families and couples. Here you can enjoy surfing, swimming or picnicking in the beachside park.
  • ACTIVITIES: Point Pelee National Park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the ocean and rich plant ecology along the way, making it an ideal place for walks and runs.
• Currumbin.
  • Popular for its tranquil beaches and crystal clear waters, Currumbin is suitable for families and diving enthusiasts. The waters are perfect for snorkeling and water skiing and you can enjoy a relaxing time on the beach.
  • Activities: Enjoy breakfast at one of the cafes near Currumbin Beach or take a scuba diving course to explore the rich marine life.

Theme park thrills

• Dreamworld.
  • This is the largest theme park on the Gold Coast and offers a variety of thrill rides and family friendly activities. You can experience roller coasters, zoos, water parks and more.
  • Activities: Tiger Island showcases tiger shows and you can get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures. The park also has several rides for all ages.
• Warner Bros. Movie World.
  • This is a movie-themed park that offers a variety of thrill rides, live shows and role-playing. You can meet superheroes and watch exciting stunt shows.
  • Activity: Challenge your courage on the DC Rivals Hypercoaster, the tallest roller coaster in the southern hemisphere.
• Sea World.
  • Sea World combines a water park and a marine zoo where you can interact with dolphins, sea lions and other marine life. The park has several rides for the whole family.
  • Activities: Watch a dolphin show, participate in the “Shark Bay” exhibit, and learn about sharks' habits and conservation measures.

Nature reserves and outdoor activities

• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • This is a protected area for Australia's native animals where you can get up close and personal with koalas, kangaroos and a variety of birds.
  • Activities: Learn about local ecology and conservation efforts by taking part in the 'Feed the Kangaroos' program. You can also experience a treetop adventure, where you can travel high in the air through the trees.
• Lamington National Park.
  • Known for its magnificent rainforests and rich ecosystems, this national park offers several hiking trails for all levels of hikers.
  • ACTIVITY: Take the 'Tree Top Walk' experience and walk on a high trail overlooking the forest. There is also an abundance of birds and wildlife, perfect for nature lovers.

Shopping and dining experiences

• Pacific Fair.
  • This is the Gold Coast's largest shopping center offering a wide range of international brands and local stores, making it a shopper's paradise.
  • Activities: Try out international cuisines at the food court in the mall or enjoy afternoon tea at one of the luxurious cafes.
• Local Markets.
  • The Gold Coast has several weekend markets, such as the Old Bus Depot Markets, which bring together local artists and crafts, fresh produce and gourmet food.
  • Activities: Mingle with locals at the markets, buy unique crafts and try fresh street food.

Nightlife & Entertainment

• Nightlife in Surfers Paradise.
  • Surfers Paradise is known for its extensive nightlife with bars, nightclubs and entertainment venues. Whether you're looking to enjoy music, dancing or fine dining, there's plenty to choose from.
  • Activities: Attend live music performances or enjoy a cocktail at one of the beachside bars and soak up the lively atmosphere.
• Casino & Entertainment Center.
  • The Star Gold Coast offers a diverse selection of entertainment including gambling, live shows and fine dining.
  • ACTIVITIES: See live shows, experience the excitement of the casino or enjoy fine dining at one of the fine restaurants.

Culture and Art

• Local Art Galleries.
  • The Gold Coast has a growing art scene and you can enjoy the work of local artists at local galleries and cultural centers.
  • Events: Participate in art exhibitions and workshops to learn about the local art culture.
• Festivals & Events.
  • The Gold Coast hosts a number of cultural festivals each year, such as the Gold Coast Music Festival and the Gold Coast Arts Festival, which attract a large number of visitors.
  • Activities: Join in the festivities, enjoy live music and art performances and experience the local hospitality.

Transportation

• Airplane.
  • The Gold Coast's Currumbin International Airport offers international and domestic flights, with a choice of cabs or public transportation to the city center upon arrival.
• Public Transportation.
  • The Gold Coast has a convenient public transportation system and you can use the light rail (G:link) and bus system for easy access to major attractions and beaches.
• Car Rental.
  • If you wish to travel by car, you can rent a car at the airport or from one of the car rental agencies in the city, making it easy to explore the surrounding nature and towns.
• Bicycling and Walking.
  • Many areas of the Gold Coast are suitable for walking and cycling, especially along the beaches where there are dedicated trails and cycle paths.

4. Food Recommendations

• Seafood.
  • The Gold Coast is known for its fresh seafood and you can try fresh fish, shellfish and shrimp at local seafood markets and restaurants.
• International Cuisine.
  • The Gold Coast has a wide variety of dining options, and you can find a wide range of international cuisines such as Italian, Asian and Mexican at the Pacific Mall.
• Coffee Culture.
  • The Gold Coast has a strong coffee culture, with many cafes offering artisanal coffees and unique desserts, recommending 'Bumbles Café' and 'Elk Espresso'.
• Night Market Food.
  • The Gold Coast's night markets offer a wide range of snacks and cuisine, and you can try local specialties such as Australian pies and barbecues at street stalls.

5. Travel safety and emergency response

• Stay alert.
  • Stay alert while traveling, especially in crowded places. Keep your personal belongings safe and avoid leaving valuables exposed.
• Emergency contact numbers.
  • On the Gold Coast, you can call 000 for emergency assistance, which is Australia's emergency service number for police, fire and medical emergencies.
• Medical Facilities.
  • The Gold Coast has a number of hospitals and medical centers, such as the Gold Coast University Hospital, where you can seek medical help if needed.
• Lost property.
  • If you experience a loss or theft of property, report it immediately to the local police and obtain proof of the report. Contact your bank and credit card company to report a lost card.
• Natural disaster response.
  • Understand the response to natural disasters (e.g. floods, fires, etc.) that the Gold Coast may face, always keep an eye on the weather forecast, and follow local government guidelines.

6. Suggested Excursions

• Classic Day Trip.
  • Morning: enjoy the sun and beach activities, swimming or surfing in Surfers Paradise.
  • Noon: Lunch at a restaurant near the beach, “Hurricane's Grill” is recommended.
  • Afternoon: Head to Warner Bros. Movie World for exciting rides and shows.
  • Evening: Enjoy shopping and dinner at Pacific Mall.
• Family Tour Itinerary.
  • Morning: Travel to Sea World to observe marine life and exciting dolphin shows.
  • Lunch: Dine at one of the park's restaurants and try the fresh seafood.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and get up close and personal with koalas and kangaroos.
  • Evening: enjoy a family friendly restaurant dinner in Surfers Paradise.
• Cultural Discovery Itinerary.
  • Morning: visit local art galleries and museums to learn about the Gold Coast's art and culture.
  • Noon: Enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Gold Coast's markets for local crafts and food.
  • Evening: Experience the local nightlife with live music at a local bar.

7. Description of neighboring attractions

Lamington National Park

• Distance: About 30 kilometers from Gold Coast, about 1 hour drive.
• Features: Lamington National Park is known for its lush rainforests and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal place for hiking and exploring nature.
• Activities
  • Hiking: There are several trails, such as the “Tree Top Walk”, where visitors can walk through the canopy and enjoy the beautiful forest scenery.
  • Nature Watching: A birdwatcher's paradise where you can see a wide variety of native birds and other wildlife.

2. Stradbroke Island

• Distance: Approximately 30 minutes by ferry from the Gold Coast.
• Features: A beautiful island with spectacular beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant wildlife.
• Activities
  • BEACH ACTIVITIES: Swimming, surfing and fishing in the sun and surf.
  • Aboriginal Cultural Experiences: Take part in a cultural guided tour provided by the local Aboriginal community and learn about their traditions and way of life.

Helensvale

• Distance: Approximately 20 kilometers and 20 minutes drive from the Gold Coast.
• Features: Helensvale is a quiet town with a shopping center and beautiful parks.
• Activities
  • SHOPPING: Hullsville Shopping Center offers a wide range of retail outlets and is a great place to shop.
  • Recreational Activities: Enjoy the peaceful surroundings by taking a walk or having a picnic in one of the local parks.

Pierce Mountains (Mount Tamborine)

• Distance: Approximately 30 kilometers from the Gold Coast, 40 minutes by car.
• Features: The Pierce Ranges are renowned for their beautiful scenery and wineries, making them an ideal destination for a short break.
• Activities
  • Winery Cruise: Visit a local winery and sample delicious wines and cheeses.
  • Hiking: Explore the mountain trails and enjoy waterfalls and breathtaking views.

Byron Bay

• Distance: Approximately 90 kilometers from the Gold Coast, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
• Features: Known for its stunning beaches and artistic atmosphere, Byron Bay is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
• Activities
  • Surfing and Swimming: The beaches of Byron Bay are perfect for surfers and swimmers.
  • Cultural Activities: Byron Bay has many art galleries and craft stores where visitors can purchase unique souvenirs.

Gold Coast Weather Overview

The Gold Coast enjoys a warm subtropical climate with four distinct seasons for year-round travel. Below are detailed weather characteristics for each season to help you better plan your trip.

Summer (December - February)

• Temperatures: Daytime temperatures usually range between 25°C and 30°C, while nighttime temperatures range between 20°C and 25°C.
• Features: Summer is sunny and ideal for beach activities, but high humidity and occasional tropical storms can occur.
• Activity Suggestions.
  • Good for swimming, surfing and other water activities.
  • Remember to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during midday.

Fall (March - May)

• Temperatures: Temperatures gradually decrease during the day, usually between 22°C and 28°C, and between 15°C and 20°C at night.
• CHARACTERISTICS: With pleasant weather and relatively low humidity, autumn is one of the best times to visit for outdoor activities and adventures.
• Suggested activities
  • Take part in hiking, wildlife watching and other outdoor activities.
  • Experience local markets and cultural events, and enjoy good food.

Winter (June - August)

• Temperatures: Temperatures range from 18°C to 23°C during the day, and can drop to 10°C to 15°C at night.
• CHARACTERISTICS: Winter temperatures are cooler, humidity is lower and sunshine is still abundant, making it an ideal escape from the cold.
• Suggested activities
  • Ideal for indoor activities such as visiting museums, art galleries and shopping centers.
  • You can still enjoy the beach on sunny days.

Spring (September - November)

• Temperatures: Temperatures range between 20°C and 27°C during the day and between 15°C and 20°C at night.
• Features: Warm weather, moderate humidity and gradual warming in spring, ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities.
• Suggested activities
  • Take part in activities such as surfing lessons, hiking and biking.
  • Explore the local gardens and parks and enjoy the beautiful spring scenery.

Tips

• Rainfall: Rainfall on the Gold Coast is mainly concentrated during the summer months, especially January and February. Nonetheless, the rainfall is usually short-lived showers followed by a return to sunny days.
• Storm Season: Tropical storms can sometimes occur during the summer months, but for the most part the weather remains suitable for outdoor activities.
• SUN PROTECTION: The sun can be strong regardless of the season, so be sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat to protect your skin.

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Gold Coast Travel Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time to travel to the Gold Coast? The best time to travel to the Gold Coast is during the spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) when the weather is warm enough for outdoor activities.

2. What are the transportation options on the Gold Coast? Transportation options on the Gold Coast include public buses, light rail, cabs and rental cars. Public transportation is easily accessible with a Go Card.

3. What are the must-see attractions on the Gold Coast? Must-see attractions include Surfers Paradise, Warner Bros. Movie World, Dreamworld, Sea World and Gold Coast National Park.

4. What are the food and drink recommendations on the Gold Coast? The Gold Coast has an abundance of dining options and we recommend trying seafood restaurants, cafes and international cuisine, especially those located on the beach.

5. How do I get from Brisbane Airport to the Gold Coast? From Brisbane Airport to the Gold Coast you can take an airport bus, cab or shared travel service for about 1 hour.

6. What water activities are available on the Gold Coast? The Gold Coast offers a wealth of water activities including surfing, diving, kayaking and boat tours.

   

7. What is the weather usually like on the Gold Coast? The weather on the Gold Coast is warm, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C in the summer (December to February) and 10-20°C in the winter (June to August), with moderate rainfall.

8. What are some family-friendly activities on the Gold Coast? Family-friendly activities include theme parks, beach trips, zoos and water parks.

9. What are the accommodation options on the Gold Coast? There are a variety of accommodation options on the Gold Coast, from luxury resorts to budget hotels and apartments, and it is advisable to choose somewhere close to the beach and major attractions.

10. What are the best places to shop on the Gold Coast? Great places to shop include Pacific Mall, Gold Coast Mall and local markets offering a wide range of fashionable goods and souvenirs.