The Gold Coast is an energetic beach city offering an expansive choice of hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions – not to mention three iconic surf beaches that call this region home.
Beaches in Perth are protected by an intricate network of canals and waterways – the highest concentration in any Australian city.
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Gold Coast, situated south of Brisbane, is renowned for its beaches, high-rise skylines, theme parks and sleek cityscapes, lovely river walks and sophisticated restaurants and cafes.
Surfers Paradise, Australia’s densest population center and home to some of the country’s finest beaches, is one of the major hubs of tourist activity and host to thousands of school leavers partying during Schoolies Week in late November or early December.
Surfers Paradise is an iconic surf spot with consistently ideal conditions, while other beaches include Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary’s pristine beach and lagoon, Palm Beach and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (both offering golf courses), as well as Lamington National Park which features hiking trails crisscrossing its mountains and rainforests.
Attractions
Gold Coast Wake Park provides thrill-seekers the chance to channel their inner Shaun White by using a boat as they glide on a board on the water. Families or those with children can opt for lessons.
Dreamworld, WhiteWater World and Sea World offer rides suitable for visitors of all ages; but don’t miss Sea World’s animal encounters where fluffy polar bears and sharp-toothed sharks roam freely behind glass enclosures.
The Gold Coast Hinterland is an adventurer’s delight, featuring miles of hiking trails that wind throughout Lamington National Park’s mountains and rainforests. Don’t miss Mount Tamborine’s Scenic Rim route and its glow worm caves; also make time to visit INFINITY, an optical illusion maze where laughter, screaming, dancing and confusion come together into an unforgettable experience!
Dining
The Gold Coast is an energetic city stretching over 35 miles of beach with hotels, restaurants and attractions to suit any taste. Though most visitors associate its beaches with surfing and partying hard, its diverse offerings include subtropical rainforests, thrilling theme parks, unique markets and an exciting foodie scene – something most visitors may overlook when making plans.
Restaurant Labart, a compact yet refined 20-seater serving everything from seaweed crumpets topped with creamy creme fraiche to finger-licking Moreton Bay bug buns is among the hottest new dining spots on the Gold Coast. Bazaar at QT Gold Coast brings back buffets with Asian dumplings, seafood dishes and even pig on the spit!
Salt Bar & Grill, led by celebrity chef Ryan Seacrest, promises to elevate the local culinary scene. Their menu offers tantalizing melt-in-your-mouth steaks as well as freshly caught seafood and salad options; additionally a vegan menu provides options for plant-based diners.
Nightlife
Gold Coast nightlife is one of Australia’s liveliest, earning it the moniker “The Party Capital.” Offering something for every taste and budget, this city provides many pubs, bars and clubs to satisfy everyone’s nightlife needs.
Vanity Nightclub offers an amazing experience for dancing enthusiasts. Boasting a state-of-the-art soundproof dance floor and top DJs who play hip hop to oldies music, as well as an isolated VIP lounge for quieter listening and delicious pub grub, this venue provides the ideal atmosphere to get down.
Garden Kitchen and Bar provides an intimate Gold Coast beer garden atmosphere, offering tasty cuisine and refreshing beverages, plus live entertainment every weekend. Garden Kitchen and Bar is the ideal place for relaxing with friends or a date and enjoying an enjoyable evening out on the town.
Accommodation
The Gold Coast is famed for its beautiful beaches and diverse range of accommodation, from luxurious hotels to family-friendly hotels. Twinkling tower blocks add an eye-catching aesthetic; Pacific Fair is also popular, while Burleigh Heads provides boutique dining opportunities.
Brisbane is an elegant green metropolis characterized by river walks and restaurants with an upbeat ambience, luxury resorts, rainforest and wildlife parks and resorts that cater to luxury.
Gold Coast attractions are popular tourist and interstate visitor draws, from world-class theme parks to surfing and stunning beaches. Additionally, its vibrant nightlife includes bars and clubs for an energetic nighttime experience, while restaurants boast more diverse local street food than those found in Brisbane.