Location

Gold Coast,
Queensland

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.

what to do

The Gold Coast, QLD, is a sun-soaked paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and family-friendly attractions. Surf the iconic waves at Surfers Paradise, explore the lush rainforests of the hinterland, or get your adrenaline fix at theme parks like Dreamworld, Sea World, and Warner Bros. Movie World. For a more relaxed vibe, wander through local markets, dine by the waterfront, or take in the panoramic views from the SkyPoint Observation Deck.

  • Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

    Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has been an iconic Gold Coast attraction for more than 75 years. Preserving heritage, conserving wildlife, while educating and entertaining visitors from all over Australia and the World in the process.

  • Explore the Coast’s famous beaches

    With more than 70 kilometres (44 miles) of golden sand with waves to surf, sun to soak up and seaside cafes to enjoy, you will find an abundance of activities for your group to enjoy at the Coast’s famous golden beaches.

  • Discover the lush Gold Coast Hinterland

    Within the forested hinterland lies another side to the Gold Coast. Groups can stay at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat where they can take a guided walk through waterfalls while learning about the local birdlife.

  • Climb Australia’s tallest building

    Groups will take in the Gold Coast’s famous skyline from above with SkyPoint Climb. The guided climb takes groups 270 metres (885 feet) above sea level as they scale the outside of Australia’s tallest building – the iconic Q1 in Surfers Paradise.

  • The Gold Coast's light rail stations are unique to any other tram station in Australia. Known as G:link, the Light Rail tram system's first stop is at the Gold Coast University Hospital and connects commuting passengers to 16 stations across 13 kilometres, through Southport, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, with the bus network at safe interchanges. There's also Stage 2 in the pipeline which will join Parkwood and Helensvale to the tram service.

    Passengers riding the G:link have a number of different ticket options, including the go card (for locals) and one way paper tickets.

  • The bus system will get around to most Gold Coast suburbs, with the majority of bus routes taking you to the train stations, major shopping centres and some attractions.

    While the outer suburbs have regular bus services, they are not as common as those that journey along the Gold Coast Highway.


  • The Train on the Gold Coast begins at Varsity Lakes Station and finishes up on the Gold Coast at Ormeau Station. It continues its journey up to the Brisbane CBD and terminates at Brisbane Domestic Airport. The trip between the Gold Coast and Brisbane takes around 1 hour to complete. 

    The price of fares is based on the number of zones you cross during your journey. Prices will vary depending on whether you've got a concession, peak times and if you are using a go card or paper ticket. 

  • The Gold Coast boasts over 2400 kilometers of interconnected bikeways and pathways, seamlessly linking neighborhoods, schools, picturesque foreshores, and parks. This extensive network effortlessly connects with major transit routes, making it an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. Download the Gold Coast Cycling Guide to help you plan your journey.

    Lime's pedal-assisted electric bikes offers an eco-friendly way to explore the city. With hundreds of bikes available in key locations, residents and visitors can effortlessly navigate the beautiful sights.e. Unlike traditional bike-sharing schemes, Lime bikes can be picked up and dropped off anywhere, eliminating the need for specific docking stations. To start riding, download the Lime App for details on finding, unlocking, and using the bikes. Prices start at $1 to unlock and 54 cents per minute, with various passes available for frequent riders.

  • There are many options for car hire in Gold Coast. Most major national car rental companies have offices located in the city and at Gold Coast Airport, making pick up and drop off a breeze.

Getting around Gold Coast