The Gold Coast is in Queensland just north of the New South Wales border and is a spectacular and fun place to visit. We stayed there for a week, which was an ideal time to take in most of the attractions, and we would suggest a minimum of 3 days to take in the best attractions if you have limited time. Famed for its beaches and theme parks, the region also rewards slow travel: sunrise cycles on oceanfront paths, gourmet dinners onboard calm-water cruises, and misty walks through ancient Gondwana rainforest. We stayed at the RACV Royal Pines Resort and highly recommend it if you are looking for upmarket accommodation and facilities. We managed to fit in one round of golf on the resort’s beautiful golf course, which is a haven for golf enthusiasts, but the resort also welcomes those not interested in the golf side of a stay. We’ve put together this Gold Coast Travel Guide —from must-do attractions and hidden gems to smart budgets and seasonal tips—so you can plan a smooth, unforgettable escape. You’ll find where to stay, realistic costs, transport know‑how, and money savers you’ll actually use. Plus, we’ve added five excellent day trips beyond the city for when you’re ready to roam.
Top things to see & do on the Gold Coast
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RACV Royal Pines Resort Gold Coast
A premier base for relaxation and recreation, RACV Royal Pines sits minutes from the beaches yet feels like a tranquil retreat. The resort’s centrepiece 27-hole championship golf course challenges all levels with pristine greens and fairways framed by palms and lakes. Rooms and suites are chic and spacious, many with sweeping views of the course or hinterland. Between rounds, unwind by the lagoon-style pool, book a rejuvenating treatment at the spa, or keep pace at the modern fitness centre. Dining is a highlight, with multiple venues and consistently polished service. It’s an ideal choice for couples seeking a luxe stay, golfers chasing a destination course, and families wanting resort-style amenities without sacrificing access to major sights. With thoughtful details and warm hospitality, RACV Royal Pines elevates your Gold Coast getaway from good to exceptional.
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Surfers Paradise Beach & Oceanfront Cycling
Surfers Paradise is the Gold Coast’s postcard: three kilometers of golden sand, rolling surf, and an always-on energy. Beyond sunbathing and swimming between the flags, hop on a bike and cruise the beachfront path for fresh sea breezes and nonstop ocean views. It’s an easy, scenic ride suited to all levels, with cafés and gelato stops dotted along the way. Bike rentals are plentiful, from classic cruisers to e-bikes; you can also unlock council-supported Lime e-bikes via the app for a low-effort spin at sunrise or sunset. On the sand, surfers chase consistent beach breaks, while families build sandcastles and splash in shallow edges. Evenings bring street performers, markets on select nights, and a lively dining scene steps from the foreshore. For a quintessential Gold Coast day—sand, surf, and a gentle ride—Surfers Paradise delivers.
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Sea World Gold Coast
Sea World blends marine discovery with adrenaline-filled fun. Get close to dolphins, seals, penguins, and polar bears across immersive habitats, then learn about conservation at engaging talks and interactive displays. Thrill-seekers can strap into Jet Rescue for high-speed twists or brave the Storm Coaster’s dramatic drops. Families will find gentler rides and themed zones inspired by beloved characters. What sets Sea World apart is its commitment to rehabilitation and research through the Sea World Research & Rescue Foundation, offering a meaningful backdrop to the day’s entertainment. Dining outlets and souvenir shops make it easy to spend a full day on-site. Whether you’re watching the Dolphin Discovery presentation or drifting between rides and exhibits, Sea World offers a balanced, educational, and exciting experience for visitors of all ages.
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Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
A Gold Coast classic since 1947, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary connects you with Australia’s most iconic animals. Wander leafy trails to meet koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and native birds, and join keeper talks that bring their stories—and conservation challenges—to life. Hands-on moments like kangaroo feeding and supervised koala encounters are memory-makers for families and first-time visitors. Adventure-seekers can add the Treetop Challenge for zip lines and rope courses weaving through the canopy. The sanctuary’s veterinary and rehabilitation work underscores every visit, reminding guests their ticket supports meaningful wildlife outcomes. With 27 hectares of gardens and habitats, it’s an easy half- or full-day that pairs beautifully with a nearby beach sunset.
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Jet Ski Safaris (Broadwater)
This was pure fun and something we would highly recommend doing on mostly calm waters around all the small islands. Unlike Thailand, where we hired a jet ski, the open ocean was a lot more choppy and less enjoyable. For pure exhilaration, throttle up across the Gold Coast Broadwater with guided jet ski tours. Operators like Jet Ski Safaris combine safety briefings and top-notch gear with flexible routes suited to beginners and confident riders alike. Skim past sandbanks, mangrove-fringed channels, and secluded coves while scanning for dolphins and sea turtles. The Broadwater’s generally calm conditions make it an excellent setting to build confidence, while longer tours venture farther to island hideaways. Expect an addictive, wind-in-your-face rush plus postcard views of skyline and sea. It’s a high-energy counterpoint to lazy beach days, and one of the region’s best ways to appreciate its aquatic playground.
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Warner Bros. Movie World
Step into the world of cinema at Australia’s Hollywood on the Gold Coast. Big-ticket coasters like Superman Escape hurl you from 0–100 km/h in seconds, while the Green Lantern serves intense twists and drops for seasoned thrill-seekers. Families can dial it down with the Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster, character meet-and-greets, and live-action stunt shows that blur the line between reel and real. Themed dining, immersive streetscapes, and plenty of photo ops round out the day. Movie World is a quintessential theme park experience—slick, adrenaline-charged, and designed to delight fans of blockbuster spectacle.
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Tamborine Mountain
A cool-climate escape in the hinterland, Tamborine Mountain pairs rainforest serenity with artisan charm. Stroll the elevated Rainforest Skywalk for canopy-level views and birdlife, then meander the Botanic Gardens for peaceful ponds and curated flora. Between hikes and waterfalls, sip your way through boutique wineries and stop into galleries and maker studios along Gallery Walk. Farmers’ markets and produce stalls highlight local cheeses, chocolates, and seasonal fruit. Short, well-marked trails and scenic lookouts make it easy to sample nature without a full-day commitment, though you could linger for hours with a picnic and a view. It’s the perfect palate cleanser after the coast’s bustle.
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Sea World Dinner Cruise
As the sun dips, board a dinner cruise to glide along the Gold Coast’s sparkling waterways. Departing near Sea World, these cruises pair city skyline views with a relaxed, elegant meal spotlighting fresh local produce—think seafood platters, quality mains, and thoughtful vegetarian options. The calm Broadwater sets the mood for conversation, celebrations, and date nights, while attentive service and soft lighting elevate the occasion. Between courses, step onto the open deck for photo-worthy perspectives on marinas, palms, and shimmering high-rises. It’s an effortless way to combine sightseeing, dining, and a touch of romance in one memorable evening.
Other places to visit outside the Gold Coast (Day trips & short breaks)
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Brisbane (1–1.5 hours)
Queensland’s capital blends riverfront culture with world-class galleries, dining, and urban parks. Explore South Bank, GOMA, the City Botanic Gardens, and lively precincts like Howard Smith Wharves. -
Byron Bay, NSW (1–1.5 hours)
Laid-back surf town meets wellness and foodie haven. Walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse, catch sunrise at the Pass, and browse boutiques and cafés with a bohemian vibe. -
Springbrook National Park (45–60 minutes)
Ancient Gondwana rainforest, waterfalls, and the famed Natural Bridge gglow-wormcave. Short trails deliver big scenery—perfect for a cooler, misty escape. -
Lamington National Park (1.5 hours)
Home to O’Reilly’s and Binna Burra, this rainforest giant offers ridge walks, canopy birds, and epic lookouts. Hike the Border Track or sample shorter circuits. -
Moreton Island (day trip via Brisbane)
Sand-dune adventures, shipwreck snorkelling and crystal-clear lagoons. A paradise for 4WD, marine life encounters, and beach downtime.
Where to stay
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RACV Royal Pines Resort Gold Coast (recommended)
Luxury resort living with a 27-hole championship golf course, lagoon pool, spa, fitness centre spacious rooms, and polished dining—ideal for couples, families, and golfers. If you are an RACV member, you will get a 50% discount on accommodation. -
Other good areas
- Surfers Paradise: High-rise hotels, nightlife, beachfront access.
- Broadbeach: Dining, shopping (Pacific Fair), tram access; a touch more relaxed.
- Burleigh Heads: Boutique stays, café culture, point break, national park headland.
- Coolangatta: Quieter beaches, great surf, close to airport.
Other Places To Stay
Travel costs (typical, per person, in AUD)
- Flights (domestic return to OOL): 150–450+ (seasonal)
- Hotels: Budget 100–170 | Mid-range 170–300 | Luxury 300–600+ per night
- Food & drink: Casual meals 15–30; cafés 20–35; nice dinner 45–90; coffee 4–6
- Attractions: Theme parks 95–150/day; Currumbin 55–70; Cruises 90–140; Jet ski tours 140–320
- Local transport: G:link tram/bus 4–8 per ride (with Go Card discounts); rideshare 12–35 typical intra-city
Suggested daily budgets (AUD)
- Mid-range: 220–350
3–4 star hotel, tram/bus + occasional rideshare, café breakfasts, casual lunches, nicer dinner, one attraction or tour. -
Luxury: 450–900+
5-star resort, spa/golf, fine dining, private tours or jet ski/cruise, rideshare or rental car convenience.
Money-saving tips
- Travel off-peak: Aim for April–June and September (outside Australian school holidays) for lower hotel and flight prices.
- Passes & bundles: Look for theme park multi-day tickets and combo deals.
- Use a Go Card: Discounted fares on trams and buses; cap your daily spend.
- Self-cater breakfasts: Book rooms with fridges; pick up groceries and snacks.
- Free nature: Beaches, Burleigh Head National Park walks, sunrise/sunset photo spots cost nothing.
- E-bikes & scooters: Short hops are cheaper than rideshares and add oceanfront fun.
Best time to go
- Best overall: April–May and September–November (warm days, lower humidity, fewer crowds).
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Hot, humid, afternoon storms; peak pricing and school holiday crowds.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Mild, sunny, great surf windows and whale watching (Jun–Oct); cooler nights.
How to get around
- Tram (G:link) and buses: Fast links between Helensvale, Southport, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach. Use a Go Card or contactless.
- Rideshare & taxis: Plentiful for nights out and airport transfers.
- Car rental: Best for hinterland day trips (Tamborine, Springbrook, Lamington).
- Cycling & e-scooters: Oceanfront paths are flat and scenic; Lime e-bikes widely available.
- Walking: Many beachfront neighbourhoods are compact and pedestrian-friendly.
See other Australian attractions here
