Gold Coast in Queensland is one of Australia’s most popular destinations, and it’s easy to understand why. There are incredible beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Perfect weather and shining sun year-round are also guaranteed! Gold Coast has so much to offer, and everyone should visit the Goldie while in Australia. I promise that whether you’re a party person or someone who appreciates beautiful nature, there’s something for you. To make it a bit easier for you, I’ve listed 9 things you absolutely shouldn’t miss while visiting Gold Coast!
Gold Coast Australia
Whale Watching
There’s nothing cooler than going out on a boat and seeing a 15-meter humpback whale leap out of the water right in front of your eyes, then watching it splash back into the water, creating waves that almost rock the boat. Gold Coast is one of the best places in Australia to experience this, with several organized tours taking you out to see these majestic creatures.
The best time of the year to see whales is in August, but you can spot them from June to October. We went with Sea World, check out their website here: SeaWorld
Note: If you get seasick, take a motion sickness tablet!
Broadbeach
Broadbeach is located in the heart of Gold Coast and is a super cozy place to stay and just enjoy a well-deserved vacation. Here, you’ll find lots of wonderful cafes, green parks for walks, weekend markets and best of all beaches with to big crowds.
Shop at Pacific Fair
The completely renovated Pacific Fair shopping center is a destination worth visiting just for its design. With over 400 stores featuring the latest fashion, it’s a perfect place to spend a few hours.
Don´t miss “Wet and wild´´ when you are in Gold Coast, Australia
Tired of lying on the beach? Then take your car or the bus to Wet and Wild, just outside Gold Coast, Australia. This is truly a place for pure fun! Wet and Wild offers a plethora of extremely fun water attractions for the whole family that will keep you entertained all day!
Learn more on their website: Wet and Wild
Burleigh heads
Burleigh Heads is a suburb of Gold Coast and is best known for its surfing, with waves that entice both beginners and pros to hit the water. There are also various activities taking place, such as cricket matches, volleyball, big BBQ parties, and much more. On Sunday afternoons, everyone gathers on the beach to listen to local musicians while just hanging out with friends. There’s also a charming street with cafes and shops to stroll around.
The famous Surfers Paradise in Gold Coast, Australia
When you think of Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise is often what comes to mind. Tall skyscrapers just a stone’s throw from the sea, giving an incredibly powerful feeling when standing on the beach and looking up at all these buildings.
But Surfers Paradise is so much more, especially if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush. There’s always something happening in Surfers Paradise with luxurious restaurants, bars, and nightclubs in every corner. If you want a memorable evening, this is the place to go.
Harbour town premium outlet
Love shopping? Then head to Harbour Town! Here, all sorts of brand stores are gathered in a small area, almost like a little community. It’s definitely worth taking a day trip here to make some finds… Because you will, I can guarantee, as it’s hard to find much lower prices on branded clothes anywhere else!
Purling Brook Falls, Springbrook National Park
WOW, I say! It’s hard to find a more “Instagram-friendly” waterfall than Purling Brook Falls. The waterfall has a drop of 106 meters and is surrounded by an ancient rainforest that makes you feel like you’re in a real adventure. Getting to the waterfall is almost a little adventure itself, done by hiking a circular route of about 4km, taking approximately 2 hours in total, but it’s truly worth it!
Natural Bridge
This is another popular place for tourists to visit, and for a good reason. With a truly unique rock formation and a waterfall falling through the completely natural archway into a cave, it’s a sight to behold! Additionally, the cave offers another phenomenon at night – you can see glowworms inside the cave, which is an incredible sight.
Getting here is easy, with just a 1km hike.
Are you on a road trip along Australia’s east coast?
If you’re traveling along Australia’s east coast, you can read my other post with all the stops and places you shouldn’t miss on your journey from Brisbane to Cairns. A complete guide, in short.
I wish you a fantastic stay in Gold Coast!
