Gold Coast

Theme parks, rainforests, and waterfalls.

Sun-soaked beaches stretch along Australia's eastern coast, where high-rise hotels and surf spots meet theme parks and lively nightlife in this popular holiday destination.

4.1
out of 5

The Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia is a coastal city that draws millions of visitors each year. With 70 kilometers of coastline, it's known for its stunning beaches and exciting activities. You can catch waves at Surfers Paradise, explore the rainforests of Lamington National Park, or experience the thrills at Dreamworld theme park. The city's sunny subtropical climate makes it an appealing destination throughout the year.

Beaches and Surfing

The Gold Coast's 70 kilometers of golden sand stretch from South Stradbroke Island to Rainbow Bay. Surfers Paradise Beach is the most popular, with excellent waves and a lively atmosphere. For a calmer experience, head to Burleigh Heads or Currumbin Beach. The southern beaches like Coolangatta and Kirra are favorites among experienced surfers due to their challenging breaks. If you're new to surfing, you can take lessons at one of the many surf schools along the coast.

Theme Parks

The Gold Coast is home to several major theme parks. Dreamworld, the largest, has over 40 rides. At Warner Bros. Movie World, you'll find movie-themed rides and shows. For water-based fun, visit Wet'n'Wild or Sea World, which combines marine life exhibits with exciting rides. The SkyPoint Observation Deck at Q1 gives you panoramic views of the coastline and hinterland from 230 meters above ground.

Natural Areas and Hinterland

Beyond the beaches, the Gold Coast Hinterland presents a different side of the region. In Lamington National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can explore over 160 kilometers of walking trails through ancient rainforests. You'll have the chance to see native wildlife, admire waterfalls, and take in impressive views. Mount Tamborine, just an hour's drive from Surfers Paradise, is home to wineries, art galleries, and scenic walks. At the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, you can see Australian animals up close, including koalas and kangaroos.

Dining and Nightlife

The Gold Coast's food scene has grown in recent years. You'll find options ranging from casual beachside cafes to high-end restaurants. Broadbeach has many restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines. For nightlife, Surfers Paradise is the center of activity, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues around Orchid Avenue and Cavill Avenue. If you prefer a more relaxed evening, try the bars and restaurants in Burleigh Heads or Coolangatta.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

The Gold Coast has a subtropical climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year. Summers (December to February) are hot and humid, with average temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. Winters (June to August) are mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 21°C. Many visitors prefer autumn (March to May) for its comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. If you plan to visit during peak season (December to January), expect crowds and higher prices.

Getting Around

The Gold Coast has an efficient public transport system. The G:link light rail runs from Helensvale to Broadbeach, passing through Surfers Paradise and other key areas. Buses cover most other parts of the city. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, especially if you want to explore the hinterland. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available. The Gold Coast Airport in Coolangatta serves domestic and international flights, with connections to the main tourist areas via shuttle buses or the public transport network.

Average temperatures during the day in Gold Coast.
December
29°
Jan
30°
Feb
29°
Mar
28°
Apr
26°
May
23°
Jun
21°
Jul
20°
Aug
22°
Sep
24°
Oct
26°
Nov
28°

What people say about Gold Coast

4.1
People
4
Food
4
Spaces
4
Value
4
Safety
4

Articles about Australia

Image of Bucket list-worthy places in Australia
Image of Bucket list-worthy places in Australia

Bucket list-worthy places in Australia

July 2023,
Welcome to the land Down Under, a.k.a Australia, where the sun shines brighter, the animals are weirder, and the locals have an accent that could charm a dingo. With its wide-open spaces and stunning
Image of The 20 happiest cities in the world
Image of The 20 happiest cities in the world

The 20 happiest cities in the world

November 2024,
This is a list of the top 20 happiest cities in the world according the World Happiness Report which is based on data from 160+ countries. The Nordics and Oceania are heavily over-represented, but the
Image of The most beautiful national parks in the world
Image of The most beautiful national parks in the world

The most beautiful national parks in the world

November 2024,
National parks are unique in several ways, about 15% of all land and 8% of all water in the world is protected. National parks are protected pockets of nature that offers a unique opportunity for bot
Image of Where to see the Northern Lights: The ultimate guide
Image of Where to see the Northern Lights: The ultimate guide

Where to see the Northern Lights: The ultimate guide

October 2023,
Humbling experience Traveling to see the Northern Lights is worth every mile, every hour on the road or in the air. Imagine standing under the dark sky, surrounded by silence, when suddenly the black
Image of All World Expo locations since 1851
Image of All World Expo locations since 1851

All World Expo locations since 1851

November 2024,
For more than a century and a half, global citizens have congregated at World Expos to celebrate human achievement, explore pressing issues of the day, and experience the cultural expressions of peopl
Image of The 30 best food cities in the world
Image of The 30 best food cities in the world

The 30 best food cities in the world

November 2024,
This is a list of the top food destinations in the world based on the opinions of travelers from more than 100 countries. If you travel to eat, this is for you! It doesn’t matter if you are a foodie o
Popular on Humbo right now
Humboâ„¢AboutVisitedBucket listSustainable travelPrivacyTerms