Places and activities to explore on The Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is often considered a paradise for living and Australia’s premier holiday destination. Here, you can discover numerous places, activities, restaurants, beautiful beaches, wildlife parks, theme parks, dining options, natural beauty, shopping venues, exciting events, and even some fantastic free things to do.

SkyPoint Observation Deck

For a breathtaking view of the Gold Coast from its tallest building, a visit to the SkyPoint Observation Deck is a must. Situated atop the iconic Q1 building in Surfers Paradise, it offers visitors a bird’s-eye perspective of what the Gold Coast is “Famous for Fun.”

Ticket prices range from approximately $30 to $50, including breakfast.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Regardless of your age, a visit to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a must. Spanning 27 hectares of Currumbin Rainforest, this sanctuary allows you to observe koalas, kangaroos, lemurs, cotton-top tamarins, red pandas, capybaras, as well as free-flying birds, exotic reptiles, and other wonders of nature.

Ticket prices typically range from 50 to 60 AUD.

Natural Bridge, Springbrook

If you have a deep appreciation for nature, the Natural Bridge is a perfect destination on the Gold Coast. This stunning location is a must-visit for residents and tourists alike.

During the day, you can spot paradise riflebirds, green catbirds, wompoo fruit-doves, and rare and threatened species like the cascade tree frog, tusked frog, sooty owl, and koala. At night, you can join a guided nocturnal tour to witness the colony of protected glow-worms and microbats.

Coombabah Lake Conservation Park

This park safeguards over 1200 hectares of wetland, eucalypt forest, salt marsh, and mangrove habitats, teeming with abundant wildlife and offering wonderful walking trails. You can observe kangaroos and might even be lucky some koalas. Don’t forget to bring water, some snacks, and comfortable clothing for your visit.

Theme Parks and Attractions

The Gold Coast is a comprehensive destination, offering the best in theme parks and opportunities to encounter Australian wildlife, meet your favorite movie characters and superheroes, swim with dolphins and sharks, and enjoy thrilling roller coasters and attractions.

Popular theme parks near the Gold Coast include Dreamworld, Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Whitewater World. Ticket prices are average from $100 to $120 each. However, purchasing a “Your Local Annual Fun Pass” can make your visits more affordable, providing entry to four parks for $200.

Miami Marketta

Experience good vibes, great music, and delicious food at Miami Marketta, the original street market on the Gold Coast. It’s open to the public every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 5 pm. It’s a perfect way to have a good time with your classmates and enjoy something different after class.

Pubs and Nightclubs

As a tourist hub, the Gold Coast boasts a variety of excellent pubs and nightclubs. You can explore venues such as Cali Beach, Surfers Pavilion, Burleigh Pavilion, Tama, Atrium Bar (The Star), and many more for a vibrant nightlife experience.