Many visitors would agree the Gold Coast has the best mix of beach and party that Australia has to offer. So if you’ve planned your week-long holiday in Queensland’s beach paradise, bought the plane tickets and hired a zippy little car, here are seven ideas of places to spend a perfect day on the Gold Coast.
Day 1: Hit the Beach
It goes without saying that the Gold Coast is the Mecca for surfers and beach lovers from all around Australia. After all, even the city’s main suburb is called Surfers Paradise! The area boast miles and miles of perfect golden beach with multiple life-guarded spots ideal for a swim. Remember that the sun here has got a bite, so always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Oh, and always swim between the red and yellow flags, as those are the areas patrol by lifeguards.
Day 2: Learn to Surf
If you don’t know how to surf, this is the perfect opportunity to learn. Once you get familiar with the local beaches you’ll notice there’s plenty of surf schools around. Pick one and go for a lesson. You don’t have to have your own board – simply hire the gear you need and give it a go. Most lessons are organized in small groups but private lessons are also available (photo source).
Day 3: Drive Down to Coolangatta
Coolangatta is located to the very south of the Gold Coast and borders with its twin town, Tweed Heads, which is on the other side of the state border with New South Wales. The main attraction in this coastal city is… the beach, a beautiful and a bit quieter alternative to Surfers Paradise. Be warned though, in the height of the holiday season there are few quiet beaches around the Gold Coast and you should expect lots of beach-goers wherever you go. Snapper Rocks is a great spot for surfing and simply admiring views of the bay.
Day 4: Go to Sea World
Sea World is one of Queensland’s most well-known attractions and is a great place to spend the day both for adults and children. There are roller coaster rides, shows and other attractions aplenty. See penguins, dolphins, seals and even polar bears. You might be thinking – hold on, polar bears and penguins? Is that even possible in tropical Australia? I guess you’ll have to go and see for yourself – somehow it’s all there.
Day 5: Explore Tamborine Mountain
The Gold Coast Hinterland with Tamborine Mountain at its centre is a great place for a day-trip. There is lots to see and do – from discovering the rain-forest and botanical parks to catching a balloon ride. You can easily drive out in the morning and be back by night-fall.
Day 6: Go Wild in Movie World
Ready for some more rides? Warner Bros Movie World will give you all the thrill rides and family entertainment you want. The Superman Escape, Batwing Spaceshot and Hollywood Stunt Driver show are just a few boredom busters for all ages.
Day 7: Another Perfect Day at the Beach
Another favourite beach location is Burleigh Heads. After all, that’s what the Gold Coast is about, isn’t it? Burleigh Heads beach gives you an unforgettable panoramic view of Surfers Paradise skyscrapers on the opposite side of the bay and a great life-guarded spot to swim or surf.
Seven days of ultimate fun. What if you find a place you really, really love and seven days is just not enough? Well that’s the perfect excuse to stay just a little longer or come back for more. Have fun on the Gold Coast!
