Experience jet boating, skydiving, scuba diving, ziplining, or parasailing for an adrenaline rush. These exciting experiences allow you to enjoy breathtaking views while engaging in heart-pounding fun, perfect if you wish to add excitement to your trip.
While you're visiting the Gold Coast, explore some of the best theme parks in the city. Here are a few options to consider.
Step into the world of movies with adrenaline-pumping rides, live stunt shows, and beloved characters like Batman and Wonder Woman. This park offers a mix of thrilling roller coasters and family-friendly attractions, like the exciting DC Rivals HyperCoaster.
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Dreamworld is Australia’s largest theme park, offering thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and wildlife encounters. With themed lands like Tiger Island and DreamWorks Experience, it’s a perfect destination for excitement, fun, and unforgettable memories.
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This water park is filled with exhilarating slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Perfect for families, it offers exciting attractions like the Tornado and the Black Hole. Spend a day splashing around and enjoying the sun in this water paradise.
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Adjacent to Dreamworld, WhiteWater World is a water lover’s paradise with exciting water slides, wave pools, and splash zones. It’s ideal for cooling off and enjoying a day of aquatic fun for all ages.
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This one is a challenging 54 km trail through Lamington and Springbrook National Parks, showcasing ancient subtropical rainforests and breathtaking views. Spanning several days, you can explore diverse ecosystems, waterfalls, and wildlife for an unforgettable adventure amidst nature.
Wander through the serene and picturesque Tallebudgera Creek walking track along the water’s edge. This easy hike offers opportunities for a refreshing dip and picnicking. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and beautiful views of the creek while soaking up the sun.
This 14-km loop in Springbrook National Park features lush rainforests, waterfalls, gorges, ancient trees, and stunning vistas. This moderately challenging hike offers breathtaking scenery and chances to spot local wildlife along the way, making it well worth the effort.
Currumbin Valley features several walking trails that showcase its natural beauty. The area is known for its lush greenery, hidden waterfalls, picnic spots, and rock pools, ideal for swimming. Explore different paths amidst peaceful surroundings and local wildlife.
A track that combines hiking and mountain biking, this loop features varied terrains and beautiful bushland. It’s ideal for fitness enthusiasts and those looking to challenge themselves. The hike is moderately difficult, offering rewarding views of the Gold Coast skyline.
This beautiful 17-km trail in Lamington National Park takes you through ancient rainforests and past stunning waterfalls. This moderate hike allows you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery along the way.
The museum features lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters. Visit themed rooms, explore exhibits that recreate moments from history, and dive into the macabre Chamber of Horrors, offering a mix of education and entertainment.
Step into a world of 3D art at ArtVo, an interactive gallery where you become part of the artwork. Pose with optical illusions, vibrant murals, and immersive installations, making it a fun and creative experience for all ages.
HOTA is a lively cultural destination on the Gold Coast. It features rotating contemporary art exhibitions, live performances, and outdoor cinema events. Surrounded by picturesque parklands, HOTA is a creative hub perfect for art enthusiasts and those seeking cultural experiences.
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This museum offers a quirky collection of oddities, artifacts, and bizarre yet interactive exhibits. From shrunken heads and strange facts to mind-bending illusions and puzzles, Ripley's offers a blend of curiosity and entertainment that’s perfect for families.
Dedicated to loved ones who have passed away, this outdoor museum preserves the history of Logan Village through sculptures, artifacts, and storytelling. Admire exhibits that honor the area's pioneers and indigenous culture, offering an educational experience in a natural setting.
This museum offers insights into the region's history during the 19th and 20th centuries, through exhibits showcasing local artifacts, restored cottages, tools, photographs, and stories. Learn about the area's early settlers, industries, and cultural heritage, at this community-focused museum.
Known for its stunning scenery and relaxed vibe, Burleigh Heads Beach offers great surf conditions, golden sands perfect for sunbathing and swimming, grassy picnic spots, and a lively dining scene. With breathtaking views, it’s ideal for a day of fun and frolic.
Known for its energetic atmosphere and gentle waves, this beach is perfect for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, beach volleyball, or a stroll along the esplanade. The area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and nightlife, making it a popular destination for tourists.
With calm waters and a charming seaside vibe, Coolangatta Beach offers swimming, scenic walking paths, and cafes. It’s close to attractions, like Snapper Rocks and Rainbow Bay, and is also a great spot for whale watching during the migration season.
Rainbow Bay is known for its stunning sunsets and crystal-clear tranquil waters. It’s an excellent spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking on the beach. The gentle waves make it suitable for beginners wanting to learn how to surf or paddleboard.
This tranquil spot’s calm waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers picnic areas and scenic walking trails along the creek. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a relaxing escape.
A world-famous surfing destination, Snapper Rocks boasts impressive waves, challenging breaks, and remarkable coastal views. Part of the Superbank surf break, it attracts experienced surfers and spectators year-round. The rocky shoreline is a great spot for exploring and photography.
Surfing on the Gold Coast is a must-do, with its world-famous beaches offering perfect surf conditions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, lessons and board rentals are available. Experience the thrill of riding the waves while soaking up the sun.
Top spots: Surfers Paradise, Snapper Rocks, Kirra Beach
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with skydiving over the Gold Coast. Jump from up to 15,000 feet and enjoy breathtaking views of the cityscape, coastline, and hinterland. This unforgettable adventure is ideal if you seek an exhilarating and thrilling experience.
Top spots: Skydive Byron Bay, Skydive Noosa, Surfers Paradise
Jet boating is an exciting way to explore the Gold Coast's waterways at high speeds. Feel the thrill as you zoom across the Broadwater, performing 360-degree spins and sharp turns while enjoying views of the skyline and surrounding nature.
Top spots: Mariner's Cove Marina, Gold Coast Broadwater
Kayaking allows you to explore beautiful beaches, mangroves, hidden coves, and vibrant marine life at your own pace. Rentals and guided tours are available, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the activity while spotting local wildlife along the way.
Top spots: Tallebudgera Creek, Broadwater
Stand on a large board and use a paddle to glide across calm waters. Paddleboarding offers a peaceful yet engaging adventure, combining balance and relaxation. Rentals are available, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels while enjoying beautiful surroundings.
Top spots: Tallebudgera Creek, Currumbin Creek, Broadbeach
Test your courage and agility at Australia’s largest high ropes adventure park. With zip lines, rope bridges, climbing challenges, and swinging obstacles set among treetops, the Treetop Challenge in Oxenford offers an exhilarating aerial adventure for enthusiasts of all ages.
Top spots: Thunderbird Park at Mount Tamborine, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Springbrook National Park, Purling Brook Falls cascades over 300 meters into a lush valley. The surrounding walking trails offer breathtaking views of the Falls and the rainforest, while the 4 km return hike offers breathtaking views and a chance to cool off in the refreshing spray at the base, surrounded by diverse wildlife.
Curtis Falls is a picturesque waterfall situated in Tamborine National Park. A short, easy walk through sub-tropical rainforest leads to this serene and tranquil spot, where you can admire the cascading waters and spot native wildlife like turtles, wallabies, and birds along with glow worms creating a magical atmosphere.
Natural Bridge is a breathtaking waterfall where a creek cascades through a collapsed cave roof. The 1 km circuit trail allows you to view the Falls from multiple angles. It’s especially enchanting in the evening when glow worms illuminate the cave, creating a stunning natural display.
A hidden gem located in Lamington National Park, Morans Falls offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful views of cascading water against a rainforest backdrop. The nearby lookout provides panoramic vistas of the valleys and mountains, making it perfect for a peaceful hike and sunset views.
Sea World is a marine-themed park offering thrilling rides, animal encounters, and entertaining shows. You can see dolphins, seals, and sharks up close while enjoying roller coasters and water attractions. It's a fun-filled day for families and marine life enthusiasts.
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Paradise Country is an interactive farm experience showcasing Australian wildlife and rural life. Enjoy sheep shearing demonstrations, meet kangaroos and koalas, and participate in hands-on activities. This family-friendly attraction provides a unique insight into Australia’s farming culture and native animals.
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Lone Pine is the world's first koala sanctuary, allowing you to cuddle koalas, feed kangaroos, and meet other animals. Set in lush surroundings, it offers informative talks about conservation efforts while showcasing various native Australian wildlife in a friendly environment.
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This zoo features a variety of exotic and native animals in a beautiful garden setting. You can enjoy animal encounters, educational presentations, and guided tours. It also focuses on conservation efforts while providing a fun and educational experience for families.
Darling Downs Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals from around the world, including rare species. It offers interactive experiences, including animal feeding sessions and informative talks. It’s an excellent destination for wildlife lovers seeking an educational outing.
This park focuses on conservation and education while showcasing native Australian animals in natural habitats. See unique species, like platypus, cassowary, and kangaroos, while enjoying informative talks. The park's tranquil setting along Tallebudgera Creek makes it a peaceful escape into nature.
The SkyPoint Observation Deck offers stunning 360-degree views of the Gold Coast. You can see the beaches, hinterlands, and city skyline. It's a great spot for photography. It also houses a café where you can enjoy a meal while soaking in the view.
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Step into a world of magic as you walk through illuminated caves filled with thousands of glow worms, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into these unique creatures and their habitat, creating a memorable adventure for you.
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The Pink Flamingo Cabaret offers a vibrant dining experience combined with spectacular live entertainment. Enjoy delicious meals while watching dazzling performances featuring singing, dancing, and acrobatics. This unique venue provides a fun night out for couples and groups alike.
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Infinity is a mind-bending experience that takes you through a series of futuristic, interactive rooms filled with light, sound, and optical illusions. It’s a distinctive, fun-filled attraction, offering an immersive journey into the unknown with each twist and turn.
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Ice Bar is a unique bar experience where everything is made of ice, including the furniture and sculptures. Guests can enjoy drinks served in ice glasses while surrounded by stunning ice art. It's a cool place to chill out with friends!
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This exciting dinner show showcases Australia’s rich rural heritage through live performances, music, and stunning visual effects to tell the story of the continent’s outback. Enjoy a hearty dinner while watching daring stunts, horse riding displays, and cultural performances.
The best time for hiking in Gold Coast is during autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November). These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, making it enjoyable to explore trails in national parks like Lamington and Springbrook without the summer heat.
Adventure activities are best enjoyed from April to June when the weather is warm but not overly hot. This period allows for thrilling experiences like skydiving and jet boating without the crowds of summer, providing a more enjoyable atmosphere for outdoor adventures.
Wildlife spotting is best during winter (June to August) when animals are more active and visible in cooler temperatures. This is also whale-watching season, with tours available that guarantee sightings. The clear skies enhance the experience of exploring national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
The best time to visit wineries in Gold Coast is during autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild and pleasant. This season offers beautiful vineyard views, making it perfect for wine tastings at places like Cedar Creek Estate and Witches Falls Winery without summer crowds.
Yes, there are various guided tours available, including winery tours, wildlife experiences, and hinterland excursions. These tours provide a convenient way to explore the area while learning about local attractions from knowledgeable guides.
The best time to visit is during autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities and fewer crowds compared to summer.
Absolutely! Gold Coast is home to various wildlife sanctuaries and national parks where you can see native animals like koalas, kangaroos, and colorful bird species. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is particularly popular for animal encounters.
Gold Coast offers diverse shopping experiences, including high-end boutiques at Pacific Fair and Marina Mirage, and outlet shopping at Harbour Town. Local markets also provide unique crafts and fresh produce for a more authentic shopping experience.
Yes, Gold Coast boasts a vibrant dining scene with a wide range of restaurants offering fresh seafood, international cuisine, and casual beachside cafes. Popular dining areas include Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise for diverse culinary experiences.
You can enjoy various activities such as surfing, jet boating, parasailing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, scuba diving. You can also try kayaking, ziplining, hiking, and mountain biking for an adrenaline rush.
Yes, getting around is convenient with public transport options like buses and trams. Many attractions are also within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the area without needing a car.
Yes, there are many free or low-cost activities, such as enjoying the beaches, visiting national parks, hiking, and exploring markets. Opt for self-guided tours or public transport to save on expenses.
Yes, Gold Coast has a lively nightlife scene with bars, nightclubs, and restaurants in areas like Surfers Paradise. Enjoy beachfront clubs, rooftop bars, or casual lounges for a fun night out.
Pack swimwear, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and lightweight clothing for the daytime. Bring a jacket for cooler evenings, especially if you're hiking or exploring the hinterland. Don't forget your camera for stunning views!