Along a coastline that stretches from Southport to Coolangatta, the Gold Coast boasts 30 different beaches each with its own unique personality. Wide expanses of sand are ideal for walking, while the more secluded enclaves feature an exclusively intimate, private feel. World-famous surf breaks to the south include Snapper Rocks, Duranbah, Coolangatta, Kirra and Currumbin Alley, while South Stradbroke, Narrowneck and the Seaway are the picks to the north. For guaranteed fun, you can’t go past the popular swimming spots of Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, Northcliffe, Broadbeach, plus Tallebudgera and Currumbin Creeks. Burleigh Heads provides the complete package with barrelling waves, a scenic headland and a cosy coastal setting.
Gold Coast BeachesThings to Do
Island Life:
The Broadwater caters to every on-water activity imaginable, where thrill seekers can choose from jetboating, parasailing, kite surfing, diving, jet-ski safaris, snorkeling, tall-ship cruising and yachting.
A learn-to-surf class guided by world champions is a must-do on any one of the famous Gold Coast beaches, as are paddling and kayaking explorations. Camping out in relative isolation at South Stradbroke Island is also a popular pastime for couples.
Spa Luxury:
There is a broad range of day spa opportunities available right throughout the city to spoil yourself and a loved one. Harbour Day Spa, Q1 Resort and Spa, Esteem Day Spa and Splash Day Spa have all gained a reputation for providing first class, efficient service, as has the doorto-door offerings of Ripple Massage and Massage Specialists.
Action-packed events:
Events are in abundance with next month’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (19-22 May), Cooly Rocks On (3-13 June) has live bands, hot rods, classic cars and street parades or if you have a passion for food, book your next break to coincide with the annual Tastes of Gold Coast during late August into September.
The Gold Coast comes alive from 21-23 October with the Armor All Gold Coast 600, featuring the heavyweights of the Australian V8 Supercar Championship plus an extended list of international superstars.
Water, Air and Wildlife:
SeaWorld Sunset Cruises and Gold Coast Gondolas provide the perfect romantic setting for exploring Gold Coast waterways, while romance doesn’t come any more secluded than enjoying a hot air balloon flight across the region, before tucking into a sumptuous champagne breakfast.
The many wildlife sanctuaries and theme parks of the Gold Coast have created habitats that offer extraordinary real-life experiences with native Australian icons.
Wine & Dine:
Chill on Tedder at Main Beach is guaranteed to please anyone looking for something special as are Ristorante Fellini, Oskars on Burleigh, Shuck and the amazing aphrodisiac degustation menu at Lauxes.
Intimacy is also guaranteed with outings atop the world’s tallest residential tower at SkyPoint Observation Deck or while you’re in Surfers Paradise check out The Bazaar Restaurant, plus Stingray Lounge at the all new QT Gold Coast.
Further south at Broadbeach you’ll be well served to sample the fare available at 1two3, East, Alto Cucina, Envy or Moo Moo Steak Bar and Grill.
Insider Tips:
Burleigh Point for a magnificent Gold Coast sunrise followed by a romantic breakfast at one of the many local cafes.
Discover treasures and treats together at the bustling Surfers Paradise Night Markets along the newly developed Surfers Paradise Foreshore. Enjoy excellent value and absolute beachfront views at any one of the Gold Coast Surf Lifesaving Clubs.
Get up close and personal with a 40 tonne Humpback whale between June to November on board a Gold Coast whale watching cruise.
Gold Coast Hinterland
Just 40 minutes’ drive from Gold Coast beaches is a hinterland of subtropical rainforest, interspersed with mountain villages, bushwalks, waterfalls and swimming holes, plus valleys of working produce farms and cattle stations.
The World Heritage-listed Springbrook and Lamington National Parks, plus the extended township of Tamborine Mountain offer access to unmatched Australian landscapes with some of the best campgrounds available and other eco-friendly accommodation venues. Roaming wildlife and an array of flora and fauna represent nature at its finest.
Watch for roadside stalls selling everything from honey and rhubarb to lemons and organic avocados.
Things to Do
If you’re feeling active try hang-gliding, horse riding, 4WD tours, hot air ballooning, ATV adventures or canopy walks. Bed-and-breakfast outlets, wineries, boutique distilleries, breweries, restaurants, rustic homesteads, plus local produce, arts and crafts and jewellery stores are scattered throughout this rural setting.
Get back to nature with a breathtaking stroll at tree top level along the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk or bask in the simple natural pleasures at any one of the many hinterland walkways scattered throughout. Some walks have glow worm caves as part of the natural spectacle which makes for a truly amazing encounter to be enjoyed together.
Wine & Dine:
Topping the list of ‘must dos’ is the multi-award winning Songbirds in the Forest, set on a 50-hectare rainforest property it also offers luxurious overnight, chalet accommodation. Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard and Winery is the home of the all-new Queensland Wine Centre with 14 wineries from across the south east of the state represented.
Couples can also enjoy award-winning wines and lunch on the verandah of an historic Queenslander homestead at O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards.
The Polish Place at Mt Tamborine is another multi award winning restaurant and accommodation venue that provides spectacular views from the cottages and outdoor dining area. You’re assured a decadent dining experience among relaxed surrounds at Liquid Amber Restaurant that resides within the Witches Chase Cheese/Mt Tamborine Brewery complex.
For the total Hinterland experience, take your taste buds on a journey and discover the area’s seasonal produce and local products along the route for the Gold Coast Hinterland Food and Wine Trail. Follow the Tourist Drive 8 signs and enter the trail from Exit 57 from the north (Brisbane) and Exit 69 from the south (Coolangatta) on the Pacific Motorway.
Insider Tips:
Best beach: Rainbow Bay, Coolangatta
Best spot: Point Danger
Best Fish and Chips: PKG’s (just over border at 212 Kennedy Drive,
Tweed Heads)
Walks: O’Reilly’s
Shopping: Robina Town Centre
Boating/Fishing: South Straddie