101 things to do on the Gold Coast
BEACHES, theme parks, skyscrapers, hinterland and hidden cafes ... the Gold Coast has all of this and more. Here are 101 things to do on the Gold Coast.
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BEACHES, theme parks, skyscrapers, hinterland and hidden cafes ... the Gold Coast has all of this and more.
We’ve listed 101 of the coolest things to do on the Coast perfect for tourists, families, couples, kids and yes, even the locals.
GOLD COAST’S BEST HIDDEN BUSHWALKS
1. NATURAL BRIDGE
Springbrook
The Springbrook National Park’s Natural Bridge rock formation — once formed by the force of the waterfall over the erosive basalt cave — is easily accessible from the Nerang-Murwillumbah Road car park. Start the short one kilometre subtropical circuit clockwise and descend through ancient Gondwana rainforest to the Natural Bridge rock arch.
2. NIGHT QUARTER MARKETS
1 Town Centre Drive, Westfield Helensvale, http://nightquarter.com.au/
The Night Quarter markets are a favourite among locals. Featuring food, drink, live music and activities, this is one for the whole family.
3. TOOLONA CREEK CIRCUIT
Lamington National Park, http://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/
The Tooloona Creek circuit at Canungra combines the very best that Lamington National Park has to offer. Scenic waterfalls, boulder-strewn creeks, tall rainforests, gnarled Antarctic beech trees, views over Byron Bay and the World-Heritage listed rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales.
4. Q1 SKYPOINT OBSERVATION DECK
9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise, https://www.skypoint.com.au/
Enjoy 360 degree views of the surrounding coast at SkyPoint Observation Deck where you can indulge in meals at The Seventy 7 Cafe and Bar or grab a drink and watch the sun set over the city.
5. Q1 SKY POINT CLIMB
9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise, www.skypoint.com.au
If you’re feeling brave you can do the SkyPoint Climb, a 90 minute climb of the Q1 Tower, which is 270m tall and Australia’s highest external building climb, to experience amazing views from the beaches to the hinterland.
6. STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING
Tallebudgera Creek, 1544 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Also known as ‘SUPing’ to the locals. If you haven’t been stand up paddle boarding before, put it on your bucket list and tick it off on the Gold Coast. Tallebudgera Creek is a hotspot for the inexpensive activity with crystal clear waters, flat conditions and lifesavers in the area.
7. PURLING BROOK FALLS
Forestry Road, Springbrook
The little creek known as Purling Brook, peacefully winds its way under roads and over rocks before finding itself in a terrifying 100m drop off the mountain, into the valley below. The Purling Brook Falls are situated within the central section of Springbrook National Park as part of the Shield Volcano Group, at Springbrook which is part of the Gold Coast hinterland, southwest of Surfers Paradise.
8. TRY A SYRINGE DOUGHNUT
Blackboard Coffee, 7/240 Varsity Parade Varsity Lakes
You’ve seen them all over Instagram, now it’s time to try a caramel or nutella filled doughnut at the cafe which started the trend. Blackboard Coffee at Varsity Lakes also serves up some of the Coast’s best coffee.
TOP 5 DOUGHNUTS ON THE GOLD COAST
9. RIDE THE G: LINK
Central Gold Coast, http://ridetheg.com.au/
Move over Melbourne, the Gold Coast is all grown up with its very own light rail. Hop on board the G: Link for a traffic-free trip into Southport, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach.
10. THE SPIT
Main Beach
The Spit is perfect for: a day at the beach, a trip to the dog beach with your pup and if you don’t own a dog it’s the best place for dog-spotting cute canines. Plus, films like Pirates of the Carribbean have all filmed at this iconic Gold Coast location.
11. INFINITY
Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise, http://infinitygc.com.au/
Challenge your senses and ignite your imagination — Infinity in Surfers Paradise is a fun house of wonder and intrigue that will have all the family entertained.
12. RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT!
Cavill Mall, Surfers Paradise, http://www.ripleys.com/
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Surfers Paradise is a self-guided adventure where you come face-to-face with relics and rare treasures from around the world. With almost 9,000 sqm to explore, you will discover 350 genuine artefacts, amazing stories of history and adventure, magic, mystery, illusions, fun interactive games, life-size figurines of unusual characters who actually lived and unbelievable movies.
13. PACIFIC FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE
Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach, https://www.pacificfair.com.au
Whether you need to pick up groceries, buy a new top or run an errand, make a day of it at Pacific Fair (or, Pac Fair as the locals would say). Designer stores, world-class restaurants, a cinema and five hours free parking. What more could you want from a shopping centre?
14. CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
28 Tomewin St, Currumbin, http://www.currumbinsanctuary.com.au/
It’s been around forever and there you a reason why. The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a Gold Coast institution. Experience Australian wildlife by feeding kangaroos and cuddling koalas. There are bird shows, sheep shearings, Aboriginal performances and treetop ropes courses.
15. THUNDERBIRD PARK
Tamborine Mountain Rd & Cedar Creek Falls Rd, http://www.thunderbirdpark.com/
This hidden spot in the Tamborine Mountain is a Gold Coast must (you can’t call yourself a local until you’ve been here at least once). The Thunderbird Park offers high ropes courses with phenomenal views, a number of attractions, and you can even camp there overnight.
16. ADRENALIN PARK SURFERS PARADISE
6 Palm Ave, Surfers Paradise, http://www.funtime.com.au/
If you can’t afford to keep visiting theme parks but the kids need a bit of an adrenaline pump, visit the Adrenalin Park in Surfers Paradise for amusement and thrill rides like the Vomatron and the Sling Shot. Inexpensive rides that will have the kids laughing, or maybe spewing, for hours.
17. HOT AIR BALLOON
23 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
Ditch the typical restaurant date and relight the flame with a romantic hot air balloon ride. Float over the majestic Gold Coast hinterland with a glass of wine and your significant other. Book through Hot Air Balloon Gold Coast.
18. THE KITCHENS
Robina Town Centre, https://www.robinatowncentre.com.au/
Eat your way around the world minus the expensive plane ticket. The Kitchens at Robina Town Centre offers all types of cuisine, free cooking demonstrations and cooking classes for kids. It’s a total multi-sensory, culinary concept.
19. CURRUMBIN ROCK POOLS
Currumbin Creek Road
A local’s secret in the Currumbin Valley, the Currumbin Rock Pools is nestled a fair distance away and tourists know nothing about it. Plunging waterfalls, rock slides, grass areas and massive pools to swim in, this spot is nature at it’s finest. The best part? It’s totally free.
20. O’REILLY’S RETREAT
3582 Lamington National Park Road, Canungra, https://oreillys.com.au/
Wine tasting sells itself, but instead of remaining couped up indoors, take the activity outside into the vineyards and have a picnic overlooking the blue skies and green mountains.
21. TROPICAL FRUIT WORLD
29 Duranbah Road, Duranbah, http://www.tropicalfruitworld.com.au/
Technically, this little gem is just over the border, but the family owned and operated Tropical Fruit World is such an interesting find. Take a guided tour of more than 500 varieties of exotic fruit.
22. DRACULAS COMEDY CABARET RESTAURANT
1 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach, http://www.draculas.com.au/
Draculas are constantly reinventing their shows, so what you saw two years ago won’t be what you see if you visit again. Throw a little excitement into your dinner schedule and book the family a table to witness their latest production, Spiderlash. From July 4, a new show Terrorbyte with a vampire theme kicks in.
23. BOTANICAL GARDENS
230 Ashmore Rd, Benowa
Take a stroll around the Gold Coast Regional Botanical Gardens. Make a day of it and pack a picnic.
24. MIAMI MARKETTA
23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami, www.miamimarketta.com
Bring the family to enjoy live music, performers and delicious food with gluten free, vegan, vegetarian and raw food options available for your health-conscious friends.
25. HARBOUR TOWN
147-189 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters, http://harbourtowngoldcoast.com.au/
The outlet shopping centre at Biggera Waters stocks some of the biggest names in fashion including Michael Kors, Kate Spade and Victoria’s Secret. The best part? You can get it all at outlet prices.
26. HIT THE BEACH
The entire Gold Coast coastline
We’re renowned for our beaches and huge stretches of sand, there are plenty available to choose from for those who love surf and sunshine. And if you hit Surfers Paradise, you’re kicking back on the second best beach in Australia, according to TripAdvisor for 2017, whilst Burleigh is ranked sixth best in the country.
27. PALAZZO VERSACE
94 SeaWorld Drive, Main Beach, http://www.palazzoversace.com.au
Whether you take the girls for a high tea or just visit to marvel at the exquisite interior, you need to pay a visit to the world’s first fashion branded, super luxury hotel, right here at Main Beach and overlooking the water of Marina Mirage.
28. GOLD COAST SPORTING HALL OF FAME
Owen Park Queen Street, Southport, http://www.goldcoastsport.com.au/
There are a number of places to visit when the weather isn’t so great, where you can soak up some culture rather than some sun. Queensland’s first dedicated sports museum, which currently honours more than 30 Gold Coast sporting champions.
29. THE STAR GOLD COAST
1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach, https://www.star.com.au/
From Garden Kitchen and Bar and Japanese dining experience Kiyomi to Cucina Vivo and Mei Wei Dumplings restaurants, the food and socialising at The Star Gold Coast is some of the best on the Gold Coast. Plus there’s free parking and gaming for the adults.
30. ARTS CENTRE GOLD COAST
135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise, https://theartscentregc.com.au/
Hop onto the Arts Centre Gold Coast website and check out what movies, shows, theatre, comedy and art exhibitions are taking place. You just never know what you might find.
31. BAREFOOT BOWLS
Multiple Locations
With one beer in hand and a ball in the other, barefoot bowls at one of the Coast’s local clubs is the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Tugun, Burleigh Heads, Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach and Southport all offer barefoot bowls - and if you play Broadbeach you’ll be rolling at the home of the recent national champs.
32. BOUNCE INC
10 Energy Circuit, Robina, https://bounceinc.com.au
Fly through the air and bounce off the walls. BOUNCEinc is a massive indoor trampoline park for all ages at Robina.
33. AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK SPECTACULAR
Entertainment Drive, Oxenford, http://outbackspectacular.com.au/
The locals may roll their eyes, but Outback Spectacular is no longer just for the tourists. Featuring classic Aussie songs and some of your favourite animals, this show really is spectacular (and they serve you bush tucker for dinner).
34. STRIKE BOWLING BAR
Circle on Cavill Shopping Centre, http://www.strikebowling.com.au/
Strike is much more than just a bowling alley. With an exciting atmosphere thanks to huge projector screens playing all of the latest music videos, you and your friends can keep rocking out in between turns.
35. MERMAID BEACH SURF LIFESAVING CLUB
Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach, http://mermaidbeachsurfclub.com.au/restaurant/
You might not know this, but if you dine here you’re sitting in the middle of classic Gold Coast history. The Mermaid Beach Surf Life Saving Club was established in 1945 as part of a government initiative after WWII. It was the perfect outlet for fit and able returned servicemen. The club was built from materials found on the beach near Ocean Street.
36. RAINFOREST SKYWALK
Geissmann Dr, Mt Tamborine, http://www.rainforestskywalk.com.au/
This Mt Tamborine gem is tucked away into the rainforest but worth the drive up the mountain. Enjoy the spectacular views of the lush Gold Coast Hinterland from the canopy walk through the trees.
37. TIMEZONE
Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise, http://timezonesurfersparadise.com.au/
Billed as the largest indoor theme park in Australia, this is a lifesaver when beach weather turns gloomy. The centre is open seven days a week from 9am-midnight and you will need that long. The 5000 sqm centre is all lights, sounds, games and fun — so much so that you won’t know where to start.
38. POINT DANGER LOOKOUT
Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Perched high on a hill straddling the state borders of Queensland and New South Wales, the Point Danger lookout is a must see if you’re on the southern end of the Gold Coast.
39. SURFERS PARADISE BEACHFRONT MARKETS
Esplanade, Surfers Paradise, http://www.surfersparadise.com/
Each Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night, treasure hunters, bargain spotters and after-dinner walkers make their way to the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets to wander along the coastal stretch of more than 120 market stalls, while live entertainers set a casual mood in their performance.
40. THE VILLAGE MARKETS
Burleigh Heads State School, http://www.thevillagemarkets.co/
On the first and third Sunday of every month, fashion-savvy Gold Coasters descend on The Village Markets to check out more than 100 fashion, arts and creative Stalls. It’s the perfect spot to find up-cycled and handcrafted furniture and clothing.
41. WHALE WATCHING
Seaway
If you’re on the Gold Coast in winter, you have the rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of the gentle giants as they migrate along the coastline.
42. ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS AT SEA WORLD
Sea World Drive, http://seaworld.com.au/
Want to swim with dolphins, sharks or seals? You can take your pick at the popular Sea World theme park.
43. MOVIE WORLD STARS TOUR
Movie World, http://movieworld.com.au/
This is the ultimate behind the scenes theme park experience featuring Australia’s first coaster track walk and an inside look at how the park operates.
44. BURLEIGH HILL
Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Hill is such a versatile place: you can have a picnic, walk your dog, people-watch … the list goes on. On a sunny day, pack a picnic basket and lay down a rug for a few hours of family fun.
45. HINZE DAM
Advancetown Road, Advancetown, http://www.seqwater.com.au
Visitors and locals are encouraged to visit the dam and explore the facilities which include a state-of-the-art interpretative centre, lakeside parks, walking, bike and horse trails, car parking, toilet facilities and barbecue areas.
46. ELEPHANT ROCK
Currumbin, http://www.southerngoldcoast.com.au/
This majestic rock is a Gold Coast must-see. Go for a beach walk at sunrise and marvel as the sun rises over this spectacular natural wonder.
47. AQUASPLASH
Broadwater Parklands, http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/thegoldcoast/broadwater-parklands-24656.html
If you’ve worked up a sweat on the trampolines, head over to Aquasplash. Australia’s first open water fun park at Broadwater Parklands, the team at Aquasplash say it’s challenging physically and mentally, encourages kids to get active and is loads of fun. Aquasplash has also hosted many local sporting teams, including the Gold Coast Titans.
48. GWINGANNA LIFESTYLE RETREAT
Syndicate Rd, Tallebudgera, http://www.gwinganna.com/
Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat offers Organic Lifestyle Retreats and Specialty Health Retreats providing guests with an opportunity to take some time for themselves and explore nature.
49. GONDWANA RAINFOREST
Springbrook
Located in Southeast Queensland, the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia include the most extensive areas of subtropical rainforest in the world. The Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage area includes expansive rainforest reserves in both Queensland and New South Wales.
50. BROADWATER PARKLANDS
Marine Parade, Southport , http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/thegoldcoast/broadwater-parklands-24656.html
The huge parkland area offers something for everyone with its enclosed swimming area, adventure playground, children’s splash area and regular community events and markets.
51. CARRARA MARKETS
Manchester Rd, Carrara, https://www.facebook.com/carraramarketsgoldcoast/
Carrara Markets are Australia’s biggest permanent markets. With over 400 stalls covering 10 acres it’s a treasure trove of the curious and the unusual. It’s also the original home of discount shopping when it comes to fresh produce, homewares, pots, plants, bric a brac, arts and crafts and just about everything else.
52. CATCH A FOOTY GAME
Are you an AFL fan? Or more of a rugby person? Lucky for you, the Gold Coast Suns and Gold Coast Titans play regular home games right here at Metricon and Cbus stadiums. Pick up tickets for an afternoon or evening game and cheer for our boys.
53. JUSTIN LANE ROOFTOP BAR
Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads, http://www.justinlane.com.au/
Watch the sun set over Burleigh headland while sipping a drink at one of the Gold Coast’s original rooftop bars.
54. JAMES STREET
Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh
This happening hub in Burleigh is a shopper and foodie heaven. Grab a healthy juice from the popular fruit shops and stroll up and down the quaint street. There are one-of-kind gift and homeware stores where you’re sure to find something unique.
55. PALM BEACH DOG BEACH
Palm Beach
Pull out the lead and take the dogs down to this puppy paradise. Located on Lacey’s Beach, the dog zone circles are all the way round to the creek, and the dogs are in their elements.
56. THE VILLAGE SANCTUARY COVE
Sanctuary Cove, http://sanctuarycove.com/sanctuary-cove-gold-coast-dining-shopping/
Admire the luxe boats in the marina, do some shopping and hit the local restaurants and cafes. You might even spot a celeb — One Direction made international headlines when they stayed at Sanctuary Cove in 2014.
57. PARADISE COUNTRY
Entertainment Dr, Oxenford, https://paradisecountry.com.au/
Discover the Gold Coast’s hidden gem and create memories your family will treasure forever as you explore all that Paradise Country Aussie Farm and Wildlife has to offer. We’re talking koala cuddling and Aussie animal feeding.
58. GOLD COAST TURF CLUB
Racecourse Dr, Bundall, http://www.gctc.com.au/
Get your fascinators out ladies, because the Gold Coast Turf Club is one of Australia’s busiest racecourses with a number of race days throughout the year.
59. EVANDALE PARK
Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise, http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/thegoldcoast/evandale-park-27244.html
Located behind the Gold Coast Arts Centre, this lesser-known park is home to a swimming lagoon and makes for a peaceful day with the family.
60. BAM BAM BAKEHOUSE
Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach, https://www.bambambakehouse.com/
If it’s good enough for Margot Robbie, it’s good enough for us. Bam Bam create some of the quirkiest pastries and desserts on the Gold Coast.
61. WINE TOUR
Hinterland
With so many wineries to choose from, a wine tour in the Coast hinterland makes for a great day trip. O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards offer tastings and fields of vines on the property which stretches along the banks of the Canungra Creek. But if the chill outside is too much to handle, take cover in Vintage Restaurant.
62. SOUTHPORT AQUATIC CENTRE
Marine Parade, Southport, http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/thegoldcoast/gold-coast-aquatic-centre-23174.html
This will become home to the swimmers during the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, but for now it’s the perfect place to squeeze in a few laps before school or work.
63. SNAPPER ROCKS
Coolangatta
Arguably one of the most beautiful spots on the Gold Coast, the way from Greenmount to Duranbah not only inspires your kids to get out and be active, but you might even run into local surfing champs Joel Parkinson or Mick Fanning.
64. HOUSE OF BREWS
Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise, http://www.houseofbrews.com.au/
Love crazy cocktails? House of Brews is the place for you. There’s the ‘purple haze’ served in a bong, a cocktail infused with bacon vodka served in a boot and a hubba bubba cocktail garnished with fairy floss.
65. HIT THE CLUBS
Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach
Our local clubs are an institution on the Gold Coast. From Elsewhere and SinCity in Surfers Paradise to LOVE Nightlife and EAST in Broadbeach, there is a club to suit everyone’s idea of a great night out.
66. PADDOCK BAKERY
Hibiscus Haven, Miami, http://www.paddockbakery.com/
This might just be the cutest cafe on the Coast. The refurbished fam-style house tucked away in Burleigh now serves us delicious doughnuts, refreshing acai bowls and coffee that the Gold Coast loves.
67. COOMBABAH LAKES CONSERVATION AREA
A hidden gem seemingly in the middle of the suburbs, the Coombabah Lakes Conservation Area includes more than 1200 hectares of wetland, eucalypt forest and mangrove habitat. It’s ideal for short walks, bird watching and animal spotting — especially at dawn and dusk when there are plenty of kangaroos around. It was also the home base for the cast and crew of Kong: Skull Island when they filmed on the Coast in 2016.
68. SURFING LESSONS
Multiple locations
Live on the Gold Coast but not carving up the waves yet? It’s probably about time you hit the ocean and learn to surf. There are affordable lessons at almost every break.
69. MOUNT TAMBORINE BOTANICAL GARDENS
Forsythia Drive, Mount Tamborine, http://tmbotanicgardens.org.au/
Visit the stunning Botanic Gardens set on 11ha at Mt Tamborine. While you’re there, also pop into one of the local nurseries and get some smart tips on how to make your garden grow.
70. GORGE ON SEA FOOD AT THE FISH HOUSE
Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads, http://thefishhouse.com.au/
If you’re feeling a bit fancy, The Fish House is a Gold Coast institution and serves up some of the best food, while you look out at one of the best views on the Gold Coast.
71. HEALTHY FOOD TOUR
Gold Coast
Are you vegan, vegetarian or just health conscious? The Gold Coast is the place for you. Hit up some of our healthy hot spots including Cardamon Mod at Southport, Mandala Organic Arts Café at Mermaid Beach and Govindas at Burleigh Heads.
72. VISIT TAYLOR SWIFT’S FAVOURITE RESTAURANT
Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach, http://www.gemelliitalian.com.au/
The pop star visited Gemelli Italian at Broadbeach on her last trip to the Gold Coast, and was pictured leaving with then-beau Tom Hiddleston. The popular restaurant serves up traditional Italian family cuisine, including metre-long pizzas.
73. MOUNT WARNING
Tweed Range, New South Wales, http://www.mtwarningrainforestpark.com/the-experience
Climbing Mount Warning to watch the sun rise is a rite of passage when you move to the Gold Coast. So set your alarm and hit the road below the border.
74. SURF MUSEUM
Tomewin St, Currumbin, http://surfworldgoldcoast.com/
If you’ve got a budding Joel Parkinson or Stephanie Gilmore on your hands, head to the Surf World Museum at Currumbin. It houses fascinating exhibits and extensive displays of surfing memorabilia including surfboards, artwork, movie posters and historic photos.
75. BOND UNIVERSITY
University Drive, Robina, https://bond.edu.au/
Bond University is Australia’s first private university. The beautiful sandstone campus has even featured in San Andreas, starring Dwayne ‘The Rock” Johnson.
76. READING CINEMAS HARBOUR TOWN
Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters, https://readingcinemas.com.au/
Sometimes, you just want to chill out and watch a movie. We all have those days! Reading Cinemas Harbour Town is a go-to for locals because tickets are less than $10.
77. BYO FISH AND CHIPS
Pick up some fish and chips from your local store and hit the sand with a picnic rug. Burleigh Heads is a popular spot.
78. GLOW WORMS TOUR
Cedar Creek Estate, Mt Tamborine
The glow worm caves on the mountain consist of two large chambers interlinked by tunnels. The first chamber is the presentation cave where you are shown an audiovisual display on the glow worms. This chamber is complete with very realistic formations such as stalagmites and stalactites, water features and flow stone.
79. GOLF
Multiple Locations
Choose a resort course such as; Palmer Gold Coast, carved out of 65ha of native woodlands, the RACV Royal Pines Resort which hosts the Australian PGA Championships or the Intercontinental which gives you access to Sanctuary Cove’s The Palms and The Pines courses. Alternatively try the public courses Parkwood International, an 18-hole course set in contoured bushland, or Links at Hope Island.
80. HELICOPTER FLIGHT
Get a taste of the Gold Coast skyline from the air with a scenic helicopter flight. You will see the golden sand, vibrant blue ocean and city skyline. A number of companies offer deals including Gold Coast Helitours and Sea World Helicopters.
81. JET BOAT RIDE
Soar over the waters with the ultimate dose of extreme adrenalin packed adventure including 360 degree spins, awesome wake surfing and high speed drifting. Fifty five minute rides start at $58 with Gold Coast Jet Ride.
82. DIY BBQ
Most public parks have a BBQ where you can cook up snags for a DIY lunch in the sunshine. But be warned, you have to arrive early on weekends because the BBQ’s are hotly contested.
83. THE BATH HOUSE
Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads, https://www.greenhousefactory.com.au/the-bathhouse/
The word bath conjures up feelings of warmth and relaxation, so imagine an entire institution dedicated to those feelings. Brought to you by the ladies behind vegan eatery Greenhouse Canteen at Miami, the new Greenhouse Bath House will warm you physically and mentally.
84. BURLEIGH BREWING
Ern Harley Dr, Burleigh Heads, http://burleighbrewing.com.au/
The only thing more heartwarming than a local brew is how passionate the people behind the brews are, so make sure you have a chat too.
85. THEME PARKS
You’ve been waiting for this one! SeaWorld, Wet’n’Wild, Movie World and Dreamworld are top of the list for kids on school holidays. Hit up SeaWorld to check out marine life up close and personal, Wet’n’Wild for crazy water rides, Movie World to get a taste of Hollywood and Dreamworld if you’re a thrillseeker. All theme parks have regular deals on offer.
86. STUNT ACADEMY
Southport — Nerang Rd, Nerang, http://stuntpark.com.au/
The Stunt Academy at Nerang offers a fun intro to the exciting world of stunts involving Stage Combat, Swordplay, Flying On Wires, Commando Style Obstacle Course. This option runs for half day or full day, providing you with an experience that is the envy of adrenalin junkies.
87. SOUTH STRADBROKE
Moreton Bay
Said to be the Gold Coast’s best kept secret, this island hideaway is a four-acre private paradise hidden away in the beautiful National Park bushland of South Stradbroke Island. It is perfect for a day trip, or camping.
88. LAHEY’S TRAMWAY TUNNEL
Canungra
Teach the kids about our history and take a look at Lahey’s Canungra Tramway Tunnel, which was built during WW2 as an ammunition dump.
89. ELVIS PRESLEY CHALLENGE
Hollywood Showgirls, Surfers Paradise, http://www.hollywoodshowgirls.com.au/
This is one for the adults. Go to Hollywood Showgirls and play the Elvis Presley pinball machine while sipping your way through the bars $500 ‘Elvis’ cocktail which is modelled on the famed Sidecar concoction.
90. CRAZY CANDLES CANDLE MAKING
Multiple Locations, http://www.crazycandles.com.au/
Build your own colourful candle and watch the delight in your eyes as it’s sculpted into a special shape or character. Or you make your very own colourful Wax Hands. For a fantastic keepsake, your Wax Hands will be placed on a base. They come to you! So visit their website to make a booking
91. SNORKELLING HOTSPOT
Palm Beach
Palm Beach Reef is a series of rocky ridges and gullies covered with extensive hard and soft coral growth, anemones, ascidians and sponges. Commencing at a depth of 24 metres it spreads over a large area up to the 8 metre bottom depth. In some areas the top of the reef is only 5 metres from the surface.
92. JELLURGAL DREAMING TOUR
Burleigh, http://www.jellurgal.com.au
Embark on a journey of discovery and explore the secret world of the first inhabitants of this region, the Yugambeh people. Designed for international travellers, interstate visitors and locals wishing to learn more about the Aboriginal history of their region, Jellurgal Dreaming is a five hour Aboriginal Cultural Experience.
93. LOOKOUTS
There’s more to the Gold Coast than just the beach, with the city also famous for its glorious views. There are plenty of lookouts that take advantage of the best spots and many include picnic and barbecue facilities as well. The “Best of All’’ lookout at Mudgeeraba is among the best and there are plenty of others, from coastal areas to the hilly Hinterland.
94. DRACULA’S HAUNTED HOUSE
Surfers Paradise, https://www.draculas.com.au/
Enter if you dare. With five levels of interactive spooky fun house exhibits, this terrifying haunted house is family friendly, and great for kids of all ages. You’ll descend deep below ground level, and enter the scary underworld — with sharks, spiders, creatures and ghouls.
95. EXERCISE
Along the coastline there are exercise machines and equipment that are free for everyone to use, plus loads of walking and cycle routes. They are fun and easy to use and offer gorgeous views.
96. FREE BIRD FEEDING
Tomewin Street, Currumbin, https://www.cws.org.au/
If your budget doesn’t allow for expensive activities, you can appreciate some natural wildlife for free. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has free bird feeding twice a day. Hundreds of rainbow lorikeets will descend on you from surrounding trees to lick the sweet honey nectar you hold out in a bowl.
97. QT GOLD COAST
Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise, https://www.qthotelsandresorts.com/gold-coast/
Go to Bazaar for the food and Stingray Bar for the drinks. Then head to SpaQ for a relaxing massage or facial treatment.
98. KAYAK CURRUMBIN CREEK
Hit up the Boat Shed on Currumbin Creek Rd and hire a kayak. It’s an affordable activity, and on the southern end of the coast, it’s a nice little local secret.
99. PELICAN FEEDING
Pelican feeding is daily at 1.30pm at Ian Dipple Lagoon, 371 Marine Pde Labrador. There are free two hour parking spots. It is suggested you arrive early for the full experience and to witness the pelicans gathering before feeding time. Pack your swimmers and a picnic lunch and make an afternoon of it.
100. SLIDEWAYS GO KARTING
Spencer Rd Nerang, http://slideways.com.au/
This Nerang facility is the only hire kart track with a three storey layout, which features a tunnel, as well as an outdoor portion. Do you love drifting? The unique track surface allows you to drift the karts through the corners and get Slideways. Plus, kids don’t have to miss out with specialised cars designed for tots.
101. DAVID FLEAY WILDLIFE PARK
Loman Lane, Burleigh Heads, http://www.fleayswildlife.com.au/
Meet Wally the platypus, say hello to a bilby and get up close and personal with a friendly lizard at the David Fleay Wildlife Park. You almost feel like you’re out in the wild yourself when you stroll through the natural habitats of this wildlife park with a difference.
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