Things to Do in Gold Coast in 2025 - Top Attractions, Local Food, Hotels & Travel Tips (Updated April, 2025) | Trip.com

About Gold Coast

Recommended trip: 3–5 day(s)

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Gold Coast Local Travel Guide 2025

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Gold Coast Brief Guide

The Gold Coast is an iconic Australian coastal city located in Queensland, roughly 66 kilometres from Brisbane. The city is known for its world-class shopping and dining experiences, stunning resorts, and pristine beaches. Take in the beautiful surroundings simply by relaxing on one of the many well-known beaches such as Burleigh Heads or explore the stunning natural wonders at Springbrook National Park or Tamborine Mountain. Learn more about Australia’s biodiversity at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary or go on a family day out at Sea World or Warner Bros. Movie World, where you can meet and greet your favourite superheroes. The Gold Coast is also home to one of Australia’s most popular destinations, Surfers Paradise, which is known for its entertainment and nightlife. The Gold Coast is both a place to relax and to enjoy all that Australia has to offer. Come find out why it is one of the country’s favourite holiday destinations.

Gold Coast Must-try Local Experiences

1. Embrace the Beach Bash Dive into the heart of the Gold Coast and let the surging waves of Surfer's Paradise, the boundless beauty of its broad beaches, and the majestic sunsets at Burleigh Head National Park ignite your passion. Unleash your zest for life on these heavenly shores, where sun and sea breezes caress your soul. 2. Thrill at the Theme Parks Lose yourself in the exhilarating world of Gold Coast theme parks. At Warner Bros. Movie World, step behind the scenes of your favorite movies, get up close and personal with marine life, and let your screams pierce the sky at Dreamworld's thrilling rides. 3. Venture into the Rainforest Delve into the wilderness for trekking adventures in Lamington National Park, waterfall chasing in Springbrook National Park, or soak in the panoramic vistas from Tamborine Mountain. Find the thrill of adventure amidst nature's embrace. 4. Rev Up for the Racing Event Join the exhilarating festivities of the Gold Coast 600, feeling the thunder of V8 supercars as they race through the streets, syncing your heartbeat with the roar of the engines. 5. Treasure Hunt at the Markets Discover unique art and crafts at the Carrara Markets and Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets. Experience the bohemian charm of these markets and fill your shopping journey with delightful surprises. 6. Skyline from Q1 Observation Deck Stand atop the Q1 Observation Deck for a 360-degree panoramic view of the Gold Coast, capturing the magnificent moments of the city's skyline. 7. Intimate Encounters with Wildlife At the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, get up close and personal with Australia's iconic wildlife, capturing precious moments with national treasures. 8. Marine Wonders on a Whale Watching Adventure Follow the migratory path of humpback whales and experience the awe-inspiring spectacle of these ocean giants up close, witnessing the wonders of nature. 9. Adrenaline-Fueled Ocean Adventures Take to the skies in a hot air balloon, speed across the waves in a jet boat, or leap from the heavens with skydiving. Experience the unlimited vistas of the Gold Coast from above or on the water, sending your adrenaline soaring.

Gold Coast Food Guide

Gold Coast's food scene offers a unique and diverse culinary experience, featuring local specialties like the Moreton Bay bug roll and dishes that blend tradition with modernity, such as Wagyu beef bao and matcha panna cotta, all served in environments that enhance the dining experience.

Gold Coast Transportation

Gold Coast's transportation infrastructure prominently features Gold Coast Airport and its extensive railway services, both of which play a pivotal role in the region's connectivity. Gold Coast Airport, also known as Coolangatta Airport, is a significant aviation hub located at the southern end of the Gold Coast. The airport handles both domestic and international flights, with direct connections to major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and international destinations including Auckland and Tokyo. For travelers looking to move from the airport to various parts of the city, public bus services like route 777 offer express service to Broadbeach South light rail station. Additionally, airport shuttles and rental cars provide convenient options for transfers. The Gold Coast railway line, operated by Queensland Rail, connects the Gold Coast to Brisbane, making it an essential service for interurban travel. Key stations on this line include Helensvale, Nerang, and Varsity Lakes. The railway line provides efficient and convenient access to the city, with the journey from Brisbane to Varsity Lakes taking approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes.

Gold Coast Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the Gold Coast is between April and June. During these months, the weather features clear skies and mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. With fewer tourists compared to peak seasons, visitors can enjoy a more peaceful experience, making it perfect for exploring the beaches and attractions comfortably. Additionally, during this period, events like the Blues on Broadbeach music festival add to the lively atmosphere of the area. Alternatively, September and October also offer a favorable time to visit thanks to comfortable weather. This time of the year allows for enjoying the outdoor beauty without the heavy crowds seen in the summer months.

Gold Coast Travel Tips

1. Book Theme Park Tickets in Advance: Gold Coast is famous for its theme parks like Dreamworld and Movie World. It's recommended to book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons. Booking online can save you money and time. Consider multi-park passes if you plan to visit more than one. Follow the parks on social media for flash sales and discounts. 2. Check Beach and Surf Conditions: The Gold Coast is known for its stunning beaches, but it's important to check surf and weather conditions before heading out. Some beaches may have strong currents or jellyfish warnings. Always swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards are present. Additionally, be aware of local surf etiquette and safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. 3. Plan for National Park Visits: If you're planning to visit national parks like Lamington or Springbrook, be aware that some trails may require permits or have seasonal closures. For example, Lamington National Park has closures for bush camping sites from December to January and several track closures throughout the year. Check park websites for the latest information. 4. Aussie Beach Etiquette: Respect beach culture by not littering, smoking only in designated areas, and keeping noise levels down. Topless sunbathing is generally not acceptable on Gold Coast beaches. 5. Nightlife Safety Tips: Gold Coast has a vibrant nightlife, but be aware of alcohol-fueled violence. Stick to well-lit areas, don't leave drinks unattended, and use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services for late-night transport. Always stay alert, avoid isolated areas, and keep your belongings secure. If confronted, prioritize your safety over possessions. 6. Beach Parking Pitfalls: Parking near popular beaches can be challenging and expensive. Consider using public transport or parking further away and walking. Always check parking signs to avoid fines. 7. Strict Environmental Laws: The Gold Coast has strict environmental protection laws. Littering can result in hefty fines, so always dispose of your rubbish properly. Businesses and individuals must comply with regulations to prevent environmental harm, nuisances, and contamination. 8. Drone No-Fly Zones: Drone usage is restricted in many areas of Gold Coast, including beaches, national parks, and within 5.5 km of airports. Always check local regulations, use apps like OpenSky for updates, and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone for photography.

Gold Coast Useful Guide

The official language spoken in Gold Coast, Australia, is English. Travelers can find translation help through language apps and portable Wi-Fi devices. For effective communication, it’s helpful to learn key local phrases such as "How are you going?". Using visual aids like maps and simple gestures can also aid in overcoming language barriers when conversing with locals.