Gold Coast Travel Information

Gold Coast Information

Whether you are looking for family fun, action and adventure or just an excuse to sit back and relax - the Gold Coast is just waiting for you to go and explore. Be prepared to leave your everyday existence far behind you and experience a new lifestyle. Here you can really bring your imagination alive and find true inspiration. With world-famous surf beaches cradled by World Heritage-listed rainforest, tranquil hinterland communities and a sophisticated city centre - it is easy to see why the Gold Coast is popular with travellers, celebrities, families and the fashionable.

The Gold Coast Hinterland
Home to more than 100,000 hectares of World Heritage nature reserves, sub-tropical rainforests and lush farmlands. Discover glow worm caves, take an eco tour or just relax and breathe in the crisp country air. While taking in all the stunning natural attractions, sample some of the Hinterland's local wines and gourmet food.

Theme park magic
Where else but on the Gold Coast could you spend your day swimming with dolphins, strolling with Bengal tigers or defying the laws of gravity? The Gold Coast is Australia's theme park capital, with attractions such as Dreamworld, Whitewater World, Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, Wet'n'Wild Water World, Australian Outback Spectacular and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

BeautifuI beaches
Home to more than 70 kilometres of coastline, the Gold Coast is obviously a popular destination for sun- worshippers. Some of the popular areas for safe swimming conditions include: Mermaid Beach, Burleigh Heads, Currumbin and Coolangatta.

However, every beach offers its own drawcards, with unique and sweeping views of the coast, and distinctive pines and pandanus palms providing wonderful shaded spots in which to relax.

Relaxing retreats
A little bit of pampering goes a long way and there is no shortage of places to help you do it. Whether it's a luxurious massage beside a beach lagoon pool, hot-stone therapy, an Hawaiian massage or a Vichy Shower - the choices are limitless. Accommodation and spa packages at secluded health retreats and eco lodges are just a taste of what the Gold Coast has to offer.

Hinterland escapes
Nature lovers pay heed! Hire a car and take a short drive from the beach and you will be transported to another world, complete with

Sensational shopping
A hot tip when visiting the Gold Coast - clear the credit card for some serious shopping! With more than 3500 shops, the Gold Coast has some of Queensland's largest shopping centres and most stylish fashion precincts. Peruse the boutiques for designer one-offs, wander through the piazzas, and pay particular attention to the bargains to be found at the factory outlet precincts such as Harbour Town. For local arts and crafts, plan a tour to the hinterland villages, or visit one of the beachfront or weekend markets.

Dining & entertainment
The Gold Coast offers something for everyone when it comes to restaurants and bars. Treat yourself to caviar and champagne in Main
Beach ... or maybe snapper and chips washed down with a cold, cleansing ale at a surf club is more your style. Savour wines from some of the 11 local wineries, or hunt out gourmet delights on a drive along the Gold Coast Food and Wine Trail.

When the sun goes down, dance, sing and socialise the night away in Surfers Paradise. Or seek out one of the many piano bars, karaoke clubs, and live music and comedy venues dotted along the coast from South port to Coolangatta. The choices are endless.

Wonderful weather
One of the Gold Coast's main holiday drawcards is the weather - 300 days of sunshine a year and a sub-tropical climate to make you smile. And with an average water temperature of 22 degrees, you certainly don't want to forget your swimsuit.