The Gold Coast is one of the best travel destinations in Australia, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and year-round sunshine. I was lucky enough to grow up near the Gold Coast, and have spent more weekends and holidays there than I could count!

There is so much to see & do on the Gold Coast. From the dozens of beautiful beaches, to a newly buzzing bar & restaurant scene, to the sleepy rainforest Gold Coast hinterland to the pristine, ancient Springbrook National Park & Lamington National Parks, there are plenty of reasons to add the Gold Coast to your Australia itinerary.

Where is the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast is located in southeast Queensland, 100km south of Brisbane. I’d recommend spending 2-3 nights on the Gold Coast for your first visit.

I acknowledge the Yugambeh people as the First Nations owners of the lands now recognised as the Gold Coast. I pay respect to their Elders, lores, customs and creation spirits. I recognise that these lands have always been places of great natural beauty, culture and community. 

How long do you need to visit the Gold Coast?

A few days is a perfect amount of time for your first trip to the Gold Coast, especially if you want to stick to the beaches. Add an extra day for each Springbrook and Lamington National Parks if you want to visit.

Getting to the Gold Coast & around

Fly to Brisbane International Airport and then drive for 1 hr to the Gold Coast, or take the commuter train from Central Station to Robina (& then take a 20 minute rideshare to the beachfront area).

Or, fly into Sydney or Melbourne international airport and take a connecting flight to Coolangatta Airport which is on the Southern Gold Coast.

Where to stay on the Gold Coast

The best places to stay on the Gold Coast if you don’t have your own car is Broadbeach or Surfers Paradise. Burleigh Heads & Coolangatta are lovely areas as well, and have everything you need for a chilled few days at the beach. There are taxis on the Gold Coast and you can easily book rideshare services as well. Note that Surfers Paradise is pretty touristy, so while it is convenient, Broadbeach and Burleigh are more relaxing.

QT Gold Coast is a stylish Gold Coast hotel, conveniently located in Surfers Paradise.

What is the Gold Coast known for?

The Gold Coast is most famous for its beautiful beaches! It’s also known for the high rises along the sea, the tourist precinct Surfers Paradise and the major theme parks Dreamworld, Movie World & Sea World.

The best areas on the Gold Coast

The best neighbourhoods and areas to visit on the Gold Coast are Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh, Coolangatta and the Gold Coast Hinterland.

The best beaches on the Gold Coast

The best beaches on the Gold Coast are Burleigh Beach, Main Beach & Mermaid Beach.