The Australian Bucket List

Queensland

Gold CoastSteeped in childhood nostalgia, the Gold Coast is a much-loved family holiday destination. Whether you come for its adventure theme parks, golden sand, rolling surf, or lush hinterland - you'll feel an energy that'll have you coming back for more.

With its sparkling beaches, world-class surfing spots, and pulsating nightlife, this iconic destination beckons travellers from across the globe to indulge in its limitless charm and electrifying energy. Begin your adventure at Surfers Paradise, the heart and soul of the Gold Coast. Gaze upon the seemingly endless stretch of golden sand as the sun casts a warm glow upon the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Dip your toes in the surf or grab a board and ride the waves, feeling the exhilaration as you become one with the powerful ocean swells. Surfers Paradise is a mecca for wave enthusiasts, offering some of the best breaks in the world. After a day on the beach, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the city. Stroll down the bustling Cavill Avenue, lined with trendy shops, alfresco dining, and entertainment venues. Indulge in a culinary journey through a diverse array of world cuisines, from fresh seafood to mouthwatering international delicacies. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with neon lights and the sound of laughter and music, creating an electric atmosphere that is uniquely Gold Coast. For those seeking a break from the beach, venture into the lush hinterland that hugs the coast. Explore the enchanting rainforests of Lamington National Park, where ancient trees tower overhead and cascading waterfalls create a symphony of nature's serenade. Take a leisurely hike through the dense foliage, encountering colorful birds, playful wildlife, and breathtaking vistas at every turn. No trip to the Gold Coast is complete without a visit to the iconic theme parks that dot the landscape. Let your inner child run wild at Warner Bros. Movie World, where superheroes come to life and adrenaline-pumping roller coasters defy gravity. Cool off at Wet'n'Wild Water World, a paradise of thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. As night falls, explore the vibrant nightlife that has made the Gold Coast famous. From trendy beachside bars and rooftop lounges to bustling nightclubs, the city comes alive after dark. Dance the night away, sipping on exotic cocktails, or simply unwind with a moonlit stroll along the glittering shoreline. The Gold Coast, with its irresistible blend of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and vibrant culture, promises an unforgettable escape. Whether you're chasing the perfect wave, exploring lush rainforests, or immersing yourself in the city's infectious energy, this sun-drenched playground will captivate your heart and leave you yearning for more. Discover the magic of the Gold Coast and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Gallery

Things to do

Have a wildlife encounter at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore this iconic Gold Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. Immerse yourself into the wonder and natural beauty of 27 hectares of Currumbin rainforest, wandering through open animal enclosures, feeding kangaroos and cuddling koalas along the way. Experience the wild lorikeet feeding, free-flight bird shows and Aboriginal performances. See the wonderful vets in action within the Wildlife Hospital precinct. With a huge outdoor themed playground, Wild Island, there is plenty of entertainment for kids to enjoy as they tour the sanctuary on a miniature train. Lost Valley a new exotic precinct features five hectares of stunning rainforest, Explore a forgotten world and get up close and personal with some of the world's most unique and distinctive flora and wildlife including friendly Lemurs, Cotton-top tamarins, Red pandas, Capybaras along with free-flying birds and exotic reptiles Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a not-for-profit organisation and reinvests all proceeds back into wildlife and conservation programs.

Take in magnificent views from Springbrook Plateau

Springbrook Plateau, Springbrook National Park offers breathtaking lookouts, magnificent waterfalls, dense rainforest and ancient Antarctic beech trees. The park is part of Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage area. Dominating the Gold Coast's western skyline, Springbrook's cool forests and mountain streams offer views of impressive landscapes and walks among subtropical and temperate rainforest, open eucalypt forest and montane heath. The plateau has many lookouts with fabulous views. Visit Purling Brook Falls, which cascades 100 metres into a deep rainforest valley lined with palms, tree ferns and stream lilies. From Goomoolahra picnic area, walk 50 metres to another waterfall and two striking lookouts. Stroll 300 metres from the Tallanbana picnic area, just past Canyon lookout, to the top of Twin Falls; or continue on a long walk through the canyon, passing behind waterfalls and through the different forest types. Listen for the impressive mimicking calls of the elusive Albert's lyrebird.

Go Whale Watching

Have you personally experienced the majestic creatures of the sea? This is your opportunity to marvel at the majestic Humpback Whales in their natural environment with the stunning Gold Coast skyline glistening in the background. Take to the seas with Spirit of Gold Coast Whale Watching and get up close and personal with these magnificent mammals! Spirit of Gold Coast is a family-run company with a passion for Humpback Whales. As one of the pioneers of Whale Watching on the East Coast of Australia, they aim to make your whale watching cruise a truly memorable experience! Tours depart seven days a week, at 9:30 am from Mariner's Cove Marina. Afternoon cruises (1:30 pm) upon availability. Join Spirit for the journey of a lifetime!

SkyPoint Observation Deck

SkyPoint Observation Deck is a must-see for all Gold Coast visitors. With unrivalled 360 degree views from the coast to the hinterland, mini-theatrette and informative feature zones and displays that provide all the information you need to plan your holiday hit list. Enjoy a freshly prepared meal from SkyPoint Bistro and Bar as you spot whales migrating along the eastern coast or as a new storm rolls in. By night, SkyPoint Observation Deck transforms into a chic, high altitude lounge bar with music every Friday and Saturday night and Sunset Sounds on Sunday afternoon. Enjoy drinks and delicious platters with friends and take in the glittering skyline.

Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Burleigh Heads

Embark on a journey of discovery of Aboriginal culture with a guided walk along a picturesque beachside rainforest walkway wrapped around the magical mountain, Jellurgal. Learn about the Aboriginal history and culture of the Gold Coast, meet a traditional landowner and hear the Dreamtime stories associated with the creation of Jellurgal. Hear about traditional life pre-contact, bush tucker, fishing, hunting and the important ecological practices and connection to the land embraced by the Yugambeh speaking people for thousands of years. Designed for international travellers, interstate visitors and locals wishing to learn more about the Aboriginal history of the region.

Rest at the Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

Experience the ultimate in wellness travel at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Australia’s multi-award-winning wellness destination. Set on over 200 hectares of Queensland hinterland this exclusive retreat environment will help you restore balance with innovative programs from two to seven days including the popular seven-day Detox package. EcoTourism certified the retreat features extensive facilities with two swimming pools, a range of activities, delicious organic cuisine and the stunning Spa Sanctuary, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Spa and wellness services are the most comprehensive on offer and feature signature and unique therapies, plus equine experiences. Various accommodation choices include premium villas and meditation suites.

Take the kids to Movie World

Step under the famous archway of Australia’s number one Theme Park, Warner Bros. Movie World. Take on world-class rides, attractions and shows and meet some of your favourite stars! Home to the tallest, longest and fastest HyperCoaster in the Southern Hemisphere, Movie World boasts a full day of adventure filled with all the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, your favourite Looney Tunes Characters plus the Super Heroes and Super-Villains of the DC Universe. Experience all-new attractions including the family favourite Scooby-Doo Spooky Coaster Next Generation. Uncover endless thrills with new special effects such as projections and lasers! Plus, witness the all-new exclusive JL52 Batmobile in the Streets Star Parade. You can also get your photo taken with Batman and the Batmobile throughout the day.

SkyPoint Climb, Surfers Paradise

SkyPoint Climb takes place on the top of the Q1 building in Surfers Paradise and at 270 metres in the air, it is one of Australia's highest external building walks. Starting on level 77 of SkyPoint Observation Deck, Climbers will enter the open air dressed in a full-body suit and harness. Following their Climb guide, participants will then traverse up towards the crow's nest located at the highest point of the Climb at around 270 metres above the ground. Regular stops will be taken to admire the stunning 360-degree views of the Gold Coast region including the golden beaches, city skyline and lush green hinterland. Climbers will then descend to level 77. Altogether the experience takes approximately 90 minutes including a briefing session and the time on the Climb course.

Take a Hot Air Balloon

Don't miss out and book well in advance as this is Australia's most popular balloon ride. Choose to pay on the day, flexible tickets, 100 per cent refundable and valid any day of the year. Family owned and operated, they have the biggest range of balloon rides, fly over the Gold Coast or the Gold Coast hinterland. Choose to self-drive or door to door transfers, they offer too a delicious champagne breakfast at O'Reilly's Vineyard Grand Homestead and free wine tasting at Canungra Valley Vineyard, door to door transfers are from anywhere in Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Main Beach and more. Watch the sunrise over Surfers Paradise as well as the rolling hills of the majestic Gold Coast Hinterland; enjoy sweeping views from your balloon basket. Balloon pack-up games then afterwards, enjoy a delicious hot breakfast in the gracious ambience of O'Reilly s Vineyard's historic Grand Homestead with its high ceilings and wide relaxing verandas, with a full selection of hot and cold breakfast choices with a glass of crisp, cold sparkling wine. Stroll the gardens or wander the Vineyard and enjoy a visit and free wine tasting at the Vineyard Cellar Door.

Have fun at Dreamworld!

There is BIG fun waiting at Australia’s BIGGEST theme park. With rides, slides, wildlife and entertainment all in one place, Dreamworld is the perfect place for the whole family. Enjoy BIG hugs from your favourite DreamWorks Heroes including Madagascar, Shrek and Kung Fu Panda, while children’s best-loved television shows come to life at The Wiggles World and ABC KIDS WORLD. Come face-to-face with new baby wildlife and explore traditional Indigenous Australian culture at Dreamworld Corroboree. Then, be left in awe as you experience Dreamworld’s tiger family at Tiger Island and walk in the pawprints of the playful cubs; Javi, Zakari and Khan. Take on thrills of all levels, for all ages, and catch BIG sights on Australasia’s first flying theatre - Sky Voyager. There's also so much to look forward to on the horizon, with new rides and experiences coming soon. Go from thrills to BIG splashes at WhiteWater World, with entry included in your Dreamworld admission. Keep with the current and cool off at the slides and pools catered to the little-tots to adrenalin-junkies. Purchase Australia’s Biggest Pass to Australia’s Biggest Theme Park, so you don’t miss out on 13-months of unlimited fun.

Learn about our farmers in an Australian Outback Spectacular show

Embark on a journey to the heartland of Australia through an all-new show featuring a transformative arena, mesmerising animals and immersive technology. Delve into the real-life struggles Aussie farmers face and rejoice with them as the community's courage, bravery and generosity help them overcome a stunning, yet unforgiving life on the land. Plus, enjoy a delicious three-course meal whilst you enjoy the show! Start the night with a rustic woodfire roasted Vegetable and Goat Feta Tart served with wild rocket and home-made pineapple and mustard seeded chutney. Then, indulge in a juicy eye fillet steak or a tender chicken breast with a full-bodied jus with a side of roast pumpkin, green beans and a delicious potato parcel. To finish off, enjoy a delicate Chocolate Tart served with a delicious honey salted caramel sauce, and a pinch of chocolate dirt from the outback.

Related tags

Map