The Gold Coast

With the heart of the Gold Coast just an hour south of Brisbane (in good traffic, at least), the glitter strip makes for a great change of scenery for city slickers seeking a beachside alternative to buzzy Brisbane. Connected to Brisbane’s train network, the Gold Coast Light Rail terminates at Broadbeach, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars along with the ritzy Pacific Fair shopping centre and a dazzling strip of beach. About 15 minutes’ drive south, you’ll hit hip Burleigh Heads, home to some of the Gold Coast’s best restaurants and bars including the seaside Burleigh Pavilion.