Top Things To See And Do In Australia's Gold Coast

A couple of images can spring to mind when one thinks of the Gold Coast – either a super chilled surfy vision, or Australia’s answer to Las Vegas. Let’s delve a little further and talk about the best things to see and do on the Gold Coast that fit neither of those stereotypes!

Theme parks

Some of Australia’s best theme parks are situated on the Gold Coast. And don’t think these are just for families – who doesn’t love letting their inner child out for a day? Head to Helensvale and take your pick of Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, Dream World or Wet’n’Wild for those hot Queensland days.

Head hinterland

Miami Marketta

If you’re on the Gold Coast on a Wednesday, Friday or Saturday you have to head to the vibe-y Miami Marketta for dinner. It’s a mecca for street food lovers with delicious eats from around the world. Grab a cocktail and a bite to eat and enjoy the live music on the main stage.

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Whale-watching

At certain times of the year it’s quite possible (probable even) that you’ll see some whales showing off not far from the shoreline. But if you want to take it to the next level, head out on a boat and get up close and personal with these incredible mammals.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Whether you’re a tourist travelling from overseas or just on the Gold Coast from Brissie, the wildlife sanctuary won’t disappoint. They offer heaps of Aussie animal experiences, including croc feedings, a dingo walk and the opportunity to get up close and personal with koalas. Head home via Currumbin Beach for a dip while you’re in the area, it’s a beauty.

Burleigh Heads National Park

Known well by locals, this national park is so handy to the Gold Coast with its brilliant walking track that connects Burleigh to the stunning Tallebudgera Creek and great swimming spots. Some Aussie fauna will often be spotted, like echidnas, rainbow lorikeets, sea eagles and koalas.

SkyPoint Observation Deck

This one is a little more touristy but on a clear day worth the visit. The Observation Deck is in the Q1 building in Surfer’s Paradise and rises 230 metres above ground. You can get a 360-degree panoramic view of the Gold Coast and a delicious cocktail while you’re there!

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.