Complete Guide of Things to Do on The Gold Coast

Whether you are after an outdoor adventure, up-close animal encounter or to simply sit back and enjoy some of the region’s great locally produced goods, the Gold Coast and surrounds is the ideal winter and summertime holiday destination.

Seaworld Dr, Main Beach QLD 4217 

Dive into an underwater world of adventure and discovery at SeaWorld on the Gold Coast. One of the top Gold Coast theme parks, Sea World has something for everyone. Packed full of animal attractions, interactive exhibits, exciting shows and educational presentations, you are sure to leave with a newfound love of the ocean and all its creatures. 

Spend hours watching rescued penguins swim and slide at Penguin Point or step into an iridescent underwater world at the Sea Jellies Illuminated exhibit.

This theme park also boasts a range of other animal exhibits including Polar Bear Shores, Seal Harbour and Dolphin Cove. For a once in a lifetime adventure, book yourself in for a Shark Encounter where you can take a dip with some of the world’s most feared predators… during feeding time. 

There are also plenty of attractions to keep the kids entertained. Enjoy rides such as the Storm Coaster or the Sea World Sky Flyer which gives you breathtaking views over Sea World and the Gold Coast Broadwater from a giant swing chair sitting 33 meters high.

Let the kids run wild in Sea World’s splash pad attraction, The Reef at Castaway Bay. There are also plenty of opportunities to educate the kids about the marine environment and how they can play their part to help protect our oceans. 

iFLY Gold Coast, 3084 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise, QLD  4217

Always wanted to go sky diving? iFLY Indoor Skydiving lets you experience a simulation of true free fall conditions in a vertical, glass wind tunnel. Thanks to these pretty strong wind tunnels, you are able to experience the adrenaline rush of skydiving while also honing the skills needed when jumping from a plane - all with the assurance of only being meters to the ground.

You can even get the chance to learn some bodyflight skills like back flying and holding formations with a friend or instructor. One of the most exciting things to do in the Gold Coast, indoor sky diving is a great way to get a taste of flying, as well as introduce kids to the experience with an instructor present – as the minimum flying age is only 3 years old!

One of the most-loved attractions on the Gold Coast, Mount Tamborine is a state treasure. Located only 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the Gold Coast, Mount Tamborine is a sanctuary of lush rainforest which leaves you feeling a world away.

Browse through local galleries and cafes which line the main street or visit the region’s award-winning wineries and gourmet restaurants which are hidden away in the small villages stretching along the ridge of the mountain range.

Named after Queensland’s oldest National Park, Tamborine Mountain National Park which houses this lofty plateau, Mount Tamborine provides panoramic vistas.

Wander along rainforest walking tracks, take a dip in secret waterholes and be sure to not miss the man-made Glow Worm Caves. Wander through these purpose built caves littered with thousands of glow worms who illuminate your passage.

If you are looking for a change of pace and a cooler climate, then Mt Tamborine is a must-visit for all-day Gold Coast activities.

Level 77, q1 building/9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217

The Skypoint Observations Deck is perched 270 meters above sea level, offering giddy views of Surfers Paradise. Ascend to the building’s 77th floor and take in the 360-degree panoramas of the Gold Coast, the sea, and the distant green hinterland. 

Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, the ease of access and soaring views make it a top priority for things to do on the Gold Coast with family and friends alike. If you are feeling a little more daring, then sign up for the SkyPoint Climb which will see you clamber upon a 270-meter high platform and enjoy the views of one of Australia’s most recognisable skylines. 

If you are on the lookout for somewhere special to enjoy a meal while visiting the Gold Coast, there are plenty of great Gold Coast restaurants ideal for celebrating a special occasion, or simply spoiling a loved one on holiday – including ocean-front Rick Shores in Burleigh Heads and Hyde Paradiso at Peppers Soul in Surfers Paradise.

28 Tomewin St, Currumbin QLD 4223 

A favourite for families and animal-lovers alike, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a Gold Coast icon. This wildlife park is owned by the non-profit National Trust of Queensland, with all proceeds going towards supporting the animals. 

There is so much to see and do at this wildlife park, it is well worth setting a whole day aside if you can. Here you’ll get the opportunity to cuddle a koala, hand-feed the kangaroos and enjoy the crocodile feeding shows… from a safe distance. 

From reptile exhibits to aviaries there are plenty of opportunities to get up close to Australia’s diverse wildlife. The real star of the show though is feeding time for the brightly coloured lorikeets. Come along at either 8am or 4pm and feed hundreds of lorikeets from your hand as they climb up your arms and even perch themselves on your head.

There are also plenty of non-animal related things to do at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Take on the extreme high ropes course challenge, enjoy a Segway tour or jump on the park’s little train which is sure to delight the little ones. The ‘Lost Valley’ takes you on a journey back to in time to learn about Gondwana, the ancient supercontinent. And the evening Yanguwah Aboriginal cultural show is a must-visit on your trip to this wildlife park.

For any animal lovers out there looking for another wildlife experience, if you are visiting the Gold Coast between May and November then you may even be lucky enough to catch whale watching season along the coast, which sees hundreds of humpback whales migrate along the east coast of Australia.

14 Traders Way, Currumbin Waters QLD 4223

Co-owned by world champion surfer Mick Fanning, Balter Brewery calls Currumbin on the Gold Coast home. Winning a truckload of awards since its 2016 debut this craft beer has found its way to bars, pubs and households around the country. But there is no better way to enjoy a frosty Balter than back at the source in their Gold Coast brewery. 

This exposed-brick warehouse doubles as a laidback bar on the weekends where everyone is welcome (including kids and pets). Enjoy live music, food trucks onsite and that good ol’ Gold Coast vibe.

If you are visiting the Gold Coast and its much-loved Balter Brewery keep an eye out for one of the breweries much-loved ‘tinnie hurling’ competitions. What could be better than a great venue, ice-cold drink, time with your friends and delicious food trucks?

The Gold Coast’s Infinity Attraction is unlike anything else. Step into a futuristic maze of spectacular wonders, that words just can’t describe.

The walk-through experience takes around 30-minutes allowing you to enjoy it at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the mind-warping universe of special effects. Suitable for all ages, this attraction is great for kids, teens and adults, making it a must-visit Gold Coast activity for your next holiday. 

36 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217

Hop aboard the iconic Aqua Duck for a Gold Coast activity the whole family will enjoy. This half- boat-half-bus is the perfect way to explore everything the Gold Coast has to offer, by land and sea. Start your tour off by weaving through Surfers Paradise beaches and along the Gold Coast’s top attractions.

The real excitement comes when the bus is driven into the Gold Coast Broadway, transforming into a boat, after a big splash landing. Cruise along the waterway taking in the sights of SeaWorld, Marina Mirage, Australia Fair, Mariners Cove, The Yacht Club and fabulous Millionaire’s row – all without needing to leave your seat.

Enjoy fun and entertaining commentary with kids even being given the opportunity to take the wheel and receive their Captain Aqua Duck license certificate.

Shop 7B, Mariners Cove Marina, 60 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, Queensland, 4217

If you are wanting to get out on the water but have a bit more of a need for speed, then jetboating is perfect for you! After you’ve donned your life jacket and buckled yourself in, Paradise Jet Boating will have you zooming across the Moreton Bay Marine Park at an impressive 35 kilometres an hour.

Enjoy 360-degree turns, high-speed drifting and power slides – plus, you might even get the chance to spot dolphins frolicking in the shallows. Paradise Jet Boating is suitable for children as young as 4 years old, making it a great Gold Coast family activity for your next trip.