A standout of Gold Coast suburbs, Surfers Paradise is perfectly suited to both school holidays and beach getaways.
Surfers Paradise Beach: From invigorating morning swims to beachside picnics for lunch, Surfers Paradise Beach is an easy win. The beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers so kids can play safely. Take a self-guided walking tour or learn to surf before checking out the Twilight Beachfront Markets later on.
Infinity Attraction: Unique and immersive, Infinity Attraction offers around 20 sensorial environments to experience with your loved ones. During bad weather days, explore atmospheric special effects and interactive illusions in rooms like the Infinite Light Canyon.
Macintosh Island Park: For a calmer natural attraction, this oasis offers trails dotted with streams and picnic areas with facilities like barbeques, shelters and restrooms. It’s also home to a bird sanctuary and has adventure playgrounds for children to discover.
Hinterland
The Gold Coast Hinterland suburbs are home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in Australia. See which walks and tours suit your fellow travellers below.
Springbrook National Park: Witness the expansive natural history of Gold Coast areas. For a challenging walk try Purling Brook Falls circuit, which passes through an open eucalypt forest. Natural Bridge Walk is more leisurely, where at night you can also view Australia’s largest population of glow worms at the Glow Worm Tour.
Lamington National Park: The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk in Lamington National Park weaves through breathtaking areas, from subtropical rainforests to the ancient Tweed Volcano. Keep in mind that this is a multi-day walk – Rainforest Return and Python Rock Track offer much shorter lengths that include platform lookouts.
For a calming change of pace to the hustle of everyday life, Tamborine Mountain offers a peaceful retreat among the small villages that make up the eight-kilometre ridge. Stroll along local markets or let the kids experience Australia’s largest zipline at Treetop Challenge Park.
Broadbeach
For those who like to blend stunning surroundings with sophisticated dining and shopping options, Broadbeach Gold Coast should be high on your list.
Broadbeach Dining Strip: The Broadbeach food scene is one of the most diverse and celebrated in Queensland, with stretches that offer an array of different cuisines, like award-winning Orzo and Miss Moneypenny’s.
Cascade Gardens: A well-loved family picnic spot and park, Cascade Gardens is situated in a relaxing and beautiful location. Eat lunch while overlooking the Nerang River – while a huge playground keeps the kids happy for hours.
Kurrawa Beach: One of the most popular beaches in Broadbeach, Kurrawa Beach boasts lifeguard patrols, fishing spots and great surfing conditions. The Kurrawa Beach Surf Lifesaving Club has a bistro with stunning ocean-views.
Miami
Miami Marketta: Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, this family-friendly market brings the world to the Gold Coast. With seating for 1200 people, enjoy eating from a huge array of cuisines while you listen to blues, jazz and independent artists.
Mick Schamburg Park: Walk off your foodie adventure through this gorgeous park, with sweeping beach views the entire way. By visiting the unique sites in Miami, Gold Coast trips are enriched.
The Organic Gold Coast Farmers Market: The only grower’s market in Gold Coast suburbs, this unique market offers organic produce sold by local and interstate vendors. Visit on Sunday mornings for a wholesome early-morning activity that brings you closer to local life.
Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads National Park: Situated on rocky headlands, this park provides whale sightings in winter and picturesque ocean views in summer. Watch for eagles, water dragons and Australian bush turkeys.
The Village Markets (every first and third Sunday of each month): More than food, this market includes designers, musicians, and artists (with over 100 stalls to stroll through). Pause for lunch at a food stall and check out live music under canopied trees.
David Fleay Wildlife Park: In this wildlife park, rangers introduce your loved ones to dingoes, koalas, emus, platypus – and even crocodiles. These enclosures are built around the conservation efforts of David Fleay.
Before checking out each of these unique areas in the Gold Coast, make sure to view our Gold Coast hotel options! Discover the best things to do at the Gold Coast next.
