Things to see and do on the Gold Coast 

The Gold Coast has been luring sunseekers for decades, and with sunshine almost all year round, it’s no surprise that life here happens outdoors.

Take to the water with kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, or jet skiing, or try jetpack riding if you’re feeling brave. Or, if you’d rather keep things cruisy, enjoy a beachside picnic, some retail therapy, or get up close with Aussie wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Love a good thrill? The Gold Coast delivers in spades with world-class theme parks. Whether you're conquering the highest drop, meeting a furry friend, or splashing your way through a water wonderland, there's something for every adventure level.

The Gold Coast is also a hotspot for events. Think music festivals, endurance races, and world-class sports competitions. Swell Sculpture Festival transforms the beaches into open-air galleries while major surfing comps hit legendary breaks like Snapper Rocks and Coolangatta. Not into waves? The Supercars Gold Coast 500 takes over the streets, and the Magic Millions horse race brings glitz and glamour to Surfers Paradise.

For a nature reset, head inland to the lush Gold Coast Hinterland. Think charming wineries, misty rainforests, and waterfall-dotted bushwalks at Springbrook, Lamington, and Main Range National Parks.

The Gold Coast isn’t just about surf and sand - it’s rich in stories, too. Step into the past at Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, where you can join a guided tour, see traditional artwork, and hear Dreamtime stories of Burleigh Headland (Jellurgal, the ‘Dreaming Mountain’). 

Need more advice? Chat with a friendly local at a Visitor Information Centre to uncover the best Gold Coast attractions