30 of the best things to do on the Gold Coast

2. Whale watching, anyone? Get up close and personal with these gentle giants on a cruise. Spirit of the Gold Coast, Whales in Paradise, and Sea World Cruises are all in on the action. You'll be singing "I’ll be back" after this one.

3. Beaches? We’ve got plenty. Check out the best spots to throw down your towel and catch some sun. Whether you’re into surfing or just relaxing, there’s a perfect patch of sand for you.

4. Gwinganna is where wellness meets nature, nestled in the peaceful Tallebudgera Valley. Detox, chill, and unwind with organic produce and spa treatments that’ll leave you floating on cloud nine.

5. Ready for a glow-up? Watch the glow worms light up the Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park, or head to Mount Tamborine for a glow worm tour at the purpose-built Glow Worm Cave. Prepare to be starstruck.

6. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, catch the best sunrises and sunsets at the Gold Coast’s most stunning spots. Your Instagram will never be the same.

7. Hike through Lamington National Park’s lush rainforest and find Elabana, Chalahn, and Box Log Falls. Or head to Mount Tamborine for some magic at Witches Falls. 

8. Want to escape it all? Nightfall Wilderness glamping is your ticket to luxe camping in the ancient Lamington National Park rainforest. This isn’t just sleeping under the stars; it’s an eco-glamping experience that’s bucket-list-worthy. 

Adventure activities

9. Take your adventure to new heights with the SkyPoint Climb. You’ll be scaling the highest external building climb in Australia at the iconic Q1. The view will have you saying "holy wow" long after you’ve hit solid ground.

Art and culture

16. From SWELL Sculpture Festival to Blues on Broadbeach, the Gold Coast is full of local festivals that’ll have you dancing, exploring, and soaking up some serious culture.

17. Get the lowdown on the Gold Coast’s first inhabitants with a guided tour with Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. You’ll hear stories older than the rainforest and see the magical Jellurgal mountain like never before. Prepare to be captivated.

18. Get your shop on at Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets or head to Burleigh’s Village Markets for some locally made goods, live music, and killer eats. Your souvenir shopping just got a whole lot cooler

19. If you’re looking for culture, Home of the Arts is your go-to spot. With art, theatre, dance, rooftop bars, and hidden adventure trails, you’ll be leaving with a whole new perspective. Prepare to be inspired.

Dining and bars

20. Looking to eat like a local? Let Kiff & Culture show you the Gold Coast’s best food spots. You’ll be hitting the best tastes in town with a guide who knows the good stuff.

21. Cheers to the Gold Coast’s craft beer scene. Burleigh Brewing Company, Blackhops, Precinct, and Balter Brewing Company are the local legends you’ll want to sip your way through. Hops away!

22. Dining with a view? Rick Shores has got you covered. Picture this: beach, waves, and Moreton Bay bug rolls - what could be better? (Spoiler: Not much.) Check out the Gold Coast’s best restaurants for more drool-worthy spots.

23. Get into the action at Miami Marketta. With more than 25 street food vendors, live music, and a super-chill vibe, you’ll want to settle in for a long night of munching and mingling. 

Things to do with kids

24. Don’t just watch the waves - catch them. Get out of the sand and into the surf with one of the Gold Coast’s epic surf schools. You’ll be riding the waves in no time.