The Gold Coast, just south of Brisbane, is a must for any East Coast Australia itinerary. You’ve got long surf beaches, a lively nightlife scene, and some of Australia’s best theme parks to keep things fun. If you’re up for a change of pace, there are also national parks nearby with rainforest walks and great viewpoints. There’s plenty to see and do here, so have a browse through our Gold Coast tours to find what suits your trip best.
The best time of year to go on a Gold Coast tour is September to November. This is considered peak season, as it generally has dry, sunny weather. However, June to August is also a great time of year to go as you have a chance to spot humpback whales.
We recommend spending two to three days in Gold Coast, this will give you enough time to see the highlights of the city and have a night partying. If you want to go to Moreton Island or any of the theme parks then add an extra day.
There are plenty of activities to do whilst visiting Gold Coast. Our top recommendations are doing a day trip to Moreton Island or visiting the legendary theme parks. You should also visit Surfers Paradise, spending time relaxing on the beach and grabbing a cocktail or two!
To get to Gold Coast, you can get here by driving yourself, by the Greyhound bus or by flying into the Brisbane Airport.
From Brisbane, you can:
Train: Catch a train from Brisbane’s Central Station to various Gold Coast stations, including Helensvale, Nerang, Robina, and Varsity Lakes. From these stations, you can take a bus or
taxi to your final destination.
Bus: Several coach services operate between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, offering direct and comfortable rides.
Car: Drive south on the Pacific Motorway (M1) from Brisbane to the Gold Coast. The journey typically takes about an hour, depending on your exact starting and ending points.
Surfers Paradise Beach: Surfers Paradise is the heart of the Gold Coast, offering golden sands, excellent surf breaks, and a lively atmosphere with shops, dining, and entertainment options.
Burleigh Heads Beach: Known for its natural beauty, Burleigh Heads features a scenic headland and excellent waves for surfing. It’s also home to a national park offering hiking trails and coastal views.
Coolangatta Beach: Situated at the southern end of the Gold Coast, Coolangatta has a relaxed vibe. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying views of the coastline.
Main Beach: Adjacent to Surfers Paradise, Main Beach has a wide stretch of sand, calm waters, and family-friendly amenities. It’s perfect for swimming and coastal walks.
Yes, absolutely! The Gold Coast, with its world-renowned surf breaks, is the perfect place to learn to surf. Numerous surf schools along the coast, from Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta, offer lessons for all skill levels. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your technique, professional instructors provide personalised coaching to help you catch your first wave or refine your surfing skills, all against the backdrop of some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches.
Warner Bros. Movie World: Enjoy thrilling rides and meet your favorite movie characters.
Sea World: Discover marine life, enjoy rides, and watch aquatic shows.
Dreamworld: Experience adrenaline-pumping rides and visit the adjacent wildlife park.
Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast: Cool off in this waterpark with slides and pools for all ages.
SinCity Nightclub: One of the most famous clubs on the Gold Coast, known for its glamorous atmosphere and international DJs.
Bedroom Lounge Bar: A unique venue with a bedroom-themed interior, offering a fun night out with great music and a lively crowd.
Melbas on the Park: An institution in Surfers Paradise, Melbas offers a mix of nightclub vibes in the back and a more relaxed bar atmosphere at the front.
The Star Gold Coast: Not just a casino, The Star has several bars and clubs, including the luxurious Nineteen at The Star.
Love Nightlife: A popular club among locals and tourists alike, known for its themed nights.