Exploring the Gold Coast
If you are visiting the Gold Coast, expect to see gorgeous sand beaches, the sounds of crashing waves and never-ending sunshine. The beaches stretch for ten miles along the southern coasts of Queensland, and the vibes are immaculate. With so much to offer, it is unsurprising that the Gold Coast has become a popular destination for tourists. With markets, shows, bars and clubs at night, and water and theme parks for all the family during the day, you will be spoilt for choice.
There is so much to see and do that knowing where to start your adventure is challenging. But fear not; after this article, you will have a whole itinerary for what you’ll do when you visit the Gold Coast. After these recommendations, whether it is a trip with family or friends, there is no doubt that you will have an incredible stay in this beautiful area of Australia.
1. Go to the beach at Surfers Paradise
You will quickly realise that the Gold Coast is all about beaches, and there is no better place to start your journey than at Surfers Paradise. Travel there by car or book a private jet for a taste of luxury – either way, this is a must for your Gold Coast list. This is one of the most iconic areas of the Gold Coast, with Surfers Paradise being one of the original suburbs of the Gold Coast. This area is where tourism started to bloom, from a surfer village with some beach bungalows to a booming beachfront tourist haven. Naturally, everyone comes to the beach. Enjoy the gorgeous white sanded shores with the backdrop of stunning skyscrapers. Here, you can spend the day swimming in the sea, relaxing, reading a book, playing volleyball or other games on the sand.
2. Visit the SkyPoint Observation Deck
When visiting the Gold Coast, if you want to get a stunning view of the sights, take a trip to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. It is 230 metres above sea level, offering a full view of the city. Found towards the top of Q1, it is one of the most famous skyscrapers on the Gold Coast, proudly owning Australia’s tallest building for years. Once you arrive, take the elevator to the 77th floor. Up high, cast your eyes and see miles and miles of stunning coastline and views of the Gold Coast Hinterland. If you are in the mood for adventure, you can participate in the SkyPoint Climb. Known as Australia’s highest building climb, you can walk to a viewing platform that will take you to 270 metres above sea level. If you are not up for that, do not worry. You can wait for those go-getters at the SkyPoint Bistro and Bar, enjoying delicious cocktails and food instead.
3. Learn about wildlife at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
First established in 1947, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has been a popular Gold Coast visitor attraction for years. It was initially made as a bird sanctuary, attracting various birds from all over the world that still roam freely around the park today. Since then, the refuge has also been a haven to help injured or sick wildlife, becoming the home to several animals and birds. Whilst here, book in advance and tour the Wildlife Hospital. Here you will learn about the work carried out to protect the animals, especially those involved in bushfires or road accidents on the Gold Coast. After the hospital tour, walk through the rainforests to see species of animals you might not usually come across, for example, breakfast with Koalas. It will be a memorable day out for you and all of the family.
4. Take a whale-watching tour
If you visit Australia between the end of May and October, you will find the waters full of whales. At this time, tens of thousands of whales will migrate towards the warmer waters located on the Great Barrier Reef, and during their journey, they will rest along the Gold Coast. It is officially known as the ‘Humpback Highway’ and is one of the best places in the world to see whales in their natural habitat. Make sure to join the whale watching tours, which depart from Surfers Paradise and can take you back there. This is the perfect opportunity to make unforgettable memories that you’ll remember for life.Whether you are in the mood to relax at the beach, take yourself to gorgeous heights or learn more about the wildlife that the Gold Coast has to offer, there is something for everyone at this magnificent nook of the Australian coast. If you want to go for Australian summer or escape the winter for a holiday in May or June
