Written by Holly Connors for MonaCorona.com
Hi, I’m Holly.
Top Things to do on the Gold Coast: With Kids or Without!
For many people, a visit to the Gold Coast of Australia may have you thinking over the top entertainment and bikini-clad women everywhere, and sure those things are part of the Gold Coast culture, but the Gold Coast is also an incredible family-friendly destination with something for everyone. Whether you are single, coupled, or a family, you will be sure to enjoy your time on the beautiful Gold Coast of Australia.
Popular or Secluded Beaches Gold Coast: Something for Everyone
Make the most of the Gold Coast coastline and enjoy some of the many water sports and activities. Whether you want to take a relaxing dinner cruise, try your hand a surfing or hire a jetski, you will never run out of options to explore the Gold Coast by water. In the very least, make sure you take the time to wander along the beach (and take a dip in the warmer seasons). Some of the more popular beaches on the Gold Coast are Surfer’s Paradise with its mega high-rises and major tourist draw, the slightly more mellow Main Beach, and the family-friendly Broad Beach.
For something slightly more secluded, try Palm Beach or Tallebudgerra Beach to avoid the massive crowds in summer, although be sure to stay between the flags if you do plan on going for a swim. There are lifeguards situated in all the more popular swimming and surfing areas of the Gold Coast, and they will warn if beach conditions are unsafe for swimming.
Adventure Gold Coast Experiences: Thrill-Seeking Paradise
If you are looking for some daredevil thrills, you will find plenty to satisfy those interests! There are tours and organised activities for skydiving, bungee jumping, jet boating and loads more. You will also find several indoor go karting centres and trampoline centres, as well as the Treetop Challenge Adventure Park in the Gold Coast Hinterland of Mount Tamborine.
The Gold Coast is also home to Australia’s best theme parks, with Dreamworld, Seaworld and Movieworld all in close proximity, offering thrill rides, shows and attractions. Or if water parks are more your style, enjoy the water slides at Wet N Wild or White Water World.
Incredible Nature and Hiking: Gold Coast Outdoor Activities
Exploring the Gold Coast Hinterland is also a must, with scenic views and mountainscapes. If you enjoy nature walks or hiking, there are plenty of options in the Gold Coast Hinterland. There are also some great wineries, breweries and distilleries around Mount Tamborine and surrounds too.
A visit to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary or David Fleay Wildlife Park are a great opportunity to see native Australian animals up close. You will get to have some memorable animal encounters too, feeding kangaroos or holding a koala. Both are focused on animal conservation and research, with plenty to see and do during your visit.
Hinterland Waterfalls: Gold Coast Hidden Gems
The Hinterland is also home to many beautiful and majestic waterfalls. One of the more popular are the Curtis Falls, found in the Mount Tamborine area. It requires only a short and easy walk to get to. You can’t swim in the Curtis Falls, but not too far away is Cedark Creek Falls, whose draw is a large natural swimming hole and a lovely BBQ and picnic area. For the more secluded, you can hike up to Lip Falls, which offers plenty of room to swim and hidden areas up and down the stream. There are several other amazing falls to see, however one more incredible sight the is Natural Bridge Springbrook in the Numinbah Valley. A paved pathway will take you all around this breath-taking bridge, cave, fall, and pool. Arrive just before sunset to see the glow worms light up the pool once it gets dark.
Best Seafood Restaurants: Gold Coast Dining
The Gold Coast is a foodie delight with so many great options for all-day dining. No matter what the cuisine, there is something for everyone and every budget. Seafood and the Gold Coast go hand in hand. so here are some of our top recommendations:
Citrique Restaurant – If you love Japanese, Critique is a must. Their menu includes locally sourced fresh seafood dishes and Asian inspired flavours. And if you aren’t a fan of Japanese food, they have you covered for that too with wood fired pizzas, antipasto and roast meats as well. This is one of the most-loved buffets on the Gold Coast. Don’t forget to order dessert!
Where to Stay in Gold Coast: Beachfront Accommodation, 5-Star Luxury, or Family Accommodations Gold Coast – Take Your Pick
Palazzo Versace – As one of the most well-known luxury resorts on the Gold Coast, Palazzo Versace does not disappoint. The waterfront resort gives the impression of stepping into an Italian hotel, with furnishings and architecture. It is also Australia’s first fashion branded hotel, with its own Versace Boutique. The resort has 3 award-winning restaurants, a day spa, fitness centre and a Water Salon poolside cabana experience.
Peppers Soul– Located on the Surfers Paradise Esplanade, Peppers Soul is a modern 5-star resort with self-contained 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and breathtaking ocean and hinterland views. It has both a heated indoor swimming pool and an infinity pool, so you can enjoy the water no matter the season. There is also a restaurant, bar and gym, along with being in the perfect central location for Surfers Paradise attractions and nightlife.
Paradise Resort– While not a luxury resort in the traditional sense, if you are travelling with young children, Paradise Resort will have you feeling like you just stepped into your own child-friendly paradise! This resort caters to families like few others, with playgrounds, a water park and water play areas, kids club, trampolines and jumping castles. There is even an ice rink and indoor playground. Right down to the small touches, this resort makes you feel at home. Get a Bunkhouse room with your own kids area, including themed bunk beds and an in room xBox to entertain the kids.
The Gold Coast is a perfect destination if you are looking to unwind and enjoy relaxing beach walks and fine dining, or if you are looking for some exciting entertainment and memorable experiences. It is also within close proximity to several other beautiful parts of Australia, including Queensland’s capital city Brisbane and over the New South Wales border to Byron Bay and Ballina. The Gold Coast has something for everyone, no matter how many times you visit!