If you've been dreaming of a surfy, sun-drenched holiday destination full of adventure and discovery, the Gold Coast is the place for you, with lots of centrally placed accommodation to choose from. Stroll along white sandy beaches that boast beautiful blue water and enjoy hotspots for shopping and nightlife. There's so much to see, taste and experience, you'll never be left wondering what to do on the Gold Coast.
Start your journey at Main Beach by taking a surfing lesson with local pros. There are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants near Gold Coast accommodation to refuel at once you've worked up your appetite in the water. Or why not experience the thrills and heart-racing action of a theme park at Movie World, Sea World, Wet & Wild, Dreamworld and WhiteWater World? At these parks you'll get close to sea creatures such as manta rays, soar around roller coasters and enjoy themed rides from some of your favourite films.
Get out on the water and join a local whale watching expedition, take a ride on a jet ski, or an adrenalin-pumping jet boat ride. Keen shoppers can visit Robina Town Centre, one of the Gold Coast's largest shopping destinations, with your favourite brands from Myer to David Jones. Finally, work up an appetite then head to The High Street on Surfers Paradise Boulevard for more fabulous shopping and delicious dining, with cafes and restaurants offering a range of local and international flavours al fresco.
You can also venture a little further inland to check out some wonderful wineries, such as the Cedar Creek Estate in North Tamborine or the Mount Nathan Winery at 220 Clagiraba Road. Once you get a taste of the local Bubbly Brut or Sauvignon Blanc, you'll understand why this region's wines have such a great reputation.
Surfers Paradise
Experience the heart of the Gold Coast in Surfers Paradise, where you'll find an abundance of holiday accommodation, high-rise buildings, shopping centres, deluxe dining venues as well as beautiful sandy shores. Spend your days lounging or playing on the beach or wandering the shopping streets.
Join the excitement of Surfers Paradise at night by checking out the popular Surfers Paradise beachfront markets, which happen each Wednesday, Friday and Sunday evening. Home to boutique stalls with gourmet food, delicate crafts (perfect for gifts to take home to friends and family) and general goodies that you can't purchase elsewhere - all set to the background of rolling waves and live entertainment - this is an activity not to miss.
Surfers Paradise is also famous for its nightlife and there are lots of options to suit singles, couples and families. The kids will love the range of attractions including Infinity, Ripley's Believe it or Not and the Wax Museum, and whether you're travelling with friends or looking to meet new ones, you'll be spoilt for choice for bars, clubs and pubs.
Broadbeach
Broadbeach is a family-friendly destination, with everything from a pristine, tranquil beach to the wide open spaces of Kurrawa and Pratten Park, with playgrounds for the kids. Surrender to the laid-back, resort lifestyle and take leisurely strolls along the shore as you savour a hot coffee or a delicious ice cream. Broadbeach is home to more than 100 restaurants and cafes, with the beachfront and Oracle Precinct renowned for their fantastic dining.
Take a spot on a beachside bench and watch the talented buskers and live entertainers perform along the boulevard, or head to one of the many Gold Coast festivals and events that come to town, such as the Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival, Broadbeach Country Music Festival and Broadbeach Jazz Festival.
Choose from a great range of Gold Coast accommodation for your very own adventure to this action-packed region.