Gold Coast

Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise beaches, theme parks, the Hinterland rainforest and Byron-adjacent south coast breaks.

8 tours
8 caravan parks
8 articles
📷 15 photos
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Tours in Gold Coast

See all 8 tours →
Gold Coast 2 hour Sunset Sailing Cruise with Drinks&Tasting Plate

Gold Coast 2 hour Sunset Sailing Cruise with Drinks&Tasting Plate

2 hours
From AUD $189
Sandbox Virtual Reality Experience - Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast

Sandbox Virtual Reality Experience - Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast

40 min
From AUD $45
Luxury Airport Transfer Gold Coast-Brisbane / Brisbane-Gold Coast

Luxury Airport Transfer Gold Coast-Brisbane / Brisbane-Gold Coast

1 hour – 2 hours
From AUD $89
The Gold Coast, also known by its initials, GC, is a coastal city and region in the state of Queensland, Australia, located approximately 66 kilometres (41 mi) south-southeast of the centre of the state capital, Brisbane. It is on the central eastern coast of Australia facing the Pacific Ocean. It is Queensland's second-largest city after Brisbane, as well as Australia's sixth-largest city and the most populous non-capital city. The city's central business district is located roughly in the centre of the Gold Coast in the suburb of Southport. The urban area of the Gold Coast is concentrated along the coast, sprawling almost 60 kilometres, joining up with the Greater Brisbane metropolitan region to the north and to the state border with New South Wales to the south. Nicknames of the city include the ‘Glitter Strip’ and the ‘Goldy’. The demonym of a Gold Coast resident is Gold Coaster. The area that became the Gold Coast was originally inhabited by the indigenous Yugambeh people. The city grew from a collection of small townships, the earliest being Nerang in 1865. From the 1920s onwards, tourism led to significant economic growth in the region, and by 1959 the Gold Coast was declared a city, with its first high-rise being built in 1960. The Gold Coast boomed from the 1980s onwards with extensive skyscraper construction. This era was defined by the city's 'white-shoe brigade' developers, neon lights, and organised crime, particularly the yakuza and the Russian mafia. The late 20th century saw the city's tourism diversify with theme park openings, and in the early 21st century became an international destination for film production. The Gold Coast has a diverse economy with strengths in health, tourism, arts and culture, and construction, with a GDP of AU$49.3 billion as of 2024. The city ranks highly as one of the country's cultural and creative hotspots, alongside content creators, a growing video games industry, and leads Australia in startups per capita. The Gold Coast is central to the nation's entertainment industry with a major film and television production industry, leading to the city's metonym of Goldywood. The Gold Coast is also host of the AACTA Awards, the Asia Pacific Screen Awards, and the Gold Coast Film Festival. The Gold Coast is a major tourist destination with a sunny, subtropical climate and has become widely known for its surfing beaches (such as Surfers Paradise), high-rise buildings, theme parks, nightlife, and rainforest hinterland.

Background information about Gold Coast adapted from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Next 7 days at Gold Coast

Live forecast from Open-Meteo. Updated each time the page loads.

Loading forecast…

Best time to visit Gold Coast

Based on 30 years of weather data. Sweet spot: May, Aug, Sep — mild temperatures, low rainfall and plenty of sun. Avoid Jan, Feb if you can — typically the wettest or hottest stretch of the year.

Jan
27°
22° low
127mm
Feb
27°
22° low
140mm
Mar
26°
21° low
97mm
Apr
24°
19° low
50mm
May
22°
16° low
69mm
Jun
20°
14° low
68mm
Jul
19°
13° low
34mm
Aug
20°
13° low
36mm
Sep
22°
15° low
37mm
Oct
23°
17° low
71mm
Nov
25°
19° low
79mm
Dec
26°
21° low
118mm
Daytime high (large) · overnight low (small) · monthly rainfall (blue bar). Climate normals: 1991–2020 from Open-Meteo's ERA5 reanalysis.

What else is around Gold Coast

Points of interest within 25 km, pulled from OpenStreetMap. Distances are straight-line; check road access before heading out.

🌳 Nature reserves & national parks (1)
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL.

Drive times to and from Gold Coast

Real road distance and driving time to other destinations in the state. Click through for fuel estimates, suggested overnight stops, and tours along the way.

To Gold Coast Hinterland
46 km · 0h 58m
To Brisbane
78 km · 1h 3m
To Sunshine Coast
184 km · 2h 22m
To Noosa
214 km · 2h 51m
To Rainbow Beach
315 km · 3h 59m
To Hervey Bay
361 km · 4h 37m
To North Stradbroke Island
103 km · 4h 41m
To Bundaberg
437 km · 5h 24m

Photos from around Gold Coast

BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
park
Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park
park
NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort, Gold Coast
NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort, Gold Coast
park
Broadwater Tourist Park
Broadwater Tourist Park
park
Ashmore Palms Holiday Village
Ashmore Palms Holiday Village
park
Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park
Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park
park
Main Beach Tourist Park
Main Beach Tourist Park
park
Discovery Park
Discovery Park
park
BreakFree Resorts — Affordable Apartment Hotel Brand Australia
BreakFree Resorts — Affordable Apartment Hotel Brand Australia
article
Duffy Boat - Limo on the Water- Luxury Private Skippered Cruise
Duffy Boat - Limo on the Water- Luxury Private Skippered Cruise
article
Duffy Boat - Limo on the Water- Luxury Self Drive Cruise
Duffy Boat - Limo on the Water- Luxury Self Drive Cruise
article
Duffy Boat Snug Classic - Self Drive Cruise
Duffy Boat Snug Classic - Self Drive Cruise
article
Duffy Down Under Boat Hire, Cruises & Tours
Duffy Down Under Boat Hire, Cruises & Tours
article
Duffy Boat Snug Classic - Private Skippered Cruise
Duffy Boat Snug Classic - Private Skippered Cruise
article
2.5hr Whale Watching Cruise
2.5hr Whale Watching Cruise
article

Frequently asked about Gold Coast

Where is Gold Coast?
Gold Coast is in South East Queensland, Queensland, Australia. The destination guide above maps the area; the drive-times panel further down lists distances to other Queensland destinations so you can pencil it into a longer itinerary.
When is the best time to visit Gold Coast?
Based on 30 years of climate data, the most comfortable months at Gold Coast are typically September, August, May — milder temperatures, lower rainfall, and longer sunshine hours. February tends to be the trickiest month weather-wise. School holiday weeks (Easter, late June–early July, late September, mid-December–late January) get busy and prices rise, so shoulder season is usually the sweet spot if you're flexible.
What's the weather like in Gold Coast?
Summer daytime highs average around 27°C and winter overnight lows can drop to about 13°C. Annual rainfall sits at roughly 924 mm spread across the year. The climate panel above breaks every month down — daytime high, overnight low, monthly rain, sunny days — so you can match the trip to the weather you want.
How do I get to Gold Coast?
Most travellers arrive by road. From Gold Coast Hinterland it's about 46 km — roughly 0h 58m of driving via the main highway, conditions permitting. The drive-times panel above lists travel time and distance to every other Queensland destination so you can sketch out a road-trip route. Check road conditions in winter if your route crosses high country, and plan for breaks every ~2 hours.
What are the top things to see in Gold Coast?
Well-known spots within day-trip range include Regional Arboretum, Jebbribillum Lookout, Panorama Viewpoint, Tumgun Lookout, West Burleigh Asphalt Plant. The "What else is around" panel above lists every named point of interest by category — lookouts, peaks, waterfalls, museums, beaches — pulled straight from OpenStreetMap. Click any name for the location, opening hours and directions.
Where can I stay near Gold Coast?
We list 8 caravan and holiday parks in and around Gold Coast above — powered sites, cabins, glamping, and big-rig-friendly options. Pet rules, dump points and shaded sites are noted on each park's page. For hotel-style stays, the Drive Times panel makes it easy to base yourself in a nearby town and day-trip in.
How many days should I spend at Gold Coast?
Most travellers spend 1–2 days at Gold Coast to cover the highlights without rushing. There are 8 bookable tours and experiences, 0 attractions and 5+ named viewpoints/landmarks listed for the area on this page — plenty to fill a weekend, more if you slow down and explore the outer reaches.
Is Gold Coast good for families with kids?
Yes — there are 39 family-friendly attractions, museums and family destinations within easy reach (zoos, aquariums, interactive museums, family-friendly theme parks). The caravan parks section above flags parks with playgrounds, kids' pools and family cabins.
What day trips can I do from Gold Coast?
Within ~2.5 hours' drive: Gold Coast Hinterland, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast. The drive-times panel above lists every nearby destination with road distance and travel time — pick one, drive across in the morning, and you're back for dinner.
Is there public transport at Gold Coast?
Coverage varies — major destinations have train and bus links from the closest capital, but smaller regional towns rely on infrequent coach services. The most reliable way to explore the wider area is a hire car or your own vehicle. If you're using public transport, plan around the timetables and check the night before you travel; rural routes are often once or twice a day.
Is Gold Coast accessible for wheelchair users and reduced mobility?
Major town centres, museums and built-up tourist precincts at Gold Coast are usually accessible; bush walks and lookouts vary widely. The OpenStreetMap data underneath the "What else is around" panel records wheelchair access on individual sites — click through to any place's page for the specific accessibility info. For tours, check the operator's website or call ahead; most reputable operators publish their access details.
How much does a trip to Gold Coast cost?
Budget travellers can do Gold Coast on roughly $120–180 per person per day (caravan park, cooking your own, free walks); mid-range $200–350 (hotel, paid attractions, eating out once a day); higher-end $400+ (boutique stays, tours, fine dining). Fuel is the big variable — Australia's regional driving distances add up. Tours and attractions in the listings above show prices in AUD where the operator publishes them.
Will I have phone signal at Gold Coast?
Most named destinations in Queensland have at least Telstra and Optus coverage in town. Coverage drops off quickly outside built-up areas — particularly in national parks, valleys and along long stretches of highway. If you're heading into remote areas, download offline maps before you leave, tell someone your itinerary, and consider a PLB (personal locator beacon) for serious bush walks.

All tours in Gold Coast

Gold Coast 2 hour Sunset Sailing Cruise with Drinks&Tasting Plate
Gold Coast 2 hour Sunset Sailing Cruise with Drinks&Tasting Plate
★ 5.0 · from AUD $189
Sandbox Virtual Reality Experience - Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast
Sandbox Virtual Reality Experience - Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast
★ 5.0 · from AUD $45
Luxury Airport Transfer Gold Coast-Brisbane / Brisbane-Gold Coast
Luxury Airport Transfer Gold Coast-Brisbane / Brisbane-Gold Coast
★ 5.0 · from AUD $89
Gold Coast Island Private Cruise
Gold Coast Island Private Cruise
★ 5.0 · from AUD $600
Small-Group Gin Masterclass in Gold Coast
Small-Group Gin Masterclass in Gold Coast
★ 5.0 · from AUD $180
Gold Coast Breakfast Sailing Cruise with Croissants & Sparkling
Gold Coast Breakfast Sailing Cruise with Croissants & Sparkling
★ 5.0 · from AUD $169
Private Surf Lessons in Coolangatta
Private Surf Lessons in Coolangatta
★ 5.0 · from AUD $69
Half Day Gold Coast Brewery Tour
Half Day Gold Coast Brewery Tour
★ 5.0 · from AUD $159

Caravan parks nearby

BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
Helensvale · City of Gold Coast
★ 4.7
Lamington National Park
Lamington National Park
★ 4.7
NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort, Gold Coast
NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort, Gold Coast
Biggera Waters · City of Gold Coast
★ 4.5
Broadwater Tourist Park
Broadwater Tourist Park
Southport · City of Gold Coast
★ 4.5
Ashmore Palms Holiday Village
Ashmore Palms Holiday Village
Ashmore · City of Gold Coast
★ 4.5
Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park
Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park
Palm Beach · City of Gold Coast
★ 4.4
Main Beach Tourist Park
Main Beach Tourist Park
Main Beach · City of Gold Coast
★ 4.4
Discovery Park
Discovery Park
Bahrs Scrub · Logan City
★ 4.4

Nearby destinations

Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise
Gold Coast
Main Beach
Main Beach
Gold Coast
Southport
Southport
Gold Coast
Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads
Gold Coast
Coolangatta
Coolangatta
Gold Coast
Gold Coast Hinterland
Gold Coast Hinterland
South East Queensland

Gold Coast travel articles

BreakFree Resorts — Affordable Apartment Hotel Brand Australia
BreakFree Resorts — Affordable Apartment Hotel Brand Australia
BreakFree Resorts is Accor's affordable apartment-hotel brand — self-contained apartments at lower price points than the premium Accor brands, with properties across the Gold Coast, Cairns, Brisbane and beyond.
Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites — Australia & Queensland Guide
Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites — Australia & Queensland Guide
Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites is one of Australia's larger apartment-style hotel operators, with a strong Queensland portfolio spanning the Gold Coast, Cairns, Brisbane, Hervey Bay and Port Douglas.
Duffy Boat - Limo on the Water- Luxury Private Skippered Cruise
Duffy Boat - Limo on the Water- Luxury Private Skippered Cruise
Experience Luxury on a Private Duffy Cruise Indulge in a Luxury Private Duffy Cruise Duffy Boat – Limo on the Water Luxury Private Skippered cruise offers you a unique experience of elegance, comfort and relaxation. This exclusive experience allows you to enjoy the Gold Coast Broadwater from your ow
Duffy Boat - Limo on the Water- Luxury Self Drive Cruise
Duffy Boat - Limo on the Water- Luxury Self Drive Cruise
Enjoy a Private Luxury Duffy Boat Experience Discover Gold Coast Elegance with Duffy Cruising Explore the Gold Coast in a way you've never seen before. Glide along the sparkling, calm waterways of Broadwater on a vessel that defines style, comfort and class. This is more than just a cruise. It's an
Duffy Boat Snug Classic - Self Drive Cruise
Duffy Boat Snug Classic - Self Drive Cruise
Explore Gold Coast Waters with a Duffy Boat Self Drive Cruise Self-Drive Cruise with Duffy Boat Snug Classic Enjoy the ultimate private boating adventure when you step aboard the Duffy Boat Snug Classic Self Drive Cruise. This electric boat is designed for adventure and relaxation. This boat is perf
Duffy Down Under Boat Hire, Cruises & Tours
Duffy Down Under Boat Hire, Cruises & Tours
Discover Luxury Adventures with Duffy Down Under Duffy Downunder Boat Hire, Cruises & Tours: Discover the Magic of the Water Experience the ultimate Gold Coast adventure by stepping aboard Duffy Cruises & Tours. Our Duffy Electric Boat is beautifully equipped to allow you to glide effortless
Duffy Boat Snug Classic - Private Skippered Cruise
Duffy Boat Snug Classic - Private Skippered Cruise
Explore Gold Coast on Duffy Boat Snug Classic Relax in Style with a Duffy Boat Snug Classic Private Skipper Cruise Duffy Boat Snug - Private Skippered Cruising is a great way to see the Gold Coast in a different light. This comfortable and luxurious private cruise is for guests who just want to rela
2.5hr Whale Watching Cruise
2.5hr Whale Watching Cruise
Create Lasting Memories with Family and Friends on a 2.5hr Whale Watching Cruise Enjoy a 2.5-hour Whale-Watching Cruise and Discover its Magic Prepare yourself for a thrilling ocean adventure on our 2.5 whale watching cruise along the beautiful Gold Coast. This is more than a simple sightseeing tour