3 days on the Gold Coast
Aptly named the Gold Coast, this sun-drenched city is punctuated with laid-back beaches, luxury hotels and world-class amusement parks. Let your hair down on this three-day escape.
The must-do experiences
Savour fresh produce at waterfront restaurant Rick Shores
Connect with local Aboriginal culture in Tweed Heads
Get your fix of thrills at the Gold Coast’s best theme parks
Day 1: Burleigh Heads and Miami
Hang out at Burleigh Heads today, the Gold Coast’s trendy oasis. Here, you’ll find laid-back beaches with epic surf breaks, chic bars and restaurants serving some of the city’s best fare, and bush-walking tracks offering unbeatable views.
Enjoy a lazy beach day
The Gold Coast boasts a beautiful collection of beaches, and Burleigh is up there with the very best. Surf gentle waves, relax under the shady palms or dip into the turquoise waters. The nearby Surf Life Saving Club is a great spot for a cold drink.
Join an Aboriginal walking tour
Discover the culturally significant Burleigh Headland on a guided tour with Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre. While you walk the ocean-fringed pathway, learn about the connection between the local Aboriginal people and the land.
Head to hip bars and breweries
Miami and Burleigh are a mecca for laid-back breweries and bars, and with the Gold Coast's warm weather, a cold drink is just what you'll need. Sample innovative beers, hand-crafted cocktails and delicious gins at these trendy hangout spots.
Dine at the renowned Rick Shores
Freshly caught seafood, laid-back ambience and one of the best views on the Gold Coast – Rick Shores restaurant is what Aussie dining is all about. Don’t miss the delicious pan-Asian flavours.
Experience a night market
If it’s a Wednesday, Friday or Saturday, explore Miami Marketta – the Gold Coast’s answer to laneway dining. This converted warehouse boasts stalls serving cuisines from around the world, so flavour and fun are guaranteed.
Day 2: Southern Beaches
Enjoy a slower pace of life today at Coolangatta and Currumbin, the Gold Coast’s chilled-out Southern Beaches. Well-known for their powder-white beaches, iconic surf break and cute residents of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll feel worlds away from the city.
Beach hop on two wheels
Have a bike delivered to your location and explore the Gold Coast’s coastal pathway on two wheels. It's a great way to cover multiple beaches, stopping to enjoy each stretch of sand in your own time.
See the “Goldie” from above
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, try skydiving 12,000 feet over the city’s coastline. A bird's-eye view of the coast and hinterland awaits, as well as the pure thrill of making the leap from the plane.
Meet adorable wildlife
Adorable koalas, rainbow lorikeets and an augmented reality dinosaur trail – there’s an exciting wildlife experience for everyone at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. You can even tour one of the world’s busiest wildlife hospitals.
Spend the afternoon at Rainbow Bay
Rainbow Bay’s crystal-clear waters and gentle waves make it a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike. Take a surfing lesson to join in the fun, then go watch the pros take on the waves at Snapper Rocks.
Day 3: Central and Northern Beaches
Experience the best of central Gold Coast and the Northern Beaches, from famous theme parks to sky-high climbs and kayaking escapades. Here are some of the incredible experiences you can do.
Go wild at theme parks
We don’t know what’s more impressive, the Gold Coast’s beaches or its world-class theme parks. Let your hair down on thrilling rides and slides before meeting your favourite childhood movie characters.
Go on an aquatic adventure
Take advantage of the coastal lifestyle on a morning kayaking tour. You’ll have the chance to paddle past marine life like dolphins and sea turtles. After, enjoy breakfast on a secluded beach and marvel at the coastal scenery.
Climb to the top of SkyPoint
Make your last sunset the best one yet at 270m (886ft) above sea level. Scale one of the city’s most iconic buildings on a twilight SkyPoint Climb, taking in 360-degree views and a dramatic golden sky.
Sip cocktails with a view
It’s not difficult to come across a stylish rooftop bar on the Gold Coast. Toast to your last night with colourful cocktails at a sky-high establishment, and enjoy the view of the coast's golden sands.
