Explore the Gold Coast
There is so much to see and do with family and friends from self drive day trips to theme parks
Explore our Gold Coast beaches, the Hinterland, Iconic Coast Walkways and more.
Discover what’s on offer and plan your time and book your tours and activities before you even arrive.
Gold Coast National Parks and nature reserves
Get up close with all sorts of Australian wildlife at David Fleay Wildlife Park. Explore the rainforest, walks, and views in Springbrook National Park.
Or take a leisurely walk in a hidden treasure of the Gold Coast and see the mob of kangaroos and maybe a koala or two at Coombabah Lakelands.
Culture
The Yugambeh language-speaking people of the Gold Coast and surrounding communities share their culture at the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
Through walking tours, dance performances, meeting traditional owners and Dreamtime stories uncover the history, culture, how they lived traditionally, and their ecological practices.
From James Morrison to Jimmy Barnes, the Home of the Arts has music on offer all the time. There’s also cinema, comedy, cabaret, theatre, an outdoor stage, and regular events like Dancing on the Green for all ages.
The Gold Coast Food Scene
There are top restaurants, family favourites, and artisan food makers. Wander the smart modern dining precinct in Broadbeach for smorgasbord of choices or explore further afield.
Head to Mermaid Beach for white tablecloth dining at the Little Truffle and artisan gelato at Heven-yah, while great sourdough bread and a ‘talk of the town’ vanilla slice can be found at Bisou Bakery on Isle of Capri. In Burleigh Heads you will find a clutch of well-known destination restaurants.
For dinner and a show the whole family will enjoy, the Outback Spectacular has animals, stunts, special effects, and a three course dinner.
We’re happy to help you find the dining choice to suit you, near the Dorchester, and up or down the Gold Coast.
Events
The Gold Coast hosts a vibrant program of events throughout the year.
They include many major annual sports, arts and music events. Search for major events and the current year to find all the details for events like the famous Broadbeach Blues Festival, the Gold Coast Marathon, the Australian PGA Championships, the GC600 touring car races, and SeaFire, Australia’s only international fireworks competition.
Shopping
Take a twilight wander through the stalls at Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets. Or spend a lazy Sunday morning at the Broadbeach Arts and Crafts Market.
For everything from the high street brands to luxury brands, Pacific Fair is the destination.
Lose yourself in a choice of more than 400 stores, then grab lunch, and catch a movie. All while you enjoy a shopping environment designed for a warm coastal climate.
