Best Attractions & Things To Do On The Gold Coast

Planning a trip and wondering what the best things to do in the Gold Coast are? Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a sun-soaked holiday, this coastal playground is bursting with energy. From famous beaches and thrilling theme parks to buzzing nightlife and hidden hinterland gems, we’ve rounded up the ultimate list of Gold Coast attractions and experiences you won’t want to miss.

1. Explore the Iconic Gold Coast Beaches

   
   
   
   No list of things to do in the Gold Coast is complete without the beach. With over 50 km of stunning coastline, the region’s beaches are world-famous for good reason:

   • Surfers Paradise: Iconic for its skyline-meets-sea vibe, perfect for swimming and people-watching.
   • Burleigh Heads: Where locals go for surf, sunshine, and great coffee.
   • Tallebudgera Creek: (Our Hot Pick) Calm waters ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or floating the day away.

   Whether you're catching waves or catching rays, this is beach culture at its finest.

2. Get Your Thrill On at the Theme Parks
   
   

   
   One of the most popular Gold Coast attractions? The theme parks. Adrenaline, family fun, and non-stop entertainment all rolled into one.

   • Warner Bros. Movie World: Rides, superheroes, and stunt shows.
   • Dreamworld: Australia’s biggest theme park, with something for all ages.
   • Sea World: Marine life, shows, and thrilling water rides.
   • Wet’n’Wild: Water slides and wave pools that’ll keep you cool (and screaming).

   For big kids and little ones, this is peak Gold Coast fun.

3. Dracula’s Gold Coast - A Bloody Good Night Out
   
   

   
   
   Looking for unique, adults-only things to do on the Gold Coast? Step into the wild world of Dracula’s Gold Coast - a dark, funny, wildly entertaining dinner and show that’s been thrilling audiences for over 40 years.

   What To Expect:

   • Seductive burlesque, acrobatics, and live music
   • A ghost train ride into the theatre
   • A three-course meal to die for and killer cocktails

   It’s weird, it’s wild, and it’s so Gold Coast.

4. Discover the Gold Coast Hinterland

   
   
   
   For a break from the beach, the Gold Coast Hinterland offers waterfalls, rainforest trails, and charming mountain towns:

   • Tamborine Mountain: Tree-top walks, local wineries, and the famous Glow Worm Caves.
   • Springbrook National Park: Don’t miss Natural Bridge and the rainforest circuit.
   • O’Reilly’s & Lamington National Park: Epic views, native wildlife, and guided walks.

   A perfect day trip if you’re craving nature and fresh air.

5. Water Adventures & Aquatic Thrills

   
   
   
   Water is life on the Goldie, and there’s no shortage of ways to dive in:

   • Jet boating on the Broadwater for high-speed thrills
   • Whale watching (June to October)
   • Kayaking and snorkelling at Tallebudgera and Currumbin
   • Luxury canal cruises with food and drinks

   There’s no better way to enjoy the coast than from the water.

6. Gold Coast Nightlife & Live Entertainment

   
   
   
   The Gold Coast doesn’t sleep early, and neither should you. Here’s where to go when the sun goes down:

   • Surfers Paradise: Bars, nightclubs, and beachfront DJs
   • Miami Marketta: Night markets with food trucks and live music
   • Broadbeach: Home to stylish bars and The Star casino

   Want something different? Dracula’s (see #3) is a Gold Coast nightlife experience like no other.

7. Shop, Eat, Repeat

   
   
   
   From high-end shopping to local eats, the Gold Coast knows how to spoil you:

   • Pacific Fair Shopping Centre: Fashion, beauty, dining – it’s a destination in itself.
   • The Village Markets (Burleigh): Boutique shopping meets street food and live tunes.
   • Local foodie favourites: Check out The Paddock Bakery or Rick Shores (yes, that one with the famous Moreton Bay Bug roll).

   Fuel up between adventures.

8. Soak Up Gold Coast Culture

   
   
   
   The Gold Coast isn’t all surfboards and selfies – there’s plenty of culture to dig into:

   • Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre: Indigenous tours and storytelling led by Yugambeh locals.
   • HOTA (Home of the Arts): Art, film, theatre, and a rooftop bar with stunning skyline views.
   • Annual festivals: Blues on Broadbeach, SWELL Sculpture Festival, Groundwater Country Music Festival and more.

   Culture with a coastal twist.

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   Gold Coast Travel Tips

   Make your trip even smoother with these quick tips:

   • Transport: The G:link light rail connects Surfers, Broadbeach, and Southport. Hire a car for day trips.
   • Weather: Mild year-round, but spring (Sep–Nov) and autumn (Mar–May) are ideal for fewer crowds and perfect temps.
   • Where to stay: Surfers for the action, Broadbeach for a relaxed vibe, and Burleigh for that locals-only feel.

   
   FAQs: Things to Do Gold Coast

   What are the best things to do in Gold Coast?
   Top picks include Dracula’s Cabaret, Burleigh Beach, Dreamworld, and the hinterland rainforests.

   Are there free things to do in Gold Coast?
   Yes! Hit the beaches, visit local markets, explore walking trails, or check out public art at HOTA.

   What’s the best Gold Coast attraction for adults?
   Dracula’s is hands down one of the most unique Gold Coast attractions for adults