3-Day Local Experience: Gold Coast Nightlife, Outdoors & Sightseeing with Friends
Gold Coast, Australia
3 days
About Gold Coast, Australia
Experience the vibrant and sun-soaked paradise of Gold Coast, Australia. Known for its world-class surf beaches, lush rainforests, and thrilling theme parks, Gold Coast offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and urban sophistication. Explore the bustling precincts of Surfers Paradise, or unwind in the beautiful, laid-back neighborhoods of Burleigh Heads. Take a wildlife tour at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or enjoy a panoramic view of the city from SkyPoint Observation Deck. Indulge in fresh seafood, shop at high-end boutiques, and experience the city's vibrant nightlife. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, or a foodie, Gold Coast has something for everyone. Discover the magic of Australia's Gold Coast, where the fun never ends.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering the Hinterland and Nightlife
Morning
Kick off your second day with a visit to the Tamborine Mountain. Here, you can explore the rainforest through a series of elevated walkways at the Rainforest Skywalk.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a winery in the Hinterland. The Gold Coast Hinterland is known for its boutique wineries, offering a wide range of local wines.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Springbrook National Park. Explore the park's stunning natural features, including the Natural Bridge and the Twin Falls.
Dinner
Have dinner at a trendy restaurant in the vibrant suburb of Mermaid Beach. This area is known for its eclectic dining scene, with a mix of trendy cafes and upscale restaurants.
Evening
End your day with a night out in Surfers Paradise. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Day 3
Marine Adventures and Unique Entertainment
Morning
Start your final day with a visit to the Sea World Gold Coast. This marine mammal park, oceanarium, and theme park offers a variety of attractions, including animal exhibits and thrilling rides.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a seaside cafe in Main Beach. This area is known for its relaxed dining scene, with a wide range of cafes offering stunning ocean views.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Broadwater Parklands. This waterfront park offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, picnicking, and fishing.
Dinner
Have dinner at a waterfront restaurant in Marina Mirage. This upscale shopping and dining precinct offers a wide range of dining options, with stunning views of the marina.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Dracula's Cabaret. This unique entertainment venue offers a mix of comedy, cabaret, and horror for a truly unforgettable experience.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
A heritage-listed zoological garden, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers a variety of animal encounters and shows, as well as a hospital for injured wildlife.
2Burleigh Head National Park
Burleigh Head National Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It offers a variety of walking trails, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and stunning coastal views. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
3Surfers Paradise Beach
One of the most iconic beaches in Australia, known for its golden sands, excellent surf, and vibrant nightlife.
4SkyPoint Observation Deck
Australia's highest external building climb, offering 360-degree views of the Gold Coast and beyond.
5Springbrook National Park
A World Heritage-listed park, Springbrook National Park is known for its stunning waterfalls, ancient trees, and impressive views.
6Sea World Gold Coast
Sea World Gold Coast is a world-class marine theme park that offers a variety of thrilling rides, animal exhibits, and shows. It's a great place for families, with plenty of activities for kids and adults alike.
7Broadwater Parklands
A beautiful park with a range of activities including swimming, picnicking, and a playground. It also hosts various events throughout the year.
8Tamborine Mountain Rainforest Skywalk
The Tamborine Mountain Rainforest Skywalk is a unique and exhilarating eco-adventure that takes you through the beautiful rainforest of Tamborine Mountain. Experience the thrill of walking high above the ground on a skywalk, while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Fish and Chips
A classic Australian dish, it consists of battered fish and deep-fried chips. It's a must-try when visiting the Gold Coast, known for its fresh seafood.
Moreton Bay Bug
A type of lobster native to the waters of Moreton Bay, close to the Gold Coast. It's usually grilled or used in salads.
Lamington
An iconic Australian dessert, it's a square-shaped sponge cake coated in chocolate and desiccated coconut. It's a popular sweet treat in the Gold Coast.
Flat White
A coffee drink originating from Australia. It's similar to a latte but with less milk and more espresso. Coffee culture is big in the Gold Coast.
Anzac Biscuits
Traditional Australian biscuits made from oats, flour, sugar, butter, golden syrup, baking soda, boiling water, and desiccated coconut. They have a strong connection to the ANZAC (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps) history.
Barramundi
A native Australian fish often grilled, fried, or seared skin-side first. It's a popular choice in the Gold Coast due to its proximity to the ocean.
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. It's a popular dessert in Australia, especially in the Gold Coast.
Meat Pie
A traditional Australian dish, it's a pie stuffed with minced meat and gravy. It's a common fast food in the Gold Coast.
Tim Tam
A brand of chocolate biscuit made by the Australian biscuit company Arnott's. It's a favourite snack among locals in the Gold Coast.
Vegemite on Toast
A common Australian breakfast, it's a slice of toast spread with Vegemite, a thick, dark brown Australian food spread made from leftover brewers' yeast extract.
Chicken Parmigiana
A popular pub grub in Australia, it's a chicken schnitzel topped with tomato sauce, ham, and melted cheese. It's a common dish in the Gold Coast.
Bundaberg Ginger Beer
A non-alcoholic beverage, it's a sweetened and carbonated drink brewed by naturally fermenting prepared ginger spice, yeast and sugar. It's a popular drink in the Gold Coast, and it's made in Bundaberg, a town in Queensland.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Gold Coast, Australia is between May and October. During these months, the weather is mild and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits. This period also coincides with the whale watching season, which is a major attraction in Gold Coast. However, if you're interested in surfing, the best waves can be found between November and April. Keep in mind that December to February is the Australian summer and can get quite hot and crowded, as it's a popular time for local holidaymakers.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 26 | Fri | Australia Day |
February 10 | Sat | Lunar New Year (Christmas Island) |
February 11 | Sun | Lunar New Year Holiday (Day 2) (Christmas Island) |
February 12 | Mon | Royal Hobart Regatta (Tasmania) |
February 12 | Mon | Day off for Lunar New Year (Christmas Island) |
March 4 | Mon | Labour Day (Western Australia) |
March 11 | Mon | Canberra Day (Australian Capital Territory) |
March 11 | Mon | Labour Day (Victoria) |
March 11 | Mon | Adelaide Cup (South Australia) |
March 11 | Mon | Eight Hours Day (Tasmania) |
March 16 | Sat | Labour Day (Christmas Island) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday (Victoria) |
March 30 | Sat | Holy Saturday (regional holiday) |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
April 2 | Tue | Easter Tuesday (Tasmania) |
April 6 | Sat | Self Determination Day (Cocos and Keeling Islands) |
April 8 | Mon | Day off for Self Determination Day (Cocos and Keeling Islands) |
April 10 | Wed | Hari Raya Puasa (regional holiday) |
April 25 | Thu | ANZAC Day |
April 25 | Thu | ANZAC Day Observed (Victoria) |
May 6 | Mon | Labour Day (Queensland) |
May 6 | Mon | May Day (Northern Territory) |
May 27 | Mon | Reconciliation Day (Australian Capital Territory) |
June 3 | Mon | Western Australia Day (Western Australia) |
June 6 | Thu | King's Birthday (Cocos and Keeling Islands) |
June 10 | Mon | King's Birthday (regional holiday) |
June 17 | Mon | Hari Raya Haji (regional holiday) |
August 5 | Mon | Northern Territory Picnic Day (Northern Territory) |
August 5 | Mon | New South Wales Bank Holiday (New South Wales) |
August 14 | Wed | Royal National Agricultural Show Day Queensland (Queensland) |
September 16 | Mon | Hari Maulad Nabi (Cocos and Keeling Islands) |
September 23 | Mon | King's Birthday (Western Australia) |
September 27 | Fri | Friday before the AFL Grand Final (Victoria) |
October 7 | Mon | King's Birthday (Queensland) |
October 7 | Mon | Territory Day (Christmas Island) |
October 7 | Mon | Labour Day (regional holiday) |
October 24 | Thu | Royal Hobart Show (Tasmania) |
November 4 | Mon | Recreation Day (Tasmania) |
November 5 | Tue | Melbourne Cup Day (Victoria) |
December 24 | Tue | Christmas Eve (regional holiday) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day (Victoria) |
December 26 | Thu | Proclamation Day (South Australia) |
December 26 | Thu | Boxing Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a convenient way to get around the Gold Coast, especially if you plan on visiting the hinterland or other attractions outside the city. There are numerous car rental companies available at the Gold Coast Airport and throughout the city.
Public Transport
The Gold Coast has a comprehensive public transport system consisting of buses, trams, and trains. The G:link light rail service runs from Helensvale to Broadbeach, passing through key areas like Surfers Paradise. TransLink operates the bus and train services, which connect the Gold Coast with Brisbane and other regional areas.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Ola are widely available in the Gold Coast. They offer a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're travelling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Bicycle
The Gold Coast is a bike-friendly city with more than 600km of bike paths. You can rent a bike from one of the many hire companies and explore the city at your own pace. It's a great way to enjoy the city's beautiful weather and scenery.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout the Gold Coast. You can hail a taxi on the street, book one in advance, or find one at a taxi rank in key locations such as the airport, shopping centres, and hotels.
Airport Shuttle
Several companies operate airport shuttle services between the Gold Coast Airport and hotels throughout the city. It's a convenient option if you're travelling with a lot of luggage or prefer not to navigate public transport after a long flight.
Foot
Many of the Gold Coast's attractions are located close to each other, especially in areas like Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. Walking is a pleasant way to get around, particularly along the beachfront paths.
Ferry
The Hopo Gold Coast Ferry service operates a hop-on, hop-off service linking key destinations such as Southport, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach. It's a scenic and relaxing way to travel around the Gold Coast.
Important information
Currency$ AUD
Time zoneUTC+10
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phone000 (112 on cell phone)
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Gold Coast, Australia as a first time visitor
1
Gold Coast is located in the state of Queensland, Australia.
2
The official language is English, so communication should not be a problem if you are fluent in it.
3
The local currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). It's recommended to have some cash for small expenses, but credit cards are widely accepted.
4
Gold Coast has a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild winters. The average temperature in summer (December to February) ranges from 69.8°F to 82.4°F (21°C to 28°C), while in winter (June to August), it ranges from 50°F to 69.8°F (10°C to 21°C).
5
Gold Coast is known for its sunny weather, with an average of 300 days of sunshine per year.
6
Always apply sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses when going out in the sun, as Australia has high UV levels.
7
Public transport is efficient and includes buses, trams, and trains. Consider getting a Go Card for unlimited travel.
8
Driving is on the left side of the road. If you plan to rent a car, ensure you are comfortable with this.
9
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but it is appreciated for good service, usually around 10%.
10
Gold Coast is a safe city, but like any other city, it's important to take care of your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
11
The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
12
Gold Coast is a paradise for surfers. If you're a beginner, there are plenty of surf schools offering lessons.
13
The city is also a foodie's paradise with a wide range of cuisines available. Seafood is a local specialty.
14
Tap water is safe to drink in Gold Coast.
15
Australia uses Type I electrical plugs, so you may need a travel adapter.
16
Emergency numbers: Dial 000 for police, fire, or ambulance.
17
Gold Coast has strict smoking laws. Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places and certain outdoor public areas.
18
Australia has strict quarantine laws to protect its unique environment. Be aware of what you can and can't bring into the country.
19
If you're planning to visit the beach, always swim between the red and yellow flags, which indicate the area is patrolled by lifeguards.
20
Gold Coast is one hour ahead of Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) and does not observe daylight saving time.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Shorts
Jeans or trousers
Swimwear
Lightweight jacket
Pajamas
Walking shoes
Sandals or flip-flops
Hat or cap
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Lip balm
Medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Power adapter or converter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Books or e-books
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Travel guide or map
Umbrella
Beach towel
Weather Conditions
When planning a trip to the Gold Coast, Australia, it's important to consider the weather as it can greatly impact your activities. The Gold Coast is known for its subtropical climate, which means it experiences warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters. If you're visiting during the summer months, from December to February, expect temperatures to range from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). This is also the region's wettest period, with frequent, but usually brief, afternoon thunderstorms. So, if you're planning on enjoying the beautiful beaches, make sure to check the daily forecast and plan your beach time for the morning or early afternoon. Autumn, from March to May, sees slightly cooler temperatures ranging from 64°F to 79°F (18°C to 26°C). This is a great time to visit as the weather is still warm, but the heavy summer rains have typically subsided. Winter, from June to August, is mild and dry with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). This is the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the hinterland, as you won't have to worry about the heat or rain. Spring, from September to November, is similar to autumn with temperatures ranging from 64°F to 79°F (18°C to 26°C). This is also a great time to visit the Gold Coast's theme parks as the weather is comfortable and the crowds are usually smaller. Regardless of when you visit, always remember to stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months, and wear sunscreen as the Australian sun can be quite strong. Also, if you're planning on swimming, always swim between the flags on patrolled beaches, as the ocean currents can be unpredictable.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 32° / 21° | January is the hottest month in Gold Coast with high humidity, so pack light clothes and plenty of sunscreen. |
February | 31° / 21° | February is still quite hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain, so bring a raincoat or umbrella. |
March | 30° / 20° | March sees a slight drop in temperature and humidity, but it's still warm, so light clothing is recommended. |
April | 28° / 17° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures and less rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities. |
May | 25° / 14° | May brings the start of the cooler weather, so pack a light jacket for the evenings. |
June | 23° / 12° | June is the start of winter in Gold Coast, but it's still mild by most standards, so a light jacket should suffice. |
July | 22° / 11° | July is the coldest month in Gold Coast, but it's still quite mild, so a light jacket or sweater is recommended. |
August | 23° / 12° | August sees the end of winter with slightly warmer temperatures, but a light jacket is still recommended for the evenings. |
September | 25° / 14° | September brings the start of spring with warmer temperatures, so pack light clothing and a light jacket for the evenings. |
October | 27° / 16° | October is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures and less rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities. |
November | 29° / 18° | November sees a rise in temperature and humidity, so pack light clothing and plenty of sunscreen. |
December | 30° / 20° | December is a warm and humid month, so pack light clothing and be prepared for occasional rain showers. |
Did you know?
Places near by Gold Coast, Australia
Brisbane
Capital of Queensland, known for its youthful zeal, charming vibe, and 280 days of sun a year.
Byron Bay
Famous for its beaches, surfing, and scuba diving sites.
Sunshine Coast
Known for its beach resorts, surf spots and rural hinterland.
Noosa Heads
Famous for its beaches, surfing, and Noosa National Park.
Toowoomba
Known for its gardens, historical attractions, and the annual Carnival of Flowers.
Fraser Island
World's largest sand island, known for its rainforests, freshwater lakes, and dunes.
Moreton Island
Known for its sand dunes, lakes, and wildlife.
Hervey Bay
Famous for whale watching and access to Fraser Island.
Bundaberg
Known for its sugar cane fields, rum distillery, and access to the Great Barrier Reef.
Lamington National Park
Known for its rainforests, ancient trees, and birdlife.
