3-Day Local Experience: Gold Coast Nightlife, Outdoors & Sightseeing with Friends

Gold Coast, Australia

3 days

Surfers in Surfers Paradise
Whale watching
Aerial view of the Surfers Paradise
View of Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise panoramic view

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 1

Exploring the Wildlife and Beaches

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, you can interact with a wide variety of Australian wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas. It's a great place to learn about Australia's unique fauna.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Burleigh Head National Park. This park offers stunning coastal views and a variety of walking trails. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Gold Coast.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Gold Coast's famous Surfers Paradise Beach. Enjoy the sun, surf, and sand, or take a stroll along the bustling beachfront markets.

Dinner

Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant in Broadbeach. This area is known for its vibrant dining scene, with a wide range of cuisines to choose from.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Gold Coast skyline and the Pacific Ocean.

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.

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)

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

1
Currumbin 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.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Burleigh Head National Park

2
Burleigh 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.

Parks
Attractions
Surfers Paradise Beach

3
Surfers Paradise Beach

One of the most iconic beaches in Australia, known for its golden sands, excellent surf, and vibrant nightlife.

Beaches
SkyPoint Observation Deck

4
SkyPoint Observation Deck

Australia's highest external building climb, offering 360-degree views of the Gold Coast and beyond.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Springbrook National Park

5
Springbrook National Park

A World Heritage-listed park, Springbrook National Park is known for its stunning waterfalls, ancient trees, and impressive views.

Parks
Attractions
Nature
Sea World Gold Coast

6
Sea 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.

Attractions
Entertainment
Tours
Broadwater Parklands

7
Broadwater Parklands

A beautiful park with a range of activities including swimming, picnicking, and a playground. It also hosts various events throughout the year.

Parks
Attractions
Tamborine Mountain Rainforest Skywalk

8
Tamborine 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.

Attractions
Parks
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Fish and Chips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ AUD

Time zoneUTC+10

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phone000 (112 on cell phone)

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type I

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.

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that the Gold Coast is the sixth largest city in Australia and the largest non-capital city?

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