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Found nestled amongst a selection of shimmering beaches, bright cities and cultural attractions, the Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most thrilling coastal destinations. Offering much more than a life of sun, surf and sand, these lively shores are filled with an endless concoction of must see sights and cultural experiences. Here are some of the best things to do on the Gold Coast.
1. The Often Overlooked Hinterland
For many, the Gold Coast conjures up images of sweeping beaches and the sparkling ocean, but the area also boasts a rich, natural inland landscape that is perfect for bush walking and hiking. Both the Lamington and Springbrook National Parks hide some magical sights, from waterfalls and volcano ruins, to winery trails and cheese making farms.
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2. Panoramic Picture
The Skypoint Observation Deck boasts possibly the most enchanting view of the Gold Coast, with a 360 degree panoramic viewpoint from its soaring 230 metre high position. At the weekend you can enjoy your view with a side of cocktails at the lounge bar, whilst during the day you can whale spot across the coast.
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3. White Knuckle Adventures
One of the most exciting things to do on the Gold Coast is to visit a theme park. This coastal stretch is famed for its theme parks, which offer hours of entertainment at the hands of adrenaline fuelled roller coasters, simulation rides and inventive attractions. The selection ranges from Sea World and Wet ‘n Wild, to Dreamworld and Movie World.
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4. Thrills in the Water
The deep blue seas lapping at the bays of the Gold Coast offer the perfect playground for some adventurous water sports. Famed for its surfers, it is the ideal place to test your wave riding skills, or you can opt for deep sea fishing, scuba diving, jet skiing or speedboat rides, just to name a few…
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5. Indulgent Pampering
Whether you want to ease your aching muscles after a stay filled with sightseeing and activities, or you just fancy some treating yourself to some extravagance, there is no better place to do just that. The area is filled with day spas and spa hotels, where you can enjoy some me time in the form of massages, beauty treatments and body therapies.
6. Lazing on the Sands
Not many can resist the allure of the Gold Coast’s beaches. Whether you like a bustling bay filled with restaurants, bars and activities, or an isolated inlet where you can find your own little paradise, with over 40 kilometres to choose from, the perfect sandy stretch is just waiting for a day of lounging, one of the most popular things to do on the Gold Coast.
7. The Wild Locals
Animal lovers will find it impossible to resist a visit to one of the Gold Coast’s wildlife destinations. You can cuddle up to a koala at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or meet the farm animals of Paradise Country.
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8. Feast on Fresh Seafood
The Gold Coast’s menus are rich with local catches, so you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to trying some seafood. Whether you treat yourself to a meal in one of the area’s gourmet eateries, you head to a local diner, or catch your own whilst on a fishing trip, you will definitely get your sea food fix here.
9. Browse the Streets of Broadbeach
Shopping is one of the best things to do on the Gold Coast. Trendy visitors will appreciate a visit to the stylish Broadbeach, which offers the quintessential chic beach encounter. Its streets are home to elegant boutiques, classy cafés and slick contemporary restaurants.
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10. Sights from Above
One of the most magical and memorable ways of seeing this beautiful area is to take to the skies. Whether you head off on a hot air balloon trip, or you start on the water with a seaplane flight, you’ll definitely remember the sights from up here.
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With so many things to do on the Gold Coast, you could never get bored. So book your next trip to this stunning destination in Australia.
About the author: Once an eccentric ten year old writing scripts from her bedroom in Oxford, Laura now spends most of her time regaling with tales of travel, design, fashion and film. The rest of her time is spent daydreaming of where to go next…
