About the Gold Coast

Sophisticated, sassy and up to the minute, the Gold Coast is Australia’s most preferred beach holiday destination. More than 10 million tourists travel to the city over each year, drawn in by the ideal of simple, spoiled days and fantastic, fun-filled nights.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, the Gold Coast presents a variety of things to see, people to meet and things to do. It isn’t yet another destination – it’s a lifestyle.

Why go for the Gold Coast?
If all-year-round sun and warm temperatures plus above 57 spectacular kilometres of coastline aren’t what will to get you pulling out your travel packs right now, let the large spread of food and drink providers, world class resorts and hotels and endless choice of activities to do on the Gold Coast peak even more inspiration. Are we there yet?

The top restaurants and cafes
With above 500 thriving Gold Coast restaurants, the local dining scheme is the truth that eating definitely is one of life’s greater pleasures. Some of the world’s best chefs call the Gold Coast home and you can take your choice from alfresco seafood restaurants holding multi-million dollar views and chic, sophisticated up to the minute buzzing eateries. Or land on chilled out, idealic Gold Coast cafes that really show simple things – super service, lovely food and glorious atmosphere – surely are the best.

Exciting things to do
The deep, driven and eclectic landscape – think lush green rainforest, hinterland and mountains; expansive beaches, clear blue ocean waters and the sunny Surfers Paradise skyline - that becomes the Gold Coast is a veritable ‘grown-up’s’ playground. Things to do may include surfing, fishing, sailing, water sports, golf, theme parks, film studios, action and adventure – why not check out the fantastic area by your very own helicopter, seaplane, luxury cruiser or even a hot air balloon? Anything and everything can be here on the Gold Coast.

A wide variety of hotels and accommodation
When it’s time to lay down your weary head, you can know you’re not dreaming - your new home away from home exists for you. The variety of Gold Coast hotels available for you allow packages to suit all types of travelers, whether you are looking for five-star waterfront glamour, a unique boutique retreat or a luxurious resort set on the pristine grounds of a golf course.

International shopping scene
Having a famed shopping circuit that grants your fancy of large shopping centres, stunning open-air piazzas and then bustling shopping strips by the coastline, there are a tonne of reasons to bring on the plastic and come back weighed down with shopping bags! From the iconic fashion boutiques – with international and Australian flair – to individual homewares departments, whatever you need, you’ll find it on the Gold Coast.

World-class day spas and retreats
Above all your vacation on the Gold Coast is all about splurging in that top priority ‘me-time’ and there just can be no simpler way to fully let go than booking yourself in for a pampering beauty therapy package at one of the unsurpassed Gold Coast day spas. Whether it’s a muscle-relaxing massage, a radiance-boosting facial, or an all-day pamper package offering a nutritious and restaurant style dish, the Gold Coast personal health service allows a deal to suit all requirements.

Large international events and unique local festivals
Part of the continuous appeal of the Gold Coast exists in the steady flow of huge international events and unique local events that take to the stage. On any given day on the Gold Coast, you should be impressed by open-air concerts, international sporting events and professional surfing tournaments plus music, art, food and film festivals alike. No day is left out on the Gold Coast, offering you with even more reason to drop by for a visit!

Thinking about holidaying on the Gold Coast? If so, visit the Gold Coast Guide for a review of Gold Coast attractions including things to do, things to see and tips on how to find a great restaurant; Gold Coast restaurants offers some of the best food in Australia.