Things to do in Gold Coast: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Warner Bros. Movie World, Gold Coast
Overview: Warner Bros. Movie World is a popular theme park offering rides, shows, and attractions inspired by Warner Bros. films and DC Comics.
History: Opened in 1991, it was the first movie-themed amusement park in Australia, created to bring Hollywood magic to the Gold Coast.
Since When: Since 1991.
Review: Visitors love the thrilling rides, especially for fans of DC superheroes, though it can be crowded during holidays.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays or outside school holidays to avoid long queues.
How to Go: Easily accessible by car or public transport, located just off the Pacific Motorway.
What to Do: Enjoy roller coasters, live shows, parades, and meet your favorite characters from Warner Bros. films.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with ticket packages available.
Sea World, Gold Coast
Overview: Sea World is a marine-themed park featuring animal exhibits, oceanarium experiences, and exciting rides.
History: Established in 1971, it has since evolved into a key destination for marine conservation and entertainment in Australia.
Since When: Since 1971.
Review: Families particularly enjoy the dolphin shows and interactive animal experiences, though some attractions may need updates.
When to Go: Ideal to visit during warmer months (September to April) for outdoor activities.
How to Go: Located in Main Beach, it’s accessible by car, bus, or tram from various parts of the Gold Coast.
What to Do: Watch marine animal shows, enjoy water rides, and visit exhibits featuring dolphins, polar bears, and penguins.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with seasonal passes and package deals available.
Dreamworld, Gold Coast
Overview: Dreamworld is the largest theme park in Australia, featuring thrill rides, animal exhibits, and family-friendly entertainment.
History: Opened in 1981, it has become a cornerstone of the Gold Coast’s tourist attractions, known for its diverse range of activities.
Since When: Since 1981.
Review: Thrill-seekers rave about the big roller coasters, while families enjoy the kid-friendly zones and Tiger Island.
When to Go: Best to visit outside school holidays or on weekdays to avoid long lines and crowds.
How to Go: Located in Coomera, it’s easily accessible by car and bus from Gold Coast and Brisbane.
What to Do: Experience adrenaline-pumping rides, visit DreamWorks-themed areas, and see live animal shows.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with various ticket options including day passes and annual memberships.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Gold Coast
Overview: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a heritage-listed wildlife park known for its close encounters with Australian animals like koalas and kangaroos.
History: Founded in 1947 by beekeeper Alex Griffiths, it was created as a bird sanctuary and has grown into a major wildlife attraction.
Since When: Since 1947.
Review: Visitors enjoy the hands-on animal experiences and conservation efforts, making it a must-see for nature lovers.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and catch the wildlife at their most active.
How to Go: Located in Currumbin, easily accessible by car or bus from central Gold Coast.
What to Do: Cuddle koalas, feed kangaroos, see bird shows, and ride the miniature train around the sanctuary.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with discounted family passes available.
Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast, Gold Coast
Overview: Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast is a large water park featuring high-speed slides, wave pools, and family-friendly attractions.
History: Opened in 1984, it has grown into one of Australia’s premier water parks, offering a mix of thrilling and relaxing water-based activities.
Since When: Since 1984.
Review: Loved by adrenaline junkies for its extreme water slides, though some areas may get crowded during peak times.
When to Go: Best to visit during the summer months (November to March) for the full water park experience.
How to Go: Located off the Pacific Motorway, easily accessible by car or public transport.
What to Do: Enjoy various water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and cabanas for relaxation.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with seasonal passes and combo tickets available.
SkyPoint Observation Deck, Gold Coast
Overview: SkyPoint Observation Deck is an iconic attraction offering panoramic views of the Gold Coast from atop the Q1 building.
History: Opened in 2005, it is located in one of Australia’s tallest residential buildings, offering visitors a unique vantage point.
Since When: Since 2005.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the 360-degree views and recommend the SkyPoint Climb for a thrilling outdoor experience.
When to Go: Best visited during sunset for breathtaking views of the coastline and hinterland.
How to Go: Easily accessible by tram or bus, located in central Surfers Paradise.
What to Do: Enjoy sweeping views, dine at the café, or participate in the adrenaline-pumping SkyPoint Climb.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with separate tickets required for the SkyPoint Climb.
Broadwater Parklands, Gold Coast
Overview: Broadwater Parklands is a large waterfront park offering playgrounds, picnic spots, and walking tracks along the Gold Coast’s Broadwater.
History: It was redeveloped in 2009 to provide a vibrant recreational space for both locals and tourists.
Since When: Since 2009.
Review: Families and fitness enthusiasts love the green spaces and playgrounds, though it can get busy during weekends.
When to Go: Ideal to visit on weekends or during sunny weather for outdoor activities.
How to Go: Accessible by bus or car, located in Southport near the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre.
What to Do: Enjoy picnics, splash around in the rock pools, walk along the water, or rent bikes.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Surfers Paradise Beach, Gold Coast
Overview: Surfers Paradise Beach is a world-famous beach known for its pristine sands, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent surfing conditions.
History: The beach has been a tourist hotspot since the 1920s and is a symbol of Gold Coast’s coastal lifestyle.
Since When: Since the 1920s.
Review: Highly praised for its beauty and lively ambiance, though it can get crowded during peak times.
When to Go: Best visited early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and large crowds.
How to Go: Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, it is easily accessible by tram, bus, or on foot from nearby hotels.
What to Do: Swim, sunbathe, surf, and enjoy beachside dining or shop along Cavill Avenue.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Australian Outback Spectacular, Gold Coast
Overview: Australian Outback Spectacular is an immersive live show that celebrates Australia’s outback culture, with a mix of storytelling, stunts, and dining.
History: The attraction opened in 2006, offering a one-of-a-kind experience combining theater, animals, and Australian heritage.
Since When: Since 2006.
Review: Visitors appreciate the engaging performances and the impressive staging, with high praise for the three-course dinner included.
When to Go: Shows run in the evening, making it a great dinner-and-entertainment option after a day of exploring.
How to Go: Located in Oxenford, easily accessible by car or via shuttles from major hotels.
What to Do: Watch an action-packed show featuring horses, stunning stunts, and a storyline about life in the Australian Outback.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, includes dinner.
Jet Boat Extreme, Gold Coast
Overview: Jet Boat Extreme offers thrilling jet boat rides on the Gold Coast’s waterways, perfect for adventure lovers.
History: This water adventure experience has been providing high-speed thrills to tourists for over a decade.
Since When: Since the early 2010s.
Review: Highly rated by adrenaline seekers for its fast-paced, exciting ride with spins, twists, and water splashes.
When to Go: Best during warmer months for the full water experience, or anytime for thrill-seekers.
How to Go: Tours depart from Surfers Paradise, easily accessible by tram or bus.
What to Do: Experience 360-degree spins, high-speed maneuvers, and scenic views of the Gold Coast during the ride.
Free or Paid: Paid experience with various ticket options available.
HOTA, Home of the Arts, Gold Coast
Overview: HOTA (Home of the Arts) is the Gold Coast’s leading cultural precinct, hosting performances, exhibitions, and community events.
History: Originally known as the Gold Coast Arts Centre, HOTA has evolved since the 1980s into a hub for art, theater, and creative expression.
Since When: Rebranded as HOTA in 2018 with new facilities and expanded programs.
Review: Visitors appreciate the diverse cultural offerings, from art galleries to live performances, in a vibrant and modern space.
When to Go: Anytime, though specific performances and events dictate ideal visiting times.
How to Go: Located in Surfers Paradise, HOTA is accessible by car, tram, or bus.
What to Do: Attend live performances, explore art galleries, watch movies at the cinema, or enjoy the scenic HOTA parklands.
Free or Paid: Free entry to galleries; performances and special events are ticketed.
Dracula’s Cabaret, Gold Coast
Overview: Dracula’s Cabaret is a unique dinner-theater experience offering gothic-themed entertainment with live performances, comedy, and a three-course meal.
History: Established in 1985, Dracula’s has entertained audiences with its spooky, comedic shows and signature vampiric style.
Since When: Since 1985.
Review: Visitors rave about the dark humor, high-energy performances, and memorable atmosphere, making it a must-visit for fun-loving adults.
When to Go: Evening shows, perfect for dinner and entertainment in one outing.
How to Go: Located in Broadbeach, easily accessible by tram or bus.
What to Do: Enjoy a multi-course dinner while watching a spectacular mix of burlesque, comedy, and cabaret-style performances.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, tickets include dinner and the show.
Timezone Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast
Overview: Timezone Surfers Paradise is a large indoor entertainment center featuring arcade games, laser tag, bowling, and family-friendly attractions.
History: Timezone has been a long-standing favorite for visitors to Surfers Paradise, offering cutting-edge gaming experiences for decades.
Since When: Since the 1990s, with continuous updates to stay current.
Review: Highly rated for its variety of games and activities, it’s a hit with both kids and adults looking for indoor fun.
When to Go: Best visited during the day or evening, ideal for family outings or rainy days.
How to Go: Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, accessible by tram, bus, or walking from nearby hotels.
What to Do: Play arcade games, enjoy laser tag, bumper cars, mini-golf, or go bowling.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for games and activities; prices vary based on the number of activities.
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets, Gold Coast
Overview: The Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets are a bustling open-air market along the beach, offering local crafts, food, and entertainment.
History: Established as a regular event, these markets have become a staple for tourists and locals alike.
Since When: Operating since the 1990s, providing a lively shopping experience by the sea.
Review: Loved for its lively atmosphere, unique handmade goods, and picturesque beachfront location, though it can get crowded.
When to Go: Held on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday evenings, best visited around sunset.
How to Go: Located along Surfers Paradise Beach, it’s easily accessible by tram, bus, or walking from central Surfers Paradise.
What to Do: Shop for local arts, crafts, jewelry, and enjoy live entertainment while strolling along the beach.
Free or Paid: Free entry, with items for sale at various prices.
Fox in a Box Gold Coast Escape Rooms, Gold Coast
Overview: Fox in a Box offers immersive, interactive escape room experiences with various themed challenges for groups to solve.
History: Part of the international Fox in a Box franchise, this location has brought engaging escape room fun to the Gold Coast.
Since When: Opened in the mid-2010s as part of the global trend for escape rooms.
Review: Visitors love the creative puzzles and challenging rooms, praising the detailed set design and immersive experience.
When to Go: Open daily, best visited with a group of friends or family for an indoor adventure.
How to Go: Located in Southport, it is easily accessible by tram or bus from Surfers Paradise.
What to Do: Solve puzzles, search for clues, and try to escape from one of the themed rooms within a set time.
Free or Paid: Paid experience, with different pricing based on group size.
Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, Gold Coast
Overview: Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is an eco-adventure attraction offering elevated walkways through the lush rainforest canopy.
History: Developed to provide a unique perspective on the biodiversity of the Tamborine Mountain region.
Since When: Opened in 2009 as a sustainable way to explore the rainforest.
Review: Visitors appreciate the immersive nature experience and scenic views, though it can be brief compared to other rainforest walks.
When to Go: Best visited during daylight hours, in cooler months or early morning to avoid the heat.
How to Go: Located on Tamborine Mountain, about a 1-hour drive from the Gold Coast; accessible by car.
What to Do: Walk through the treetop canopy on elevated bridges, explore the forest trails, and visit the eco-gallery.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with tickets available for both adults and children.
Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park, Gold Coast
Overview: The Natural Bridge is a stunning rock formation within Springbrook National Park, featuring a waterfall that flows through a basalt cave.
History: Formed over millions of years by volcanic activity and erosion, creating the unique natural arch.
Since When: Recognized as a significant natural attraction since the park’s establishment in the early 20th century.
Review: A must-see for nature lovers, praised for its serene beauty and unique geology, especially during glow worm season at night.
When to Go: Best visited in the daytime for scenic views or at night for the glow worm spectacle.
How to Go: Approximately a 45-minute drive from the Gold Coast, accessible by car.
What to Do: Take a short walk to see the waterfall and explore the cave, enjoy the glow worms after dark.
Free or Paid: Free entry to the park.
Burleigh Head National Park, Gold Coast
Overview: Burleigh Head National Park offers coastal rainforest walks with panoramic views of the ocean and wildlife.
History: This protected area has been preserved for its ecological significance and is home to Aboriginal cultural sites.
Since When: Established as a national park in 1947.
Review: Visitors love the scenic trails, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking views of the Gold Coast coastline.
When to Go: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid heat and enjoy peaceful walks.
How to Go: Located at Burleigh Heads, just a short drive from the Gold Coast city center; accessible by public transport or car.
What to Do: Enjoy walking trails, lookouts with coastal views, and spot wildlife such as sea eagles and dolphins.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Paradise Country, Gold Coast
Overview: Paradise Country is a family-friendly farm experience, showcasing traditional Australian farming life and wildlife.
History: Created as an interactive farm experience for visitors to learn about Australian rural life.
Since When: Operating since 2005.
Review: A popular destination for families, praised for its animal interactions, live shows, and insight into rural Australia.
When to Go: Ideal to visit year-round, but morning visits are recommended to catch the early shows and activities.
How to Go: Located in Oxenford, around a 30-minute drive from Surfers Paradise; accessible by car or shuttle bus.
What to Do: Feed farm animals, watch sheep shearing and stockman shows, and meet koalas and kangaroos.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with tickets for various activities.
Springbrook National Park, Gold Coast
Overview: Springbrook National Park is a World Heritage-listed park known for its ancient forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
History: Protected as part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, recognized for its natural beauty and ecological significance.
Since When: Established in 1994 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Review: Highly regarded for its lush landscapes, walking trails, and dramatic waterfalls, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
When to Go: Ideal to visit in cooler months or early mornings for clear views and pleasant hiking conditions.
How to Go: Approximately a 45-minute drive from the Gold Coast, best accessed by car.
What to Do: Explore walking trails, view the stunning waterfalls, and spot wildlife such as pademelons and glow worms.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Gold Coast
Overview: Pacific Fair is one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes on the Gold Coast, offering a wide range of high-end retail stores, dining, and entertainment options.
History: Originally opened in 1977, it has undergone significant renovations and expansions to become a premier shopping destination.
Since When: The shopping centre has been operational since 1977, with major redevelopment completed in 2016.
Review: Highly rated for its luxury shopping experience, diverse food courts, and modern architecture, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
When to Go: Best visited during weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located in Broadbeach, easily accessible by car, bus, or the Gold Coast light rail.
What to Do: Shop at international and Australian brand stores, dine at various restaurants, or catch a movie at the cinema.
Free or Paid: Free entry, though activities and shopping are paid.
Glow Worm Caves, Gold Coast
Overview: The Glow Worm Caves at Tamborine Mountain offer a unique opportunity to witness thousands of glow worms in a recreated cave environment.
History: The caves were built to conserve the glow worm population and offer an educational experience about their natural habitat.
Since When: Open to the public since 2004, providing a controlled environment to protect the species.
Review: Visitors find the guided tours fascinating, especially for families and nature enthusiasts, though some prefer the natural cave settings elsewhere.
When to Go: Open year-round, but best visited during cooler months when the glow worms are more active.
How to Go: Located in Tamborine Mountain, about an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast; accessible by car.
What to Do: Take a guided tour of the caves to see the glow worms and learn about their life cycle and habitat.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with tickets available for guided tours.
Snapper Rocks, Gold Coast
Overview: Snapper Rocks is a famous surf break located near Coolangatta, known for its world-class waves and scenic coastline.
History: A favorite surfing spot for decades, it has hosted major surfing events like the Quiksilver Pro.
Since When: Recognized as a top surfing destination since the 1970s.
Review: Highly praised for its consistent waves, beautiful ocean views, and relaxed beach atmosphere, making it a favorite for surfers and photographers alike.
When to Go: Best visited during early mornings for surfing or sunset for scenic views.
How to Go: Located near Coolangatta, easily accessible by car or public transport.
What to Do: Surf the renowned waves, watch the pros in action, or simply relax and enjoy the ocean views.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Padlockd Escape Rooms & Bar, Gold Coast
Overview: Padlockd Escape Rooms & Bar offers immersive, themed escape rooms combined with a bar for socializing after the experience.
History: Established to provide an interactive and challenging puzzle-solving experience for groups and friends.
Since When: Opened in the early 2010s, gaining popularity as an indoor activity on the Gold Coast.
Review: Visitors enjoy the creative room designs and puzzles, with positive feedback on the added bar feature for post-game relaxation.
When to Go: Best visited in the afternoons or evenings for a fun indoor activity, especially during rainy days.
How to Go: Located in Surfers Paradise, accessible by car or public transport.
What to Do: Solve puzzles and escape themed rooms in under 60 minutes, then enjoy drinks at the bar.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with varying costs depending on the escape room theme.
Aquaduck Gold Coast, Gold Coast
Overview: Aquaduck offers an amphibious sightseeing tour that transitions from land to water, giving a unique perspective of the Gold Coast.
History: Introduced as a novel tourist experience, blending bus tours and boat rides into one fun-filled adventure.
Since When: Operating since the early 1990s as one of the first amphibious tour operators in Australia.
Review: A favorite among families, with children enjoying the novelty of riding on land and water; praised for its friendly guides and informative commentary.
When to Go: Available year-round, ideal to take during the day to fully enjoy the sights.
How to Go: Tours depart from Surfers Paradise, easily accessible by car, bus, or Gold Coast light rail.
What to Do: Enjoy a guided tour of the Gold Coast’s landmarks, starting on land and transitioning to the water for scenic views of the coastline.
Free or Paid: Paid experience, with ticket prices for both adults and children.
Tamborine National Park, Gold Coast
Overview: Tamborine National Park offers lush rainforests, scenic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, providing an immersive nature experience.
History: Declared as Queensland’s first national park in 1908, it preserves the region’s unique flora and fauna.
Since When: Established as a protected area since 1908.
Review: Visitors love the walking trails, serene environment, and opportunities for bird watching, making it ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
When to Go: Best visited in the early mornings or during cooler months to fully enjoy the trails and avoid the heat.
How to Go: Located about 40 minutes from the Gold Coast, accessible by car via Tamborine Mountain Road.
What to Do: Hike the rainforest trails, explore waterfalls, visit lookouts, or have a picnic amidst nature.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast
Overview: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a fascinating museum that showcases bizarre artifacts, oddities, and interactive exhibits.
History: Part of the global Ripley’s franchise, it has been a unique attraction on the Gold Coast, intriguing visitors with strange and unusual exhibits.
Since When: Operating in Surfers Paradise since 1999.
Review: Popular among families and tourists for its quirky exhibits, though some find it overpriced compared to the length of the visit.
When to Go: Open daily, it’s a great rainy day activity or an evening attraction in Surfers Paradise.
How to Go: Located in Cavill Mall, easily accessible by foot, bus, or light rail.
What to Do: Explore the museum’s oddities, interactive games, and visual illusions.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with tickets available online or at the door.
Jet Ski Safaris, Gold Coast
Overview: Jet Ski Safaris offers thrilling guided jet ski tours along the Gold Coast’s waterways and islands.
History: Providing adrenaline-pumping adventures, Jet Ski Safaris has been a leading water sports operator on the Gold Coast.
Since When: Operating since the mid-2000s, it has become a popular attraction for water enthusiasts.
Review: Known for its exhilarating rides and professional guides, it’s highly rated by thrill-seekers and adventure lovers.
When to Go: Best experienced in the morning to avoid afternoon winds and choppier waters.
How to Go: The tour departs from Marina Mirage, accessible by car or bus.
What to Do: Ride high-speed jet skis on guided safaris through scenic waterways, mangroves, and islands.
Free or Paid: Paid experience, with varying prices depending on the tour length.
Thunderbird Park, Gold Coast
Overview: Thunderbird Park is an adventure park offering outdoor activities such as tree-top challenges, horse riding, and gemstone fossicking.
History: Originally a gemstone mining site, it was transformed into a family-friendly adventure park and campgrounds.
Since When: Operating as an adventure park since the 1990s.
Review: Loved by families for its wide range of activities, from high-energy adventures to educational gemstone fossicking.
When to Go: Best visited during the cooler months or early mornings to fully enjoy outdoor activities.
How to Go: Located on Tamborine Mountain, about a 45-minute drive from the Gold Coast.
What to Do: Tackle the high ropes course, go horse riding, fossick for gemstones, or enjoy a picnic amidst the lush surroundings.
Free or Paid: Entry to the park is free, but individual activities require payment.
Doug Jennings Park, Gold Coast
Overview: Doug Jennings Park is a scenic waterfront park offering picnic areas, walking trails, and stunning views of the Gold Coast Broadwater.
History: A popular spot for outdoor recreation, the park has been a go-to destination for locals and tourists seeking open space by the water.
Since When: Serving as a recreational space since the early 2000s.
Review: Praised for its open spaces, cleanliness, and scenic views, making it a top spot for picnics, fishing, and family gatherings.
When to Go: Ideal to visit during the day for picnics or during sunset for stunning waterfront views.
How to Go: Located at The Spit, accessible by car, with ample parking available.
What to Do: Have a picnic, walk along the waterfront, go fishing, or enjoy water sports like kayaking.
Free or Paid: Free entry.