Living in one of Australia’s most visited cities means us Gold Coasters are often pulling out the sofa bed for travelling friends and family. But being a good host requires more than just knowing how your guest takes their morning coffee – you need to put your tour guide hat on, too.
Naturally, there are plenty of ways you could pass a weekend on the Goldie. In fact, you could spend weeks here without really making the most of everything our city, and its surrounds, has to offer.
But if your visitors are only here for a few nights, you’ll need to narrow it down. With that in mind, and with some help from our readers, we’ve curated the perfect list of sights, bites and activities to do with your guests.
Cougal Cascades, Currumbin
This is the sort of place that feels like a secret, even though it’s a local favourite. The short track winds through lush rainforest and leads you to a series of shallow rock pools that are perfect for paddling, wading or (if you’re brave) diving right in. Because it’s relatively flat and shaded, it’s a great walk for families or less confident hikers. Stop in at Ground Currumbin afterwards for coffee, juice or one of their famous brekkie bowls – you’ve earned it.
Miami Marketta, Miami
The Gold Coast’s answer to a night market, Miami Marketta always delivers a good time. The atmosphere is electric with fairy lights, live music, and the sizzle of food trucks cooking up everything from dumplings to tacos. If you want a proper sit-down experience, their new restaurant Mona Lisa’s Lair is a moody, art-filled spot that elevates the experience. It’s an easy way to showcase the Goldie’s creative, multicultural side without lifting a finger in your own kitchen.
Gorge Falls, Springbrook
For guests who are up for something a little more active, Gorge Falls is worth lacing up the hiking boots. The six-kilometre return track takes you past towering trees and lush greenery, with the reward of a cool swimming hole at the end. The falls themselves are small but pretty, and the sense of being completely surrounded by nature makes it feel like an adventure. Pack water and snacks – this one’s more of a half-day outing.
O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, Canungra
If you want to show off the hinterland, O’Reilly’s is the ultimate pick. You could spend the whole day feeding rosellas, spotting wallabies or exploring the canopy walkway strung high in the treetops. For more active visitors, there are dozens of hikes ranging from short strolls to serious treks. Pack a picnic or book into the café for lunch with a view, and if you’ve got the time, consider an overnight stay – watching the mist roll over the mountains in the morning is pure magic.
Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, Benowa
A hidden gem in the heart of the city, the Botanic Gardens are a relaxing way to fill a few hours. Wander through themed gardens, spot turtles sunning themselves by the lake, or stroll through the butterfly garden for a pop of colour. If your visitors have brought their pooch along, the off-leash dog park here is one of the best on the Coast. It’s a no-stress, no-entry-fee activity that feels wholesome and very “Sunday afternoon.”
Q1, Surfers Paradise
Whether you’ve lived here all your life or are just passing through, seeing the city from the top of Q1 never loses its wow factor. The SkyPoint Observation Deck offers sweeping 360-degree views of the coastline and hinterland – it’s the perfect place to orient first-time visitors. If your guests are thrill-seekers, the SkyPoint Climb takes you outside the building, 270 metres above sea level. For everyone else, a cocktail at the bar while watching the sunset is plenty.
Point Danger, Coolangatta
Head south and you’ll find one of the Coast’s best vantage points. Point Danger is a headland that straddles the QLD/NSW border, making it a great talking point for out-of-towners. In whale season (June to October), you’ve got a good chance of spotting humpbacks passing by. Afterwards, explore the nearby beaches – Snapper Rocks, Froggy’s, or Rainbow Bay – each with its own character. Refuel with coffee at Black Dingo Café on the headland, then finish the outing with a drink and ocean views at Rainbow Bay SLSC.
HOTA, Surfers Paradise
The Home of the Arts (HOTA) is where the Goldie shows off its cultural side. You could spend hours at the gallery exploring free and ticketed exhibitions, or time your visit with the weekly HOTA Markets for artisan goods and street eats. Come evening, there’s often a theatre production, concert, or indie film screening. On balmy nights, the outdoor stage and grassy amphitheatre set the scene for memorable live shows under the stars.
Theme parks, Helensvale and Coomera
Sometimes the tourist clichés are clichés for a reason. Dreamworld, Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild – the line-up of theme parks is a guaranteed win, especially if kids are in tow. Thrill rides, water slides, animal encounters, character parades – it’s all part of the Gold Coast experience. Just remind your visitors to wear sunscreen and pack patience for the queues.
Burleigh Pavilion, Burleigh Heads
Yes, it’s an obvious choice – but for good reason. Perched right on the sand at Burleigh Beach, “the Pav” has become the go-to spot to impress out-of-towners. Grab a table in the Terrace bar for casual fish tacos and frosé, or book into The Tropic for a more elevated dining experience with Mediterranean-style share plates. Either way, you’re rewarded with one of the best views on the Coast: sparkling ocean by day, and the twinkle of Surfers Paradise lights by night.
