Gold Coast, Queensland
Guide to the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast's star attraction might be its beaches, but theme parks, oceanfront dining and a subtropical hinterland make this a destination of endless discovery.
The Gold Coast at a glance: Top experiences
- Beautiful beaches: Relax on the Gold Coast's famous beaches, like Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads, and try your hand at surfing.
- Theme parks: Explore world-class theme parks, including Dreamworld and Warner Bros. Movie World.
- Vibrant neighbourhoods: Discover al-fresco dining and shopping in suburbs like Burleigh and Coolangatta.
- Hinterland adventure: Venture into the lush hinterland to uncover waterfalls, mountain villages and beautiful hikes.
- World-class golf: Choose from one of 35 courses offering ocean views and the occasional kangaroo.
The Gold Coast can be reached by international and domestic air travel into two nearby airports.
- Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is 30km (19mi) from the city and services domestic and international arrivals
- Brisbane International Airport (BNE) is 80km (50mi) from the city and services domestic and international arrivals
- Once you have landed at either airport, you can easily hire cars or catch taxis, rideshares and shuttle services to the city centre
The Gold Coast is serviced by a variety of dependable trains, buses, taxis and ferries. When using public transport, be sure to get a go card as this electronic ticket can be used for transport services in South East Queensland.
With about 300 sunny days a year, you're likely to get good weather on the Gold Coast any time you visit. Soak up the tropical rays of summer or enjoy crisp winter days with cooler mornings and evenings. Although the climate here is temperate, expect the hinterland areas to be cooler than the beaches.
- High season: Summer holidays (November to January)
- Low season: Autumn, winter, early spring (March to August)
- Don’t miss: The major events happening in the Gold Coast
Travellers with accessibility needs will love exploring the Gold Coast, which offers a range of accessible accommodation and experiences.
- Arrival: Gold Coast Airport caters to travellers with accessibility needs, including hidden disabilities.
- Getting around: The G:link tram system is a handy way to travel between key locations, with all services and stations accessible for passengers with limited mobility.
- Accessible experience highlights: Enjoy a day at one of the Gold Coast’s famous surf beaches with complimentary beach wheelchairs and matting, or charter a wheelchair-accessible cruise boat with Pacific Wind.
- Helpful resources: Find accessible facilities with the City of Gold Coast’s detailed mobility maps.
