Five fun things to do on the Gold Coast
Road tripping to the GC is a rite of passage for many families who live in the southern states of Australia. So once you arrive, what should you see and do?Queensland’s Gold Coast is a fantastic holiday destination with its endless beaches, amazing surf and theme parks, but what happens when you need a break from sun, sand and wild rides? There are a surprising number of other things to enjoy and here are five to try.
Home of the Arts, Surfers Paradise
The main edifice housing HOTA towers above the back of Surfers like a colourful and geometric children’s puzzle or building block, indicating – quite accurately – that arts and culture don’t need to be stuffy and boring. Inside this amazing building are a number of galleries housing thought-provoking paintings and sculptures, many of them local. Add to that the world-class Palette restaurant down below, the Exhibitionist rooftop bar and nightclub with sweeping Surfers views, a sculpture park and adults are well catered for. Exhibitions change regularly but could include Bricktionary – an interactive Lego display making a visit more than palatable for kids as well.
SkyPoint Deck, Q1 building, Surfers Paradise
Do you have a head for heights? The SkyPoint Observation Deck on top of the Q1 building may challenge that, given that at 270 metres it gives a bird’s-eye view of Surfers, the Pacific, the beach and the hinterland. Enjoy the panorama, but also the Bistro+Bar’s extensive menu and dig-in all you can eat buffet breakfast on the 77th floor. Want to go a step further? The SkyPoint Climb takes you outside the comfort zone for an outdoor guided climb to a 360 degree observation deck that’s not for the faint-hearted.
Whale watching
Between about May and November the mighty Humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to warmer breeding areas and back. They pass the Gold Coast, and outfits such as Spirit Whale Watching will take you out to sea for a close-up encounter. Spirit runs a 24-metre catamaran and boasts sightings of Migaloo, the mystical white whale. For an entirely free, land-based experience, try the lookout at Point Danger in Coolangatta and you may but see them passing by.
Visit Surf Life Saving Clubs
Queensland’s Surf Life Saving Clubs provide an invaluable service protecting swimmers on the long coastline. On top of that, the club rooms double as family-friendly restaurants and bars with the added benefit of absolute beachfront locations, outdoor decks and views. The food is usually uncomplicated – think chicken schnitties, fish and chips and pizzas – but the lack of formality is priceless. Try the Coolangatta-Tweed area where clubs such as Kirra Beach, Greenmount Beach and Rainbow Bay vie for dining supremacy and the best beachside views.
Springbrook National Park, Springbrook
The busy Gold Coast is one thing, but for a peaceful drive into the hinterland it’s hard to go past Springbrook National Park. Temperate rainforest, waterfalls, cooling bushwalks and nice scenery on the way make a pleasant break from the tourism trail and it’s only 45 minutes drive inland from Surfers Paradise. Don’t miss the not-too-challenging Natural Bridge walk, watch out for wildlife and maybe stay after dark or join a tour to see the glow worms.
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