How to Spend 1 Day on the Gold Coast

The sunbaked shores of the Gold Coast are Queensland’s flagship beach destination thanks to their year-round sun, sand, and surf. While it’s tempting to spend the whole day at lounging on the beach, there’s plenty more to see and do along the coast. Here’s how to spend the perfect day on the Gold Coast.

Morning: Hit the Beach

Early morning is the best time to chase the waves around Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, and Burleigh Heads, so join the locals out on the water. If you don’t fancy surfing, there are plenty of other water sports to get your adrenaline pumping. Perhaps kick off the day with a jet boat ride along the Gold Coast Broadwater, a Jet Ski safari, or a stand-up paddle board excursion along the Nerang River. For lunch, head to a waterfront restaurant in Surfers Paradise to feast on fresh seafood or set sail on a lunchtime sightseeing cruise.

Afternoon: Seafront Sightseeing

Each of the beach towns along the Gold Coast has its own character, but with limited time, it’s best to pick just one for the afternoon. At Surfers Paradise, explore the scenic canals on a walking tour, take in the views from SkyPoint Observation Deck, or zip along the beachfront promenades on a Segway. Alternatively, take a half-day tour to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary where you can see Aussie animals including koalas, crocodiles, Tasmanian devils, emus, and dingoes. 

Night: Sunsets and Sundowners

Gold Coast sunsets are best observed from the beach, and both Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads combine sunset views with a happening coastal nightlife scene. Enjoy drinks with a view at one of the many rooftop bars, tuck into street food at the Miami Marketta night market, or join a pub crawl and party until the early hours.