Rediscovering the Gold Coast

By Lauren Reid
Published: Wednesday, November 27, 2019

There’s more to the Gold Coast than meter maids and the glitz of Surfers Paradise.

The likes of Dreamworld, Movie World and Wet‘n’Wild have kept families coming to the Gold Coast for decades – so much so that they’re part of its DNA. The same can be said about Surfers Paradise with its larger-than-life personalities, bright lights and meter maids.

But no longer does a trip to the Goldy always have to mean testing your stomach on theme park rides and devouring fairground food.

Next time you’re in town, take a little detour, and discover a different side to one of Australia’s favourite tourist destinations.

Back to nature

Waterfalls by day, glow worms by night

Springbrook National Park – located in the Gold Coast hinterland – is home to Australia’s largest colony of glow worms. On a guided nocturnal tour, you’ll see thousands of them lighting up the caves with a blue-green glimmer, while hearing about the important cultural connections and practices of the Indigenous land owners.

You’ll find more than 100 species of birds and 75 species of mammals throughout the World Heritage-listed park, making it a special spot to visit at any time. By day, hike the Twin Falls Circuit and take in the park’s stunning scenery.

Springbrook National Park, Gold Coast.

Take to the treetops

The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary remains a family favourite; even if you’ve been before, you’ll find it’s worth a return visit. In fact, adrenaline junkies could just about dedicate a whole day to taking on the recently added TreeTop Challenge.

You’ll feel like a regular Tarzan or Jane as you swing through the trees on 80 different challenges and 11 ziplines. Of course, there’s still plenty to see and do around the sanctuary if you prefer a slower pace. Book a tour of Currumbin’s wildlife hospital to get an insight into their important rehabilitation and conservation work.

Snorkel with shipwrecks and sea life

A little further afield, but well worth the visit, Moreton Island Dolphin Tours gives you the opportunity to snorkel among shipwrecks and get up close and personal with pods of dolphins. You can even book packages that include transport from the Gold Coast, snorkelling gear, a boat cruise and a buffet lunch.

Moreton Island, Queensland.

Put the gold in Gold Coast

Whether you’re into sustainable farming, or just after that perfect Instagram shot, Farm & Co’s stunning sunflower field is sure to put an extra spring in your step. After filling your camera, drop into their famed eatery and fill your stomach with exceptional locally produced food.

Although Farm & Co is slightly over the border into NSW, it’s part of Tweed Shire, so we’ll count it as part of the broader Gold Coast area. At just 45 minutes’ drive from Surfers, it’s the perfect daytrip destination.

A scenic picnic spot

Head to Burleigh Hill on a Sunday with a picnic and watch the golden sunset with sweeping views right back up to Surfers. At the right time of year, you might even spot a few whales cruising past the coast.

Hot tip: get in early if you can, as this spot is a favourite among locals.

Views from Burleigh Hill.

Fuel up to explore

Miami Marketta

Another Miami favourite, Marketta, is the perfect fix for those nights when you can’t quite put your finger on what cuisine you’re hankering for. You’ll find 25 food vendors and seating for 650 all under one roof. Take your pick from Greek, Japanese, Brazilian or Thai – all accompanied by fantastic local live music.

The Paddock Bakery

The Paddock Bakery is just one of a number of contemporary eateries that’ve popped up in the Gold Coast district of Miami.

With less crowded beaches, decent waves and a beautiful view of Surfers, this area is a little pocket of calm in an increasingly bustling area. The Paddock has been converted from an old house into a light and bright all-day eatery. No matter what meal you pop in for, make sure you leave room for a pastry dessert.

Breakfast is served at The Paddock Bakery.

Balter Brewery

We couldn’t let you leave the Goldy without some kind of surf experience. Book yourself a surf lesson in Burleigh, Currumbin or Coolangatta, then sink a cold one at Balter Brewery, co-owned by surfing legends Mick Fanning and Joel Parkinson. On Fridays and Saturdays you can embark on an hour-long tour of the brewery, which includes a tasting paddle and take-home stubby cooler.

Though the Gold Coast has grown up, its laid-back charm will always remain. If you’re after extra suggestions, just ask a local – it’s the best way to stay ahead of those tourist crowds.

Venturing beyond paradise?

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or call our travel team on 8202 4346.