Travelers can reach this popular Queensland destination via two main airports: Gold Coast Airport (OOL), located 30 km from the city center, or Brisbane International Airport (BNE), situated 80 km away.12 Upon arrival, various transportation options including car rentals, taxis, rideshare services, and shuttle buses are available to reach accommodations.

The region enjoys approximately 300 days of sunshine annually, making it a year-round destination with distinct seasonal advantages.3 For fewer crowds and better rates, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-November when the weather remains pleasant.3 Summer (December-February) represents the peak tourist season with higher prices and larger crowds, while winter (June-August) offers cooler, drier conditions that are still excellent for outdoor activities.4 Whale watching enthusiasts should plan their visit between June and October when these magnificent creatures migrate along the coast.2

Visitors can choose from diverse accommodation options across the Gold Coast's distinct neighborhoods. Surfers Paradise offers high-rise hotels and vibrant nightlife for those seeking entertainment, while Broadbeach attracts foodies and families with its dining scene, shopping, and pristine beaches.12 For a more relaxed atmosphere, Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta provide beautiful, less-crowded beaches with a local vibe.3

Family-friendly accommodations include Paradise Resort, Seaworld Resort, JW Marriott, and Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park, catering to various budgets and preferences.34 For budget travelers, hostels and affordable accommodations are available starting from approximately AUD 120 per day, while mid-range options average around AUD 250 daily, and upscale experiences with luxury hotels and car rentals typically cost about AUD 395 per day.3

Golden beaches stretch along the 57 km coastline, offering prime spots for swimming and surfing at Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, Currumbin, and Coolangatta, with surf lessons and board rentals widely available for beginners at Rainbow Bay and Burleigh Heads.123 Beyond the shore, visitors can explore world-class theme parks including SeaWorld with its marine exhibits and family-friendly attractions, MovieWorld featuring movie-themed rides, Dreamworld offering diverse entertainment, and Wet'n'Wild water park for cooling off during warmer months.34

The natural beauty extends inland to the Gold Coast Hinterland, where Springbrook National Park showcases the Natural Arch and Purling Brook Falls, Mount Tamborine offers walking trails and charming mountain towns, and Lamington National Park provides rainforest experiences at O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat.35 Additional activities include canal and waterways tours, jet ski rides mentioned by Reddit users as must-do experiences, paddleboarding, kayaking, diving, visiting the SkyPoint Observation Deck at Q1 for panoramic views, exploring the 14 shopping centers in Surfers Paradise, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife scene in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.67

A perfect 5-day Gold Coast itinerary balances beach time, theme parks, nature exploration, and local experiences. Start your trip with a day at Surfers Paradise Beach followed by sunset views from the SkyPoint Observation Deck.12 Dedicate day two to theme parks-choose between SeaWorld for marine life encounters or MovieWorld for thrilling rides.34 On day three, explore the Gold Coast Hinterland, visiting Springbrook National Park's Natural Arch and enjoying the rainforest atmosphere.51

For day four, experience the Gold Coast waterways with a canal tour or jet ski adventure, followed by a visit to South Stradbroke Island as recommended by locals.64 Spend your final day at Burleigh Heads for a more relaxed beach experience, exploring the national park headland and enjoying dinner at one of the area's renowned restaurants like Omeros Bros.34 Throughout your stay, leave time for spontaneous shopping at Pacific Fair, wildlife encounters at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or simply unwinding on the golden beaches that make this destination famous.78

The Gold Coast's dining scene features exceptional culinary destinations across its diverse neighborhoods. Here are the standout restaurants:

• Broadbeach: Kiyomi (Japanese delicacies by Chef Chase Kojima)1, Mamasan Kitchen & Bar (Asian fusion with twice-cooked pork belly bao)2, Social Eating House (two chef-hatted bistro famous for saltbush lamb shoulder)1, and Unicorn Seafood Restaurant (sustainable seafood in a delightful setting)3

• Burleigh Heads: Justin Lane (house-made Italian and chilli margaritas)4 and Rick Shores (exceptional seafood with ocean views)5

• Surfers Paradise: Shiraz Persian Restaurant (traditional dishes like Koobideh)6

• Mermaid Beach: Etsu Izakaya (modern Japanese behind a whitewash timber door)1

• Gold Coast: Adorn Bar & Restaurant (fine dining helmed by Michelin-star alum Richie Farina)7