Things to Do in Brisbane and Gold Coast
Brisbane and Gold Coast enjoy a temperate climate, featuring hot summers and mild winters with many great activities available to them in both cities.
Driving between Brisbane and the Gold Coast is by far the simplest method, although public transit may also provide convenient alternatives that take slightly longer but remain just as quick.
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Theme Parks
Queensland boasts some of the finest theme parks in Australia with spine-tingling roller coasters, thrilling water parks and fun family rides. Dreamworld is Australia’s biggest theme park offering thrilling rides as well as family attractions for all to enjoy. Additionally, throughout the year they host events such as spring country fairs, street food festivals, winter wonderlands and after dark Halloween activities!
Children will love Nickelodeon Land where they can ride and interact with their favorite cartoon characters, from Polar Bear Shores, Shark Lagoon and Seal Presentation Show – to keep them busy!
Experience Australian outback at Outback Spectacular dinner and show, where songs, animals and bush tucker are all showcased. Kids can have fun splashing in Wet ‘n’ Wild and WhiteWater World water parks which are open year-round and boast various pools and waterslides suitable for all ages, while also housing incredible marine wildlife that visitors can witness first-hand!
Surfing
Brisbane lies in the center of Queensland’s coastline and provides plenty of beaches ideal for surfing. Not only will you be able to surf some of the world’s premier point breaks here without dealing with overcrowded conditions – there are even places nearby where it may rain!
Superbank, one of Gold Coast’s premier surf spots, features an exhilarating left and right point with perfect sand bottom that offers massive rides spanning hundreds of meters. Tropical swells typically form between December and March at Superbank; however even on a big SE swell with light winds you will still experience its beauty!
Tugun Beach on Moreton Island provides reliable left and right breaks that cater to surfers with different preferences. Beginners should consider Woorim’s protected beach on Moreton Island as an ideal place to develop their surfing skills quickly – there are numerous surf schools here which will get them up and surfing immediately!
Koalas
Koala sanctuaries offer an ideal way to meet these adorable marsupials and learn more about their conservation needs. Unfortunately, these vulnerable marsupials are affected by everything from swimming pools to land clearing – with Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the Gold Coast offering opportunities for close encounters as well as accessing its animal hospital which treats hundreds of sick or injured koalas each year.
North Stradbroke Island embodies Australia’s laidback, no worries attitude and boasts an abundant population of koalas that roam its towns and natural attractions – or you can join a sustainable Kangaroo Island tour to spot them yourself!
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane’s suburb of Fig Tree Pocket offers visitors one of the easiest opportunities to see these animals, with public viewing areas and booking an afternoon grazing experience (reservations required). Furthermore, this park houses Australia’s largest research and breeding center dedicated to these creatures.
Shopping
No matter your shopping preference – be it large-scale malls or boutique and independent shops – Brisbane and Gold Coast offer something to meet everyone. Find stylish designer clothing in the city center, browse local markets for souvenirs or visit independent artisan stores to satisfy them all.
Queen Street Mall provides an idyllic shopping experience in the heart of Melbourne, featuring international brand stores and fashionista-oriented boutiques. For something a bit more local, head down Winn Lane’s charming laneways for more artisan and independent stores; here you’ll find unique pieces such as custom dresses, handwoven scarves and jewellery as well as handmade chocolates and cookies!
Harbor Town Premium Outlets in Gold Coast’s northern part is Australia’s first outlet shopping center, boasting some of the world’s premier designer labels with savings up to 70%. There are also great restaurants and cafes within this open-air complex.
