A Quick Destination Guide to Australia's Gold Coast

It's a long stretch from Coolangatta to the beginning of Stradbroke Island, the Gold Coast in Australia's sunshine state is a popular holiday spot for the young, for the mature and those young at heart. It is where families go to have fun, where end of school students go to party and those looking for a romantic escape without having to be bored.

When it comes to attractions, the Gold Coast tops it all. Below is a selected list of things to do, however for the most updated information always make sure to grab a free copy of the Gold Coast guide from the airport/train station/car hire offices and hotel lobbies. Not only will you find valuable information about the Gold Coast and its surrounds, there are also discount vouchers to save you a few dollars.

Main Attractions:

Theme Parks - Gold Coast is home to Australia's group of theme parks: Seaworld, Movie World, Wet 'n' Wild, Dream World and WhiteWater World. From rides to shows there is something for everyone at these theme parks. For the best value, purchase a multi-park pass, such as the Escape Pass, which allows you unlimited entry to a selected number of theme parks over three days. Visit My Fun.com.au for further information.

Culture and Show - The excellent Australian Outback Spectacular is a dinner and show package showcasing the wonderful horsemenship within the Austrlaian culture. The package comes with a three course Aussie BBQ dinner.

Height with sight - the Q1 tower is a recent addition to the Gold Coast scene, and is currently the world's tallest residential tower at 80 storeys. The observation deck is the only beachside observation in Australia and is worth a visit. There is a cafe and a bar at the top so you can take your time to enjoy the view. Get there before 5pm to be able to admire the sunset over the hinterlands.

Embrace Nature:

Rainforests - Forget the coast for a day and head hinterland to enjoy some of Australia's remaining rainforest regions. Visit the Tamborine Mountain for a Skywalk experience among the trees, and enjoy a cuppa at a local cafe in the quirky town of Tamborine, this is also where you can check out the glow worm caves an almost magical creature in a man-made cave.

Wildlife parks - If you haven't had your fill of the Australian wildlife scene, check out some of the excellent wildlife parks around the Gold Coast. Starting with Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary where you can visit at night and enjoy a 'Wildnight adventure', or the David Fleay Wildlife Park at Burleigh Heads, which features the only platypus display on the Gold Coast.

Whale Watching - during the months between June to early November, Humpback Whales pass through the Australia east coast which gives delight to those in love with these gentle giants. Cruises depart daily and often include extra sightseeing activities around the waters of the Gold Coast. Book ahead in advance to avoid disappointment.

Adrenaline Activities:

Those looking for more action will have plenty of options on the adrenaline options. Besides visiting the theme parks, there are quad bike safaris, hot air ballooning, Ozball, sky diving, rally car experiences and go karts on offer. Check out the operation listing with an information centre.

The Gold Coast does offer a holiday experience for everyone, and caters for all budgets and preferences. Virgin Blue and Jetstar flies from most Australian major cities, and you can easily hire a car to get around, or utilise the excellent tourist shuttle service if you intend to stay around the main regions of the Gold Coast. It is certainly one place to include in your Australian itinerary if you are visiting.