Glitz and Glamour on the Gold Coast

You've seen it on TV, you've heard all the rumours and everyone you know has been there... isn't it about time you took yourself to the Gold Coast to see what all the fuss is about? The chances of leaving disappointed are very slim, if non existent. The Gold Coast represents a convergence of everything you would want out of a holiday. Kilometres of pristine beaches boast hundreds of surfing hotspots, and are also safe for swimming with lifeguard patrols up much of their length. The bright lights of Surfers Paradise are a mecca for shoppers and have a vibrant nightlife with plenty of restaurants and clubs. And if the coast becomes too much, then head into the lush green hinterland and re acquaint yourself with Australian nature!

The selling point of tourism on the Gold Coast is Surfers Paradise, where the tall skyscrapers of the CBD converge onto the white sands of the lifeguard patrolled beach. There are all types of accommodation here, from ritzy hotels to backpacker lodges, and it is a central point for visitors to the area. When the sun sets the streets come alive with revellers roaming between the nightclubs, and during the day bikini and board shorts clad sun-seekers wander between the city and the beach. The atmosphere is fun and vibrant whatever time it is, with everyone strictly in relaxed holiday mode. But for some people the bright lights and busy streets of Surfers are a bit too hectic for a holiday, and they feel the urge to move somewhere a bit quieter. The beauty of the Gold Coast is that they can do exactly that without having to travel very far at all.

About 20 minutes south of Surfers is the beachside suburb of Burleigh Heads. The headland protruding into the ocean has superb views of the beach beside it, and also provides a world renowned point break that attracts surfers from all over the globe. The suburb is leafy and shady, and alongside the beach are barbecue and picnic facilities that are very popular over the weekends. There are hotels in Burleigh, but a common option is to book into one of the many self catering seaside chalets or flats. Further south of Burleigh lies the last town on the Queensland coast, Coolangatta. Also immersed in the surfing culture, Coolangatta boasts a beautiful bay bordered by a sandy white beach that is perfect for lounging around for a day. Cafes and restaurants line the esplanade that runs up the beach, so refreshment from the hot sun is just a few steps away.

The Gold Coast is also famous for its large, elaborate, American-style theme parks. Dreamworld is probably the most popular of these and is home to some of the highest and fastest amusement rides in the world. Test your mettle on the Big Drop, or opt for some of the slower family-oriented rides. Once paying your entry, all the rides are free so fit in as many as you can in your fun filled day of adventure! Movieworld is just across the highway, and is known as 'Hollywood on the Gold Coast'. It has a strong movie theme on all the rides, and the kids will love meeting all their favourite cartoon characters in the flesh. The third park in the area is Wet n' Wild, a collection of water slides, rides and pools that are exciting and refreshing. Its a great break from the hot Queensland sun that the whole family will enjoy. All these parks are in the same area which is about a half hour drive from Surfers. Be aware that you will not be able to do them all in one day, and should assign a day for each park.

If you want to balance out the blue of the ocean with a bit of green, head into the Gold Coast hinterland for a couple of days. Made up of the amazing Mcpherson Range of mountains, the quiet hinterland is worlds away from the bustle of the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Draped in green rainforest and divided up into numerous National Parks that are home to an abundance of Australian wildlife, you cannot help but relax in these breezy climes. One of the most popular places to visit is Mount Tambourine, which is the easiest part of the range to reach. The views from here are spectacular, and it's a great place to pick up something to eat before heading on in your hirecar to explore the rest of the hinterland. Throughout the mountains and the forests there are plenty of places to camp, and guesthouses and lodges are also scattered amongst the forest. Its a perfect retreat that really allows you to appreciate the beauty of the Australian wild.

With thousands of reasons to visit the Gold Coast, and not a single legitimate one not to, its about time you started planning your holiday. A hire car will give you the freedom to explore the coast to its fullest potential, and seek out those secluded coves and beaches away from the crowds. It will also open up the hinterland and its National parks to you, and place the amusement parks within easy reach. Whatever your choice of holiday, you can find it on the Gold Coast- and don't forget to bring the whole family, as there really is something for everyone here!