Show notes
Hear about travel to Queensland's Gold Coast as the Amateur Traveler talks to Leanne and Lyle from BeachTravelWine.com about one of their favorite beach destinations.
https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-queenslands-gold-coast/
Why should you go to the Gold Coast?
Leanne and Lyle say, "We go for lots of different reasons, but I guess the main one would be, the stunning beaches, and I know lots of places have stunning beaches, but this would have to, I think, be Australia's best strip of beaches, and it's the best surfing beach area, in Australia. It has a really interesting nightlife too. It's the nature, it's right there at the mountains as well and it's adventure. It's got a nickname of the Glitter Strip or, our Glamour Strip. It's it's not Las Vegas by any stretch of the imagination, but it's got that feel about it."
Leanne and Lyle lay out a week-long itinerary:
Day 1: Start your visit in the middle of the Gold Coast, in Surfers Paradise. Explore Cavill Avenue, a pedestrian-only strip with attractions like wax museums and Ripley's Believe It or Not. Stroll along the beachfront walkways and enjoy the beautiful beaches and surfers. Check out the iconic Surfers Paradise beach area and consider visiting the Q1 building for breathtaking views of the Gold Coast. If you're adventurous you can climb the outside of the building. Keep an eye out for the meter maids made famous by the Beatles.
Day 2: Head about 40 kilometers inland from the Gold Coast to Mount Tamborine, a mountainous area known for its lush rainforests. Explore the little town of Tamborine and the Gallery Walk, featuring craft shops, pottery, and more. Enjoy the Rainforest Skywalk and explore Lamington National Park, known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and lookouts. Consider hot air ballooning or visit local wineries and coffee plantations.
Day 3: Experience whale-watching cruises starting from South Port Marina. You'll have a chance to see humpback whales from June to November. After the cruise, explore the South Port Marina area and enjoy the beautiful views. Consider dining at local surf clubs and taking a stroll along the Tweed River with its picturesque views.
Day 4: Visit Pacific Fair, a large shopping center with various shops, food courts, and outdoor areas. Explore Broadbeach, known for its range of restaurants and cafes. You can visit Kurrawa Surf Club for lunch, take coastal walks, and enjoy the park.
Day 5: Explore Coolangatta and Rainbow Bay, where you can visit the iconic Snapper Rocks and enjoy the beach and local restaurants. You can also visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you'll encounter Australian wildlife, see wild lorikeet feedings, and enjoy various animal encounters and activities.
Day 6: Take a day trip to Moreton Island, known for the Tangalooma Wrecks, sunken ships that create a unique snorkeling experience. Enjoy the underwater scenery with coral and various fish species. You can also participate in dolphin feeding, where wild dolphins swim close to shore to take fish from your hand.
Day 7: Spend a relaxing day, perhaps visiting a spa or wellness center at your accommodation. Enjoy the beach, swim, and unwind, taking in the serene surroundings of the Gold Coast.
Some optional activities would include exploring some of Australia's best theme parks including Movie World, Dream World, and Wet'n'Wild. Consider purchasing a multi-day park pass to experience all the rides and attractions these parks offer.
You might also check if there are any local sporting events happening during your stay, such as NRL or Aussie Rules games. Fans of racing should think about attending events like the Gold Coast 500 V8 Supercars race or the Porsche Paynter Dixon Carrera Cup Australia. In both events, cars race through the streets of the Gold Coast.
For a side-trip consider a day trip to Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, which is only about a 45-minute train ride away. Explore Brisbane's attractions, such as the Botanic Gardens, South Bank, and the River City's waterfront.
You can attend unique cabaret shows like "Dracula's" or "Outback Spectacular" to add some excitement to your evenings.
Be aware of the two weeks in November when kids Queensland and New South Wales visit the Gold Coast for "schoolies" celebrations. This is Australia's version of spring break for recently graduated high school seniors. It might not be the ideal time for a visit if you're looking for a quieter experience.
If you are looking for a mix of glamour, beach, and nature, then consider Queensland's Gold Coast.
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