The Gold Coast is a popular destination for its theme parks, but there are plenty of other activities and attractions to enjoy in the area. Here are some of the things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks:
- Visit the beaches: The Gold Coast is famous for its beautiful beaches, and there are many to choose from. Popular beaches include Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, Coolangatta, and Main Beach.
- Explore the hinterland: The Gold Coast hinterland is a scenic region located inland from the coast. It features national parks, waterfalls, and picturesque villages. Some popular attractions in the hinterland include Tamborine Mountain, Springbrook National Park, and Lamington National Park.
- Visit the Gold Coast canals: The Gold Coast has a network of picturesque canals, and taking a boat tour is a great way to explore them. You can also rent a boat or a kayak to explore the canals at your own pace.
- Enjoy outdoor activities: The Gold Coast offers plenty of outdoor activities, including surfing, swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving. There are also opportunities for hiking, biking, and horse riding in the hinterland.
- Visit cultural attractions: The Gold Coast has a range of cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and theatres. Some popular attractions include the Gold Coast Arts Centre, the HOTA Gallery, and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
- Shopping and dining: The Gold Coast has a range of shopping centres, dining precincts, and markets. Some popular destinations include Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets, and the Burleigh Heads dining precinct.
These are just a few of the many things to do on the Gold Coast besides theme parks. The region offers a diverse range of activities and attractions catering to different interests and budgets.

Where Can I Go On A Day Out From The Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast is located in an ideal location, with many attractions and destinations located within a day’s trip distance. Here are some of the best day trip destinations from the Gold Coast:
Brisbane: The capital of Queensland, Brisbane, is located approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles) north of the Gold Coast. The city offers a range of attractions, including cultural institutions, shopping centres, and dining precincts.
Byron Bay: Byron Bay is a coastal town located approximately 90 kilometres (55 miles) south of the Gold Coast. It is known for its laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches, and bohemian culture. The town also offers a range of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Tamborine Mountain: Tamborine Mountain is a scenic destination located approximately 30 kilometres (18 miles) inland from the Gold Coast. The mountain features national parks, waterfalls, and picturesque villages. It is a great destination for hiking, picnicking, and sightseeing.
North Stradbroke Island: North Stradbroke Island is a beautiful island located approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles) south of the Gold Coast. It features stunning beaches, natural attractions, and opportunities for swimming, surfing, and hiking.

Lamington National Park: Lamington National Park is a World Heritage-listed park located approximately 100 kilometres (62 miles) south of the Gold Coast. The park features stunning rainforest landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Mount Warning: Mount Warning is a volcanic peak located approximately 60 kilometres (37 miles) south of the Gold Coast. It is a popular destination for hiking and offers stunning views of the surrounding region.
These are just a few of the many day trip destinations available from the Gold Coast. The region offers a range of attractions and destinations catering to different interests and preferences.
What Do People Enjoy At The Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, theme parks, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the things people enjoy on the Gold Coast:
Beaches: The Gold Coast is home to some of Australia’s best beaches, including Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Burleigh Heads. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach.
Theme parks: The Gold Coast is home to several theme parks, including Dreamworld, Sea World, Movie World, and Wet’n’Wild. These parks offer a range of attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, and animal encounters.
Outdoor activities: The Gold Coast offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, snorkelling, and scuba diving. Visitors can also enjoy whale watching, jet skiing, and parasailing.
Shopping and dining: The Gold Coast offers a range of shopping centres and dining precincts. Some popular destinations include Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, The Oasis Shopping Centre, and the Broadbeach dining precinct.

Nightlife: The Gold Coast has a vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues. Some popular destinations include Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and the Star Casino.
Cultural attractions: The Gold Coast has a range of cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and theatres. Some popular attractions include the Gold Coast Arts Centre, the HOTA Gallery, and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
These are just a few of the many things people enjoy on the Gold Coast. The region offers a diverse range of attractions catering to different interests and budgets.
What’s On The Gold Coast For Free?
There are plenty of things to do on the Gold Coast that won’t cost you a cent. Here are some of the best free activities and attractions on the Gold Coast:
Beaches: The Gold Coast has some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches, and they’re all free to access. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, surf or just relax, there’s a beach for everyone. Some of the most popular beaches include Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, and Coolangatta.
Hiking and nature walks: There are plenty of hiking trails and nature walks on the Gold Coast that is free to access. Some popular destinations include Burleigh Head National Park, Lamington National Park, and Springbrook National Park.
Markets: The Gold Coast is home to a range of markets, selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Some popular markets include the Gold Coast Farmers’ Markets, the Village Markets, and the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets.

Parks and gardens: The Gold Coast is home to a range of beautiful parks and gardens, many of which are free to access. Some popular destinations include Broadwater Parklands, Cascade Gardens, and Botanic Gardens.
Cultural attractions: The Gold Coast has a range of cultural attractions that are free to access, including the Gold Coast City Gallery, the HOTA Gallery, and the Gold Coast War Memorial.
Events: The Gold Coast hosts a range of free events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and community events. Some popular events include the Gold Coast Food and Wine Festival, the Bleach Festival, and the Coolangatta Christmas Carols.
These are just a few of the many free activities and attractions on the Gold Coast. With a little research, you can find plenty of other things to do that won’t break the bank.
Is The Gold Coast Expensive?
The Gold Coast can be considered relatively expensive compared to other destinations in Australia. However, the cost of living and travel expenses can vary depending on your preferences, travel style, and budget.
Accommodation prices on the Gold Coast can range from budget-friendly hostels to high-end luxury resorts, with prices varying based on the location and season. Food and dining options also range from affordable takeout joints to high-end restaurants and cafes.

Attraction prices can also vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for. Theme parks and other tourist attractions can be expensive, but there are plenty of free and low-cost activities available as well.
In general, it’s best to do your research and plan your budget ahead of time to ensure that you get the most out of your Gold Coast experience without overspending. With careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy all that the Gold Coast has to offer without breaking the bank.
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