Sophisticated, sassy and up to the minute, the Gold Coast is Australia’s top beach holiday spot. Over 10 million tourists get away to the beaches every year, pulled by the guarantee of simple, spoiled days and fantastic, fun-filled nights.

Whether you’re a first-time tourist or a lifelong resident, the Gold Coast presents a plethora of attractions to see, people to meet and things to do. It isn’t merely another destination – it’s a lifestyle.

Why check out the Gold Coast?
If all-year-round beach sun and warm air to breathe with above 57 joyous kilometres of coastline aren’t what will to get you grabbing your travel packs right now, let the huge spread of food and drink options, world class living and endless variety of fun things to do on the Gold Coast provide even more incentive. Are we there yet?

The best restaurants and cafes
With above 500 thriving Gold Coast restaurants, the local dining scheme is all about that eating absolutely is one of life’s better pleasures. Some of the world’s finest chefs call the Gold Coast home and you could take your hat off to alfresco seafood restaurants with multi-million dollar outlooks and chic, sophisticated up to the minute bustling eateries. Or go for leisurely, idealic Gold Coast cafes that show simple things – great service, quality food and indescribable atmosphere – really are the best.

Exciting things to do
The wide, wonderful and glorious landscape – picture lush green rainforest, hinterland and mountains; wide beaches, great blue ocean waters and the superb Surfers Paradise skyline - that makes up the Gold Coast is a perfect ‘grown-up’s’ playground. Things to do should be surfing, fishing, sailing, water sports, golf, theme parks, film studios, action and adventure – why not find the fabulous views via helicopter, seaplane, luxury cruiser or even a hot air balloon? Anything and everything could be possible on the Gold Coast.

A wide variety of hotels and accommodation
When it’s time to lay down your weary head, you can know you’re not dreaming - your new home away from home awaits you. The myriad of Gold Coast hotels on the market have deals to suit all kinds of travelers, whether you want five-star waterfront glamour, a unique boutique retreat or a luxurious resort set on the pristine grounds of a golf course.

International shopping scene
Having a reknowned shopping circuit that allows your wish of great shopping centres, stunning open-air piazzas and popular shopping strips by the sand, they have a tonne of reasons to take out the plastic and come out weighed down with shopping bags! From the top fashion boutiques – with international and Australian flair – to individual homewares stores, whatever it is that you are searching for, you’ll find it on the Gold Coast.

World-class day spas and retreats
Of course a holiday on the Gold Coast is coming and splurging in that most important ‘me-time’ and there just is no easier way to fully relax than getting yourself in for a pampering package at one of the unbeatable Gold Coast day spas. Whether it’s a relaxing massage, a radiance-boosting facial, or an all-day pamper package including a healthy and nutritious dish, the Gold Coast health and wellness scene showcases an experience to suit all requirements.

Large international events and unique local festivals
Part of the endless excitement of the Gold Coast lies in the steady lineup of massive international events and tonnes of community events that occur. On any given day on the Gold Coast, you might be impressed by open-air concerts, international sporting events and professional surfing tournaments plus music, art, food and film festivals alike. No day is ever repeated on the Gold Coast, granting you with all the more inclination to get packing!

Thinking about holidaying on the Gold Coast? If so, visit the Gold Coast Guide for a review of Gold Coast attractions including things to do, things to see and tips on how to find a great restaurant; Gold Coast restaurants offers some of the best food in Australia.