The Gold Coast is located in the South Eastern region of Queensland in Australia, and has been a favourite with tourists ever since the 1980s. Stretching out for 35 miles, the Gold Coast offers beautiful sandy beaches with optimum conditions for excellent surfing and water sports. Surfers Paradise is one of the most famous surf beaches in the world, and with nearly half of all accommodation nearby, this is a great area to make your base. Shops stay open here until late seven days a week, so you can enjoy the sunshine during the day and save your bargain hunting for after dark.
As well as Surfers Paradise, there are two other main areas to explore. Broadbeach offers a more European feel, specialising in a great variety of choice when wining and dining, with everything from gourmet restaurants to more relaxed delis. Dinner cruises are also available, so you can enjoy the city from the water as you eat. The second main area is Main Beach, a modern and stylish precinct which is home to the Palazzo Versace Hotel, trendy dining areas and the exclusive Marina Mirage shopping complex. Main Beach also provides a wide variety of accommodation for those who are backpacking through the region.
The Q1 building offers unrivalled views of The Gold Coast from its observation platform, soaring up into the sky at 322 metres. Inspired by the Olympic Torch of the Sydney 2000 Games, the Q1 Building is a landmark of the region and is not to be missed. The SkyPoint Bar also offers cocktails alongside this 360 degree view of the gorgeous beaches beneath.
The Gold Coast plays host to plenty of natural wildlife as well as holidaymakers. Whale watching is a popular way to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, with regular sightings of dolphins and humpback whales between June and November. If you have a little longer to spend travelling, invest in car hire and drive the Gold Coast, you can also make the most of this coastal region by chartering a catamaran. With an experienced crew and personal chef, this is the ideal choice for those looking to celebrate a special occasion, such as a honeymoon or anniversary, during their trip.
The Gold Coast also offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife. From 24 hour casinos, to acrobatic street performers and musical spectaculars, there is always something happening. For those looking to stay out all night, there are many big nightclubs which regularly host touring internal DJs, accommodating every musical taste. DriveNow Australia offer a car hire comparison service, to ensure you are making the most of your mileage.
With over 500 restaurants, 40 golf courses and 5 theme parks there is plenty to see and do, so whether you are travelling with family, for a once in a lifetime trip, hiring a car and touring Australia or backpacking with friends, the Gold Coast has something for everyone to enjoy.