Cosmopolitan, cool and constantly evolving, the Gold Coast is Australia’s most preferred beach vacation destination. Over 10 million visitors get away to the locale over every year, drawn under the ideal of perfect, pampered days and fabulous, fast-paced nights.

Whether you’re a first-time holidaymaker or a lifelong resident, the Gold Coast proffers a myriad of places to find, people to meet and things to do. It isn’t simply another destination – it’s a lifestyle.

Why go the Gold Coast?
If all-year-round sun and warm atmosphere with over 57 wonderful kilometres of coastline aren’t enough to get you grabbing your suitcase right now, check out the wide variety of food and drink places, world class accommodation and endless list of events to do on the Gold Coast bring out even more inspiration. Are we there yet?

The best restaurants and cafes
With at least 500 thriving Gold Coast restaurants, the local dining scene is the truth that eating positively is one of life’s top pleasures. Some of the world’s greatest chefs call the Gold Coast home and you might take your hat off to alfresco seafood restaurants with multi-million dollar outlooks and chic, cosmopolitan modern rush eateries. Or land on leisurely, classic Gold Coast cafes that show simple things – wonderful service, quality food and glorious atmosphere – really are the best.

Exciting things to do
The expansive, exciting and bright landscape – visualise lush green rainforest, hinterland and mountains; wide beaches, clear blue ocean waters and the stunning Surfers Paradise skyline – that is the Gold Coast is a honest ‘grown-up’s’ playground. Things to do might include surfing, fishing, sailing, water sports, golf, theme parks, film studios, action and adventure – why not view the fantastic views from your very own helicopter, seaplane, luxury cruiser or even a hot air balloon? Anything and everything can be done on the Gold Coast.

A wide variety of hotels and accommodation
When it’s time to lay down your weary head, you can realize you’re not dreaming – your new home away from home awaits you. The variety of Gold Coast hotels on the market give options to fit every kind of travelers, whether you pick five-star waterfront glamour, a unique boutique retreat or a luxurious resort set on the ideallic grounds of a golf course.

International shopping scene
Having a famous shopping circuit that has your wish of large shopping centres, stunning open-air piazzas and popular shopping strips by the beach, you have a whole lot of reasons to bring on the plastic and come back all up to the nines with shopping bags! From the iconic fashion boutiques – with international and Australian flair – to unique homewares shops, whatever it is that you want, you’ll find it on the Gold Coast.

World-class day spas and retreats
Above all a time away on the Gold Coast is finally indulging in that all-important ‘me-time’ and there just can be no simpler way to truly enjoy it than to call yourself in for a relaxing day at one of the unbeatable Gold Coast day spas. Whether it’s a therapeutic massage, a radiance-boosting facial, or an all-day pamper package offering a nutritious and restaurant quality lunch, the Gold Coast health and wellbeing service has a service to suit every whim.

Large international events and unique local festivals
Part of the endless appeal of the Gold Coast is in the constant lineup of massive international events and many community events that happen. On any given day on the Gold Coast, you could be entertained by open-air concerts, international sporting events and professional surfing tournaments plus music, art, food and film festivals alike. No day is forgotten on the Gold Coast, offering you with even more incentive to extend your stay!

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.