Things to Do in Gold Coast
Discover the best activities, tours, and events in Gold Coast. Filter by family-friendly, nightlife, outdoors, and more.
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Top-rated activities and experiences in Gold Coast
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Holiday Events in Gold Coast
Parades, parties and seasonal events around the next big holidays in Gold Coast.
Fall
Veterans Day & Remembrance Day
Nov 9 – Nov 11, 2026
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Holiday Season
Christmas & Holiday Season
Nov 20 – Dec 28, 2026
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Fall
Thanksgiving
Nov 25 – Nov 29, 2026
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Holiday Season
Black Friday & Small Business Saturday
Nov 27 – Nov 29, 2026
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Winter
New Year's Eve
Dec 29 – Jan 1, 2027
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Winter
Mardi Gras & Carnival
Jan 28 – Feb 9, 2027
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Winter
Lunar New Year
Feb 3 – Feb 20, 2027
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Winter
Valentine's Day
Feb 11 – Feb 15, 2027
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Activities
Local attractions, tours and experiences in Gold Coast

Boat Tours, Guided Tours
Jet Boat Express - 30 Minutes
Experience a fast and fun adrenaline rush, a 'must-do' activity for the whole family with a 30 minute jet boat ride! Include jet boat spins, and other exciting manoeuvres, along with sightseeing through the beautiful southern Broadwater and Wavebreak Island. Ranked the #1 jetboat ride in Australia – Trip Advisor 2012-2019, Offering unique “JETcam” onboard filming systems….take your ride home on USB (not included), show your friends and re-live your adventure! Inclusions: Guide Exclusions: Transport Photos and videos are not included but are available for purchase. Important Info: Minimum Age: 4 years old No refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no shows after Tour commencement or departure. Redeem Info: VOCUHERLESS - Printed voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Guided Tours, Outdoors, Private Tours, Small Group Tours
Paradise Jet Boating: Jet Blast and Aquaduck Combo
Depart from the heart of Surfers Paradise aboard the amphibious ‘Duck’. Rides combine informative city-tours with unique and exciting river-cruising. Travel past the glitzy waterfront mansions of the rich and famous and take in the spectacular views of the Gold Coast waterways and its famous landmarks. The ultimate jet boating experience...ranked Australia’s #1 jetboat tour since
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Day Trips, Theme Parks
Village Roadshow Pass
Make your next Gold Coast holiday full of fun and family adventures with a Village Roadshow Pass. 3 Day Pass Get 3 days unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World and Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast. With 95 rides, shows and attractions across the three theme parks, there’s something for everyone ! 7 Day Super Pass Get 7 days unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World and Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast. With 95 rides, shows and attractions across the three theme parks, there’s something for everyone! Grab your Super Pass today and make your next holiday one to remember. 14 Day Mega Pass Get 14 days unlimited entry to 4 Theme Parks including Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet'n'Wild Gold Coast and Paradise Country. With over 115 rides, shows and attractions across the four theme parks, there’s something for everyone! Grab yours now and get ready to experience a mega amount of fun! Opening Times Warner Bros. Movie World: Open daily from 9:30am to 5pm SeaWorld: Open daily from 9:30am to 5pm Paradise Country: Open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast.: Open from 10am to 5pm *Please be aware that opening hours may vary seasonally. Inclusions: Tickets Exclusions: Meal Drinks Transport Photos Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Animals, Day Trips, Guided Tours
Croc Express to Australia Zoo
Take a scenic trip to the Sunshine Coast and visit world-famous Australia Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin. Highlights - Glasshouse Mountains scenic drive - Approximately six hours to explore Australia Zoo - Souvenir shopping outlets galore Australia Zoo is a must- see holiday highlight for Australians and international visitors with more than 1200 animals from around the globe, daily wildlife shows and the busiest wildlife hospital in the world where you can see vets saving native Australian animals. Inclusions: Entrance fee Air-conditioned transportation Pick-up available from the hotel. Drop off at the hotel. Exclusions: Lunch Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.
Animals, Guided Tours, Nightlife
Nocturnal Rainforest and Glow Worm Tour
Australia’s only 4WDing Rainforest and Glow Worm Tour. Experience exciting night time 4WDing, local commentary on nocturnal flora and fauna finished off with Glow Worms in their natural environment alongside secluded National Park Waterfall. Your fully guided experience from start to finish is all about getting you into the forest to experience something that many have not. This is more than just a Glow Worm tour; it’s all about seeing the Rainforest come to life at night time. Small group tour ensuring you’re not lost in the crowd. Full commentary both in the vehicle and on walk. Evening refreshments at a mountain restaurant. Freshly baked cakes with coffee, tea or hot chocolate. Highlights: - Guided Rainforest Walk to Curtis Falls in Tamborine National Park to view Nocturnal wildlife and Glow-worms - Australia’s Only Night time 4WDing on tracks with Gold Coast Views over the city lights - Stargazing on our return journey - No crowds, just you and your guides. - Umbrellas in all vehicles should you require. - All customers receive torches for use in the Rainforest. - All National Parks permits included Language English Inclusions: Dessert National Park Pick-up available from the hotel. Guide Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Animals, Guided Tours
Natural Bridge and Springbrook Tour
This Half Day Tour makes the most of precious holiday time. Enjoy the morning visiting our stunning beaches or many of Gold Coasts amazing attractions then in the afternoon immerse yourself in the Gondwana Rainforests only a short drive away. Take in all that the World Heritage Rainforests of Springbrook and Natural Bridge has to offer. Highlights: - View up to 5 Waterfalls including Purling Brook and Natural Bridge - Afternoon tea included - Travel through Numinbah Valley with its high cliffs and green country pastures - Fully guided Rainforest walk to Natural Bridge - Best Of All Lookout, 2000-year-old Beech Trees, Breathtaking views over Mt Warning and Green Cauldron of Northern NSW (Weather dependent) - Commentary throughout the tour. - National Park Fees included. - Small group tour- maximum 16 seats in Luxury Mercedes Language English Inclusions: Guide Pick-up available from the hotel. National Park Tea Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Guided Tours, Outdoors
Jet Boat Adventure Ride - 55 Minutes
Experience Paradise Jet Boating's premium 'Broadwater Adventure' ride - 360° spins, high-speed drifting, power slides, beach-buzzing and other exciting manoeuvres through the beautiful waterways….it's 55 minutes of 'full-on' fun and adventure mixed with wonderful scenery and sightseeing.
• Ranked #1 jetboat ride in Australia

Day Trips, Guided Tours
Explore Jellurgal Walkabout- Tour
A must do if you're interested in learning about Indigenous culture along the Gold Coast! Discover the Aboriginal history and culture of the Gold Coast on this engaging walking tour of Burleigh Headland. Begin with an audio/visual presentation before embarking on a guided walk around the culturally significant “Dreaming Mountain,” Jellurgal. Hear Dreaming stories tied to its creation, learn about traditional life, bush tucker, fishing, and hunting, and explore the vital ecological practices and deep connection to the land maintained by the Yugambeh Language-speaking people for thousands of years. Not included services: Transport to and from Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Meals and refreshments, Personal items such as sunscreen, hats, and water bottles, Souvenirs or additional items purchased at the Cultural Centre, Extended activities or tours not specified in the standard walkabout tour, Swimming at Tallebudgera Creek is available but not guided or included in the tour price. Tour information: Duration: Approximately 2 hours *(this can vary depending on the physical capabilities of the participants)* Difficulty: The Oceanview track makes its way along the coastline leading from Tallebudgera Creek around to Burleigh Point. The track is
1. 2km one-way and a 'Grade 2' walk, meaning that the track is a hardened surface with gentle hill sections and occasional steps. No bushwalking experience is required and wheelchair assisted and pram assisted access is possible. Book your spot today and get ready for an amazing experience! Inclusions: Guide Exclusions: Drinks Meal Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Day Trips, Small Group Tours
Enjoy The Tastes of Tamborine - Premium Tour
This is a Tamborine Mountain tour like no other! Your Tamborine Mountain journey of discovery begins with a visit to a working coffee plantation where you will learn the secret of making the perfect brew. Stop to take in the breathtaking view at Rotary Lookout, before you indulge in a special lunch at a Mountaintop Restaurant with a 30min wine tasting session included. Time to stretch the legs as we take you on a fully guided leisurely walk through one of the region’s most beautiful rainforests to the mountain’s only spring fed waterfall. Discovering the lush subtropical rainforests where we will tell you about the forest’s unique characteristics, how the Aboriginal people gathered food from the forest floor and the animals and birds that call the area home. Take a relaxing stroll through the quaint Mount Tamborine village. We allow some free time for you to browse the shops along Gallery Walk, Tamborine Mountain’s arts and crafts precinct with locally made items. Tamborine is starting to build a reputation for its wineries so this tour would not be complete without a wine tasting in the village. (wine and beer tasting at your own cost). Enjoy the afternoon at a beautiful local distillery. Enjoy an informative talk and partake in a specially curated spirit and liqueur tasting experience. Remove the hassle of driving and experience the hinterland with the Gold Coast’s most experienced rainforest tour operator. We’ve taken care of all the details. All you need to do is relax and enjoy yourself. Intinerary: Enjoy the scenic drive up the mountain, panoramic views across the Scenic Rim and Gold Coast. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and spot native wildlife. Learn from your guide as you wander through the ancient rainforest to the waterfall. Sample locally produced wines on the mountain. Tour a working coffee plantation and enjoy a fresh brew. Enjoy lunch with a glass of wine, beer or juice at an award-winning local winery. Learn about the local environment, history and the Tamborine township. Shopping and additional optional tastings along the famous ‘Gallery Walk’ in the village of Tamborine Mountain. Savour locally produced award-winning spirits & liqueurs at Tamborine Mountains oldest distillery. Inclusions: ● Fully guided informative commentary on tour. ● Lunch with a wine tasting. ● Coffee plantation tour and glass of freshly made coffee. ● Distillery talk and tasting. ● National Park Fees. ● Small group tours with our friendly guide offer a personalised experience. ● Concession pricing is for seniors and students with id. ● Southern Cross Tours may alter or cancel any section of any of the itinerary which may result from road closures, weather, suppliers or any other condition of an operational nature. Alternate vehicles may be used in the event that a Southern Cross vehicle is unavailable. What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a jacket, hat, water bottle. Our rainforest walks require a low to moderate degree of fitness and follow clearly marked paths and boardwalks. Enclosed shoes are recommended. Additional information: All our vehicles carry umbrellas, insect repellent and first aid kits. Your guides have all relevant permits, training and authorisation to ensure a safe, comfortable journey. This is an all age tour. Should you require a booster seat for younger family members, we can provide them at no extra charge – just let us know in advance. Please note there is no luggage/pram/stroller storage on the bus. Inclusions: Lunch Guide Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Day Trips, Small Group Tours
Explore - Lamington National Park, O'Reillys and Vineyard
This tour provides you with all the best highlights packed beautifully into one fantastic day. A fully guided tour visiting the world’s largest sub-tropical rainforest, the famous O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat and Canungra Valley Vineyard. Experience stunning panoramic views, a canopy treetop walk, wild bird feeding and more on this relaxed journey to 1, 000 metres above sea level. Your Lamington National Park, O'Reilly's & Vineyard Tour: Explore the highlights of the Gold Coast hinterland and discover the natural beauty of Lamington National Park, O'Reillys and Canungra on this guided experience. Your day begins with a relaxed drive through the Canungra Valley. We take a brief stop in Canungra where you can purchase a hot beverage. Light refreshments are offered before continuing our journey from the valley floor to the summit of World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park, part of the largest continuous, subtropical rainforest anywhere on earth. Upon arrival at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat your guide will explain the O’Reilly’s amazing history including the Stinson plane crash. Experience a birds eye view on the tree top walk consisting of 9 suspension bridges 16 metres above ground. A special wildlife experience awaits once you return, grab your camera out and get a shot of the wild King Parrots or Crimson Rosellas feeding from your plate! Our next stop is Kamarun lookout which provides stunning 300-degree views, from the Gold Coast to Brisbane. When visiting the Scenic Rim, a stop at a vineyard is a must. O’Reilly’s own Canungra Valley Vineyard set beside a mountain stream gives you the chance to check out the vineyard, feed Alpacas and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine. Lunch options are available for purchase at either O’Reilly’s or Canungra Valley Vineyard. Remove the hassle of driving and experience the hinterland with the Gold Coast’s most experienced rainforest tour operator. *Minimum 6 pax to run Southern Cross Tours may alter or cancel any section of any of the itinerary which may result from road closures, weather, suppliers or any other condition of an operational nature. Alternate vehicles may be used in the event that a Southern Cross vehicle is unavailable. What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a jacket, hat, water bottle. Money for optional experiences and lunch. Inclusions: Guide Transport Hotel pick-up and drop-off Exclusions: Drinks Lunch Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: EVOUCHER - E-voucher. Show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Guided Tours, Nightlife
Natural Bridge Glow Worm Night Tour
Visit the secret world of glow worms in one of the world's most significant, most accessible natural sites. Gasp at the beauty of glow worms at one of the world’s most significant natural sites, Springbrook National Park. Like stars in the night sky these tiny larvae light up the dark, moist cave and create a spectacular sight. On arrival to the Springbrook National Park, take the short walk on well-formed paths through ancient rainforest, over a gurgling stream and past giant Beech trees to the Natural Arch Cave and waterfall. You will have the rare privilege of Queensland National Parks and Wildlife which permits you to enter the nature park after dark and view this protected colony. Discover the glow worm caves where the glow worms create a galaxy of light from their homes on the cave roof to attract prey. Each larvae hangs a sticky mucus thread to capture its prey and reel them in towards their tiny mouth. You will be issued with a small torch to help your guide spot nocturnal birds, frogs, reptiles and mammals in the night forest. The southern hemisphere skies are famous for their proliferation of stars, many of which go unseen in the northern hemisphere. See the Milky Way and the famous Southern Cross constellation. An adventurous and memorable night! Itinerary*
• From 6:25pm to 7:15pm – Departure from Gold Coast hotel.

Animals, Day Trips, Guided Tours
Premium Full-Day Tour - The Tastes of Tamborine
This is a Tamborine Mountain tour like no other! Your Tamborine Mountain journey of discovery begins with a visit to a working coffee plantation where you will learn the secret of making the perfect brew. Stop to take in the breathtaking view at Rotary Lookout, before you indulge in a special lunch at a Mountaintop Restaurant with a 30min wine tasting session included. Time to stretch the legs as we take you on a fully guided leisurely walk through one of the region’s most beautiful rainforests to the mountain’s only spring fed waterfall. Discovering the lush subtropical rainforests where we will tell you about the forest’s unique characteristics, how the Aboriginal people gathered food from the forest floor and the animals and birds that call the area home. Take a relaxing stroll through the quaint Mount Tamborine village . We allow some free time for you to browse the shops along Gallery Walk, Tamborine Mountain’s arts and crafts precinct with locally made items. Tamborine is starting to build a reputation for its wineries so this tour would not be complete without a wine tasting in the village. (wine and beer tasting at your own cost). Enjoy the afternoon at a beautiful local distillery. Enjoy an informative talk and partake in a specially curated spirit and liqueur tasting experience. Remove the hassle of driving and experience the hinterland with the Gold Coast’s most experienced rainforest tour operator. We’ve taken care of all the details. All you need to do is relax and enjoy yourself. Additional note: All our vehicles carry umbrellas, insect repellent and first aid kits. Your guides have all relevant permits, training and authorisation to ensure a safe, comfortable journey. This is an all age tour. Should you require a booster seat for younger family members, we can provide them at no extra charge – just let us know in advance. Please note there is no luggage/pram/stroller storage on the bus. PICK-UP INSTRUCTIONS: Aquaduck, Circle on Cavill Shopping Centre, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise, Queensland
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Hop On Hop Off
SkyPoint Observation Deck Entry Ticket
Enjoy sweeping views of the greater Gold Coast region with entry to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Cast your eyes on the gorgeous views of the lush Gold Coast Hinterland, sleek cityscape of the Surfers Paradise precinct and the shimmering, golden beaches the region is famed for. Located on level 77 of Queensland's iconic Q1 Tower, SkyPoint Observation Deck is a scenic attraction not to be missed as it's incredibly popular with both locals and tourists. The perfect place to relax and take some time away from the bustling life below , SkyPoint offers guests the option of enjoying a freshly prepared meal, alcoholic beverage, tea and coffee or if they can't be tempted, guests can simply just sit back and admire the 360 degree views. One of the true must-do attractions on the Gold Coast, SkyPoint suits all needs and budget levels. Grab your tickets online for the SkyPoint Observation Deck here today with absolutely NO booking fees AND skip the queue. Booking Information Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking. Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of entry. For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher. Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction.

Theme Parks
Unlimited 5 Day Theme Park Pass Village Roadshow
5 days entry to Movie World, Sea World & Wet'n'Wild Daily shows & presentations included Flexible vouchers valid for 12 months Cheaper than front gate prices Any 5 days entry over 5 consecutive days from first visit Mobile voucher accepted Purchase this great value 5 day theme park pass to visit Warner Bros Movie World, Sea World and Wet'n'Wild over 5 consecutive days from first visit - Combining thrilling rides, water slides, animal encounters and entertaining shows - a 5 Day Village Roadshow Theme Park pass is a great value way to explore the Gold Coast theme parks. This Gold Coast theme park pass is valid for use on any 5 days entry over 5 consecutive days from the first entry. You'll get a taste of Hollywood with a visit to Warner Bros. Movie World (featuring a tonne of great rides, live shows and all your favourite superhero and supervillains), a trip to Sea World will give you access to aquatic-themed rides and amazing marine animal attractions and shows. Then cool off with some extreme slips, slides and swims at Wet'n'Wild. You've got yourself the best value Gold Coast theme park pass going - so grab one online today!

Outdoors
Hot Air Balloon Gold Coast
Experience the romance and wonder of floating over the Scenic Rim on a Classic Gold Coast Hinterland Hot Air Balloon flight. Begin the day with an early morning hotel transfer, arriving at the pre-dawn launch site. Enjoy the impressive spectacle of balloons being inflated at dawn before taking flight with mesmerising views of rolling hills and open fields complete with a mind-blowing backdrop of the rising sun and waking wildlife. With views of the sweeping hinterland in one direction and the Gold Coast skyline scattered with towering buildings in the opposite, this is the only Gold Coast hot air ballooning option that provides the best of both worlds. As you peacefully glide in the breeze to the landing point, prepare yourself for the delicious champagne breakfast that awaits you. After experienced pilots gently touch down, you'll be driven a short distance to an exclusive vineyard and be treated to a delicious spread of fresh pastries and fruits, sizzling bacon and eggs, cereals, juice and of course, a glass of bubbles to toast the incredible morning. At the winery, you'll also receive the gift of a tasting and a bonus alpaca walk and feed experience to complete the day. The Gold Coast hot air balloon adventure also includes return bus transfers and a complimentary digital photo pack so you can relive the magic of ballooning over and over again. Additional Information The Operator recommends that pregnant persons do not fly in a hot air balloon and will not carry passengers who are pregnant. Passengers who suspect they may be pregnant should check with their doctor before travel. The operator may choose to cancel due to bad weather if safety becomes an issue. If this occurs you will be given a choice to change your booking to another date or be offered a full refund. Children must be a minimum of FOUR years old to travel on the balloon flight and children up to the age of TWELVE years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult on the balloon flight. Children aged THIRTEEN to SEVENTEEN years old can travel on the balloon flight by themselves, but must be accompanied by a responsible adult for the rest of the tour including bus transfers. Children less then FOUR years old may travel with their parents on the tour, but must remain on the ground in the company of at least one parent while the other parent takes the balloon flight and in this situation the parents have the option to fly on successive balloon flights when available. Adult prices will apply from FIFTEEN years old. It is ESSENTIAL at the time of booking that you enter in a mobile contact number (international is ok), to ensure you are contactable whilst on holidays. This will ensure that if we need to get in contact with you due to weather or departure changes we can
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