EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Take to the Water

A sparkling sea caresses the soft sand beaches, beckoning you to come play, while mystical mountains carpeted in ancient forests whisper promises of untold adventure. Follow winding waterways and intrepid tracks to explore the great outdoors – Gold Coast style!

Dive into a host of aquatic adventures – from peaceful paddles to turbo-charged thrills.

Sun-kissed beaches and sensational surf breaks make the coast a popular destination for beach-goers eager to make a splash. Take to the water with a fun-filled surf lesson led by local experts. Feel the flow of the water beneath your board and experience the exhilaration of riding the waves. Surf lessons cater for a wide range of ages and abilities, with surf schools perched along the sandy shores from Main Beach to Coolangatta. For those who prefer to stay closer to shore, grab a bodyboard or play in the waves between the flags at one of the Gold Coast’s 27 patrolled beaches.

If you’re seeking water without the waves, venture along the Gold Coast’s Broadwater, creeks and estuaries, which wind a watery path from land to sea. This is the perfect setting for almost any water-based activity you can imagine. Cast off on a sunset sail, rekindle the romance on a relaxed gondola ride, or set out for fun-filled adventures on an eco-friendly electronic picnic boat. Or cruise the creeks on kayaks and stand up paddleboards, to reconnect with the stillness and serenity of nature.

For those who like it wet and wild, strap in for the super-charged excitement of jetboating. Experience the ultimate thrill ride with sweeping fishtails, wild wave riding and 360-degree spins as you rocket across the water at hair-raising speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour!

It’s no wonder this golden stretch of coastline is a firm favourite amongst water babies of all ages.

Coastal and Island Sanctuaries

Back on dry land, the Gold Coast’s great outdoors continues to provide plenty of inspiration for active adventures or laid-back leisure.

Explore a wild natural headland at Burleigh Head National Park, where ancient volcanic columns meet the sea, right in the heart of the city. Or take a lazy stroll along the Tallebudgerra Creek Boardwalk, which hugs the tidal mudflats and winds its way through tracts of dense, twisted mangroves that provide protection for the fragile foreshore and a host of aquatic animal species.

Or discover a peaceful paradise at South Stradbroke Island – the Gold Coast’s best-kept secret. This sandy sanctuary is just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Main Beach, but feels a world away. ‘South Straddie’ (as the locals call it) has no cars and no crowds, allowing you the space and freedom to bask in the serenity of a crackling campfire or let your worries wash away with the rhythm of the waves. If you’re after some nature based chill time or crave space and solitude, this 1800-hectare conservation park is the spot. Even during busy periods, it’s common to get an entire stretch of beach to yourself.

Surfers are in for a treat – South Straddie serves up some of the most epic beach breaks along 22 kilometres of pristine white surf beaches fringing its eastern edge. On the western side, the calm waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater offer plenty of great opportunities for fishing, boating and all manner of water sports. The middle of the island features pockets of almost untouched native bushland, where a selection of short walks offer opportunities to experience the island’s natural diversity up-close.

Camping and resort accommodation is available on the island, just outside the conservation park, for those who wish to linger a little longer.

Ancient Forests and Magical Mountains

Beyond the Gold Coast’s famous beaches, discover a hidden world of magical mountains shrouded in ancient forests.

This World Heritage listed wilderness is filled with all manner of natural wonders and wildlife, creating an epic 100,000 hectare pristine playground for nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The mountains that make up Springbrook National Park dominate the Gold Coast's western skyline, which is why this hinterland haven is often referred to as 'the green behind the gold'. Follow the flow of nature as you trek alongside tumbling creeks and cascading waterfalls. Slow down, breathe deeply and sense the sacred spirit of this prehistoric landscape.

For those craving a nature escape amidst real deal wilderness, Lamington National Park is a wild and wonderful paradise. Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, this region is renowned for its ancient trees, thundering waterfalls, extensive walking tracks and a rich diversity of native wildlife. While you’re there, pay a visit to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat for up-close wildlife encounters, flying fox adventures, or guided walks and four-wheel-drive tours. Or follow the tree top walk and scale the ladder up the heady heights of a towering strangler fig to feel like a kid again.

Or head further north to explore Mount Tamborine and take a walk on the wild side in Queensland’s first National Park. Basalt columns, cliffs and rocky outcrops testify to the region’s ancient volcanic past, while areas of lush rainforest, palm groves, wet eucalypt forests and open woodlands provide haven for an ecological treasure trove of plant and animal species.

Truly Mesmerising Treks

The Gold Coast is not just a paradise for surfers. It’s also heaven for hikers!

Get in touch with nature and invigorate your soul with a leisurely stroll or challenging trek along almost 700 kilometres of hiking trails that weave through natural bushland reserves, conservation areas and national parks.

Take a magical 1-kilometre wander to one of the region’s most iconic natural attractions on the relatively easy (Grade 2) walk to Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park. Descend the sealed circuit track through the forest and across Cave Creek to the mouth of an arched cave. Here you’ll stand at the foot of a plunging waterfall, crowned with a natural rock bridge. This hidden treasure is buried deep in ancient Gondwana rainforest, where towering hoop pines dating back 180 million years dwarf the landscape, and a magical colony of glow worms light up the night.

For a more serious workout, take on one of Queensland’s best day walks on the 14-kilometre Warrie Circuit. Warrie is the local Indigenous word for rushing water and a fitting name for this trail, where waterfalls create a soothing soundtrack for much of the trek. The track starts at the Canyon Lookout in Springbrook National Park, and follows the base of The Canyon cliffs, crossing creeks and passing by waterfalls before descending into the mossy green depths of the rainforest. While the trail’s not particularly arduous, there are sheer cliffs and natural creek crossings to navigate, and you’ll certainly work up a sweat.

Or step (or roll) back in time and bathe in the scents and sounds of the forest along the accessible Centenary Track in Lamington National Park. This historic trail celebrates the centenary of the park’s opening, taking hikers on a leisurely stroll through an aromatic sub-tropical rainforest teaming with vibrant birdlife.

Camping, Glamping and Holiday Parks

The Gold Coast also offers a host of camping, glamping and holiday park accommodation options for those who wish to fall asleep to nature’s lullaby. From classic back-to-basic camping to nostalgic holiday parks and luxurious glamping, there’s plenty of unique options for everyone.

For those who love their creature comforts, an exquisite range of super-luxe eco accommodation awaits. Nightfall Camp offers outstanding luxury cocooned in serene seclusion, and tucked between ancient rainforests and the tumbling headwaters of Christmas Creek in Lamington National Park. These suave safari tents feature twin vintage bathtubs and rotating fireplaces to keep you cosy in cooler months.

O’Reilly’s Campground offers a new suite of world-class eco-accommodation, including styled safari tents, camping and caravan sites set amidst the World Heritage rainforests. The Lotus Tents of Cedar Creek Lodge at Mount Tamborine are nestled amidst the rainforest, offering an indulgent escape allowing you to literally soak in nature, with alfresco showers under the stars. Or make yourself at home in the untamed wilderness of beautiful Binna Burra in the hills of the hinterland. Tiny wild homes, safari tents and campsites allow you to reconnect with nature as you snuggle beneath a blanket of stars.

Relive the nostalgic charm of bygone beachside holidays in a vintage caravan by the sea. Burleigh Tourist Park offers retro vans kitted out in the cutest kitsch vibes, allowing you to fall asleep to the sound of the surf. The Gold Coast also offers a suite of holiday parks with all the perks, such as kids clubs, waterslides, resort pools and even mini-golf. Or keep it simple and settle into a Council-run tourist park perched beside the sea – the perfect solution for families or budget savvy travellers.

Accessibility

The Gold Coast offers a range of public transport, taxi and ride-share service options that primarily operate in coastal communities throughout the region. To find out more please refer to the Vacayit experience titled ‘Getting To and Around the Gold Coast’. To make tracks to the hinterland, you’ll either need to arrange your own transport, or join a local tour accompanied by expert audio commentary. For more information, please listen to the ‘Take A Tour’ experience.

South Stradbroke Island is accessible by boat. If you don’t have your own, take a ferry from Mariner’s Cove at Main Beach or Runaway Bay, hire a boat, or take a water taxi from a range of coastal departure points along the Gold Coast Waterway. If you’re feeling more energetic, you can paddle your surfboard across from The Spit at Main Beach, or cruise over on a kayak tour to the island. Once you’re there, hike, peddle or boat your way around.

Certified guide, hearing and assistance dogs are legally permitted in almost all public places, public passenger vehicles and places of accommodation. They are also permitted in Queensland’s national parks and forests, including camping areas. Dogs must wear an identifying coat or harness, and the approved badge or tag.

The accessibility and suitability of hiking trails can vary significantly across the region. Some tracks feature long sets of stairs, sheer cliffs, creek crossings and other natural hazards. For the latest accessibility and safety information, including current park alerts, please visit parks.des.qld.gov.au.

Some camping and glamping options feature accessible facilities and safari tents for guests with limited mobility. For further details please contact your preferred accommodation provider.