Cosmopolitan, cool and constantly evolving, the Gold Coast is Australia’s most preferred beach vacation area. More than 10 million visitors get over to the city over each year, lured with the vision of laidback, luxurious days and fantastic, fun-filled nights.

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

Why go to the Gold Coast?
If all-year-round sunshine and warm climate with above 57 joyous kilometres of coastline aren’t enough to get you pulling out your travel packs right now, have the large spread of food and drink options, world class accommodation and never-ending choice of events to do on the Gold Coast give you even more incentive. Are we there yet?

The top restaurants and cafes
With above 500 thriving Gold Coast restaurants, the local dining industry is the truth that eating definitely is one of life’s best pleasures. Some of the world’s finest chefs call the Gold Coast home and you could take your choice of alfresco seafood restaurants holding multi-million dollar scenery and chic, sophisticated modern bustling eateries. Or decide on chilled, idealic Gold Coast cafes that really show simple things – super service, delicious food and amazing atmosphere – really are the best.

Exciting things to do
The wide, wonderful and eclectic landscape – picture lush green rainforest, hinterland and mountains; wide beaches, clear blue ocean waters and the spectacular Surfers Paradise skyline – that really is the Gold Coast is a perfect ‘grown-up’s’ playground. Things to do may be surfing, fishing, sailing, water sports, golf, theme parks, film studios, action and adventure – why not check out the wonderful area from helicopter, seaplane, luxury cruiser or even a hot air balloon? Anything and everything is here on the Gold Coast.

A wide variety of hotels and accommodation
When it’s time to rest your weary head, you can rest assured you’re not dreaming – your new home away from home exists. The plethora of Gold Coast hotels available have aspects to fit all types of travelers, whether you decide on five-star waterfront glamour, a unique boutique retreat or a luxurious resort set on the utopian grounds of a golf course.

International shopping scene
Granting a reknowned shopping circuit that includes your pick of great shopping centres, sensational open-air piazzas and then popular shopping strips by the sea, they have a tonne of reasons to flex the plastic and come back all up to the nines with shopping bags! From the top fashion boutiques – with international and Australian flair – to iconic homewares stores, whatever it is you are looking for, you’ll find it on the Gold Coast.

World-class day spas and retreats
Of course a time on the Gold Coast is all about indulging in that all-important ‘me-time’ and there can be no simpler way to truly enjoy it than to call yourself in for a relaxing package at one of the sensational Gold Coast day spas. Whether it’s a relaxing therapeutic massage, a radiance-boosting facial, or an all-day pamper package with a healthy and restaurant quality lunch, the Gold Coast health and wellbeing industry has a service for every need.

Large international events and unique local festivals
Part of the permanent highlights of the Gold Coast is drawn in the constant flow of large international events and unique community events that are planned. On any given day on the Gold Coast, you should be finding yourself drawn into by open-air concerts, international sporting events and professional surfing tournaments plus music, art, food and film festivals alike. No event is left out on the Gold Coast, giving you all the more inclination to make it your vacation destination!

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.