GOLD COAST
The Gold Coast is a holiday destination of wonderful contrasts - from the sophistication of Main Beach, the glamour of Surfers Paradise, action-packed theme parks and wildlife sanctuaries to championship golf courses, fabulous shopping and rainforest wonderlands right at the back door! It really is...the coast with the most! A sweeping 70 kilometre coastline offers more than 40 patrolled beaches during peak holiday seasons that are among the best in the world.
Along the busiest stretch of the Coast is Surfers Paradise, a great spot for families with its perfect swimming beach. Free beach volleyball competitions offer fun for all ages, while the nearby cafes and shopping areas make it easy to take a break with an ice-cream or a cool drink. The huge Paradise Centre on the main shopping street Cavill Avenue, has enough games and rides to keep everyone entertained. Every Friday night a craft market is set up along the beach esplanade where you can find quality handicrafts and gifts.
Located halfway along the Gold Coast's 70 kilometre coastline, Burleigh Heads holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Nestled beneath the rolling green Burleigh headland, studded with its distinctive pines and pandanus palms, this gently curving beach is protected and offers magical views north to Surfers Paradise.
Famed worldwide for its tubular Burleigh Barrel waves, the beach is the venue for major international surfboard riding tournaments. The dramatic Burleigh headland was formed by an ancient volcano and is a sacred spot for Aborigines who once gathered here to fish and feast. It adjoins the Burleigh Head National Park on the banks of the Tallebudgera Creek.
Springbrook, dominating the skyline west of Broadbeach, is a wonderful retreat with a choice of excellent dining at small cafes and affordable accommodation. Nestled between Lamington National Park and the coastline, Springbrook National Park is renowned for its waterfalls and ancient Antarctic beech trees.
Be sure to visit Purlingbrook Falls, Canyon Lookout and take a lunch break at Goomoolahra Falls picnic ground at the southern end of Springbrook Road, Don't miss the Springbrook Homestead and its fantastic observatory for night-time entertainment with a difference. South of Springbrook, steep roadways through the Numbinbah Valley offer one of the most picturesque drives on the Gold Coast. The valley is home to Natural Bridge, famed for its amazing glow-worm colony.
