It’s no secret the Gold Coast is one of the best places on earth (as a Gold Coast business, we’re allowed to be biased here 😉). It’s a foodie paradise, a nature lover’s dream, and has been Australia’s premier holiday destination for as long as we can remember. To make it easy for your next trip away, we have put together a local approved list of Gold Coast must-do’s!  

For the foodie  

Some of the best food scenes can be found at Broadbeach, Miami, Burleigh Heads, Coolangatta and Kirra. It’s hard to narrow its best eats down, but for a true local experience, head to Miami Marketta! On Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, Marketta comes alive with boutique wine stalls, craft beer, street food and live music. If you’re more into beachfront views, check out Burleigh Pavilion and The Tropic. Indulge with their famous cocktails over the easy ocean waves 🥂. Paddock Bakery is another great option for a destination bakery-café, famous for its bread, cookies, doughnuts, and speciality coffee. Not matter what you’re craving, there is an option for everyone!  
 

For the adventurer  

We all know the Gold Coast is the theme park capital of Australia, with attractions suited for all ages and interests. A fan of heights? Check out the SkyPoint Climb which takes place on top of Queensland’s most iconic landmarks, the Q1 resort building, also known as the tallest skyscraper in Aus 🤯. Prices for a trip up to enjoy the views will range from $89 to $144. Looking for a day trip with the family? Check out Village Roadshow Theme Parks to find attractions that best suit you. If you want the ultimate coastal experience that will still give your adventure seeker side satisfaction, try out a surfing lesson🏄. Group sessions can range from as little as $55, and they’re a great option to burn some calories after trying out Paddock Bakery’s famous doughnuts.  

For the nature lover  

If its nature you seek, the Gold Coast will deliver just that. Get up close with wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. You can experience feeding kangaroos, watching crocs, and cuddling koalas all for $60. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly alternative, visit their FREE lorikeet feeding every day at 8 am and 4 pm. If you are into nature walks, just a 40-minute drive brings you to Mt Tamborine where you can see the glow worm caves, sip wine outside at one of the many wineries or even do the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk for $20 😎. Depending on what time of year you visit the Gold Coast, you could also be in luck with spotting some humpback whales 🐋! During their migration between May and October, you can cross your fingers and book a whale-watching boat tour for $89 per person. 

It pays (no pun intended) to do some research on your next trip away to the Gold Coast, so you don’t miss out on a local’s approved must-dos! The good news is, you now have your trusty sidekick, MyPayNow, allowing you to enjoy your trip to the GC without the worry of waiting ‘till payday ✈️.