Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is Australia's premier tourist destination and sixth most populous city. The Gold Coast is home to some of the world's best beaches including the internationally renowned Surfer's Paradise. Catering to over 4.5 million tourists a year the Gold Coast is a place that always has something to do for everyone. With world renowned nightlife, sandy beaches, high end resorts and retreats, wineries, shows, themeparks and national parks it has become one of the more diverse beach towns in the world.

Population: 550,000

Airport: Gold Coast Airport [OOL]

Attractions: Surfer's Paradise, South Stradbroke Island, Dreamworld, Seaworld, Movie World, Snapper Rocks, Lexmark Indy 300 [October], Magic Millions, Lamington National Park, Tamberine National Park, Snapper Rocks, Duranbah, The Q1 Building.

Transport Around City: Most people rely on rental cars or private cars to get around the Gold Coast. Buses are available and there are proposed developments of a train system to add to the current train line. We would suggest hiring a rental car if you are going to be touring around otherwsie most likely, shops, cafes and the beach will all be in walking distance. If you are staying on a Canal a new Canal link service is being trialled currently.

Recommended Restaurants: Four Winds -Seafood & Asian Buffet, Alto Cucina & Bar, Bahia Restaurant.

Recommended Bars: Platnium, Elsewhere, Fisherman's Wharf Tavern.

Recommended Hotels: Palazzo Versace, Crowne Plaza Surfer's Paradise, Chevron Renaissance, Pethers Rainforest Retreat, Sheraton Mirage.

Climate: The Gold Coast has a subtropical climate with hot, sunny summers with high UV levels. Winters are warm during the day with temperate night time temperatures.

Best time of year to travel: All year round.