Gold Coast

Located: Queensland

AustraliaCurrency: Australian dollars

The Gold Coast located in Queensland on the east coast of Australia. Around a 2 hour flight from Sydney. The unofficial party capital of Australia. Known for its club scene, stunning beaches and theme parks. The most popular areas of the gold coast are Coolangatta, Broadbeach and of course the most famous of them all Surfers paradise. All have a unique style and influence.  

Surfers Paradise

Come summer time tourists from all over the world flock to Surfers paradise in numbers. The beaches is covered in bikini-clad beach goers. The beach volley courts are packed as are the nearby restaurants and cafes. At night it is the bars and clubs that attract the crowds. Located just across from the beach is Orchid and Caville Avenue the party capital of the gold coast. There are other popular attractions near by including a world class shopping centres and a number of theme parks. For those that are feeling lucky there is also a casino a short distance from Surfers as it is affectionately known.  

Coolangatta

You won’t find the crowds that you would find further north in surfers, a more relaxed and laid back feel compared to that of a party atmosphere of Surfers. Those that have families and are looking for a relaxing laid back holiday in the sun tend to stay near Coolangatta beach. A trip to surfers wont take you long and the upside it can often be cheaper to stay in Coolangatta.  

Broadbeach

This trendy Gold coast suburb is a popular alternative to surfers paradise. Located close by and offering many of the same things as its neighbour. There are many things to keep you entertained. The beach has BBQ facilities, exercise stations a children’s playground and a walking track. Oasis shopping centre is also near by and the famous Dracula's cabaret restaurant.  For those that like fewer crowds why not visit these quieter nearby beaches:-Couran cove-the Spit, Main beach- Miami-Nobby beach-mermaid beach  Best time to visit? Anytime in summer. Although try to avoid late November to early December as the gold coast turns into a school leavers party. Known as schoolies week thousands of school leaves come to celebrate the finishing of school. The only downfall in summer time is the amount of people especially if you plan on visiting theme parks. Be prepared to wait in line. Winter time is quite pleasant in this coastal town and often accommodation is much cheaper.