Nicknamed Surfer’s Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia certainly lives up to its name. I spent a few weeks in Queensland earlier this month while interning for The Safran Company, the production company behind the upcoming Marvel film, Aquaman. Although I spent every day during the week working on set, I had some free moments to explore Gold Coast on the weekends. The star attraction of course, is its beaches, but Gold Coast also has much more to offer, such as a booming culinary scene, wonderful wildlife sanctuaries, and various theme parks. Below, I’ve selected some of my favorite places to go and things to do while Down Under in Gold Coast! PS- featured above is an image I took from my balcony at the apartment complex Peppers, which offers great accommodations for large and small groups alike.
EAT:
1) Elk Espresso
Elk Espresso offers some of the healthiest and most delicious food in Gold Coast. The menu includes everything from organic breakfast bowls to gluten-free red velvet doughnuts. The restaurant also offers a wide range of coffee and beverages. I had an iced chai tea with cinnamon while I was there, and it was fantastic. One of my sisters ordered a matcha tea, and the other one ordered an Oreo milkshake. We couldn’t decide whose drink tasted the best, as they were all amazing!
2) Gemelli’s
I went to this charming Italian restaurant numerous times while spending time in Gold Coast, and the fried eggplant is absolutely incredible. Although eggplant is certainly an acquired taste, if you love it, this is some of the best you’ll ever taste. Gemelli’s also serves a wide range of pizza and the menu includes white (no sauce) and gluten-free slices. Yum! Plus, gemelli in Italian means “twin,” so it was especially fun to experience this restaurant with my younger sisters, two of whom are identical twins.
3) The Loose Moose
This restaurant is perfect for both kids and adults, and The Loose Moose is known around town for its delicious burgers and fries. I ordered fish and chips when I went, and it was delectable, though certainly not the best I have ever tasted. This restaurant makes the list more for its atmosphere and fast service rather than for its food.
SHOP:
1) Pacific Fair Mall
Pacific Fair has some of the best stores in Gold Coast, and this new mall includes lots of well-known chains, such as Zara and Adidas, as well as undiscovered boutiques. The shoe store JD’s has a wonderful selection, and I purchased a pair of velcro Stan Smith’s while I was there.
2) Ferry Road Market: Brickworks Centre
One of my all-time favorite brands is Zimmermann, and it’s Australian, so you could imagine that I was especially excited when I saw that they had a physical store in Gold Coast. All of the other boutiques located in this area are quaint and adorable, and it’s great to spend an afternoon walking around the area.
3) Toni & Guy Broadbeach
Although a hair salon doesn’t necessarily fall into the shopping category, I had to include Toni & Guy’s Broadbeach location in this guide because their service is nothing short of outstanding. Be sure to ask for Bernadette or Alyssia if you want a blow dry; they both do an incredible job on all hair types and are always willing to come in early in the morning or late at night, depending on the client’s schedule.
SEE:
1) Broadbeach
Heading to Broadbeach is a no-brainer, as it is Gold Coast’s main attraction. The beach is incredibly expansive and seems endless, especially when looking at it from above. The water is warm, even in the winter, and there are several convenient beachside restaurants and shops.
2) Purling Brook Falls
Located in Queensland not far from Gold Coast, Purling Brook Falls is one of the best nearby hikes. There are gorgeous waterfalls, as well as picnic areas and beautiful wildflowers. It’s a fantastic activity to do with kids or with adults! The trail isn’t too long, and the entire way, you will be mesmerized by the natural beauty.
3) Byron Bay
Although this town isn’t located in Gold Coast, this 90-minute drive is certainly worth the wait. Byron Bay is known for its flawless beaches, and they certainly do not disappoint.
DO:
1) Catch a Wave in Surfer’s Paradise
Despite the fact that Surfer’s Paradise is a rather touristy area of Broadbeach, it is still fun to experience. Whether you want to surf or boogie board, you are sure to enjoy the beautiful beaches. Also, there are many places nearby that offer surfing lessons if you’re a beginner.
2) Head to Warner Brothers Movie World
I interned on the set of the upcoming Marvel film Aquaman while I was in Gold Coast, and next door to the studio is an amazing theme park. If you’re in the mood for a rollercoaster, this is the place to be. The one next door to the set had 4 different loops! Also, if you gravitate toward film, like me, you can see countless props from various movies, which is a fun thing to do.
3) Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
I have had several people recommend this wildlife sanctuary to me, where visitors have the chance to see koalas, kangaroos, and other indigenous Australian animals in their natural habitat. You have to see a koala when you’re in Australia, and this is the place to go!