Quite obviously, there are a million reasons to visit the Gold Coast and never leave. Autumn in particular though, brings a little bit of magic all of its own in the form of mind-blowing sunset hues, perfect evening BBQ weather and, of course, all the usual local suspects (eating, drinking, playing etc).
With Easter rapidly approaching (somehow) and ANZAC Day hot on its heels, we’ve got a little suggestion for you. Why not treat yourself to three extra days off work – those pesky ones in the middle of the two holidays – and spend them right here, on the Gold Coast with us.
We’d love to have you but if that’s not enough to put in a request form right now, please, read on. Here are just 12 (of the many) reasons you absolutely MUST spend a few extra days on the Gold Coast this April.
EATING AND DRINKING
The Gold Coast is home to an absolutely mind-blowing array of bars and eateries that never fail to impress. Over the last little while, a few extra exceptional spots have swung open their doors and, quite frankly, you’d be crazy not to taste test them all.
BURLEIGH CO-OP
A garden paradise out of the hustle and bustle, Burleigh Co-Op offers a stunning, local produce-inspired menu made up of flavorsome dishes, to be washed down with one of the best cuppas you’ll find on the Coast. They’re friendly folks too.
Where: 2 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
HYDE PARADISO
The newest of the newbies, Hyde Paradiso opened in Surfers Paradise recently bringing all your Mediterranean eatery dreams to life. Overlooking the ocean and serving up an incredible tapas-style menu filled with European-inspired food and next-level cocktails to match, the lunch and dinner venue is an absolute delight and one you’ll definitely want to try.
Where: Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise, Level 2, 8 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
THE HENCHMAN
If a Nutella and banana puff pastry jaffle sounds like your kind of thing (same), it’s probably a good idea to stop in at Miami newbie The Henchman. Pull up a hammock, grab an organic coffee and think about how good a choice it was to stay a little longer.
Where: 6/8 Henchman Ave, Miami
DRIFTWOOD SOCIAL
Cocktails by the pool? Yes please. Another Surfers Paradise newbie, Driftwood Social, is a tropical, beach club style of situation you won’t want to miss out on. Think giant lawn games, pretty water views and permission to stretch out by the pool with a cocktail in hand. Best.
Where: Vibe Hotel, 42 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
EDDY + WOLFF
A hidden gem recently opened in the backstreets of Robina, bringing next-level Asian share style dining to the people. It’s an intimate 22-seat venue and both the food and drinks menus are absolute magic so you’ll need to book but definitely do yourself a favour and get there.
Where: 12-217/219 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina
BLACK HOPS II
If you’re keen to simply kick back with a local tipple in hand after a hard days’ holidaying, look no further than Black Hops second brewery in Biggera Waters. Every single one of their brews is the goods and the brand new space is a delight to spend time in. Cheers.
Where: 14/665 Pine Ridge Road, Biggera Waters
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
HIKES
Did you know the Gold Coast hinterland is an absolutely stunning area of the world for hiking and just generally immersing oneself in the magic of nature. From Springbrook National Park to Lamington National Park, an abundance of waterfalls, swimming holes, glowworm caves and magical views from way up high, we’ve pretty much got it all. It’ll take a little while to get through them all so best to stay here as long as possible.
The aforementioned sunsets can, quite obviously, be seen from pretty much anywhere there’s a patch of sky but why not make it a little more memorable with a picnic, a bottle of something tasty and your travelling crew by your side. Burleigh Hill is one of the most perfect sunset spying spots, as is Kirra Hill Lookout and The Spit at Main Beach. Duranbah Hill will also provide the goods, as will (probably the best one) Panorama Lookout in Mudgeeraba.
TALLEBUDGERA CREEK
The stunning little waterway separating Burleigh Heads from Palm Beach is Tallebudgera Creek. It’s all crystal clear water dotted with giant inflatable unicorns and many a happy soul bobbing about in the perfectly temperate waters. If you feel like a stroll beforehand, Talle Creek (local slang) borders Burleigh Hill, which is part of the national park and a beautiful little walk through the trees either over or around the hill. One of the prettiest spots we’ve got.
PLAYTIME
The Gold Coast is known as Australia’s playground and there are many reasons for that. We boast all the very best theme parks, any water sport you could possibly want to try plus mini golf, Topgolf, any type of entertainment you can imagine, you’ll find it here. Plus, these excellent suggestions, which just happen to be timed perfectly with your extended trip.
BLEACH* THE GOLD COAST FESTIVAL
The Gold Coast’s much-loved art and cultural festival is happening from April 17th to 23rd and the 2019 program is filled with unmissable live music acts, theatre shows, circus cabaret, opera you name it. The festival takes places across the Coast and every single thing showing this year is a must-see. Convenient.
CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Our very own animal sanctuary is home to creatures of both the cuddly and scaly varieties and pretty much everything in between. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary also recently added a new show – Wild Skies – complete with eagles flying overhead and some of the cutest owls anyone has ever seen. There’s also an eye-popping crocodile show, a mini train to hop aboard within the precinct and plenty of creatures to keep you entertained all day long.
AFL
Last but not least, it’s footy season once again and our very own Gold Coast SUNS have a home game on Saturday April 27th against arch rivals (probably) the Brisbane Lions so you know that’s going to be a good one. There are good vibes galore at Metricon Stadium on game day plus, you get to indulge in footy food and bulk beers guilt free. It’s win win.
So there you have it, 12 (really quite convincing if we do say so ourselves) reasons you simply must stay a little longer and experience all the magic the Gold Coast has to offer. Happy exploring.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Destination Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.