Gentlemen! It's time to stop talking about that boy's trip and book it. No need to debate the destination - the Gold Coast is the obvious choice as the place to gather the lads. There's enough action-packed pursuits to keep you entertained for days, alongside a thriving nightlife and dining scene, a stunning coastline and lots of leisurely activities when you want to dial down the pace.
If you need a reason to justify a holiday with your homies, here it is. Harvard research has shown that going away with your mates is good for your wellbeing. Spending quality time with friends can cut the risk of heart disease and increase your longevity. So there you go. Gold Coast isn’t just ideal for a holiday - it’s also good for your health. We’ve created a three-day itinerary that will transform any long weekend into quality bonding time (and a damn good time) with the boys.
Day 1
Morning: It doesn’t matter which part of the Gold Coast you find yourself staying in; if you head due east, you’ll end up on a pristine section of beach. Start the first day of your boys break the best way – in the salt water. Get up early for a surf session or take it easy and stroll down to a coastal café for a big breakkie to get your fuelled up for a day of epic fun.
Noon: Australia’s number 1 theme park isn’t just for kids - it’s a fun-packed option for the big kids too. Life gets heavy and it’s good to lighten up and let loose with your best mates. Warner Bros Movie World is where to do it. Riding rollercoasters is a sure-fire way to get the adrenaline and endorphins pumping. Take on the DC Rivals Hypercoaster for pure thrill – the longest, highest and fastest ride in the southern hemisphere. Be sure to catch the action of the the Hollywood Stunt Driver Show from some impressive precision driving.
Night: The Paradise Centre at the beach end of Cavill Avenue in Surfers Paradise recently underwent a major glow up and is now home to a whole host of delicious dinner options with ocean views. Tuck into to a burger with the lot at Wahlburgers or take your tastebuds on a trip to Thailand at Nalam Talay Thai. Head to Surfers Paradise Beer Garden for some post-dinner drinks at a local favourite.
Day 2
Morning: Take the chance to start your day a little slower with a leisurely round of golf. With 35 golf courses to choose from, the Gold Coast has more per capita than anywhere else in Australia so there are plenty of places to get out for a day on the green. Centrally located, The Club at Parkwood Village has impressive hinterland views, or if you’re up for a challenge, try Links Hope Island. Almost all Gold Coast golf courses are open to the general public and 18 holes will rarely set you back more than $100.
Noon: Gold Coast’s craft brewery scene has absolutely taken off with an impressive line-up of boutique breweries scattered throughout the suburbs. Head to Surfers Paradise and drop by BOBs Beer for a myriad of independent craft beers from Australia and NZ as well as those brewed on-site. The head brewer and chef have joined forces to ensure the beer menu and food menu are perfectly paired. Trust us – this venue gets amazing raps for the food as well as the liquid gold on tap.
Night: Head to the southern suburb of Palm Beach for dinner and drinks with the lads. You can’t go past Frida Sol for modern Mexican bites and great adaptations of margaritas. When you’re done, head downstairs to their late-night neighbours, The Scottish Prince. From the moment you walk inside, you’re transferred to an authentic Scottish drinking den with hundreds of whiskies, regular live music, and a solid cocktail offering.
Day 3
Morning and noon: Make the last day of the trip an epic one with high-speed aquatic adventures and a closer inspection of some of those craft breweries. Pineapple Tours know every inch of this city and can show you the best bits - their Jet Ski Safari + Beer Tour is an excellent way to explore the Gold Coast with your mates. Get ready to race on a guided jet ski tour to South Stradbroke Island, weaving your way past sand bars and mangroves, speeding over the sparkling water. Once you’re back on dry land, jump aboard the luxury vehicle that will take you on a tour of three local breweries (including Balter Brewing pictured below) with lunch along the way. This is the kind of day where memories are made.
Night: After all the excitement, a relaxing evening is on the cards.. and you’ll likely have worked up an appetite too. The Southport Yacht Club provides a casual dining experience where you can fill your belly from their mouth-watering menu with stunning views across the Broadwater. Watch the Gold Coast turn up the wow factor for golden hour. If you feel like there’s still a little something left in the tank, make your way to nearby La Luna Beach Club for chic Mediterranean vibes long into the night.
THE LATEST
News
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.