Spring Time on the Gold Coast

Spring Time on the Gold Coast

22 Aug 2023

A new season brings new possibilities and none more so than Spring. If you’re looking for free stuff to do on the Gold Coast (or budget friendly at least) then here’s our rundown on how to have a lot of fun for less. Check out the huge variety of things to do during Springtime on the Gold Coast. 

Take a Hike

For some free feelgood fitness, take a hike in Gold Coast Hinterland and watch your step count soar. For an easy option (1 hour return), follow the Curtis Falls Track in Tamborine National Park where you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with a gorgeous waterfall grotto. Or if you’re keen for a day hike, set out on the18km Toolona Creek Circuit - one of the prettiest Gold Coast Hinterland hiking trails, which winds its way through Lamington National Park

Go Boating

If you’ve ever wanted to be captain of your own ship, here’s your chance. The weather in Spring is sublime and it’s the optimum time to get out on an aquatic adventure and explore our sparkling waterways. Go Boat is just the ticket. Their eco-friendly electric vessels are made for low speed cruising and you don’t need a boat license to drive one. There’s a picnic table in the middle that seats eight, so gather your crew, BYO drinks and nibbles and get all aboard for an awesome day out.

 

 

Pre-loved Fashion Markets

Forget fast fashion - you can shop sustainably, update your style and score some serious bargains at Her Wardrobe Markets. These popular pre-loved fashion markets are held on the first and third Sunday of every month at Tom Atkin Hall in Tugun. And for an alfresco shopping experience in the sunshine get along to Her Wardrobe Markets held at Coolangatta State School. Check the website for dates and details. The Village Markets held at Burleigh Heads State School on the first and third Sunday of every month are another popular Gold Coast market. Shop small creative businessses including local design, fashion, jewellery and pick up pre-loved designer and vintage fashion at their famous Rack Sale.

Bottomless Brunch

A Gold Coast bottomless brunch is an experience that should absolutely feature in your itinerary. There are plenty of beautiful venues to choose from but many boast waterfront views, dining in the sunshine and a smorgasbord of delicious food accompanied by bubbles. Cheers to that! (Image: The Tropic)

Whale Watching

Jump aboard for a heartwarming experience on a whale watching tour. 40,000 humpbacks pass through Gold Coast waters each year on their annual migration and seeing them swim, breach and blow in their natural habitat is absolutely magical. September and October is when the mumma whales are heading back down the coast with their babies in tow so it's the perfect time of year for Gold Coast whale watching.

Say Hello to HOTA

There’s not many $6 million dollar venues that will let you in for no charge while you’re wearing shorts and Birks, but the impressive gallery at Gold Coast’s Home of the Arts (aka HOTA) is an inclusive cultural hub where everyone is welcome. 

Roam this incredible gallery at leisure exploring five floors of visual art and exhibitions, with incredible views of the surrounding city to boot. Treat yourself to a coffee or cocktail at the rooftop bar, The Exhibitionist, enjoy a stroll around the shady parklands or visit on a Sunday morning and fill your basket with fresh produce at the HOTA Farmers & Artisan Markets.

 Want more to explore while you're here? Check out our Guide to Gold Coast Surf Clubs.
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Kate Veling
Kate Veling

Travel writer, Kate Veling, came to the Gold Coast for six months and loved it so much she’s still here 20 years later. The laidback lifestyle suits her to a tee and as a mum of three, she knows all the best parks, swimming spots and kid-friendly fun to be had in her ‘hood. She’s often found getting amongst the thriving local arts and culture scene, dancing to live music or kicking back on the beach, but rest assured it’s all in the name of research.

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.