The Gold Coast is an incredible section of the Australian Eastern Coast with an endless amount of things to see and do. Below is a list of my top 10 day trips you must take if you are staying anywhere along the Gold Coast!
* * * 10. Springbrook National Park * * *
First of ten is Springbrook National Park. This spot’s iconic features include Purling Brook Falls, Twin Falls, and especially the Natural Bridge. Go at night to see the glow worms inside the Natural Bridge’s cave, or just enjoy the various waterfalls, lookouts, and hikes throughout the day or weekend!
* * * 9. Coolangatta * * *
Coolangatta is the best day trip for surfing! Often hosting surf competitions and just generally known for great surf, Coolangatta is a cute and fun beach town at the southern end of the Gold Coast.
* * * 8. Burleigh Head National Park * * *
Burleigh Head National Park has several fun treks to follow around Between the Ocean View Track, Ocean View Lookout Track, and Rainforest Track there’s plenty to explore for a day trip. Definitely don’t miss the town of Burleigh either! After hiking, walk around the restaurants and shops before going down to Burleigh Beach.
* * * 7. Canungra Valley * * *
Number seven on this list is Canungra Valley in the Gold Coast Hinterland. Specifically you need to visit O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards with its next door alpaca petting zoo. Bring a picnic or purchase one at the Vineyard and hang out next to dozens of alpacas. You can either feed and pet them from behind their fence or even take them out of the pen for a walk around the vineyards!
* * * 6. Tamborine Mountain * * *
Tamborine Mountain is filled with various treks and activities to enjoy. Check out the Botanic Gardens, the Rainforest Skywalk, or even the Tamborine Distillery. Book a tour for the Glow Worm Caves or chase some waterfalls like Curtis Falls, Cedar Creek Falls, or Witches Falls. Tamborine Mountain truly has something for everyone!
* * * 5. Brisbane * * *
The capital of Queensland, Brisbane is a great stop along the Gold Coast! Be sure to explore the neighborhood of Southbank with its countless restaurants and picnic areas, swimming lagoon, museums, and ferris wheel. Then, in the evening head to either Fortitude Valley or the Howard Smith Wharves for some great drinks and nightlife.
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* * * 4. Currumbin * * *
Currumbin has several exciting activities for the average daytripper. Get out into the Currumbin Valley and find the Currumbin Rock Pools. This swimming hole is the perfect spot to cool off on a hot and sunny day. Closer into the town is the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. If you have yet to hold a koala in Queensland (the only state where it is legal to), this is your chance to cross it off the bucket list!
* * * 3. Lamington National Park * * *
Number 3 on my list is another beautiful National Park. Lamington National Park is perfect for the waterfall and sunset lover. Hike out to Elabana Falls during the day, grab some lunch at O’Reilley’s Mountain Cafe and head to Morans Falls by sunset to enjoy a stunning view from the top.
* * * 2. North Stradbroke Island * * *
North Stradbroke Island is the second largest sand island in the world. Head here with friends to enjoy the stunning beaches, lakes, snorkeling, sand dunes, and campsites. You can easily experience “Straddy” Island on your own or with a tour.
* * * 1. Moreton Island * * *
Although smaller than Stradbroke Island as the third largest sand island, Moreton is top of this list! The must-do of the island is snorkeling the Tangalooma Wrecks. Once you’ve done this amazing shipwreck experience, you can choose from a variety of activities including ATV rides, sand dune tobogganing, kayaking, swimming, and feeding dolphins. I recommend booking your experiences directly through Tangalooma Resort.
And those are the best 10 day trips! Now go book your hostels, rental cars, and tours and have a great time on the Australian Gold Coast!!
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