Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is Southern Queensland’s metropolitan hub, with an iconic skyline of hotels, casinos, and luxury apartments. There are countless attractions for the family on the Gold Coast, from theme parks to markets to wildlife sanctuaries. It is also a breeze to get around the Gold Coast, with G:Link trams running through all the main hubs like Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

The Gold Coast is a haven for tourists who enjoy getting outdoors, with hiking trails and waterfalls up in the hinterlands, fishing opportunities along the rivers and waterways, and scuba diving and surfing along the coast. Or kick up the adrenaline a notch and view the Gold Coast from above while doing a tandem skydive!

After a day of adventure, don’t miss the Gold Coast’s vibrant nightlife scene. SinCity is one of the largest clubs on the Coast, known for its neon decor, local DJs, and shirtless bartenders. The Pink Flamingo, a club inspired by 1920s party culture, presents cabaret and burlesque shows and is known world-wide. Another LGBTQIA+ hotspot is The Avenue in Surfers Paradise, which hosts Dragalicious every Thursday night.

With so much to see and do, consider booking a tour of the Gold Coast so you can see all the highlights without the hassle of planning. If you want to see more of the rainforests around the Gold Coast, Southern Cross Tours operates day trips that will show you the highlights of the hinterland. Alternatively, Pineapple Tours runs wine tours, so you can see the best vineyards in the region with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. If you want a tour for the whole family, Aquaduck is a unique tour that traverses both land and sea.

To connect with the local queer community, follow Gold Coast Rainbow Communities, the hosts of Gold Coast Pride which takes place every autumn and features the iconic Beach Pride Parade. They also run events throughout the year, like pool parties, hikes, and BBQs. Or you can get active with one of their two LGBTQIA+ sporting clubs!