Flight time.
The Gold Coast is only a 3.5 - 4hour flight from New Zealand, so you can be enjoying the sun and surf in no time.
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Gold Coast, Australia
Gold Coast getaways: beach escapes, theme park holidays and hinterland retreats.
Why visit the Gold Coast? Best things to do, see and experience.
Whether you’re planning a Gold Coast family holiday, a solo hinterland escape or a laidback beach getaway with friends, the Gold Coast delivers some of Australia’s most iconic travel experiences. A destination that truly offers it all, explore eclectic local markets by the beach, soak up vibrant coastal nightlife and indulge in decadent waterfront dining overlooking the ocean.
Add world‑class theme parks, entertainment precincts and the ultimate shopper’s paradise - from beachside boutiques to buzzing shopping hubs - and it’s easy to see why the Gold Coast continues to be one of the most loved holiday destinations in Australia.
Lush hinterland retreats, beach escapes and city breaks.
Perfect for nature lovers and hikers, the Gold Coast hinterland is home to World Heritage‑listed rainforests, cascading waterfalls and scenic lookouts, including icons such as Springbrook National Park and Lamington National Park. Discover Tamborine Mountain, where boutique wineries, rainforest walking tracks and clifftop lookouts offer panoramic views across the Gold Coast.
Along the coast, the region is famous for its long sandy beaches and world‑class surfing. From Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta, each beachside destination delivers an easy coastal lifestyle, with year‑round sunshine, warm weather and consistent surf conditions.
Whether you’re looking to explore, unwind or combine the two, the Gold Coast is an iconic destination with endless experiences designed for every travel style.
Planning a Gold Coast holiday?
Explore our latest Gold Coast deals here or speak to our knowledgeable Gold Coast travel specialists today.
Best time to go.
The best time to visit the Gold Coast is from May to October, when the weather is comfortable for both beach days and theme park adventures.
Time difference.
The Gold Coast is 2 hours behind New Zealand (or 3 hours during daylight saving). This small time difference is easy to adjust to, making for a seamless transition.
Our favourite things to do in the Gold Coast
Looking for a wild day out?
Located in Currumbin, just 20 kms south of Gold Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers interactive experiences with Australian wildlife.
Go beyond the beaches
Trade in the surf for serene trails and mountain air – nature’s calling.
Surf, stroll, and soak up the views
Experience the wild beauty of a natural headland in the heart of the Gold Coast.
Food glorious food
Grab your appetite and spend a weekend eating your way along the Scenic Rim food trail from Brisbane to the Gold Coast.
Sip your way through the valley vineyards
Don’t sleep on the Gold Coast wine region—it’s a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered!
Soar high at the epic Pacific Air Show!
Get ready for the ultimate family adventure!
Captain your own adventure
Grab your crew, pack the snacks, and let the good times roll on the open water!
Best. Food. Ever!
Sip on cocktails, feast on the catch, and soak in the vibes!
Taste the world in the Gold Coast
From Bangkok to Barcelona, your flavour journey starts here!
More than a 'surfers' paradise!
Pop on your Captain's Hat, pack the picnic.
Explore Add on this exclusive offer to your Queensland escape
Queensland
Add on this exclusive offer to your Queensland escape
Rental car
from
$
109
per car per day. Flights and accommodation are additional. Conditions apply.
Explore Luxury Gold Coast Holiday Homes
Gold Coast
Luxury Gold Coast Holiday Homes
4 night Luxury Holiday Home Rental
from
$
4569
total per holiday home (based on up to 8 people). Flights are additional
Explore InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
Gold Coast
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
5 nights
Rental car
from
$
1405
per person share twin. Flights are additional.
Explore Scenic Rim Trail 4 Day Walk
Queensland
Scenic Rim Trail 4 Day Walk
4 nights
4 Day Walk
from
$
4199
per person share twin
Flights additional
Flights additional
Explore Scenic Rim Trail 2 Day Walk
Queensland
Scenic Rim Trail 2 Day Walk
2 nights
2 Day Walk
from
$
2099
per person share twin
Flights additional
Flights additional
Explore Turtle Beach Resort, Gold Coast & Bluey's World
Gold Coast
Turtle Beach Resort, Gold Coast & Bluey's World
7 Nights
Bluey's World Tickets
7 day car hire
from
$
979
per person family share (2 ad & 2 kids2-11 yrs). Flights are additional
93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5
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Sharon"Helpful with the questions I had"
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Melanie Hubber
House of Travel Ferrymead
I am passionate about sustainable travel for the future.
My entire career of 30 years has been in travel sales and tourism. I have travelled overseas more than a hundred times to over 70 countries and 6 continents for personal holidays, business and leisure.
I've made my home in London, Dorset, Chamonix and Auckland. I settled back in my home town of Christchurch after being away for five years.
I love travel and how it enriches lives and provides a livelihood for people and communities around the globe. I love helping to inspire and inform clients, who care about the impact their choices have on local communities and the environment, and who want to have a great holiday.
Sustainable doesn't mean you can't have luxury! My personal holidays always have a sense of adventure, you will find me on a beach or mountain or taking in a cultural experience to make the most of a destination.
I personally rate train travel one of the best ways to casually explore, there's nothing I love more than checking in at a downtown railway station off to a new destination. I think travel provides new perspectives and respect for different cultures and values are par for the course. We can always find common ground when we are prepared to go out of our comfort zone.
Why book your travel with me? I am a CLIA certified Cruise Master and dedicated to helping you with your travel plans. I have the tools and the networks available to assist with all styles of travel experiences you may be looking for.
Mel
Tracey Edgecombe
House of Travel New Plymouth
I liken planning a holiday to baking a cake. It takes several well measured and thought out ingredients for a great result.
I have been lucky to have travelled extensively myself and being a travel consultant for more than 20 years, I use these 'ingredients' - experience and expertise - to draw on to help create amazing holidays and lifelong memories.
It is such a pleasure to help my clients get the best out of their holidays and manage an incredible team of travel professionals.
Tracey
Angela Malone
House of Travel Albany
The best holiday experience is a blend of organised activity along with a sense of discovery.
Bespoke holidays are my specialty.
Exploring off the beaten track destinations where you feel like a local yet welcomed as a guest creates treasured memories.
Angela
Mya Dunlop
House of Travel High Street Lanes, Christchurch CBD
Hi I'm Mya!
In my few years of experience in the travel industry, I have had the privilege
of helping clients explore some of the most beautiful and unique destinations
around the world. Specialising in the Pacific Islands, Australia, Bali, and
Southeast Asia, I bring an in-depth knowledge of these regions and a personal
passion for travel.
One of the highlights of my career so far has been escorting a group through
Vietnam and Cambodia – an unforgettable experience that deepened my expertise
in curating high-end, tailored travel experiences.
I’m driven by a deep love for travel and a commitment to crafting exceptional
journeys for every one of my clients. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach
getaway, an adventurous tour, or a luxurious cruise, I focus on creating trips
that are perfectly suited to your interests and preferences. Let’s make your
dream holiday a reality!
Mya
Our Gold Coast travel blogs
FAQS
What is the Gold Coast known for?
The Gold Coast is famous for its surf beaches, theme parks, national parks, nightlife and warm climate.
Is the Gold Coast good for families?
Yes. The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most family-friendly destinations with safe beaches, family resorts, wildlife experiences and fun attractions.
How many days do you need on the Gold Coast?
Most travellers spend five to seven days on the Gold Coast to relax on the beaches, hike the hinterland, experience local attractions, shop, dine and enjoy the theme parks.
When is the best time to visit the Gold Coast?
The best time to visit the Gold Coast is between April and October when the temperature is cooler, humidity levels are low and conditions are ideal for outdoor activities.
Is the Gold Coast expensive to visit?
The Gold Coast offers accommodation and experiences for all budgets, from luxury beachfront resorts to affordable apartments and family accommodation. Getting around is easy with public transport costing just 50 cents.
Can you visit the Gold Coast year-round?
Yes, the Gold Coast is a year-round destination, thanks to its subtropical climate, meaning warm temperatures in every season!
Where to stay on the Gold Coast?
Choosing where to stay on the Gold Coast can be a challenge, with so many great accommodation options all within easy reach of the region’s iconic beaches. Surfers Paradise is known for its high‑rise skyline, popular attractions such as SkyPoint Observation Deck and Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, and a lively nightlife scene. It’s also a convenient base for travellers wanting easy access to the Gold Coast theme parks.
Broadbeach offers a more modern, sophisticated vibe, home to exceptional restaurants and bars, the expansive Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, and The Star Gold Coast casino and entertainment precinct.
Favoured by locals, Burleigh Heads is loved for its eclectic artisan boutiques, relaxed beachfront dining and the lush surrounds of Burleigh Head National Park. Just a short drive south, Coolangatta and Currumbin offer a laid‑back coastal atmosphere and are home to popular family attractions like Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Where to go on holiday in the Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast has plenty to offer, from beach getaways and theme park holidays to city breaks and hinterland escapes. Explore our latest Gold Coast deals and find out how to make the most of your time on your Gold Coast holiday.
How to find the best holiday package to Gold Coast?
We've got you covered! Explore our Gold Coast deals or sign up to get the hottest deals sent straight to your emails here. You can also speak to our friendly Gold Coast specialists to help you start planning your holiday.
Where is the Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast is nestled between the bottom of Brisbane and the top of New South Wales. Backdropped by the Pacific Ocean on one side and lush hinterland on the other, the Gold Coast is one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations, offering white sand beaches, vibrant skyline and relaxed coastal life.
Do you need a car on the Gold Coast?
A car can be helpful for days spent venturing into the hinterland, but trams, busses and tours connect major beaches, malls and attractions. Public transport costs just 50 cents, making it easy and accessible for everyone.
What should I pack for my trip to the Gold Coast?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses - Remember, this is a place that experiences 300 days of sunshine.
During Gold Coast's summer months (December to February), we recommend including a raincoat as summer is their wet season.
If you're visiting during Gold Coast's winter months (June to August), we recommend including a jacket for cooler evenings.
Do I need travel insurance for Gold Coast?
Absolutely, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance to safeguard yourself and your holiday. We provide travel insurance options suitable for travel to the Gold Coast.
Can I use New Zealand dollars on the Gold Coast?
No, while the Gold Coast is a popular destination for Kiwis, you will need to exchange your New Zealand dollars (NZD) for Australian dollars (AUD). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks and exchange bureaus.
Otherwise, all credit cards and debit cards are accepted and widely used - and via digital wallets too.
What are the best beaches on the Gold Coast?
Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, Broadbeach, Coolangatta and Kirra are among some of the most popular Gold Coast beaches, all with their own unique vibe, surf clubs, restaurants, markets and charming local boutiques.
What are the best theme parks to visit on the Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast theme parks are a major highlight for families, offering a wide range of experiences suitable for children of all ages.
Dreamworld is one of the most family‑friendly options, combining thrilling rides with dedicated kids’ areas and Australian wildlife encounters, making it ideal for families with both younger children and teens.
Warner Bros. Movie World brings movies to life with character meet‑and‑greets, themed attractions and live shows that appeal to parents and kids alike, blending nostalgia with high‑energy entertainment.
For warm‑weather fun, Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast is a favourite with families, featuring epic waterslides alongside shallow pools and interactive splash zones designed especially for younger children, making it easy for the whole family to enjoy a full day of fun together.
How can I get around the Gold Coast without a car?
The Gold Coast has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams (G-link) and the Airtrain from Brisbane Airport. You can also use rideshare services like Uber and taxis.
For longer stays, make sure you get a go card as that can be used for buses, trams and trains. Public transport (most busses, most trains and the tram) cost just 50 cents per ride.
What is there to do on the Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast is a long‑time favourite with Kiwi travellers, making it an easy choice for a beach holiday, city break or hinterland escape.
Beach lovers, spend your days in Coolangatta, Kirra and Burleigh Heads, known for sun‑soaked shores, world‑class surfing and a relaxed coastal vibe. Currumbin Wild Life Sanctuary is not far from here.
Head north to Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise for the region’s most iconic attractions, like Skypoint Q1 Observation Deck plus, kayaking the waterways, jet boating, shopping and standout dining.
For an added burst of excitement, visit the Gold Coast theme parks,
or slow things down with a stay in the Gold Coast hinterland, where places like Mount Tamborine, Springbrook and Lamington National Park combine boutique wineries, rainforest walks and scenic lookouts for a truly peaceful change of pace.
What are some family-friendly activities on the Gold Coast?
The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s ultimate family holiday destinations, offering far more than its famous theme parks. While the Gold Coast theme parks deliver thrill rides, live stunt shows and favourite character experiences, families can also enjoy a wide range of attractions beyond the parks.
Get up close with native wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, feel the adrenaline with jet boating on the broadwater, or head inland to Thunderbird Park on Mount Tamborine for treetop adventures and high‑ropes courses suitable for all ages.
Add an immersive evening at the Australian Outback Spectacular, then unwind on the iconic beaches of Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach for a holiday that truly has something for everyone.
Check Gold Coast events to plan your trip around a local festival - And the Gold Coast throws many! From Blues on Broadbeach to Groundwater Country Music Festival and Pacific Airshow, there's many more on the roster.
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