8 Things to Do in Gold Coast For Every First-Time Visitor

Known for its world class beaches, beautiful hinterland and adventure-packed attractions, the Gold Coast has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an adventure with bae or looking for family-friendly activities, we’ve got you covered with this article. Here are the best things to do in Gold Coast, especially if it’s your first time here!

1. Learn how to hydrofoil

Hydrofoil is kind of like floating on the water on a hovering electric surfboard. It’s really easy and you don’t need wind, waves, or to be towed. For the adrenaline junkies, you can actually go super fast on this – up to 55km/h! Gold Coast Hydrofoil Tours offers guided tours and lessons on the beautiful canals of Gold Coast. This relatively-new water sport is for people who love nature and want to explore the ocean in an extraordinary way, while still remaining considerate of our environment.

2. Check into Q1 Surfers Paradise

Q1 Surfers Paradise is the highest residential building in Australia, so you can definitely expect some superb views here. The apartments and penthouse capture breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the shimmering sands of Surfers Paradise, sparkling lights of Gold Coast city and the lush green of the Gold Coast hinterland. Each elegant, state-of-the-art apartment delivers an uncompromising sense of space, freedom and a sleek, modern design. Kick back, pop open a bottle of champagne, enjoy the sunset before resting up for your adventures the next day.

3. Do the Skypoint Climb

Feeling adventurous? SkyPoint Climb takes you to a height of 270 metres above sea level and provides climbers with unparalleled views of the stunning Gold Coast region. This is Australia’s highest external climb, starting on level 77 at Q1’s SkyPoint Observation Deck. Following a Climb guide, participants will then walk up towards the eagles’ nest located at the highest point of the Climb Regular stops will be taken to admire the stunning 360-degree views of the Gold Coast region including the golden beaches, city skyline, and lush green hinterland.

4. See the sunrise from a hot air balloon

One of the best ways to see the scenic Gold Coast Hinterland is from a balloon basket at sunrise. Book spectacular daily morning flights on Hot Air Balloon Gold Coast over this serene landscape. Enjoy clear-sky views ranging from Tamborine Mountain, Lamington National Park across to the skyline of the Gold Coast to the east! Top your hot air balloon experience off with some bubbles as you relax at O’Reilly’s Vineyard for your delicious hot breakfast.

5. Go on a treetop adventure at Thunderbird Park

Thunderbird Park on Tamborine Mountain is a magnificent mountain resort ideal for day trips, family holidays and everything in between. At the treetop challenge, you will find yourself flying amongst the trees of Tamborine Mountain on ziplines, flying foxes, high ropes and tree top bridges. While you experience the dizzying heights of the tree tops, soak up the beautiful rainforest views and capture the stunning landscapes. Sure makes for some IG-worthy photos as well as memories that will last a lifetime!

6. Take a surf lesson

What better place to learn to surf than in the Gold Coast, with 57 kilometers of sundrenched coast and over a dozen surf schools. In case you didn’t know, Gold Coast is one of the top 10 world surfing reserves thanks to its perfect point breaks and legacy of surf champions. Learn to surf where the locals do at one of the many Gold Coast surf schools.

7. Do a jet ski tour

Check out the pristine waterways of the Gold Coast, explore narrow mangrove passages, visit isolated islands, see some astounding wildlife and wet your feet on a jet ski. The Gold Coast Jet Ski offers thrilling fast-paced, full throttle jet ski tours or a more slow-paced guided tours. You’ll travel along the inside of South Stradbroke Island and wind our way back through the Sovereign Islands and past the lavish palaces the rich and famous call home. By the time you get back, you’ll be hooked on the fun of riding on a powerful jet ski.

8. Explore O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

Nestled within the World Heritage site Lamington National Park, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat offers lots of family-friendly things to do in Gold Coast. Opt for guided bird walks, animal shows and the famed Tree Top Walk. Test your skills on an off road two-wheeled Segway tour, followed by blissing out in the Gold Coast’s Lost World Day Spa. Can’t bring yourself to leave? Stay in cosy serviced accommodation at the Retreat with expansive views overlooking the western McPherson Ranges. Or book one of the 48 self-contained villas perched unobtrusively onto the sloping hillside.