Best Things to Do on the Gold Coast for First-Time Visitors

The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most famous holiday destinations, known for its long sandy beaches, surf culture, high-rise skyline, theme parks, waterways, rainforest hinterland and relaxed outdoor lifestyle. For first-time visitors, it offers the perfect mix of classic beach holiday, family fun, nature escapes, shopping, dining and easy day trips.

Whether you are visiting for a weekend, a week-long holiday or part of a bigger Queensland road trip, the Gold Coast is easy to enjoy. You can start the day with a sunrise beach walk, spend the afternoon at a theme park or rainforest lookout, then finish with dinner in Broadbeach, Burleigh or Surfers Paradise.

This guide covers the best things to do on the Gold Coast for first-time visitors, including beaches, attractions, wildlife, hinterland escapes, food spots, shopping areas and practical travel tips.

Why Visit the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast is ideal for first-time visitors because it offers so many different holiday styles in one destination. Beach lovers can swim, surf, walk and relax along the coast. Families can visit world-class theme parks and wildlife attractions. Couples can enjoy rooftop bars, beachside dining and hinterland drives. Nature lovers can explore waterfalls, rainforest, creeks, headlands and national parks.

It is also a very practical destination. The region has a wide range of accommodation, good public transport along the coastal strip, plenty of tours and easy access to Brisbane, Byron Bay, Tamborine Mountain and the Scenic Rim.

Best Things to Do on the Gold Coast for First-Time Visitors

1. Start at Surfers Paradise Beach

Surfers Paradise is the classic Gold Coast starting point. It has the famous skyline, a long stretch of sand, beachside walking paths, restaurants, shops, nightlife and easy access to many hotels and apartments.

For first-time visitors, a walk along Surfers Paradise Beach is a must. Go early in the morning for a quieter experience, or visit in the evening when the beachfront comes alive. It is also a handy base if you want to be close to transport, tours, restaurants and nightlife.

• Best for: first-time visitors, nightlife, beach walks, families, couples and easy access to attractions.
• Top things to do: Walk the beachfront, swim between the flags, visit Cavill Avenue, browse beachside markets and enjoy casual dining.
• Travel tip: Surfers Paradise is lively and convenient, but if you prefer a quieter stay, consider Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads or Coolangatta.

2. Take in the View from SkyPoint Observation Deck

SkyPoint Observation Deck, located in the Q1 building at Surfers Paradise, is one of the best ways to understand the scale of the Gold Coast. From above, you can see the beaches, canals, city skyline, hinterland and coastline stretching into the distance.

It is especially good for first-time visitors because it helps you get your bearings. Visit during the day for clear coastal views, or time your visit around sunset for a more atmospheric experience.

• Best for: views, couples, photographers, first-time visitors and rainy-day sightseeing.
• Top things to do: Enjoy the observation deck, take skyline photos and consider the SkyPoint Climb if you want a more adventurous experience.
• Travel tip: Sunset is popular, so arrive early if you want a good viewing spot.

3. Explore Broadbeach

Broadbeach is one of the best areas on the Gold Coast for dining, shopping and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than Surfers Paradise. It has a beautiful beach, parks, restaurants, cafes, bars, The Star Gold Coast, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre and Pacific Fair Shopping Centre nearby.

For first-time visitors, Broadbeach is a great place to stay if you want beach access, good restaurants and easy public transport without being right in the busiest part of Surfers Paradise.

• Best for: food lovers, couples, families, shopping, beach stays and a central location.
• Top things to do: Swim at Broadbeach, dine around Oracle Boulevard, visit Pacific Fair, walk to Kurrawa Beach and enjoy evening drinks or dinner.
• Travel tip: Broadbeach is well connected by the G:link light rail, making it easy to travel to Surfers Paradise and Southport.

4. Spend Time at Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads is one of the Gold Coast’s most loved coastal areas. It combines a beautiful beach, surf culture, Burleigh Hill, ocean views, cafes, restaurants, boutiques and Burleigh Head National Park.

First-time visitors should allow at least half a day here. Walk through the national park, swim at the beach, have lunch in James Street and finish with sunset from Burleigh Hill if the weather is good.

• Best for: beach lovers, food lovers, sunset views, walking, couples and relaxed coastal atmosphere.
• Top things to do: Walk Burleigh Head National Park, swim at Burleigh Beach, picnic on Burleigh Hill and explore James Street’s cafes and shops.
• Travel tip: Parking can be difficult on weekends, so arrive early or use public transport where possible.

5. Swim or Paddle at Tallebudgera Creek

Tallebudgera Creek is one of the best calm-water swimming spots on the Gold Coast. Its clear, protected water makes it a favourite with families, paddleboarders, kayakers and travellers who want a gentler alternative to the surf beaches.

The creek sits near Burleigh Head National Park, so it is easy to combine a walk, swim and picnic in one outing. It is especially good for first-time visitors who want a scenic place to relax without needing a full-day tour.

• Best for: families, calm swimming, paddleboarding, picnics and relaxed nature time.
• Top things to do: Swim, paddleboard, kayak, picnic by the water and walk nearby coastal tracks.
• Travel tip: Visit early in the day during school holidays, as this area is very popular with locals.

6. Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the Gold Coast’s best attractions for first-time visitors who want to see Australian wildlife. It is especially popular with families, international visitors and animal lovers.

The sanctuary offers opportunities to see native animals, learn about wildlife conservation and experience one of the region’s most established visitor attractions. It is also close to Currumbin Beach and Currumbin Creek, so you can combine wildlife and beach time in the same day.

• Best for: families, wildlife lovers, international visitors and educational experiences.
• Top things to do: See native animals, attend keeper talks, explore wildlife habitats and combine the visit with Currumbin Beach.
• Travel tip: Wear comfortable shoes and allow several hours rather than trying to rush through.

7. Enjoy the Southern Gold Coast: Currumbin, Kirra and Coolangatta

The southern end of the Gold Coast has a more relaxed beach-town feel than the high-rise centre. Currumbin, Palm Beach, Kirra and Coolangatta are ideal for visitors who want surf beaches, local cafes, coastal walks and a slower pace.

Kirra is famous for its surf culture, while Coolangatta has beautiful beaches, easy walks and views towards Snapper Rocks and Rainbow Bay. This part of the coast is also close to Gold Coast Airport, making it a practical first or last stop.

• Best for: surfers, beach lovers, couples, relaxed stays and return visitors wanting a quieter base.
• Top things to do: Walk from Coolangatta to Snapper Rocks, swim at Rainbow Bay, explore Kirra Beach and enjoy cafes along the southern coast.
• Travel tip: Stay in Coolangatta or Kirra if you want a more local beach holiday and less nightlife.

8. Spend a Day at the Theme Parks

The Gold Coast is Australia’s theme park capital, making it a favourite destination for families and thrill-seekers. Popular parks include Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild and Dreamworld.

Each park has a different style. Movie World is known for rides and entertainment, Sea World combines marine attractions and family rides, Wet’n’Wild is a water park, and Dreamworld offers thrill rides, family zones and wildlife experiences.

• Best for: families, teenagers, thrill-seekers and first-time Gold Coast holidays.
• Top things to do: Choose one or two parks that match your group rather than trying to do everything in one day.
• Travel tip: Buy tickets in advance and check ride maintenance schedules before you go.

9. Visit Sea World at Main Beach

Sea World is one of the easiest major theme parks to combine with a central Gold Coast stay because it is located at Main Beach, not far from Surfers Paradise and Southport. It suits families, animal lovers and visitors who prefer a mix of shows, rides, marine life and gentle entertainment.

Main Beach itself is also worth exploring, with The Spit, waterfront dining, marina areas and luxury accommodation nearby.

• Best for: families, younger children, marine attractions and visitors staying near Surfers Paradise or Main Beach.
• Top things to do: Enjoy rides, shows, marine exhibits and nearby Main Beach dining.
• Travel tip: Combine Sea World with a visit to The Spit or Marina Mirage if you want a fuller day.

10. Explore The Spit and Main Beach

The Spit is a scenic area at the northern end of the Gold Coast’s main beach strip. It offers ocean views, walking areas, fishing spots, dog-friendly sections, calm Broadwater access and a more open coastal feel than the busier central beaches.

Main Beach is also home to Tedder Avenue dining, Marina Mirage, luxury hotels and easy access to Sea World. It is a good area for first-time visitors who want beaches and dining without the intensity of Surfers Paradise.

• Best for: beach walks, families, couples, photography, dining and a quieter coastal outing.
• Top things to do: Walk The Spit, visit Main Beach, dine near Tedder Avenue, explore Marina Mirage and enjoy sunset by the water.
• Travel tip: The Spit is particularly good for a relaxed morning walk before the day heats up.

11. Discover HOTA, Home of the Arts

HOTA, Home of the Arts, adds a cultural side to a Gold Coast itinerary. Located in Surfers Paradise, it includes galleries, performances, events, outdoor spaces, cinema, dining and city views.

It is a useful option for visitors who want something beyond beaches and theme parks. It also works well on rainy days or when you want a slower afternoon.

• Best for: art lovers, culture, rainy days, couples and relaxed afternoons.
• Top things to do: Visit the gallery, check current exhibitions, enjoy the outdoor precinct and have a drink or meal with views.
• Travel tip: Check the event calendar before your trip, as HOTA often hosts exhibitions, performances and festivals.

12. Go Shopping at Pacific Fair or Harbour Town

The Gold Coast is a strong shopping destination, whether you want designer labels, major retailers, outlet bargains, surfwear or boutique coastal fashion.

Pacific Fair at Broadbeach is one of Queensland’s major shopping centres, with fashion, dining, entertainment and luxury brands. Harbour Town Premium Outlets is popular with bargain hunters and visitors looking for discounted fashion, sportswear and lifestyle brands.

• Best for: shopping, rainy days, families, couples and visitors wanting a break from the beach.
• Top things to do: Shop at Pacific Fair, visit Harbour Town, browse local boutiques in Burleigh and explore beachside markets.
• Travel tip: Pacific Fair is easier if you are staying in Broadbeach; Harbour Town is best with a car, rideshare or planned transfer.

13. Take a Day Trip to Tamborine Mountain

Tamborine Mountain is one of the best hinterland day trips from the Gold Coast. It offers rainforest walks, lookouts, waterfalls, cafes, galleries, wineries, distilleries, fudge shops and the popular Gallery Walk shopping strip.

This is a great option if you want to swap the beach for cooler mountain air and country-style scenery. It suits couples, families and anyone who enjoys scenic drives and relaxed exploring.

• Best for: couples, food lovers, families, scenic drives, rainforest and country atmosphere.
• Top things to do: Walk to Curtis Falls, browse Gallery Walk, visit lookouts, enjoy a winery or distillery stop and explore rainforest sections.
• Travel tip: Self-driving gives you the most flexibility, but guided tours are useful if you do not want to navigate mountain roads.

14. Explore Springbrook National Park

Springbrook National Park is one of the most beautiful nature escapes near the Gold Coast. It is known for rainforest, waterfalls, lookouts, walking tracks and the famous Natural Bridge section.

For first-time visitors, Springbrook offers a completely different side of the region. After a few days of beaches and urban attractions, the cool rainforest, mountain roads and waterfall views feel like a true escape.

• Best for: nature lovers, photographers, walkers, couples and families with older children.
• Top things to do: Visit Natural Bridge, stop at lookouts, walk rainforest tracks and enjoy waterfall scenery.
• Travel tip: Check Queensland Parks alerts before travelling, as wet weather can affect roads, tracks and access.

15. Try a Surf Lesson

The Gold Coast is strongly connected to surf culture, so a beginner surf lesson is a memorable activity for first-time visitors. Lessons are available at several beaches, with instructors choosing conditions suitable for beginners.

If you are not ready to surf, you can still enjoy watching surfers at Burleigh, Snapper Rocks, Kirra or Currumbin Alley. These areas are also great for coastal photography and beach walks.

• Best for: active travellers, teenagers, couples, groups and anyone wanting a classic Gold Coast experience.
• Top things to do: Book a beginner lesson, watch local surfers or take a beach walk along famous surf breaks.
• Travel tip: Always swim between the red and yellow flags and follow lifeguard advice.

16. Cruise the Gold Coast Waterways

The Gold Coast is not just beaches. Its canals, Broadwater and rivers create a different way to experience the region. Cruises, jet boat rides, kayaking, paddleboarding and boat tours are popular options.

A relaxed waterways cruise is ideal for couples and families who want to see the skyline, waterfront homes and calmer side of the coast. More adventurous visitors may prefer jet boating or guided kayak tours.

• Best for: families, couples, skyline views, relaxed sightseeing and water activities.
• Top things to do: Take a canal cruise, try kayaking, join a jet boat ride or explore the Broadwater.
• Travel tip: Book early in busy holiday periods, especially for sunset cruises and popular tour times.

17. Visit Currumbin or Burleigh Markets

Markets are a great way to experience the local side of the Gold Coast. Depending on timing, you may find beachfront markets, farmers markets, fashion markets, food stalls, handmade goods and live music.

Burleigh and Currumbin are particularly good areas for visitors who enjoy local food, creative stalls and relaxed weekend atmosphere.

• Best for: food lovers, shoppers, couples, families and local atmosphere.
• Top things to do: Browse stalls, try local food, shop for gifts and combine the market with a beach walk.
• Travel tip: Check market days and times before you go, as many operate only on selected weekends or evenings.

18. Enjoy Gold Coast Dining and Rooftop Bars

The Gold Coast has a strong dining scene, with everything from beachside cafes and seafood restaurants to rooftop bars, modern Australian dining, Asian eateries and relaxed surf-club meals.

Broadbeach is excellent for variety, Burleigh is great for stylish coastal dining, Surfers Paradise is convenient for nightlife, and Main Beach offers a more polished dining feel. For casual travellers, a surf club meal with ocean views is a classic Gold Coast experience.

• Best for: couples, groups, food lovers, nightlife and relaxed holiday meals.
• Top things to do: Dine in Broadbeach, have drinks in Burleigh, enjoy seafood at Main Beach or try a casual surf-club dinner.
• Travel tip: Book ahead for popular restaurants, especially Friday and Saturday nights.

19. Watch Sunrise or Sunset

The Gold Coast is beautiful at both ends of the day. Sunrise is best enjoyed from the beach, while sunset is often memorable from Burleigh Hill, SkyPoint, The Spit, a rooftop bar or a hinterland lookout.

For first-time visitors, an early morning beach walk is one of the simplest and most rewarding experiences. The light, ocean air and quieter sand give you a calmer version of the Gold Coast before the day gets busy.

• Best for: photographers, couples, walkers, early risers and relaxed travellers.
• Top things to do: Watch sunrise from Surfers Paradise, Burleigh, Currumbin or Coolangatta; watch sunset from Burleigh Hill or SkyPoint.
• Travel tip: Take a light layer in winter, as early mornings and evenings can feel cooler near the water.

20. Add a Whale-Watching Tour in Season

If you visit during whale-watching season, a whale cruise can be one of the most memorable Gold Coast experiences. Tours typically depart from areas such as Main Beach or the Broadwater and head offshore in search of migrating humpback whales.

Whale watching is seasonal, so it will not suit every itinerary, but it is worth considering if your visit lines up with the migration period.

• Best for: wildlife lovers, families, couples and seasonal visitors.
• Top things to do: Join a whale-watching cruise, bring binoculars and allow time for possible sea conditions.
• Travel tip: Choose a morning tour if you are prone to seasickness, and check cancellation or rescheduling policies.

Best Gold Coast Areas for First-Time Visitors

Surfers Paradise

Choose Surfers Paradise if you want the classic Gold Coast experience, easy transport, nightlife, tours, shopping and a central beachfront location.

Broadbeach

Choose Broadbeach if you want restaurants, shopping, beach access and a slightly more relaxed base while still staying central.

Burleigh Heads

Choose Burleigh Heads if you prefer a local, stylish, beach-town atmosphere with excellent cafes, restaurants and coastal walks.

Main Beach

Choose Main Beach if you want a quieter, more polished area close to Sea World, The Spit, Marina Mirage and waterfront dining.

Coolangatta and Kirra

Choose Coolangatta or Kirra if you want a slower southern Gold Coast stay with surf beaches, coastal walks and easy airport access.

Suggested Gold Coast Itineraries for First-Time Visitors

One-Day Gold Coast Highlights

• Morning: Walk along Surfers Paradise Beach and visit SkyPoint Observation Deck.
• Midday: Head to Broadbeach for lunch and a beach swim.
• Afternoon: Visit Burleigh Heads and walk part of Burleigh Head National Park.
• Evening: Watch sunset from Burleigh Hill and have dinner in Burleigh or Broadbeach.

Three-Day Gold Coast First-Timer Itinerary

• Day 1: Surfers Paradise, SkyPoint, Broadbeach and beachside dining.
• Day 2: Theme park day or Sea World, followed by dinner at Main Beach or Surfers Paradise.
• Day 3: Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera Creek, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Coolangatta.

Five-Day Gold Coast Itinerary

• Day 1: Surfers Paradise, SkyPoint and beach walk.
• Day 2: Theme park day at Movie World, Dreamworld, Wet’n’Wild or Sea World.
• Day 3: Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera Creek and southern beaches.
• Day 4: Tamborine Mountain or Springbrook National Park day trip.
• Day 5: Shopping, HOTA, waterways cruise, markets or a relaxed beach day.

Seven-Day Gold Coast Holiday

• Days 1-2: Settle into Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach, visit SkyPoint and enjoy beach time.
• Day 3: Theme park day.
• Day 4: Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera Creek and Currumbin.
• Day 5: Springbrook National Park or Tamborine Mountain.
• Day 6: Southern Gold Coast, Coolangatta, Kirra and Snapper Rocks.
• Day 7: Shopping, HOTA, markets, waterfront dining or a final beach morning.

Travel Tips for First-Time Gold Coast Visitors

• Stay near the G:link light rail if you do not have a car: Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Southport are convenient bases for public transport.
• Swim between the flags: Gold Coast beaches can have strong surf and rips, so always follow lifeguard instructions.
• Book theme park tickets ahead: Online tickets and multi-park passes may save time and money.
• Allow time for traffic: Roads can be busy during school holidays, weekends and major events.
• Visit popular beaches early: Burleigh, Tallebudgera and Currumbin can get very busy on warm weekends.
• Pack for both beach and hinterland: Bring swimwear, sunscreen, walking shoes, a hat and a light layer for cooler mountain areas.
• Check weather before hinterland trips: Rain can affect visibility, waterfalls, roads and walking tracks.
• Do not only stay in Surfers Paradise: Make time for Burleigh, Currumbin, Coolangatta, the hinterland and the waterways.
• Book restaurants for weekends: Popular places in Broadbeach and Burleigh can fill quickly.
• Plan around your travel style: Families may prefer theme parks and wildlife attractions, while couples may prefer Burleigh, Broadbeach, Tamborine Mountain and sunset viewpoints.

Best Things to Do by Travel Style

Best for Families

• Visit Sea World, Movie World, Dreamworld or Wet’n’Wild.
• Spend a day at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Swim at Tallebudgera Creek.
• Explore Broadwater Parklands.
• Enjoy easy beach time at Broadbeach or Coolangatta.

Best for Couples

• Watch sunset from Burleigh Hill.
• Have dinner in Broadbeach or Burleigh.
• Take a day trip to Tamborine Mountain.
• Visit SkyPoint at sunset.
• Book a relaxed waterways cruise.

Best for Nature Lovers

• Walk Burleigh Head National Park.
• Visit Springbrook National Park.
• Explore Tamborine Mountain rainforest walks.
• Swim or paddle at Currumbin Creek or Tallebudgera Creek.
• Walk The Spit and Main Beach coastal areas.

Best for Beach Lovers

• Surfers Paradise for the classic Gold Coast scene.
• Broadbeach for central beach access and dining.
• Burleigh Heads for surf, views and atmosphere.
• Currumbin for creek and beach scenery.
• Coolangatta and Kirra for a relaxed southern Gold Coast feel.

Best for Rainy Days

• Visit Pacific Fair or Harbour Town.
• Explore HOTA, Home of the Arts.
• Enjoy cafes and restaurants in Broadbeach or Burleigh.
• Visit SkyPoint if visibility is still good.
• Book a spa, indoor attraction or entertainment venue.

Final Thoughts

The Gold Coast is an easy destination to love on a first visit because it offers much more than one type of holiday. You can enjoy the energy of Surfers Paradise, the dining and convenience of Broadbeach, the coastal beauty of Burleigh Heads, the calm water of Tallebudgera Creek, the wildlife of Currumbin, the fun of the theme parks and the rainforest scenery of Springbrook or Tamborine Mountain.

For the best first-time experience, do not try to rush everything. Choose a base that suits your travel style, spend time at the beach, visit at least one viewpoint, explore one southern coastal area and add either a theme park or hinterland day trip.

Whether you are travelling as a couple, family, solo visitor or group of friends, the Gold Coast offers a sunny, active and memorable introduction to Queensland’s coastal lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number one thing to do on the Gold Coast for first-time visitors?

For most first-time visitors, the best place to start is Surfers Paradise Beach, followed by SkyPoint Observation Deck for views over the coastline. This gives you the classic Gold Coast experience and helps you understand the layout of the region.

How many days do you need on the Gold Coast?

Three days is enough for a quick first visit covering Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads and one major attraction. Five to seven days is better if you want to include theme parks, Currumbin, Coolangatta, Tamborine Mountain or Springbrook National Park.

Where should first-time visitors stay on the Gold Coast?

Surfers Paradise is best for convenience, nightlife and classic Gold Coast energy. Broadbeach is ideal for dining, shopping and a slightly more relaxed central base. Burleigh Heads suits visitors who prefer a stylish local beach-town feel, while Coolangatta is better for a quieter southern stay.

Is Surfers Paradise worth visiting?

Yes, Surfers Paradise is worth visiting, especially on a first Gold Coast trip. It has the famous beach, skyline, restaurants, shopping, nightlife and attractions. Even if you stay elsewhere, it is worth visiting for a walk, swim or SkyPoint view.

What are the best free things to do on the Gold Coast?

Great free things to do include walking along Surfers Paradise Beach, visiting Burleigh Hill, exploring Burleigh Head National Park, swimming at patrolled beaches, walking The Spit, enjoying Coolangatta’s coastal paths and visiting local markets where entry is free.

Are the Gold Coast theme parks worth it?

Yes, the Gold Coast theme parks are worth it if you enjoy rides, shows, water parks or family attractions. Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild and Dreamworld each offer a different experience, so choose based on your group’s interests.

What is the best beach on the Gold Coast?

There is no single best beach for everyone. Surfers Paradise is best for the classic holiday scene, Broadbeach is convenient and central, Burleigh Heads has atmosphere and views, Tallebudgera Creek is great for calm swimming, and Coolangatta is ideal for a more relaxed southern beach experience.

Can you visit the Gold Coast without a car?

Yes, you can visit the Gold Coast without a car, especially if you stay near the G:link light rail route in Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach or Southport. However, a car or organised tour is useful for Tamborine Mountain, Springbrook National Park and some theme parks.

What is the best time to visit the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast is popular year-round. Spring and autumn are especially pleasant, with warm weather and fewer peak-season crowds. Summer is great for beach holidays but can be hot, humid and busy during school holidays. Winter is mild and often suitable for walking, dining and sightseeing.

What should I do on the Gold Coast if it rains?

On rainy days, visit Pacific Fair, Harbour Town, HOTA, indoor entertainment venues, cafes, restaurants or SkyPoint if visibility is good. You can also use the day for shopping, spa treatments or a relaxed long lunch.

Is the Gold Coast good for families?

Yes, the Gold Coast is one of Australia’s best family holiday destinations. Families can enjoy theme parks, patrolled beaches, wildlife attractions, playgrounds, calm-water swimming spots, shopping centres and family-friendly accommodation.

Is the Gold Coast good for couples?

Yes, couples can enjoy beach walks, rooftop bars, sunset views, coastal dining, spa experiences, hinterland day trips, wineries, rainforest walks and relaxed stays in Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, Main Beach or Coolangatta.

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Best Things to Do on the Gold Coast for First-Time Visitors

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Discover the best things to do on the Gold Coast for first-time visitors, including Surfers Paradise, SkyPoint, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, Currumbin, theme parks, beaches, hinterland day trips and travel tips.