Gold Coast FAQs

Travel Information

Where is the Gold Coast?

Australia's Gold Coast is located in the south-east corner of Queensland, Australia - 80km south of State capital Brisbane. The region is 5000sqkm.

Why should I visit the Gold Coast?

Where do we start?

- More than 70km of open coastline with white beaches and rolling Pacific Ocean.

- One of Australia's most ecologically diverse regions with more than 100,000ha of World Heritage Listed rainforest.

- Sophistication and culture with the world's only Versace resort, more than 40 golf courses, hundreds of restaurants and more than 65,000 bed spaces.

- In ONE day the ability to see genuine Australian rural towns, rich rainforest, beaches, uninhabited islands and finish with a cabaret, show or nightclub visit.

You'll just have to come and see for yourself.

I'm a first-time visitor. What can I expect in the Gold Coast/Queensland/Australia?

Australia is one of the world's most multi-cultural communities. People from all over the world have chosen the Gold Coast as home. There's a sophisticated network of services for the international visitor, a huge choice of cuisine and places of worship. Australians are well travelled and you'll be surprised at the level of sophistication.

Australia has a stable democracy with a buoyant economy with sophisticated telecommunications and infrastructure, high quality medical services, a well-ordered society. Expect the trip of a lifetime.

What is available for children?

Fun isn't just restricted to children. Sure, there's some of the largest and most varied theme parks in the southern hemisphere; hundreds of parks, bikeways, beaches and playgrounds open free year-round; accommodation with children's playgrounds and holiday activities. There's also extensive professional child care facilities - so adults can play.

Can I visit the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney from the Gold Coast?

Yes, but you'll have to fly. It is possible to do a one-day scenic flight from the Gold Coast to the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef and return in one day. There are frequent air services to Sydney and other major cities in Australia - see Airports.

What do I bring?

Bring plenty of room in your luggage to stock up on shopping - Australia's Gold Coast has major surf labels, authentic Aboriginal art works and modern art, some of the nation's largest duty free store and fashion labels. Bring swimwear, bring a smile and an attitude to enjoy yourself!

What do you mean by Very GC?

Very GC is Gold Coast Tourism's creative marketing strategy. The $2.6 million campaign features highly stylised illustrations, smart animation and a swinging upbeat soundtrack featuring Beyond the Sea. The campaign is designed to promote a variety of Gold Coast experiences and industries in a vibrant, fun and light tone showcasing the destination's sophistication, style and unbeatable lifestyle. The campaign was launched November 2004. Gold Coast Tourism is the official marketing body for the Gold Coast region including Beaudesert Shire.