Where to go on the Gold Coast

Brooke Campbell thinks she has one of the best jobs going. A business events professional for over 15 years, Brooke’s gained experience in Australia and New Zealand. In 2023, she moved from Melbourne to take on the role of Director of Business Events at Experience Gold Coast. “There’s a reason this city has a reputation as the lifestyle capital of Australia”, she says. “The destination, industry and the experiences we offer here on the Gold Coast; I am in awe. The Gold Coast is a premier events and arts and cultural destination.”

What’s new on the Gold Coast?

There is always something new to discover and experience in the Gold Coast. In 2025, the first five-star Mondrian hotel in Australia will open in Burleigh Heads. The second tower of The Star will open as Hyatt Andaz. For dedicated event venues The Homestead at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is definitely top of my list. The new Kirra Beach House is also worth checking out with its incredible coastline views.

When you want to book the restaurant...

The Gold Coast is home to more than 20 hatted restaurants, so it is a foodie fantasy. I know I shouldn’t have favourites but The Tropic in Burleigh for lunch or dinner, is truly Gold Coast. Located on the beach, incredible fresh local food and service to match.

When you want to get out on the water…

Where do I start?!  With 57 km (35.5 miles) of coastline, the Gold Coast’s waterways offer endless options from jet boating to sailing, whale watching and surfing.

For a luxe experience you can’t go past the YOT Club at sunset, with magical views across the Broadwater. Sailing in Paradise is a wonderful experience as well or for adrenaline junkies, the new Arro Jet Boating offers an exhilarating ride. For me, nothing beats Sea World Cruises in whale season to see these majestic animals off the coastline.

When you want to connect with Country...

A visit to the Jellurgal Aboriginal Culture Centre is a must. Discover the rich Indigenous history and culture of the Gold Coast with a guided walking tour of Burleigh Headland with its beachside rainforest. The guides share stories about traditional life, bush tucker, the connection to land and our first nations people.

Where do you go for Arts and Culture?

The Gold Coast has well and truly grown up when it comes to our arts and cultural offering with HOTA, Home of the Arts at the epicentre. This precinct is a vibrant hub of art, entertainment, culture and delicious food. From the HOTA markets on Sunday showcasing local produce, to signature culinary delights at the two-hatted Palette Restaurant, exhibitions in our iconic gallery, live music performances on the Outdoor Stage and family activities around the year; there really is something for everyone.

What’s the Gold Coast’s best kept secret?

The Gold Coast is well known for its beaches but it’s our hinterland that is our hidden gem. There are 100,000 hectares ( 247,105 acres) of world-heritage rainforest just 40-minutes drive from the coast. It has so much to offer: from venues, restaurants, experiences and boutique accommodation, it feels like a holiday.

So, when you head into the Gold Coast hinterland…

Start the day with one of the many walks in the rainforest or to waterfalls, such as the SkyWalk or Curtis Falls, meet and walk with some alpacas at Mountview Alpaca Farm. Then dine at one of the many wineries or breweries, from Tamborine Mountain Distillery to Cedar Creek Estate. Early risers can start the day with a Hot Air Balloon ride to get the best view of the region at sunrise.

A venue for a gala event…

For something a little different, the Gold Coast can host Gala Dinner events for up to 1,000 people at Warner Brothers Movie World. To have a seated dinner in one of our theme parks is very special. 

For larger groups, up to 3,000 people, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in the heart of Broadbeach has hosted many incredible gala dinner events with diverse theming, AV and world class food and beverages to match.

What can visitors look forward to in 2025?

The Gold Coast has a packed and vibrant annual calendar of events, exhibitions and festivals, so it doesn’t matter when you visit, the city is always on! In 2025, we will welcome back the aerial spectacular, Pacific Air Show in August, as well as Gold Coast Marathon and Supercars - major events that can be incorporated into any program. We are also excited to see the opening of the Mondrian Hotel in Burleigh Heads and Star Tower 2 in 2025 offering more 5-star accommodation options for incentive planners.