Gold Coast

1. Surfer's Paradise

The most well-known neighbourhood in the city, surfer's paradise is known for its nightlife and is jam-packed with activities, restaurants, and shopping options. For those who love to mingle in large crowds, this is the ideal place to be in the city.

2. Southport

Southport is an easygoing neighbourhood in the city. There are some great shopping centres here, and the shores are home to calmer waters offering a great opportunity for kids and casual swimmers. For those who wish to head out into the ocean, yachts can be hired, which are quite affordable compared to the rest of the city. 

3. Coolangatta

Located close to the airport and away from the city centre, Coolangatta is another peaceful neighbourhood suited for families with kids. There are several secluded beaches nearby to enjoy a relaxing day. For the adventurous, we recommend taking tours to explore Australian wildlife.

4. Broadbeach

Broadbeach is a great place to stay in the city for food lovers. This neighbourhood has plenty of restaurants, cafes, food trucks and hole-in-the-wall joints to satiate any palette and all kinds of hunger pangs. Accessibility is another great reason to stay in Broadbeach, as all the trams begin and start here, making it easy to travel to other parts of the city.

5. Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads is mainly suited for couples and honeymooners. A beach paradise, this neighbourhood has plenty to offer in terms of romantic restaurants and several fantastic shopping options.

1. Save On Travel Costs

Some accommodations provide transport to and from the airport for free. Be sure to check with your hosts or hotel staff.

2. Food Can Be Both Expensive and Cheap

Food options in the city are diverse but costly as well. To save costs, buy sandwiches, or Asian and Indian food, which are generally cheaper than dining at restaurants and large cafes.

3. Book Tours Wisely

It is recommended to book tours or activities through the hotels, your package operators or in larger groups, as the costs can come down significantly depending on the activity or destination.

4. Hostels & AirBnbs Offer Better Deals

It is no surprise that staying in hostels and AirBnbs are a lot more cost-effective than staying in hotels or resorts. Private room hostels and AirBnbs can start from AUD 75-80 and allow guests to cook their own meals.

5. Use Public Transport and Rentals Often

Buses, rails and rentals are your best friends in descending order. Taxis can generally be very expensive even when shared, so it is recommended to try and use the public transport options as much as possible. If heading far out of the city, there are many affordable car rental options available.

• Nightlife on Gold Coast is just like it is with the big Australian cities - energetic and wild.
• Surfers Paradise is the hottest precinct in Gold Coast for that perfect night out, with a young and electric crowd and some of the Gold Coast's best nightclubs such as Shooters, Sin City, The Avenue, Underground, and The Bedroom.
• Broadbeach too has a couple of great clubs and lounges such as Love Nightlife and Platinum Nightclub. But if you're confused and just want to head out for a night of club-hopping, Surfers Paradise is definitely the place to go.
• Always remember to carry your Photo ID, and the LDA in Australia is 18.

• Currency exchange options are aplenty in Gold Coast.
• Services are provided by Crown Currency Exchange, Travel Money Oz, Travelex, and American Express Currency Exchange, among many others.
• The local bank ATMs can also be used.

1. Tipping for good service is a common practice in the city, and the amount of the tip, or even tipping at all, is totally at your discretion.

2. Tap water is safe to drink in the city. Be sure to carry your own water bottle which can also be filled at public drinking taps.

3. Do not carry valuables when heading to the beach. 

4. In case of any emergency dial 000 immediately.