Famous for its endless beaches and buzzing nightlife, the Gold Coast is also home to some of the most beautiful hidden gems and local Queensland attractions that you won’t want to miss out on. From stocking up on boutique crafts, designer brands and local goodies to exploring the best beaches and parks loaded with postcard-perfect natural beauty, there’s always something different to enjoy on the Gold Coast.

Dorsett Gold Coast brings 313 stunningly stylish brand-new rooms to guests looking for somewhere special to stay. With direct access to The Star Gold Coast and within close proximity of Pacific Fair, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Surfers Paradise and popular dining, entertainment and attractions, there’s something for everyone.

To help you make the most of your time on the Gold Coast, here are 5 popular attractions that are definitely worth visiting during your stay.

Burleigh Beach

Just a 12-minute drive from Dorsett Gold Coast, Burleigh Beach serves up a much more relaxed atmosphere than many other Gold Coast beaches. Providing gorgeous views of Burleigh Heads National Park and Burleigh Hill, and city skyline views to the south, it’s among the most popular beaches with locals. Spend time soaking up the sun and enjoying a quieter oceanside experience, with fantastic swimming and watersports opportunities on the beach - a picnic always goes down well here.

Another reason for Burleigh Beach’s popularity is its proximity to dining, shops and the Village Markets, as well as being within easy reach of the headland and various natural beauty spots. Mornings and late afternoons are best for those wanting to kick back and relax with a good book and maximum peace. Immerse yourself in the soft, golden sand, warm blue waters, and experience the relaxed vibe of Burleigh.

Don’t forget to visit Burleigh Pavilion for an afternoon cocktail overlooking the beach or Rick Shores for a Moreton Bay Bug Roll - You won’t regret it!

View directions: Open in Google Maps

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Image source: Destination Gold Coast

Kirra Beach

Nestled in the beachside suburb of Coolangatta, Kirra Beach is the second beach on this list to add to your Gold Coast bucket list. Reaching Kirra Beach by car takes less than 30-minutes from Dorsett Gold Coast and it’s well worth the short journey. With its deep, soft, white sand, large grassy areas, and shallow turquoise waters, this hidden gem is a hotspot that Gold Coast locals love to visit. Popular for its typically calm waves, ample parking and laid back atmosphere, it’s the ideal spot for a day at the beach with the family.

Don’t worry about packing a picnic as nearby cafes and places to grab refreshments can be found just off of the beach. If you enjoy leisurely beach walks, head west toward Currumbin where you’ll find the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a fantastic place to get up close and personal with local native wildlife. Heading north from Kirra will take you to Snapper Rocks, which are perfect for rock pooling, swimming and looking back toward Burleigh and Broadbeach.

View directions: Open in Google Maps

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Image source: Destination Gold Coast

Pacific Fair

When it comes to seriously good shopping on the Gold Coast, Pacific Fair is THE place to head to. Located just 650m from Dorsett Gold Coast, Pacific Fair is home to more than 400 stores and restaurants, ranging from designer brands, local boutiques and international cuisine. Open from 9 am to 6 pm 7 days a week, it’s a central hub of retail, dining and entertainment perfect for the whole family. Stock up on luxury brands, including Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton before stopping for a quick caffeine boost at Zarraffa’s.

For those travelling with kids, Play Street and EMF JR provide plenty of space for little ones to enjoy themselves with a variety of fun and entertainment. In the evening, why not grab a movie at the cinema before sitting down to dinner at one of the many upscale restaurants. While stores close at 6 pm, dining runs until around 9 pm. Whether you want to indulge in a spot of retail therapy, enjoy tasty meals or simply escape the heat of the day with a spot of window shopping, there’s nowhere quite like Pacific Fair for it.

View directions: Open in Google Maps

Springbrook National Park

No trip to the Gold Coast would be complete without seeing the natural treasures of Springbrook National Park in person. Wander beneath a canopy of eucalyptus and sub-tropical trees. Enjoy cascading waterfalls and meandering creeks. Explore the wonder of Natural Bridge and its glow worm caves. And take in towering cliffs bejewelled with emerald foliage and bursts of floral colour.

Home to a wide variety of native Queensland wildlife, it’s the perfect place to get up close and personal with amphibians, birds, mammals and insects in their natural environment. Throughout the national park, walking trails guide you through some of the most stunning natural beauty in the state, allowing visitors to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and reconnect with the natural world. Whether visiting for the waterfalls or glow worms, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this little slice of paradise.

View directions: Open in Google Maps

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Image source: Destination Gold Coast

The Village Markets

Twice a month; this ever-popular pop-up market appears in nearby Burleigh Heads, bringing the best of local designers, fashion, jewellery, food and crafts to the area. Located just a quick 10-minute drive from Dorsett Gold Coast, spend an afternoon perusing products created with passion, flair and creativity. More than just a market, the Village Markets are a hub for creative entrepreneurs, culture seekers and lovers of unique products.

With more than 100 individual stalls, along with a great selection of street food and live entertainment, it’s the perfect place to stock up on local goodies, treat your tastebuds and soak up good vibes. After you’re done browsing the boutique stalls, grab something to eat and take cover under the shade of the trees whilst enjoying live music and watching the world go by. The Village Markets open on the first and third Sunday of each month from 8:30 am to 1 pm.

View directions: Open in Google Maps

Image source: Destination Gold Coast

Related: Discover Gold Coast Accommodation for a Girls Weekend Away

Now For Somewhere To Stay

With 313 brand-new stylish and sophisticated rooms, a vibrant poolside accompanied by a sub-tropical recreation deck, and dining options, Dorsett Gold Coast is the ultimate place to stay.

Enjoy a prime location, with easy access to the best things to see and do on the Gold Coast. Located adjacent to the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, and moments away from the best entertainment, relaxation, bars and dining in Broadbeach, make the most of your stay in style.

Ready to take the next step toward your next Gold Coast getaway? Book your stay today.