Popular Gold Coast attractions to add to your bucket list this winter
With balmy weather all year round, the Gold Coast is the ideal destination to visit in even the cooler months. Temperature averages a glorious 21.5°C, which is perfect for exploring the myriad of attractions, national parks and beaches. It's also when we enjoy beautifully refreshing early mornings and late evenings as well as fewer crowds.
If you're planning a visit to the region in the next few months, here are some of the best things to do on the Gold Coast this winter.
SkyPoint Surfers Paradise
There’s no view of the Gold Coast quite like the one you get at Sky point, Surfers Paradise. Towering 230m above sea level on top of the Q1 building, panoramic views are a guarantee. For those who want to take their adventure one step further, exit the building on the observation deck on level 77 and climb a further 50m of outdoor stairs to the eagle's nest on top of the building. From here, you’ll enjoy unprecedented views of the Gold Coast coastline, beautiful hinterland and city skyline. After your climb, why not kick back and relax with a well-deserved signature cocktail and something to eat in the highest bar on the Gold Coast.
Warner Bros Movie World
Home to world-class rides, iconic film and TV characters and fun for the whole family, it comes as no surprise that Warner Bros. Movie World is rated as Australia's number one theme park. Climb aboard the Southern hemisphere's longest and fastest Hypercoaster before taking the little ones to a land of Looney Toons, Road Runner and Justice League. Award-winning shows and stunts will wow the crowd while the magical Star parade will give kids a chance to see all of their childhood heroes in one place. Eat, drink, shop and enjoy action-packed rides, parades and experiences for a day that creates memories from the moment you arrive. Better still, with fewer tourists during the winter months, you can spend more time riding and less time queuing.
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre
Located just a few minutes walk from Dorsett Gold Coast, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre is home to more than 400 iconic stores and boutiques set amongst tropical landscapes and fantastic design elements. Stock up on luxury goods, including Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Gucci, or grab a bargain from mega brands such as H&M and Zara. After a long day of shopping, pull up a chair in the Boulevard, and enjoy a well-deserved cocktail and bite to eat. Have the kids in tow? They’ll be more than entertained in Play Street while you recharge your batteries.
Seaworld Marine Park
Another Gold Coast icon well worth a visit during the winter is the marvellous marine-focussed Seaworld. Head to the world beneath the waves to discover a huge variety of marine mammals, fish and biodiversity. More than just another ocean-based marine park, Seaworld is home to endless adventures and experiences. From couple adventures with dolphins to an afternoon of thrilling rides in the New Atlantis theme park and inspiring marine shows to educational exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat and to stock up on souvenirs, everything you need for a memorable day out is included.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
When it comes to things to do in the Gold Coast region, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is definitely one to add to your list. Take advantage of the winter walks, which guide you around the park after dark, letting you get up close to some of the park's rarely-seen nocturnal creatures. If a nighttime adventure seems like too much for the little ones, fear not, as the daytime is equally as amazing. From animal encounters and amazing shows to a fantastic variety of trails, and places to eat and drink and shop. See wombats, Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, crocs, echidnas and hundreds more species of native wildlife. It’s truly an experience like no other.
Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
Make your way into the rainforest canopy as you embark on the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk - a stunning 30 acres of lush rainforest, sparkling rock pools and native wildlife. Make your way around 1.5km of forest floor trails, canopy walkways and a 30m high creek bridge. After you’ve made the most of the skywalk, head indoors to learn more about the dizzying array of flora and fauna found in the rainforest, looking back at the local indigenous history and taking you to life found at the bottom of the creek rock pools. The Birdwing Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy premium tea and coffee, soft drinks and healthy juices with light bites as you overlook the beautiful rainforest below.
Dining & Entertainment
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy the day is with delicious food, a cocktail or two, and time to kick back and relax. The Gold Coast has a varied and popular food scene, covering everything from Thai, Chinese, Indian, Mexican, European and good old-fashioned Australian cuisine. Here are a couple to add to your list to kickstart your food journey.
Nineteen at The Star - Indulge all of your senses in a gastronomic journey with stunning views of the glittering Gold Coast. Chef Uday Huja serves up exquisite dishes in this world-class rooftop bar and restaurant, with chilled seafood, luxurious caviar, grass fed ribeye, classic European cuisine and desserts, cheese and wines from around the world.
Jin Café & Bar is ideal for pre-dinner nibbles and drinks, serving up sophisticated cocktails, craft beers, fresh coffee, danish pastries and bespoke charcuterie platters. Relax on plush gold couches while perusing the international wine list before enjoying light bites, an amazing atmosphere and next-level service. Perfect for an early morning bite to eat, somewhere to take the weight off your feet in the afternoon, or a place to relax and socialise before a glitzy night out.
The best place to stay on the Gold Coast
With 313 brand-new stylish and elegant rooms in the heart of Broadbeach, Dorsett Gold Coast is the perfect place to get cosy this winter. Make the most of the warm Gold Coast sun at The Star Gold Coast's Isoletto Pool Club, relaxing with a cocktail from the poolside bar. Pamper yourself at Azure Spa & Fitness, then relax in King beds topped with plush bedding, surrounded by all of the lush amenities you could need for a brilliant stay.
Adjacent to Pacific Fair Shopping Centre and the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, and connected to The Star Gold Coast’s world-class entertainment and leisure destination, enjoy authentic hospitality from the moment you check-in.