You’ve got twenty bucks burning a hole in your pocket and you don’t know how to spend it. Said no one, ever. After all, money doesn’t grow on trees, at least not on the Gold Coast, so the more fun you can have for less, the better.
Is your bank account significantly lower after birthdays, events, shopping and, well, everything? Us too. With that in mind, we’ve foraged together 50 awesome things to do on the Gold Coast in 2023 that are fun, sometimes tasty and maybe even free. You and your bank account can thank us later.
Play Mini Golf At Holey Moley
You can order an espresso martini with a side of golf? Now that's winning. Holey Moley is where cocktails and bar snacks collide with crazy putt putt golf and good times galore. Located in Surfers Paradise, nine holes here will set you back $12 per person, just bring extra cash for beers and burgs.
Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
One of all-time favourite free things to do on the Gold Coast, no matter what your age, is the free lorikeet feeding sessions at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (daily at 8am and 4pm). These colourful critters are seriously wild.
Sip Your Way Through A Brewery Crawl
If you love beer, you don’t need a fat wallet to explore Gold Coast’s burgeoning craft beer scene. Soak up the brewhouse atmosphere and order a tipple from each brewery—starting with Balter, before moving north to Burleigh Brewing, Black Hops and Miami's Precinct Brewing, Hard FIZZ HQ and Lost Palms. Fridays through Sundays are your best bet if you want to hit them all.
Check Out A Local Farm
Get your hands dirty with you-pick veggies and fresh produce from these fertile farms in the region. It’s one of the best things to do on the Gold Coast and will cost you next to nada. Did someone say sunflower selfies? Now that's perfect Insta-pimpin' content.
Fill Your Bags At A Local Market
Speaking of markets, Gold Coast is home to a ridiculously large selection, and is without question one of the best things to do on the Gold Coast if you’re on a budget. For cheap street eats, vintage finds, free live entertainment and all those feel-good community vibes, start with this list of some of the Gold Coast's best monthly markets.
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Lace Up For A Bush Walk
Image Credit: O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat | TEQ
Lace up your sneakers and explore any of these incredible national parks in our immediate backyard. While you’re at it, these stellar local bush walks will get you amongst nature—‘cause the best things in life are free.
Throw Back Brews At A Surf Club
One of our all-time fave things to do on the Gold Coast when you're on a budget? Snag one of the best seats in the house for drinks and a cheap pub meal at the characterful old Rainbow Bay Surf Club. Knock back the cheapest pot of Balter in town, with views over the same surf break where the legendary shark-punching world champ Mick Fanning got his water wings.
Get Back To Nature At Currumbin Valley Harvest
Warm up with a steamy pot of herbal tea (with lemon, mint and ginger plucked fresh from the garden) at Currumbin Valley Harvest, open Saturday from 7am to 1pm and Sunday from 9am to 1pm. Or climb Tomewin Range for coffee and homemade cake with killer views at Freeman’s Organic Farm. It’s one of our favourite cheap things to do on the Gold Coast if you’re on a budget.
Soak Up Rays At The Beach
Image Credit: Southern Gold Coast Beach | Brooke Darling Photography
Go to the beach. Duh. With literally dozens of sandy spots the entire length of the city, what better way to spend a cash-free day than with a good book and a beach towel? We've rounded up some of our favourite Gold Coast beaches here.
Chow Down On Cheap Eats
Bank account looking dismal until payday? Eat your way through this long list of best cheap eats on the Gold Coast. From Italian to Japanese to just your classic Aussie burger, we're certainly spoiled for choice.
Jump In The Car And Explore Tamborine Mountain
How many times have you stopped to ponder how blessed we are to live just 30 minutes inland from towering ranges bursting with ancient rainforests, waterfalls and wildlife? Consider this your guide to exploring Tamborine Mountain and the surrounding hinterland. Make sure you have a designated driver because the amount of wineries on Tamborine Mountain is downright dangerous.
Find Your Balance On A SUP Board
Water activities? On the Gold Coast? You know it. With boards hired from Currumbin Creek’s Boatshed for just $20 for 1.5 hours, SUP’ing is the perfect activity for your tourist pals. Whether you’re a pro or newly learning, it’s a sure-fire way to create some serious deep-belly chuckles. Or check out these top spots to SUP around the Coast.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth At A Gold Coast Bakery
Image Credit: Rise Bakery | Supplied
Nothing beats a cheap and flaky pastry for brekkie or lunch from one of the best bakeries on the Gold Coast. We love anything from Paddock Bakery, Tarte Bakery, Burleigh Baker and Custard Canteen, just to name a few.
Find Hidden Gold At An Op Shop
Throw a sickie and spend a weekday trawling the best op shops on the Gold Coast. Wanna dress like the locals? Go vintage and you’ll be safe.
Go Chasing Waterfalls
Chase waterfalls, folks. Don’t listen to TLC; getting lost surrounded by nature is the best medicine, always. Check out our favourite waterfalls around the area and beyond.
Smash A Hole In One At Mini Golf
Smash a hole in one at the Gold Coast's best mini golf courses. It's ridiculously cheap; one round at Mermaid Beach Putt Putt will only put you back $19.
Listen To Live Music At Miami Marketta
Binge on your favourite street food at Miami Marketta, which pulls together some of the best ethnic food stalls from across the Coast every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Expect an electric vibe, revolving roster of toe-tapping bands and DJs, multiple cocktail bars, a dessert hall, fashion stalls and a buzzing family-friendly crowd.
Dive Into Cougal Cascades
Image Credit: Cougal Cascades | Brooke Darling Photography
Get wet in Currumbin Valley’s Cougal Cascades. This little slice of paradise is hidden among some lush south east Queensland greenery and is the perfect place to chill out and swim without being attacked by a vicious wave. It's our pick among the best free things to do on the Gold Coast.
Grab Binoculars For Whale Watching
While we pile on the layers in autumn and winter, others are flocking to the warmer Queensland waters in droves. Yes, May to November is whale migration season and you can gawk at these wondrous creatures as they frolic and splash their way north, and then south again come springtime. Our top picks for a free nature show? Burleigh Hill, Point Danger, The Spit and Miami Lookout. Check out the Gold Coast's best whale watching spots.
Watch A Flick At Yatala Drive In Theatre
Scoop up your date or family and head to Yatala Drive-In. Here, a car full of people (max six guests) will set you back just $35, leaving plenty of coin for choc-top ice cream cones.
Host A Sunset Picnic On Burleigh Hill
Image Credit: Burleigh Hill | Instagram
Burleigh Hill is the greatest picnic spot on the Gold Coast and our absolute weekend arvo go-to when guests are in town. Grab a pizza from Justin Lane, fish and chips from The Kiosk or finger-lickingly delicous chips from Freddy's and make sure you've snagged a spot in time for sunset.
Go For A Sunset Cycle
Head out for a sunset bike ride from Main Beach to Burleigh (or vice versa). While everyone else is stuck in traffic racing home from the office, there’s nothing better than winding down with a cruisy pedal along the bike-friendly foreshore. You’ll work up a sweat and be in awe of the gorgeous sunset.
Soak Up Views On A Beautiful Walk
Flick off the thongs for a pair of Nikes and pound the pavement between Kirra and Froggies Beach, or any of these pretty walks. Stunning views and increased heart rate come complimentary.
Hit The Pavement On A Stunning Coastal Walk
Speaking of walks, if you're after strictly oceanfront views then you need to conquer the Gold Coast's best coastal walks. Nothing beats sea breezes and epic views with a side of getting physical.
Set Up A Sunset Picnic
Grab a picnic blanket, your favourite buddies, a phone with some banger playlists, dips, crackers and your unrivalled cheese board skills, then set up a picnic with your friends. Any of these awesome picnic spots will do just fine.
Devour Cheap Tacos On Taco Tuesday
Image Credit: Goodness Gracias | Instagram
Chow down at one of the best cheap Taco Tuesday nights on the Gold Coast and you’ll easily come out on top. Or Tuesday Wednesday, or Tuesday Thursday. We'll take cheap tacos any day.
Pitch A Tent Under The Stars
When you have a backyard as stunning as we do, it would be a crime not to take advantage of its wonder and natural beauty. Sleep under the stars at the Gold Coast's best camping spots and depending on the location, you'll barely have to break a $20.
Strike It Lucky At Bowling
While we're on the topic of highly competitive sports, strike it lucky at the Gold Coast's best bowling joints. We're spoiled with plenty of spots from Coomera all the way to Tweed.
Gather The Squad For Barefoot Bowls
Book into Burleigh Heads Barefoot Bowls on a Sunday from 12pm onwards for fun that even gramps can get into. $10 per person will cover all equipment, as you lounge around with the locals and lap up the savings you’ve made. Bookings essential.
Indulge Your Inner Picasso At Art Galleries
Go appreciate the wealth of artists that call the Gold Coast home at any of these fabulous local galleries. While you're at it, check out all these epic workshops where you can let your creative juices flow.
Scoop It Up At A Local Gelato Store
If there’s one thing Gold Coasters are obsessed with, it is euphoric treats of the frozen variety. We’re talking ice cream and gelato—cold, sweet, delicious goodness which won’t set you back more than $5. We challenge you to lick your way through each of the best ice cream joints on the Gold Coast this summer.
Be Inspired At HOTA Gallery
Image Credit: HOTA Gallery | Supplied
Be inspired by over 4, 400 incredible artworks on display at HOTA Gallery. This stunning gallery is the largest public gallery outside a capital city in Australia, so you can expect it to be absolutely incredible. If budget isn't any issue, you can enjoy views from the rooftop Exhibitionist Bar or indulge in fine-class dining at Palette Restaurant.
Learn About Indigenous History At Jellurgal Centre
Explore the rich Indigenous culture of the Gold Coast at Jellurgal Cultural Centre in Burleigh Heads. At the centre, you can browse the incredible Indigenous artwork, learn about the native Yugambeh Speaking People and be inspired by the traditional customs.
Light It Up At The Glow Worm Caves
Nestled away in picturesque Tamborine Mountain, you’ll find the gorgeous Glow Worm Caves, where thousands of the critters light up these magical caves. For just $15, embark on a guided tour, where you can get close and personal with these bioluminescent creatures.
Test Your Rock Climbing Skills
Lace up and get a full top-to-toe workout with the latest craze—indoor rock climbing. The Gold Coast is packed with prime rock climbing spots, and with climbing sessions costing $15 to $30 (and loads of places offering free trials) this fun activity won’t dig too deep into your wallet.
Try A New Active Hobby
We’re all about wellness and healthy living here on the Gold Coast, so grab your yoga mat and get into your best downward dog with the GCCC’s Active & Healthy Yoga Program. Most weekly yoga sessions are free, with a few costing a gold coin donation, so you’ve got no reason not to get your zen on.
Sip Your Way Around The Gold Coast's Best Distilleries
Sip your way through the abundance of gorgeous distilleries we are blessed with on the Gold Coast. From Granddad Jack’s craft spirits to Wildflower Gin’s botanical gins, a tipple or two won’t set you back too much coin and you can even learn about the spirit distilling process and take a free tour of the distilleries. Bonus.
Dive Into Snorkelling
Get your flippers and snorkelling gear ready to go and explore our stunning home from beneath the surface. Get face deep (for free) and snorkel your way around the Gold Coast’s beautiful blue waters.
Take Snaps At The Most Insta-Worthy Cafes
Image Credit: Tarte Bakery | Brooke Darling Photography
Fulfil your influencer dreams at the most Insta-worthy cafes across the Gold Coast (and trust us, there’s plenty of them). Grab a coffee and snack at one of the many aesthetic AF spots, perfect for pimpin’ your feed.
Find The Gold Coast's Best Pizza
The Gold Coast is home to a bunch of mouth-watering pizza options—enough to sample a different one every day of the week, if you’ve got the dosh. From authentic Italian wood-fired delights to quirky toppings, there’s a slice to suit every taste bud that won’t set you back too much coin.
Indulge In The Gold Coast's Best Hot Chocs
We sure are a sucker for the decadent winer drink of molten chocolate in a mug, AKA a hot chocolate, which is the best treat during the chillier months. Bring out your coin purse and wrap your mitts around the best hot chocolates on the Gold Coast.
Hit The Open Road On A Local Road Trip
Jump in the car, turn the car tunes up to the max and explore eight stunning road trips that showcase the natural wonders right on our doorstep. Most of these roadtrips will take you north towards Brissy, but that's what a roadtrip is all about right? All you need to do is pack the car snacks.
Make New Friends At A Local Run Club
Image Credit: Good Good Running | Instagram
When it comes to fitness, we all run our own race. Perhaps you’re familiar with the elusive runners high, or maybe you only rise to a slow jog when your wheelie bin is nearly too late for the curb. No matter your skill level, experience or interest, the Gold Coast has a supportive run club with your number on it—it's the perfect opportunity to meet new people and set fresh fitness goals.
Fuel Your Green Thumb At Plant Shops
Indoor plants are all the rage right now and we’re first to admit we’re totally obsessed (especially when we can snag a cheapie from a local nursery). Thankfully, the Coast abounds in blossoming garden centres and plant shops which sell every plant you could possibly want, without costing an arm and a leg.
Test Your Knowledge At A Trivia Night
Knowledge is power, so show your date what you’ve got by hitting up one of the many trivia nights around the Coast. Tuesday trivia night goes off at Precinct Brewing, at just $15 entry per team and $20 pizzas all night long.
Pedal Along The Gold Coast's Best Cycling Tracks
Pedal your way through the Gold Coast’s best cycling tracks. Go on, z is in this year.
Dive Into Currumbin Rock Pools
Get wet at the Currumbin Rock Pools. This little piece of paradise is hidden amongst some lush South East Queensland greenery and is the perfect place to chill out and swim without being attacked by a vicious wave.
Explore The Botanic Gardens
Take a stroll through the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens—entry is free and there’s so much to see.
Chow Down On Loaded Burgers
Load up on the Gold Coast’s most epic burgers.
Lace Up And Hit A Running Track
Then lace up and hit the best running tracks on the Gold Coast to counteract all the burger eating.
Looking for more things to do? Check out:
Main image credit: Tallebudgera Creek | Brooke Darling Photography
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