Sure, everyone loves the sandy shores of Surfers Paradise and a good theme park—but if you’re keen to holiday outside the box and immerse yourself in nature and wellness, the Gold Coast is where it's at. We’ve teamed up with Destination Gold Coast to bring you some unique experiences for a truly unforgettable escape.
From tranquil natural spas to the best farmers markets, distilleries and unique stays, here are 7 lush Gold Coast experiences you won’t find in your guidebook.
Stay Amongst Nature
Ditch the city hotel stay, and spend a few nights nestled out in nature. Live out your childhood fantasies and sleep up in the treetops at Gold Coast Tree Houses, or stay amongst over 100 hectares of subtropical rainforest and open woodlands at Cedar Creek Lodges. For something different, prove size doesn’t matter with a luxurious off-grid stay in a Binna Burra Tiny Wild House.
Pamper Yourself
You’re on holiday, right? You deserve a bit of spoiling. Check out Eden Health Retreat for a day of rest and relaxation with some sweeping bush views, or get glowing with a luxe organic facial at Earth + Skin Organic Day Spa. Verandah House Wellness Spa perched up on Tamborine Mountain offers a stunning range of treatments (we recommend the hot stone massage that uses heated volcanic stones to promote deep muscle relaxation), while Soak Bathhouse is perfect for steaming away those stresses with mineral baths, hot spas, cold plunge and traditional dry cedar saunas all designed to assist in proper rest and recovery of the body.
Get Adventurous Outdoors
Pack those sneakers and hit that daily steps count—it’s time for some exploring. Get a reprieve from that glorious Queensland heat with a dive into the Cougal Cascade Swimming Hole where you can float in the crystal clear waters completely immersed in unadulterated natural beauty. Or perhaps head on a Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves tour and meander through the rainforest and caves to admire the beauty and importance of these shining creatures up close and personal.
Learn More About Our Land
Jellurgal Walkabout Tours take their guests on a moving tour through the dreamtime stories associated with the Jellurgal land, weaving through extremely significant cultural sites. Enjoy stories of traditional life, get better acquainted with bush tucker, fishing and hunting, and discover why ecological and language conservation is so important to the Yagambeh people.
Wander Through The Local Markets
Spend a morning admiring some of the spectacular local produce and snack your way through one of the many delicious Gold Coast open air markets. Kick off your weekend with the Friday Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Night Markets, or start your day with the Saturday Burleigh Farmers Markets or the lush Sunday Organic Gold Coast Farmers Markets. If you’re after something a little quirky, take a stroll through the neon-clad Miami Marketta open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night for your street food, live music and vintage fix.
Feast On Fresh Produce
It's no surprised that with the tropical climate that the Gold Coast serves up some serious options when it comes to great spots to eat and drink. Head to Dust Temple for all the coffee, cocktails and art you can handle, or spoil yourself with a visit to Greenhouse Canteen with dishes so delicious you’ll never realise it’s all vegan. After a laid back spot for that morning coffee? Currumbin Harvest is ready to serve up your morning brew surrounded in lush greenery, or take a visit to Freeman’s Organic Farm—a beloved family-owned farm and cafe around since 1915.
Sip Some Of The Local Drops
Uncover the rich history of father-son owned Grandad Jack’s Craft Distillery and sample their craft gin, vodka, whisky and liqueurs, or say hi to the friendly experts at Tamborine Mountain Distillery and sip some of their boutique liqueurs and spirits on a lazy afternoon. More of a beer fan? Balter, Lost Palm, Precinct Brewery or Burleigh Brewing Co are must visits.
Whether you’re a vacay explorer or chiller, the Gold Coast has something for any vibe you’re after. Head to Destination Gold Coast to check out even more incredible experiences to explore on your next sunny visit.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with Destination Gold Coast. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.