Stay In The Know With These 7 New Experiences Popping Up In The Gold Coast

With 2022 just a few months away (yikes!), we're looking ahead to the new year for some much-needed hype to combat the post-Christmas blues. A bit premature? Maybe—but when you see what's headlining the 2022 Gold Coast lineup, we have no doubt you'll start to share our excitement.

Set to open even more gateways to good times—Gold Coast Airport's terminal is undergoing a hotly anticipated expansion that will upgrade new year travel plans. Paired with glitzy hotel openings, a scenic bar overlooking the Hinterland and adrenaline-inducing adventures, 2022 is looking like one cracker of a year for the Gold Coast. 

Jet Off From The Gold Coast's Shiny, Expanded Terminal 

Travel on the cards for 2022? Then we have good news for you. Gold Coast Airport is currently in the midst of a massive, multi-level terminal expansion set to double its current size and lead the way to more flights and more destinations. Opening next year, this project is the airport’s way of keeping pace with what has become a growing region and investing in Queensland now and into the future. It incorporates a fresh, modern design that does away with airports of yore by paying homage to the stunning Gold Coast hinterland and Northern NSW region. Featuring six additional gates, the expansion will set the stage for new and returning international and domestic flights—and it couldn’t come at a better time. Want to know what flights are on the cards for 2022 and beyond? Head here to be the first to know about exciting developments and updates. 

Sip Cocktails And Soak In Sprawling Views

Since opening its doors in the expanding Gold Coast Airport Precinct last year, The Rydges has upgraded travel plans with a resort-style atmosphere, beautifully blending manicured outdoor surrounds with a sleek modern interior. Have some time on your hands? Make your way up to the rooftop bar, The Salty Fox and soak in the sprawling views of the Hinterland surrounds, ocean and tarmac with a tipple in hand—we recommend The Foxy Devil cocktail. They also have occasional live music and DJ sets, making it the perfect spot for a prolonged goodbye or long overdue hello. 

Lock In A Night Of Luxury At The Langham

As if you needed another excuse for a road trip, Langham Hospitality Group recently announced the launch of its third luxury hotel on Australian soil. With plans to open in early 2022, The Langham Gold Coast is set on prime real estate in Surfers Paradise, making it the first new development to boast direct beach access in over 30 years. The hotel will be home to 170 serviced apartments, not to mention an all-new pool bar, sky terrace and spa. But the real crown jewel is its incredible eateries, including signature Cantonese restaurant T’ang Court, and lavish high society venue, Palm Court. Whatever your vice, when it comes to The Langham, luxury is guaranteed. 

Appease Your Inner Adrenaline Junkie At Binna Burra Via Ferrata

The iconic Binna Burra Lodge in Lamington National Park has always been renowned for its stunning scenery and exhilarating adventures but suffered a major setback after the 2019-20 bushfire season. Thankfully, the lodge is set for an epic comeback, thanks to the upcoming launch of their Via Ferrata. Italian for ‘iron path,’ Via Ferratas are popular in Europe and consist of towering cliff faces adventurers can scale using steel cables, ladders and other fixed anchors at their disposal. Not for the fainthearted, the Binna Burra Via Ferrata is a gamechanger for adventure tourism on the Gold Coast, promising breathtaking views of the Scenic Rim and a vacation to remember. 

Venture Into Atlantis 

Can’t look past a theme park? Same here. Construction is currently underway at Sea World to extend The New Atlantis precinct, adding two thrill rides to jump on. The Leviathan rollercoaster promises a thundering 90-second question packed with turns, crossers, drops and dips. Not a coaster fan? Take to the skies and defy gravity on the all-new Trident ride— spinning freely 42 meters high, it is the park’s tallest landmark. Due to open next Easter, we'll be first in line. 

Bleach* Festival’s Triumphant Return

If you were left heartbroken by the recent cancellation of The 10th Bleach* Festival, we’re right there with you. But not to worry, they have already confirmed they will be back next year with a solid lineup of extraordinary artists and local legends ready to go. 

Shop Your Way Through The Lanes Retail Village

Set to open in late next year The Lanes Retail Village, an $82 million project, will transform The Lakes precinct with a slew of retail lanes spliced with a fresh food market hall, cafes, restaurants, and a dedicated health and well-being precinct. The village will be the first major shopping centre to open in central suburbs since Robina Town Centre—which opened in 1996. Bring it on.  

The countdown to 2022 is officially on. With so many exciting additions to the Gold Coast Airport yet to be announced, head here to keep up to date with the expansion’s exciting developments. 

Editor’s Note: This article is sponsored by Queensland Airports and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

Image credit: Supplied, WanderPods, Brisbane Development on Instagram.