Ultimate Travel Guide: 48 Hours on the Gold Coast

The refreshing coastal city of Southeast Queensland’s sunshiny Gold Coast would surely be on most traveller’s bucket lists. While 48 hours isn’t a lot of time to cover everything, we’re here to present to you our helpful little travel guide so that you can at least tell all your friends that you’ve been to all the essential spots.

DAY ONE

Morning

In summer, it gets bright really early at around 5am. In winter, you get to sleep in a little. Rise with the sun and go for an early morning stroll along the beach at Surfers Paradise – you might be able to catch the wave riders, boogie boarders and kite surfers working their magic over the intense waves of the sea. You might even decide to take a dip, just remember to swim between the flags!

Get some brunch at one of the many beachside cafes along The Esplanade. We recommend Elston, which serves up the likes of smashed avocado and poached eggs on sourdough bread, gluten-free muesli, sweet corn fritters, and smoothies powered up with protein powder.

Afternoon

Head up to SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 for panoramic views of the area. Located 77 floors high, the deck features a cool museum, weather station and lounge bar. At 230 metres above the Surfers Paradise beach, you’ll be able to see the hinterland to the west, Brisbane to the north, New South Wales to the south, and the Pacific Ocean out towards the east. Definitely a view not to be missed!

Night

Check out Robina Town Centre for some great food and shopping options. For dinner, Grill’d offers some unbelievable burgers, made with the freshest produce in Australia. Their Big Queenslander burger stacks up grilled grass-fed lean beef, crispy trim bacon, cheese, a free-range egg, some beetroot, salad leaves, relish and herbed mayonnaise. You won’t want to miss it.

DAY TWO

Morning

Skip breakfast at the hotel and head over to the popular Elephant Rock Cafe at Currumbin. You’ll be treated to the most laid-back vibes ever while you sip on your excellent flat white. Immediately afterwards, walk over to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and spend the rest of your morning exploring the sprawling animal park – you’ll meet lazy kangaroos, lovely koalas, fierce emus and a whole host of other native creatures.

Afternoon

The Gold Coast isn’t just famous for its sparkling beaches. Head up to the mountains for some breathtaking scenery. Tamborine Mountain is a heavenly retreat from the bustle of the city. The drive up the region will offer you views of rolling green hills and farmland full of cattle and horses. For lunch, try The Heritage for some award-winning wines and sophisticated surf and turf dishes.

Night

Take the hour-long drive up north to Brisbane and check out South Bank for some interesting restaurants. The vibe in this built-up city is immensely different from the Gold Coast, but you’ll enjoy all the contrasts regardless. We recommend trying some delightful tapas options at Olé Spanish Restaurant. Goat empanadas and pan-fried scallops, anyone?

Angela Goh

Photos: Angela Goh

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