Top 25 things to do on the Gold Coast

From sunny beaches to rainforest trails and theme park thrills, the Gold Coast is the ultimate place to unwind and explore. Whether you’re planning your first visit or coming back for more, this coastal playground offers something for every kind of traveller. 

Here are 25 of the best things to do on the Gold Coast, from iconic attractions to local favourites that make every moment count. 

Australia’s biggest theme park, Dreamworld, is pure excitement from start to finish. Brave the heart-racing rollercoasters, meet your favourite DreamWorks characters, or visit Tiger Island to meet the park’s most iconic residents. 

My NRMA Rewards members save 10% on Dreamworld tickets and 20% on annual passes, making family fun even better value. 

A Gold Coast icon for more than 70 years, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is where you can get up close to Australia’s most loved wildlife. Hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle a koala, or ride the miniature train through leafy enclosures. Brave visitors can tackle the Treetop Challenge for a bird’s-eye view of the sanctuary.  

My NRMA Rewards members save 15% on Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Tickets and Adventure Park tickets. 

Looking for something fun to do when the weather turns? Game Over Gold Coast keeps the good times rolling, rain or shine. Challenge the family to a few laps around the go-kart track, team up for a laser tag showdown, then conquer the indoor climbing walls together. It’s action-packed, air-conditioned, and guaranteed to wear the kids out in the best way possible. 

My NRMA Rewards members can enjoy 15% off the Go Karting, Laser Tag and Indoor Climbing Combo, making it an easy win for a family adventure. 

Take the lift 230 metres above Surfers Paradise for sweeping views from the beach to the hinterland. Visit SkyPoint during the day for family selfies or come at sunset when the coastline glows golden. Feeling adventurous? Book the SkyPoint Climb, Australia’s highest external building climb. 

My NRMA Rewards members can enjoy 15% off SkyPoint Family Day Passes. 

For a stay that keeps the whole family smiling, NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort is the ultimate base. Nestled between the Gold Coast’s breathtaking Broadwater and Harbour Town Premium Outlets, it’s close to everything yet feels like a world of its own. 

From sunrise to sunset there’s always something to do, with endless activities to keep everyone entertained. Splash around at the waterpark, bounce between pools, tackle the adventure playground or challenge each other to a round of mini golf. Hire e-bikes to explore nearby parks, join in the daily kids’ activities or simply relax with a meal at the licensed Galleons Bistro before a movie under the stars. 

My NRMA Rewards members save 10% year-round on accommodation, 5% on sale rates and enjoy deals like Kids stay and play FREE. Explore the special offers at Treasure Island Holiday Resort. 

Experience the thrill of a safe freefall at iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Step inside a vertical wind tunnel and soar like a skydiver. It’s exhilarating, completely controlled, and open to kids as young as three. A must-try Gold Coast activity for families looking for something different. 

My NRMA Rewards members save 15% on iFLY Gold Coast experiences. 

See the city sparkle from the water on a Sea World Cruises buffet dinner cruise. You’ll glide past the skyline while enjoying live music, great food and those unforgettable Gold Coast sunsets. Kids love spotting dolphins along the way, while parents can sit back with a glass in hand. 

My NRMA Rewards members can enjoy 15% off Sea World Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruises. 

Located in Robina Town Centre, ArtVo is an interactive gallery that turns visitors into part of the art. Pose inside 3D murals and optical illusions, from jungle scenes to underwater worlds, and capture some fun family photos. 

My NRMA Rewards members save 15% on ArtVo Gold Coast tickets. 

This creative precinct is where the Gold Coast’s art, culture and food come together. Visit the ever-changing gallery, browse the HOTA markets on weekends, or catch an outdoor film on the lawn. The lakeside location makes it the perfect place to relax and soak up local life. 

Surfers Paradise Beach is classic Gold Coast with golden sand, blue skies and plenty of fun. Start your day with a sunrise swim, hire surfboards for the kids, or walk from Surfers Paradise Beach to Broadbeach, a leisurely stroll lined with markets, cafes and entertainment. 

Just a short drive inland, lush rainforests and waterfalls await. Explore Lamington or Springbrook National Park, where ancient trees, glow-worm caves and lookouts offer a refreshing change of scenery from the coast. 

My NRMA Rewards members can enjoy 15% off the Natural Bridge and Springbrook Waterfalls Tour. 

This small but stunning park sits right by the sea. Follow the ocean track around the headland for views of surfers and sea eagles, then stop at Echo Beach for a quick dip. Finish with a picnic under the trees at Burleigh Hill, one of the coast’s best sunset spots. 

With clear, calm water and golden sand, Tallebudgera Creek is made for families. Hire a paddleboard, kayak or simply float and relax. There’s shady grass for picnics and a safe swimming area for little ones. It’s the perfect spot for a lazy Gold Coast afternoon. 

With gentle surf, beachside parks and ice cream shops galore, Cooly (as locals call it) is all about relaxed coastal charm. Watch surfers at Snapper Rocks, stroll the beachfront path, or grab fish and chips by the water.

Part bus, part boat and completely unique. This amphibious vehicle tours both the city streets and the waterways, offering a fun way to see the sights. Kids love the splashdown moment as the Aqua Duck drives straight into the water. 

My NRMA Rewards members save 15% on Aquaduck Gold Coast City Tour and River Cruise. 

Enjoy dinner and a show that brings the spirit of the outback to life at Australian Outback Spectacular. You'll see incredible horsemanship, live music and storytelling, all while enjoying a hearty three-course meal. 

My NRMA Rewards members can enjoy discounted tickets for the Australian Outback Spectacular Heartland Dinner & Show. 

Even non-golfers love this high-tech driving range with live music and great food. Aim for giant targets and see who in the family scores best. Book a bay at Top Golf for an afternoon of laughs and friendly competition.   

Strap in and take to the skies with Gold Coast Jet Boat & Parasail for unbeatable views of the Broadwater and city skyline. You’ll drift peacefully above the water while the boat below tows you along. It’s thrilling, scenic, and surprisingly calming once you’re up there. 

My NRMA Rewards members save 15% on the Gold Coast Parasail adventure. 

Float peacefully above the hinterland as the first light spills over the mountains with Go Ballooning Gold Coast. Afterwards, enjoy breakfast and champagne at a local vineyard, a romantic morning for couples. 

My NRMA Rewards members can enjoy 15% off Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon Flights. 

Beyond Dreamworld, the Gold Coast is home to Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, Wet’n’Wild and Paradise Country. Whether it’s dolphins, superheroes or farm animals, these parks offer full days of fun for families. A multi-park pass can make it easier and more affordable to experience them all. 

My NRMA Rewards members can save on Gold Coast theme parks 10% with the 7 Day Village Roadshow Theme Park Super Pass, which gives unlimited entry to Sea World, Movie World, Wet’n’Wild, and Paradise Country over seven days. 

Put your problem-solving skills to the test at Padlock'd Escape Rooms. Choose from pirate ships, jungle temples or haunted mansions, and race the clock to break free. It’s a hit with older kids and teens. 

My NRMA Rewards members can enjoy 15% off Escape Room Tickets. 

Hold on tight for a heart-pumping ride across the Gold Coast Broadwater with Paradise Jet Boating. The adventure combines speed, spins and scenic cruising as you glide past islands, sandbanks and luxury waterfront homes. It’s an exhilarating way to see the coast from a whole new angle and guaranteed to get everyone smiling. 

My NRMA Rewards members save 15% on the Paradise Jet Boating 60 Minute Gold Coast Jet Boat Adventure Ride. 

Just a short drive inland, Sirromet combines vineyard views with wine tastings, fine dining and relaxed country charm. Join a guided tour to learn about the winemaking process or simply sip and savour a local drop on the terrace. 

My NRMA Rewards members enjoy 15% off Sirromet Winery Tours and Tastings. 

Find big brands at outlet prices at Harbour Town, just across the road from NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort. With cafes, restaurants and cinemas, it’s easy to turn a quick shopping trip into a relaxed family outing. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, there’s always a bargain to be found. 

Located near Southport and Labrador, Broadwater Parklands is made for slow afternoons. Let the kids cool off in the rock pools or climb the playground, while you enjoy a picnic under the palms. It’s free, easy, and perfectly captures the Gold Coast’s relaxed outdoor lifestyle. 

For just $5 a month, My NRMA Rewards members enjoy exclusive savings on every stay, plus discounts on local attractions and experiences. Join today and start exploring more of Australia for less! 

Whether you’re chasing thrills, wildlife encounters or simply time together by the beach, the Gold Coast is a destination that never runs out of ways to have fun.  

Stay close to it all at NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort, your home base for adventure, relaxation and unforgettable family moments. Choose from cabins, villas, glamping tents or pet-friendly sites, all designed for comfort and connection.