LIFE & CULTURE

48 Hours In The Gold Coast: Our Edit For Your Next Weekender

Sunny skies ahead.

A trip to the Gold Coast once meant theme parks, but as adults it’s still a fantastic spot for a weekender. The Queensland region is filled with golden-sand beaches, shopping and chic dining options, making it everything you could ask for when it comes to a girl’s trip.

We visited the area recently to figure out what’s hot. Below are our must-do’s in the Gold Coast.

Stay: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa

JW Marriott

One of the most premium offerings in the Gold Coast, this resort, which is placed perfectly in central Surfers Paradise, is the epitome of luxury. Sky-high rooms look over the lagoon pool and wider Gold Coast region, with comfortable beds and, if you’re lucky, a spa with a view. 

Head down to the lagoon pool and order a Pina Colada – it comes in a coconut, which is exactly what you want when on vacay.

Eat: Rick Shores

rick shores

Positioned right on the beach in Burleigh Heads, Rick Shores does Pan-Asian cuisine in style. It’s THE place to be if you want to be seen, or Instagrammed – you’ve probably spotted the crisp white walls and breezy, open-air interiors on your favourite influencer pages. 

Do: Springbrook National Park

gold coast

An hour’s drive outside of the coastal region of the Gold Coast is Springbrook National Park, a lush rainforest full of cascading waterfalls and calming walks. The Gold Coast Hinterland is a beautiful area that’s often not visited by tourists, so it’s well worth checking out.

Drink: The Island Rooftop

island

What is more Gold Coast than a rooftop bar experience? During the summer months, this is the perfect place to sip a margarita and enjoy the sultry evening air. During winter, rug up and enjoy the heating. 

Related stories