Driving through the Gold Coast in Australia: hitting up the best beaches and coastal cities!

The ideal time to visit Brisbane is from April to August to avoid extreme heat. Indeed, this coast of the island welcomes 300 days of sunshine per year, so best to go there when temperatures are relatively pleasing.

While Brisbane city in of itself is not on the coast, it is located along the Brisbane River, which opens onto the ocean just east to the city. It offers memorable island experiences off its coast, such as Moreton Island. Not only is this island  the perfect place to experience exceptional scuba diving in blue lagoon-type waters, swim with wild dolphins, and run down endless dunes, its clear waters also conceal a fascinating shipwreck of 15 navy boats easily accessible right off the beach. You can discover this wonder by boat, kayak or paddle! A truly one of a kind experience. 

Just about an hour south of Brisbane lies the blue lagoon paradise of endless beaches: the Gold Coast. Also known as the tourist capital of Queensland, this city is named the Gold Coast due to its idealistic location, attracting mass tourism.

With a total of 12 beaches, it’s safe to say that you’ll have your pick at the Gold Coast, but the most popular remain Palm Beach, Main Beach, Kirra, and Mermaid Beach. When it comes to picking a surfing village to test out your board, you should opt for the Currumbin, Burleigh Heads (check out the Burleigh Brewing Co.), Broadbeach, Coolangatta, and, last but not least, Surfers Paradise (where beaches extend for more than 10 km). 

There are also plenty of events to partake in during your travels along the Gold Coast, such as the Bleach Festival Blues on Broadbeach (which is free), or make another stop in  Currumbin Beach to witness the spectacular work of artists at the Swell Sculpture Festival, transforming the beach into a blank canvas! 

In need of a quick escapade in nature? No worries, we’ve got you covered. Ditch the coast and head inland Queensland until you reach Lamington and Springbrook National Parks, where you can enjoy peaceful walks or hikes around the Green Mountains, Mount Tamborine or yet again Springbrook to witness mesmerising waterfalls! Well worth the detour.

Last but not least, we have New South Wales’ popular coastal town: Byron Bay. Expect more sandy beaches, quality surf conditions, incredible scuba diving experiences, and - if you’re lucky - you may even spot a humpback whale! Iconic stops to be made here include the Captain Cook Lookout, the Cape Byron Lighthouse, and the Byron Bay Conservation Park. Now there’s the real Aussie experience!