15 Free Issues to do on the Gold Coast, Queensland: get pleasure from your trip and save in your pockets
Take a break out of your actuality and discover all that this stunning coastal vacation spot has to supply! Whereas South East Queensland is a significant vacationer hub, it’s recognized that the majority actions can include the next price ticket. However surprisingly, there is no such thing as a scarcity of free issues to do on the Gold Coast.
This consists of picturesque hikes, beautiful bike paths, distinctive sights, and unimaginable wildlife experiences. So, for these with an adventurous soul curious to discover town vibes of Gold Coast, we’ll be having a look at a few of the wonderful issues that the budget-friendly of us can get pleasure from.
So, let’s prepare to your subsequent Queensland journey!
Free Issues to do on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is a stretch of utopia that can go away you in awe. It’s not solely blessed with a few of the greatest seashores in Australia, nevertheless it additionally boasts a must-see vacation spot like Surfers Paradise. With its beautiful seashores, clear blue waters, and thriving surf tradition, it’s no marvel why so many guests select to base themselves right here.
However, whereas it’s a stylish place to go to, there are at all times causes to fill in your time with actions that don’t break the financial institution. Subsequently, we’ll begin by itemizing them under!
Pure Bridge
Nestled within the western a part of Springbrook Nationwide Park, the Pure Bridge is extremely simple to get to and a must-see waterfall. In the event you didn’t know, this space is positioned throughout the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage Space.
The park affords guests a picturesque rock formation that has been sculpted and fashioned by the power of the waterfall over the underlying basalt cave. Merely park your automotive simply off the Nerang-Murwillumbah Highway and comply with the simple one-kilometre circuit.
Descend slowly by means of the traditional, lush rainforest, and also you’ll quickly be rewarded with the magnificent Pure Bridge rock arch. Through the day, you’ll be able to spot paradise riflebirds, inexperienced catbirds, and endangered species just like the cascade tree frog and Koalas. Nevertheless, for those who take a guided nocturnal tour, you may get a glimpse of protected glow-worms and micro bats.
Swimming on the many seashores
The Gold Coast is understood for its beautiful seashores and crystal clear waters, and it’s no marvel it’s a vacationer vacation favorite. Whether or not you’re trying to catch some waves, go kayaking, or just absorb the solar with your loved ones, this is without doubt one of the greatest free issues to do on the Gold Coast.
This attractive shoreline runs for about 50 kilometres, and you’ll select between suburbs like Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera, Currumbin, and Miami Seaside. Virtually all open seashores are patrolled by lifeguards seven days every week (Between the Pink and Yellow Flags) and are typically inside strolling distance from most lodging.
There are numerous spots to stake your declare within the sand and watch the waves roll in. So, it’s no shock that these seashores maintain a particular place within the hearts of each locals and guests alike.
Currumbin Rock Swimming pools
There’s no scarcity of native swimming holes on this space, and the Currumbin Rock Swimming pools are fairly in style. It’s tucked away within the serene Currumbin Valley, and you’ll swim within the refreshing freshwater rock swimming pools and take heed to the calming stream.
Households may even admire the picnic tables, grassy river banks, shut parking, and BBQs out there. Plus, make sure you benefit from the 1.6km strolling path by means of the Mount Cougal Nationwide Park, which affords beautiful views of the Currumbin Valley.
Cedar Creek Falls
Are you uninterested in the identical previous routine of sweltering summers spent at crowded seashores and water parks? Then, look no additional than Cedar Creek Falls at Tamborine Mountain.
Surrounded by a towering amphitheatre of rocks and set in opposition to a backdrop of lush tropical rainforests, the swimming pools are nature’s final playground. Right here, you’ll be handled to a symphony of sounds, from the soothing rush of waterfalls to the melodious chirping of birds above.
You’ll have a blast exploring the completely different swimming pools and gushing waterfalls however do be conscious that it may possibly get chilly even within the peak of summer time. Nevertheless, keep in mind that leaping from increased areas is a no-go resulting from hidden rocks, and it’s greatest to go early earlier than the automotive park fills up.
O’Reilly’s Tree High Stroll
The unimaginable O’Reilly’s Tree High Stroll attraction provides guests a singular perspective of the rainforest by permitting them to stroll by means of the cover itself! It was the primary of its sort in Australia, and also you’ll be in awe of the blooming timber and vines, the orchids and ferns, and the various array of birds and animals that decision the treetops their house.
What’s extra, the Tree High Stroll is 180 metres in size, with 9 suspension bridges and commentary decks standing at a dizzying peak of 30 metres. Together with being positioned after a fast and simple 300-metre boardwalk from the customer centre by way of the Booyong Stroll.
Artwork & Craft Markets
In the event you’re on the hunt for distinctive reward concepts or simply need to peruse some regionally made vogue, then try a few of the Arts and Crafts markets. With areas popping up in every single place, you’re sure to stumble throughout one on a weekend. This consists of Surfers Paradise, Helensvale, Carrara, Broadbeach, and Burleigh Heads.
Not solely do they provide all kinds of native arts and crafts, however it’s also possible to discover farmers’ markets and automotive boot gross sales. Browse for inspiration, store for low cost souvenirs, or attempt a scrumptious snack made contemporary from native produce. And the very best half? Reside entertainers set the right, laid-back ambiance as you wander alongside the gorgeous coastal stretch.
Tumgun Lookout
Tumgun Lookout is without doubt one of the greatest views on the Gold Coast and is really easy to get to within the Burleigh Heads Nationwide Park. The lookout pears out throughout the inlet to Tallebudgera Creek and south to Coolangatta or out within the ocean to identify whales.
There’s additionally a pleasant sized platform with a sitting bench on the again, simply good so that you can take all of it in. Though, hold an eye fixed out for wildlife, as you’ll be able to spot Koala’s, native birds, and loads of beaded dragons (lizards).
With a free automotive park mendacity on the finish of Goodwin Terrace, the climb as much as the lookout will take you round fifteen minutes. However for the younger and match, it may take even much less! Nevertheless, there are a number of tracks you’ll be able to comply with round for train, or within the winter, fireflies might be seen at nightfall.
Watch the Lorikeet’s feed.
Lorikeets are one in all Australia’s most vibrant birds, and you’ll admire their magnificence at a feeding close to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Twice a day, at 8 am and 4 pm, guests are handled to the sight of untamed lorikeets flocking to the designated feeding space. Not solely is that this a free exercise, nevertheless it additionally gives an up-close and private expertise with a few of the most pleasant birds on the earth.
The lorikeets have returned to this day by day feeding spot for over 75 years, and it’s a treasured favorite exercise on the Gold Coast. Nevertheless, for a small gold coin donation, you’ll be able to maintain a plate of specifically formulated fowl meals. And, after a small wait of standing nonetheless, they are going to fly in your head, arms, and shoulders, making an attempt to get nearer to the meals.
Whale Recognizing
Do you know that yearly, from June to November, you’ll be able to witness probably the most awe-inspiring pure phenomena proper right here on the Gold Coast? That’s proper, the majestic humpback whales make their approach from Antarctica, previous the nice and cozy Queensland waters, and placed on a present like no different.
Certain, you’ll be able to take a whale-watching tour and see them up shut. However because you’re after the free issues to do on the Gold Coast, know that it received’t value you a single penny to glimpse these magnificent creatures from one of many many elevated lookouts alongside the shoreline. This consists of the Tumgun lookout talked about above or viewing out of your resort balcony.
Stroll the Esplanade
The Gold Coast Oceanway and Esplanade strolling path stretches alongside all of the seashores. With its expansive walkways, picnic services, and seaside showers, this recreation park is the right place to get pleasure from a sunny time out of your resort.
Take a night stroll to observe the sundown or get up to the solar rising over the ocean waters. Most of the locals will use it for day by day train. Plus, with accessibility options, all members of the group can get pleasure from the great thing about this space.
Get a selfie with the Surfers Paradise Signal.
Nothing says “I’ve been to the Gold Coast” than getting your image taken with the Surfers Paradise signal. This well-known landmark has turn into synonymous with the Gold Coast, and capturing it in your photograph will impress your pals and Instagram followers.
It’s positioned on the beachside finish of Cavill Avenue and proper in entrance of the Esplanade driveway. Take it from one facet with the seaside within the background or from the opposite facet with town skyscrapers towering over you. Both approach, it’s a brief and fast factor to do on the Gold Coast.
Purling Brook Falls
In the event you haven’t acquired sufficient of the waterfalls, then Purling Brook Falls might be added to your listing whereas visiting Springbrook Nationwide Park. In the event you’re fortunate sufficient to go in the summertime or after some important rain, the quantity of water coming down can be rather more spectacular.
The entire stroll is about 4 kilometres, and it’ll take a leisurely 2.5 hours to stroll to the underside of the falls and again out once more. Moreover, this can be a fashioned observe however can get muddy and slippery after some rain. Nevertheless, you’ll be able to view the falls from two simple and brief lookout factors from both facet on the prime.
Browsing at Currumbin Seaside
When you can surf in many various locations alongside the Gold Coast, Currumbin Seaside is without doubt one of the extra in style locations. Both seize your personal surfboard and head out into the waters or watch the power and expertise of all of the surfers on the market. Certain, it may possibly get just a little busy, and discovering a park is likely to be difficult, however don’t let that deter you.
What’s glorious about Currumbin is the rolling waves into the creek and accessing the depths from the encircling rocks. Not solely that, however the Surfers Paradise skyline provides for some good views within the background. Nevertheless, for those who don’t know the way to surf, then a Surf College van is parked down right here day by day for these keen vacationers desirous to attempt it out for a cost.
Discover the Pelicans
Pelicans are continuously flying round all around the Gold Coast. However you might be assured to see these large stunning creatures at 1:30 pm day by day outdoors Charis Seafood in Labrador.
Every day, the native seafood store gives a scrumptious meal (Seafood scraps) for the pelicans who name the realm house. It’s a formidable sight to see so many birds collect for his or her day by day feast, and you’ll be taught a bit alongside the way in which from the workers.
These birds are big however surprisingly mild, making for an unforgettable, family-friendly expertise as you stand up shut and private with them. Sadly, the entire course of is over in about ten minutes, however it’s also possible to have some lunch on the takeaway store or go swimming within the lagoon.
Watch the Dawn over the seaside.
The East Coast of Australia is not any higher place to observe the solar cross the horizon over the water. You are able to do this by strolling down the seaside along with your freshly brewed cup of espresso and even out of your resort room balcony.
The air is crisp, the waves are rolling, and also you instantly really feel at peace watching the seagulls flying round. Because the solar slowly rises, the sky transitions from pale blue to fiery oranges and pinks, creating an outstanding view.
Belief that that is one of the simplest ways to begin your day, and after an hour, you’ll be able to wander the streets on the lookout for a breakfast location.
Conclusion – Free issues to do on the Gold Coast
It’s encouraging to know that with some analysis and creativity, many cost-friendly actions could make for an fulfilling keep. Whether or not heading out for a day of seaside combing or an evening of stargazing, this listing of free issues to do on the Gold Coast will hold you on a finances.
Even higher, these stunning areas are readily loved by anybody at any time! So why not be adventurous, attempt one thing new, and expertise the very best of what the Gold Coast affords with out spending greater than crucial?
Visitor bio
Chris Fry is the author and photographer behind Aquarius Traveller, the place she shares her journeys and gives useful data and inspiration to your vacation spot travels. She lives in Australia and has travelled to 36 international locations and in-depth throughout Australia.