Travel Hacks For Your Gold Coast Holiday

Want to make the most of your time on the Gold Coast? We've got you! From top planning tips and what to pack, to some handy apps and money saving hacks, here's how to ace your holiday.  

Download the Experience Gold Coast app

Want to experience everything this city has to offer? There’s an app for that! The Experience Gold Coast app is your ultimate pocket planner. Everything you need to know is in there - from epic events to incredible holiday deals and the best places to eat in each suburb. You can save your favourite spots, build your perfect itinerary and discover new experiences. Download now and start exploring!  

All public transport fares are 50c

The best and most budget friendly way to get around town is on Gold Coast public transport. All public transport fares across Queensland will cost you 50 cents per journey, no matter how far you travel. The 50 cent fare applies to all modes of public transport under the Translink network, including buses, trains, ferries, trams.

Eat a meal at a Surf Club

Gold Coast surf clubs are the quintessential Queensland experience – an absolute must if you love seaside dining, uninterrupted ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere. There’s one in almost every beachside suburb and the local surf club is the place to go for budget-friendly meals and sundowners or social drinks at the end of the day. Casual dress is fine so just throw on some clothes over your swimmers, dust  the sand off and stroll on in.

Score a Holiday Deal

Everyone loves a bargain, and there are plenty of Gold Coast holiday deals available here. From affordable accommodation to family-friendly meal deals, mid-week discounts, seasonal savings and more. Don’t miss out! 

Check out the Gold Coast Accessible Visitors Guide

The Gold Coast is gaining a reputation as one of the most inclusive cities in Australia, with a range of accessible and inclusive events, entertainment, natural areas, tourism experiences and recreational activities for everyone to enjoy. The Gold Coast Accessible Visitors Guide contains detailed accessibility information on tours, attractions,  public transport and accommodation that will help you plan your trip with confidence.

Buy Your Theme Park Tickets Online

If you plan on visiting Gold Coast’s thrilling theme parks (which you definitely should) buying your tickets online will save you some cash. At Dreamworld and White Water World, you’ll save up to $15 off the gate price, and at Village Roadshow Theme Parks (Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet ‘n’ Wild and Paradise Country) you’ll save you to $10. There passes for multiple parks that provide great value as well as accommodation packages where theme park tickets are included - try Sea World Resort and RACV Royal Pines for starters. Find more theme park hacks here.

Catch an incredible event while you’re here

Gold Coast’s event calendar is absolutely packed with dynamic festivals, enthralling performances, top-tier sports and unique cultural events that set the city buzzing. Whether you love food, live music, arts and culture or sports, you’ll find an event to float your boat. Check out some of the major events here or head to this page to search what’s on while you’re in town.

You can visit the Hinterland without a car

No car? No worries! You can still explore the wonders and wilderness of the Gold Coast Hinterland thanks to some brilliant operators who’ll take you on a tour of the region’s highlights from jaw dropping lookouts and ancient rock formations, waterfall walks and local distilleries, wineries and restaurants. Pineapple Tours, Southern Cross Tours and Kiff & Culture can show you the sights, share some local knowledge and ensure an awesome experience along the way.

Stay safe at the beach

Most Gold Coast beaches are patrolled by Surf Life Savers, but not all of them. Don’t go swimming in the ocean, unless it’s between the red and yellow flags at a patrolled beach. The City of Gold Coast has a handy free app that helps you discover details about every beach along the coastline including features, facilities, surfing info and when each beach is patrolled. There’s even live streaming beach cameras so you can check the conditions before you go. 

Outside of summer months, pack layers

Yes, we’re blessed with a sub-tropical climate in this part of the world, but that doesn’t mean it never gets cold. Early mornings and evenings can get chilly in Autumn and Spring. It’s smart to pack layers and so you’re well dressed for varying temperatures. Same goes during winter - you might be wearing a puffer jacket in the morning, but be in a t-shirt by noon. In summer, go for natural fabrics and pieces to throw over your togs or quick dry boardshorts - and prioritise sun safety!