Local Customs & Etiquette in Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

1. Beach Etiquette

Respecting other beachgoers' space and keeping the beach clean is essential. Gold Coast beaches are popular, so it's important to share the space.

Sharing Space: Be mindful of other beach users when setting up your area.
Cleanliness: Dispose of waste properly and help keep the beach clean.
Respectful Noise Levels: Keep noise levels reasonable to ensure a peaceful beach environment.

When surfing, always give priority to those closer to the peak of the wave. It's essential to be courteous and aware of other surfers.

Priority: Always yield to surfers who are closer to the breaking point of the wave.
Awareness: Be aware of other surfers and avoid collisions.
Patience: Wait your turn when multiple surfers are waiting for a wave.

In Gold Coast restaurants, it's customary to tip waitstaff, and a reservation is often required for popular eateries.

Tipping: A 10% service charge is usually added to bills, but additional tips are appreciated.
Reservations: Make a reservation in advance for popular restaurants, especially during peak hours.
Dining Times: Restaurants typically serve lunch from noon until late afternoon, and dinner from around 6 pm.

In Gold Coast shopping centers, it's common to haggle for better prices at markets. However, in regular stores, prices are fixed.

Haggling: It's acceptable to negotiate prices at markets but not in standard retail stores.
Business Hours: Shops typically open from 9 am to 5 pm, with some closing on Sundays.
Sales Tax: Goods and services tax (GST) is included in the displayed price for most items.

Be courteous when using public transport, giving up seats to elderly or disabled passengers.

Buskers are common in Gold Coast, and it's customary to tip them if you enjoy their performance.

Tipping: Tips are not mandatory but appreciated by the busker.
Time of Day: Busking hours vary, but it's common to see them during peak tourist times.
Location: Buskers are usually found in busy pedestrian areas and near popular attractions.

Gold Coast is known for its street art. It's essential to appreciate the artwork but not disturb or damage it.

Respecting Artwork: Do not touch, deface, or otherwise harm the artwork.
Photography: Feel free to take photos of the street art but do not trespass on private property.
Supporting Artists: Look for opportunities to support local artists and their work.

Gold Coast nightlife is vibrant. It's essential to be respectful of others and follow the venue rules.

Respect: Treat fellow patrons and staff with courtesy.
Venue Rules: Follow the rules set by each venue, such as age restrictions and dress codes.
Time Management: Know your local laws regarding public intoxication and curfews.

Respect nature and other hikers by staying on marked trails and not littering.

Trail Respect: Stay on marked trails to avoid damaging the environment.
Littering: Dispose of waste properly and don't litter.
Respectful Noise Levels: Keep noise levels low to maintain a peaceful hiking environment.

Gold Coast cafés offer unique and diverse experiences. It's essential to be patient during busy times.

Patience: Expect wait times during peak hours.
Coffee Variety: Experiment with different coffee varieties and brewing methods.
Support Local: Choose independent cafés to support the local community.

Gold Coast hosts many festivals. It's essential to be respectful of others and follow the festival rules.

Respect: Treat fellow festival-goers and staff with courtesy.
Festival Rules: Follow the rules set by each festival, such as age restrictions and dress codes.
Crowd Management: Be aware of crowd movements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Attending local events is a great way to immerse yourself in the Gold Coast culture. It's essential to be respectful and follow event guidelines.

Respect: Treat fellow attendees and organizers with courtesy.
Event Guidelines: Follow the rules set by each event, such as age restrictions and dress codes.
Participation: Participate in activities or workshops when appropriate.

Gold Coast beaches are beautiful but can be dangerous. Always follow lifeguard instructions and swim between the flags.

Lifeguard Instructions: Always listen to and obey lifeguards.
Swim Between Flags: Swim only in areas patrolled by lifeguards.
Rip Current Awareness: Know the signs of a rip current and how to escape if caught in one.

Gold Coast offers delicious street food. It's essential to be patient during peak times and mindful of local customs.

Patience: Expect wait times during peak hours.
Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions when enjoying street food.
Hygiene: Ensure the food is properly prepared and served in a hygienic environment.

Gold Coast has many public pools. It's essential to follow the rules and be courteous to other swimmers.