
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
1. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
A wildlife sanctuary where you can hand-feed kangaroos and interact with koalas. It offers a unique opportunity to get up close with Australia's native animals.
- Hand-feeding Kangaroos: An experience not found in many wildlife sanctuaries.
- Koala Interaction: A chance to hold a koala in a secure and ethical manner.
- Rainforest Setting: Provides a natural habitat for the wildlife, enhancing the overall experience.
2. Springbrook National Park
A lush, verdant rainforest with stunning waterfalls and hiking trails. It's a great place to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature.
- Twin Falls Circuit: A popular trail offering breathtaking views of waterfalls.
- Night-time Glow Worms: An enchanting sight only found in certain parts of the world.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Home to a variety of unique and rare bird species.
3. Purlingbrook Falls
A picturesque waterfall nestled in the heart of the Gold Coast hinterland. It's a great spot for a refreshing swim and a picnic.
- Swimming Opportunities: Uncommon in waterfalls due to safety concerns, but Purlingbrook Falls offers this unique experience.
- Hiking Trails: A network of trails catering to various fitness levels.
- Rainforest Surroundings: Offers a serene and tranquil environment for relaxation.
4. Natural Bridge
A natural limestone arch formation with a waterfall cascading beneath. It's a unique geological feature located in the Springbrook National Park.
- Limestone Arch: A rare and beautiful geological formation.
- Glow Worms: Another enchanting sight unique to this location.
- Birdwatching: A great spot for observing various bird species.
5. Lamington National Park
A vast, untouched rainforest offering numerous hiking trails and stunning views. It's a great place to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Gold Coast.
- Hiking Trails: A network of trails catering to various fitness levels, including the famous 'Coomera Circuit'.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Home to a variety of unique and rare bird species, such as the Albert's Lyrebird.
- Rainforest Setting: Offers a natural habitat for the diverse flora and fauna found in the region.
6. Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
A tree top walkway offering stunning views of the rainforest canopy. It's a unique way to experience the beauty of the Gold Coast hinterland.
- Tree Top Walkway: A rare opportunity to walk among the treetops.
- Birdwatching: An excellent spot for observing various bird species in their natural habitat.
- Rainforest Surroundings: Offers a serene and tranquil environment for relaxation.
7. ArtVo Gold Coast
An interactive art gallery where you can step inside and become part of the artwork. It's a fun and unique experience for all ages.
- Interactive Art Experience: Allows visitors to interact with the artwork in a unique and immersive way.
- Photo Opportunities: Provides plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
- Educational Aspect: Each artwork tells a story or conveys a message, making it an educational experience as well.
8. Picnic Bay on Stradbroke Island
A secluded beach on North Stradbroke Island offering crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing day out.
- Seclusion: A quiet and peaceful beach, unlike many of the busier Gold Coast beaches.
- Crystal-clear Waters: Offers a chance to swim in pristine waters.
- Nature Walks: Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, perfect for leisurely walks.
9. The Wreck at Main Beach
A historic shipwreck located just off the coast of Main Beach. It's a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
- Historic Shipwreck: Provides an insight into Gold Coast's maritime history.
- Snorkeling and Diving Opportunities: A unique opportunity to explore the underwater world.
- Marine Life: Home to a variety of marine life, including fish, turtles, and dolphins.
10. The Hinterland Steam Train Tour
A vintage steam train tour through the Gold Coast hinterland. It's a nostalgic and unique way to explore the region.
- Vintage Steam Train: Provides a nostalgic experience reminiscent of a bygone era.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Gold Coast hinterland.
- Historical Insights: Provides insights into the region's history and development.
11. Currumbin Valley Winery
A small, family-run winery located in the beautiful Currumbin Valley. It's a peaceful and unique place to taste locally produced wines.
- Family-run Winery: A more personal and intimate experience compared to larger wineries.
- Tastings and Tours: Offers wine tastings and tours, providing insights into the winemaking process.
- Peaceful Surroundings: Located in a beautiful valley, offering a tranquil and peaceful environment.
12. Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon Rides
A unique opportunity to float over the Gold Coast landscape in a hot air balloon. It's a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.
- Hot Air Balloon Experience: A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to float over the Gold Coast.
- Sunrise Views: Offers stunning views of the sunrise over the Gold Coast landscape.
- Scenic Views: Provides a bird's eye view of the diverse landscapes of the Gold Coast.
13. Surfers Paradise Love Heart
A giant love heart sculpture located on the beach at Surfers Paradise. It's a popular spot for photos and a unique landmark.
- Giant Love Heart Sculpture: A distinctive and Instagrammable landmark.
- Photo Opportunities: Offers plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.
- Beachfront Location: Located on the beach, providing beautiful views of the ocean.
14. Burleigh Head National Park
A coastal national park offering stunning ocean views, hiking trails, and a variety of wildlife. It's a great place to escape the crowds.
- Coastal Location: Offers breathtaking views of the coast.
- Hiking Trails: A network of trails catering to various fitness levels.
- Wildlife Opportunities: Home to a variety of wildlife, including wallabies and koalas.
15. Gold Coast Spit Fire Museum
A unique museum dedicated to the history of firefighting. It's a great place to learn about the importance of fire safety and the evolution of firefighting equipment.
- Firefighting History: Provides insights into the history of firefighting.
- Educational Aspect: Offers an educational experience about the importance of fire safety.
- Vintage Firetrucks: Houses a collection of vintage firetrucks, providing a glimpse into the past.