Years ago, family holidays meant riding a bus with other families with an overly upbeat tour guide and some other travel buddies. Sure, it can be stress-free and well-planned – but it could also be awkward and limiting.
Today’s getaway meant driving a hired car. And as you know, Gold Coast is Queensland’s favourite driving destination, and there are many great car rentals available in Gold Coast that attest to that. Just remember to book your ride before you go to reserve and maximize your stay.
Now to remove the chaos out of one of Queensland’s top driving destinations, here are some of the best self-drive itineraries for Gold Coast.
Day 1 – beaching around. Kick-off your Australian vacation by taking a dip in Gold Coast’s acclaimed beaches such as Surfer’s Paradise Beach, Burleigh Heads Beach, Snappers Rocks, Coolangatta Beach, and so much more. There are tons of beaches at your disposal, so you’ll never have a bad place to lay down a blanket.
Day 2 – park escapades. Try pacing yourself financially on day two. Several nature parks are available here. Springbrook National Park boasts waterfalls, camping sites, and tons of wildlife. The Burleigh Head National Park is perfect for a walk through the jungle to see wild animals like bush turkeys and fish, and if you want to cool down in between, you can simply dip in the ocean along the way.
Day 3 – take a trip to see wildlife. Australia’s ecology is one of the most diverse and unique in the world. Kangaroos, koalas, snakes, tropical birds and other species native to Australia can be found at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. You can also experience the indigenous culture and natural history of Australia by going through walking tours and interactive shows.
Day 4 – indoor adventure. For your fourth day, try out some of the best indoor activities available around the Gold Coast area. The classic Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Is at Surfer’s Paradise and offers 15 individually themed galleries where unbelievable shows and exhibits are available. Next, go to the Infinity Attraction just a three-minute walk from Ripley’s. Here you’ll go through 20 maze-like worlds, treated with lights, special effects, and illusions. Perfect for families!
Day 5 – water fun. If you can’t get enough of water surrounding the Gold Coast, you can spend the day trying out some of the area’s extreme water sports. Try out Jetscream Jet Boating or Paradise Jet Boating to get your adrenaline fix while providing a completely safe and scenic tour of the Gold Coast waterways.
Day 6 – experience the thrill. There are numerous sweet theme parks to choose from, everything from Rock Pools to Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World. You can use your sixth day in at Dreamworld, which offers more than 40 rides and attractions. Spend the day trying out different rides or jumping back in line for another go on your favourite one.
Day 7 – souvenir bonanza. No visitor of Gold Coast should ever leave without a souvenir or two to bring home either for display or as a giveaway. If you have some left over in your budget, grab some clothes or neat little knock knacks at the shopping centres around the area. Visit Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre for affordable food, entertainment and shopping. There are others like Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Robina Town Shopping Centre, and the Oasis Shopping Centre.
End Note
Now you have a full 7-day driving itinerary for Gold Coast! Don’t forget to book any car rental available in Gold Coast to make the most of your trip and avoid long commutes. Have fun!
Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. She’s been abroad since 2011 and blogging on Where in the World is Nina? for nearly as long. Nina helps people like you move around the world while making money. She loves talking about how to work abroad and online to travel longer!
nice to read this article great place to visit. there are so many wildlife sanctuaries around the world on of them is jim corbett national park,
india. you can check out here and give some review.
Hopefully, I can visit this coming holiday. I miss this place!
Hopefully!