9 Incredible Outdoor Activities On The Gold Coast

It’s all in the name…. The Gold Coast is world renowned for being a place to sit back on the beach and enjoy the fresh sea air. But there’s way more on offer for visitors to this part of the world. While those pristine sands and rolling waves do make the ideal spot to sip cocktails and watch the sunset, there’s so much more that this top holiday destination can offer holidaymakers from all walks of life.

Adrenaline junkies, nature lovers and parents scrambling for some activities to keep the kids entertained will all find something for them on this list. So get inspired, and discover the lesser known gems of the Gold Coast.

1. Try the TreeTop Challenge

This outdoor adventure centre lets you scamper about the upper reaches of unspoilt bushlands.There are flying foxes, a giant Tarzan swing, and suspended bridges all spread out over 10 acres of untouched nature. While you’ll be safe and strapped in with qualified instructors, your heart will race during this active adventure! Anyone over the age of seven can experience the TreeTop Challenge. Get set to enjoy the fresh forest air on your face as you sail along one of the 130m flying foxes!

2. Explore the love heart pool at Killarney Glen

This heart-shaped natural pool in Killarney Glen in Lower Beechmont is guaranteed Instagram likes and a picturesque Gold Coast day trip all in one. Located about a 45 minute drive from the Gold Coast, it’s part of a series of jade green creeks and swimming pools at a public recreation area. This love heart swimming hole is lots of fun to explore, and the rest of the park is gorgeous, too. While the heart pool can get crowded on weekends and school holidays, there are lots of other more secluded swimming spots at Killarney Glen.

3. You’ll love the Lamington National Park

Part of the most extensive subtropical rainforest in the world, Lamington National Park is where to head for nature walks and hikes with paths fringed by ferns and surrounded by the glorious greenery of the Hinterland. There’s a trail for every level of stamina and magnificent sites, including caves, valley views and a Tree Top Walkway on a suspended bridge.

4. Take a hot air balloon over the Hinterland

The coast may be known for its golden colour, but the landscape is a lush green that’s hard to forget. Hot air balloon rides are available over the Gold Coast Hinterland, and it’s a wonderful way to start the day. They tend to leave just before sunrise so you can watch the beauty of the day unfold, with green rolling fields beneath you and the coast in the distance. Fancy a picturesque picnic? This is your spot.

5. Visit the quaint town of Jacob’s Well

The Gold Coast may known for its bright lights, but Jacob’s Well is a great way to slow down the pace and enjoy some small town vibes. Halfway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, this river town has excellent fishing and boating on offer. You can also explore some beautiful islands on the river’s inlet.

6. Have a day out bike riding

Each hood in the Gold Coast has its own unique flavour, and bikes are a great way to explore them. Hang out with surfers or go upmarket in Main Beach – the choice is yours. Stop at a local cafe and enjoy fresh produce while you’re at it. Holidays are a great time to take in simple pleasures and watch the world go by.

7. Head to Bongo Beat at Burleigh

Love music and a carefree festival atmosphere? Every Sunday at Burleigh Heads there’s a free for all jam session at Justin’s Park. Think dancing, singing and chilled vibes. Get a taste of the local community and enjoy some local Gold Coast music for free.

8. Meet some native Australian animals at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Families and animals lovers will love meeting and greeting koalas, kangaroos, local birdlife and more at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also treetop rope courses as well. The combination of an adventure and cute animals makes this the ideal spot to take kids on the Gold Coast.

9. Try some free yoga

Had enough of kids yelling at theme parks and the thumping nightlife? Take a breathe in and relax at a free yoga class, run by the Australian School of Meditation.

Plan your next visit

There is a lot more to do on the Gold Coast beyond lying on the beach and enjoying the surf, so if you’re planning a trip, be sure to do some research and include some of these amazing outdoor activities in your itinerary.