www.expedia.com/Gold-Coast.d180064.Destination-Travel-Guides Australia’s Gold Coast is in the heart of subtropical Queensland, rife with natural beauty and a human spirit dedicated to vitality, fun, and enjoying life. The skyline of Gold Coast practically dips its toes in the ocean, and much of the area is rich in lush greenery and waterfalls. The north coast of this city began as a vacation retreat in the 1850’s, and maintains its position as the Gold Coast’s heart and soul of entertainment and surfing. Many Gold Coast tours begin in the north and work their way south. The atmosphere in the north is quite bustling, while the south coast has a slower vibe and is a bit more relaxed. Start your trip to Gold Coast with a trip to the SkyPoint observation deck, one of the Gold Coast sightseeing gems. The deck grants stunning views of area beaches, parks, and water. Head south to Burleigh Heads next, where you will be met with a national park and ideal surf breaks. This area is known as an aboriginal gathering place. Once you’ve had your fill of sun-soaked activities in Burleigh Head, head even further south to Coolangatta, a gateway for international travelers and home to the likes of sheltered beaches, a river, and plenty of shady parkland. Remember that Gold Coast also happens to be the theme park capital of Australia, which helps drive Gold Coast tourism and serves as a nice complement to the lazy beach life also available. After hitting the water for some surf, go to Dreamworld, which is the largest theme park in Australia, and get an adrenaline rush on one of the many rollercoasters. SeaWorld™ and Warner Bros.® Movie World™ are also nearby. Top off your trip down under with a trip to Mount Tamorine, a 30 minute drive inland from the coast. On the ridge of a volcano, Mount Tamborine offers a bounty rainforest trails and you can sip on local wines in Tamborine Village. What will you do on your next trip to the Gold Coast? Visit our Gold Coast travel guide page for more information or to plan your next vacation! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Follow us on social media: Twitter: twitter.com/Expedia Facebook: www.facebook.com/expedia Instagram: instagram.com/expedia Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/Expedia/ Google+: plus.google.com/+Expedia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Follow us on our travel blog, Viewfinder: viewfinder.expedia.com/