Beach bars, bistros, cafes and restaurants – head to The Strand at Coolangatta or the local Sunday markets (every second Sunday) where all the locals go for the best bargains after taking a dip in the ocean, which is only a stone’s throw away from the main strip. The atmosphere is that of a quieter, laidback coastal town in comparison to the lively Gold Coast, bustling with travellers and locals.

Urban excursion in your rental car from Gold Coast Airport

When you head to the Gold Coast, the incredible weather, surfing, and friendly community welcomes you to – as the name suggests – the central district of Surfer’s Paradise. Boutique shops pop up every few metres on the main strip, and you won’t be lost for finding how to book a diving or snorkelling expedition in the crystal-clear waters off of the coast. If you’re up for an adventure that takes you through these experiences and beyond, you can top off your trip by taking a 1-hour train journey up to Brisbane (for the continued array of seashores).

Within Gold Coast and Coolangatta locations, we recommend checking out Kirra Beach, Rainbow Bay, Nine Mile Reef dive site, Burleigh Heads, Snapper Rocks, skydiving, or Bi-Plane joy rides. Also unearth the ultimate contrast to the flashing lights of the 'Surfer's' centre: the tranquil, local produce driven community on Mount Tamborine and its multitude of nature trails (there are so many options on 'the coast', these are just scratching the surface).

Explorer the greater Gold Coast region in a hire car from Gold Coast Airport

In the greater Queensland region, Coolangatta and the Gold Coast are nestled perfectly on the edge of one of the most eastern locations in Australia. Tropical paradise, expansive outback terrain, lush rainforests – Queensland has it all, justifying its reputation as one of the best holiday destinations. And it has plenty of room for all of this diversity. The State of Queensland itself is five times the size of all of Great Britain and two and a half times bigger than Texas!

The most iconic and famous destination in Queensland is the Great Barrier Reef off of the coast of Cairns. The vibrant corals and abundance of tropical marine life stretches 2000km from top to bottom. Dive, sail, snorkel, and explore on an excursion to see one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.

With some of the most aesthetic scenery, we recommend making the journey to Whitsunday Islands. Without travelling too far from civilization, you’ll feel like you’re in your own paradise. On the mainland, a plethora of beaches (including Airlie, Coral, and Bowen) populate the coast, renowned National Parks are awaiting exploration, and the islands themselves are home to colourful marine habitats and tranquil spots of seclusion.

Other trips we recommend include the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest, Fraser Island, Noosa, Sunshine Coast, Palm Cove, and Hervey Bay.

Keen to Learn More? Read about Coolangatta’s beaches, action-packed adventures, Gold Coast’s amenities, Queensland’s outback, local indigenous culture, and more. Check out our Destination Guides and ‘Places to Visit’ blog featuring captivating Queensland sites. Hire a car from Gold Coast Airport today!