Top Things to Do on the Gold Coast

Broadbeach: The heart of the Gold Coast

Staying at Oceana on Broadbeach means waking up in the heart of the action — where some of the Gold Coast’s most iconic experiences are just a stroll away. No car required.

Step outside and you’re moments from The Star Gold Coast, where fine dining, live entertainment, and the thrill of the casino await. Just around the corner, the dazzling shows at Dracula’s Cabaret and the high-energy glamour of Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub promise unforgettable nights out. By day, explore Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, one of the largest luxury retail destinations in the country, or take it easy with beachside dining, boutique browsing, and spa treatments around The Oracle and Surf Parade. And of course, there’s Kurrawa Beach — golden sand, rolling surf, and coastal walks, just footsteps from your apartment.

The best part? You don’t have to stop there. Broadbeach is also the perfect launchpad for discovering the rest of the Gold Coast.
Catch the G:link light rail for a car-free day out in Surfers Paradise or head to Southport, Main Beach, and even Helensvale — all without the stress of parking. Prefer to cruise? The Hopo ferry offers a scenic and relaxing way to explore from the water, connecting you to stops like HOTA, Marina Mirage, and Broadwater Parklands.

Whether you’re looking to explore Broadbeach’s vibrant local scene or planning big-ticket day trips across the region, Oceana puts it all within easy reach.

See more local favourites on our Broadbeach Things to Do page.

Theme parks & family adventure

Nature, Parks & The Gold Coast Hinterland

Surfers Paradise

Gold Coast Events

Dreamworld & WhiteWater World

The ultimate combo for thrill seekers and water lovers. Enjoy adrenaline-pumping rides, wildlife encounters and epic slides all in one day — around 30 minutes north of Broadbeach.

Warner Bros. Movie World

Hollywood on the Gold Coast. Meet your favourite superheroes, scream through roller coasters and catch live stunt shows. A family favourite that’s big on action.

Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast

Cool off at Australia’s biggest water park with giant slides, wave pools and splash zones. Fun for every age — from toddlers to teens to thrill-seeking adults.

sea world

Marine life meets family fun at this coastal park. Think dolphin presentations, penguins, rides and even a monorail — all by the water in Main Beach.

Australian Outback Spectacular

A dinner and show experience like no other. With real horses, special effects and a hearty Aussie meal, this evening event celebrates the spirit of the outback.

Paradise Country

Get a taste of farm life with animal encounters, stockman shows and tractor rides. A great day out for little ones and animal lovers.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle a koala, or watch the famous lorikeet feeding sessions at this lush bushland sanctuary — just 20 minutes south of Oceana.

Burleigh Head National Park

An easy and scenic walk through coastal rainforest with clifftop views over the ocean. Great for early morning walks, dolphin spotting, and sunsets.

Broadwater Parklands & GC Aqua Park

Perfect for families with kids. Splash fountains, playgrounds and an inflatable water park on the Broadwater — plus space to picnic and relax. The Southport Broadwater offers spectacular views for waterfront dining, and the perfect playground for fun on the water.

Gold Coast Hinterland

Venture inland to explore waterfalls, hiking trails and charming mountain villages. Lamington and Springbrook National Parks offer a completely different side of the Coast — all within an hour’s drive.

The Best Gold Coast Beaches

From the calm shores of Tallebudgera Creek to the iconic waves of Surfers Paradise, the Coast’s beaches offer everything from safe swimming to world-class surfing.

SkyPoint Observation Deck

Head to the top of Q1 in Surfers Paradise for jaw-dropping views over the coastline and hinterland. Visit during the day or for sunset drinks in the SkyPoint Bistro & Bar.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Step inside the world of the weird and wonderful with this classic Surfers attraction. Great for curious minds and rainy day fun.

Hijinx Hotel

Not a hotel at all, but an interactive game experience where themed challenge rooms and puzzle-based fun meet Instagrammable moments.

Infinity Attraction

Lose yourself in a futuristic maze of mirrors, lights and mind-bending illusions. A fun, fast-paced indoor experience for all ages.

iFLY Indoor Skydiving

Feel the rush of freefall — no parachute required. This all-weather experience lets you float on air in a controlled wind tunnel.

Don’t Miss the Big Gold Coast Events

From music festivals and surf comps to family celebrations and fireworks, the Gold Coast calendar is packed with energy year-round.

Blues on Broadbeach

One of Australia’s largest free music festivals, Blues on Broadbeach transforms the streets into a soulful, high-energy celebration each May — with beachfront stages, food stalls, and live acts from around the globe.

Magic Millions Carnival

Held every January, this internationally recognised horse racing and sales event includes a prestigious race day at the Gold Coast Turf Club and glamorous events across the city.

Gold Coast 500 (Supercars)

Get ready for high-speed thrills in October as the Supercars roar through the streets of Surfers Paradise. The Gold Coast 500 also features live music, entertainment, and trackside energy you won’t forget.

SeaFire

This explosive event lights up Surfers Paradise with world-class pyrotechnic teams competing in a dramatic fireworks showdown over the ocean. Held annually in winter, SeaFire combines music, lights and beachside energy for one unforgettable night on the Gold Coast. Best of all, it’s completely free.

Be sure to check out upcoming highlights on our Events page.

Groundwater Country Music Festival

This free three-day event in October brings Australia’s best country music stars to Broadbeach. With live performances across parks, streets and bars, it’s where country meets the coast.

Gold Coast Marathon

An iconic winter event held in July, the Gold Coast Marathon offers flat, fast and scenic race courses that attract elite athletes and fun runners from around the world.

Pacific Airshow Gold Coast

A sky-high spectacle over Surfers Paradise beach, this international airshow features jaw-dropping aerobatics, jet flyovers and military aircraft — new to Australia and unlike anything else.

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