WHAT
WHERE
GOLD COAST
Surfers Paradise - Gold Coast
QUINTESSENTIAL GOLD COAST
There's so much more to the Gold Coast than just the well known Surfers Paradise - which in itself has some great gems to explore. Working on the Gold Coast gives an ideal opportunity to look around the stunning countryside and coastline, and make the most of the great climate, enjoy amazing food and get stuck in to exciting adventure pursuits.
ENJOY A GOOD STATISTIC?
The Gold Coast averages 245 days of sunny weather each year. The average rainfall is around 1400mm annually, the majority of which falls in the summer period which runs from December - February. Generally, the Gold Coast temperatures are in the mid 20°C range - Hotter over the summer months.
RIGHT IN THE HEART OF IT
The Gold Coast's famous Surfers Paradise is an astonishing sight. Tall buildings almost on the beach itself, rising into the sky. Shops, bars, restaurants, hotels and businesses; it's the hub of the coast. Wander the streets and check out the places that appeal, or look at one of the sites below to plan out some really special events or adventures.
Check out the Surfers Paradise Beachfront markets, held every Wednesday and Friday night between 5:30pm and 10:00pm. With more than 120 market stalls which stretch across half a kilometre of beachfront promenade, you'll see local artists and crafts people, find gifts and great souvenirs.
THE LONG, LONG COAST
Beaches are plentiful, varied and well utilised by Gold Coast locals as well as the hoards of holiday makers who love coming here every year. Surfers Paradise is one beach but head north or south and you've got a myriad of smaller, seaside towns to explore and beaches to swim, surf, walk and play on. With 57 kilometres of Gold Coast to choose from, you'll always have options galore.
Burleigh Heads is a great place to start. South of Surfers Paradise and north of Coolangatta Airport - the main access point to the Gold Coast; Burleigh is a thriving town with a surf and healthy living culture. Go there for raw-food restaurants and cutting edge healthy juice and smoothie bars. A wonderful market pops up every Saturday morning where you'll find the best in fresh, organic produce, food products, health gurus and natural health and beauty products.
Other key beaches to seek out are Mermaid Beach, Miami Beach and Palm Beach, all south of Surfers Paradise. National parks provide beautiful walks and views up and down the long stretch of coast.
HINTERLAND - EXPLORE & ENJOY
A short drive inland from the broader Gold Coast region opens up a whole new world of sight seeing including small farming villages and markets. Take a car - there are plenty of rental car companies on the Gold Coast that are available for pick up either at the airport, or in the town centres. Drive out and meander, stop for a walk here and there and just enjoy the lush, green, jungle and farmland visible from the many roads that weave up and away from the coast.
FARMERS' MARKETS & PRODUCE
The warm climate here means great produce and wonderful food. Whether in restaurants and cafes, or buying fresh to cook at home, you'll be spoilt for choice, all year long. To make sure you're getting the very best, the freshest and most local food, the farmers' markets are the place to go. Check out the website for details and locations. Go there hungry and enjoy coffee, breakfast or lunch there while you're shopping.
http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/thegoldcoast/farmers-markets-22944.html
TREAT YOURSELF - GWINGANNA LIFESTYLE RETREAT
For some very special nurturing, energising and nourishing, a visit to Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat is a must.... go on, you're worth it!
Gwinganna is situated in tranquil, lush bushland with panoramic views back out to the coast. It offers the very best in organic food, spa treatments, physical activities, talks by inspirational experts and of course, plenty of time to unwind, relax and re-charge.
http://www.gwinganna.com/
Infinity pool at Gwinganna - Swim whilst looking out over the rainforest below
WILD TIMES
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is the place to meet Australian local creatures up close. Cuddle a koala, feed the birds and even a friendly kangaroo. There are didgeridoo performances, sheep shearing, and for the thrill seekers - the Adventure Parc High Ropes Course which comprises of a challenging tree-tops rope course. The sanctuary is a great place for everyone but of course, it's an amazing experience for kids, and a day for them to remember forever.
There are numerous tours on the Gold Coast on the ocean, in the national parks and through the hinterland that you can tap into as well and plenty of information online and in the tourist offices.
SOME USEFUL LINKS (Opens in a new window)
Surfers Paradise - Where to Eat
Trip advisor - Gold Coast & Surfers Paradise Attractions
If you have any tips, ideas and stories to share about life, work or holidays on the Gold Coast, please let us know here.
Thank you,
Nicola
p.s. If you are a Radiologist inspired to work & experience life in on the Gold Coast, Prescript would love to hear from you. Click on 'Connect with Prescript' and you'll have the choice of 'Request a Call'; 'Subscribe for Updates' or 'Register as a Candidate'.