The Gold Coast is a tropical paradise with world-class surf, stunning beaches and a host of fun attractions. If you want to make the most of your visit, we’ve come up with 8 must-visit places that you can reach with car rentals in Gold Coast.
Theme parks are an obvious draw for visitors. But the city also boasts a thriving wildlife park that’s home to koalas, kangaroos, cotton-top tamarins and more.
1. Dreamworld
Dreamworld is the ultimate theme park experience, offering stacks of rides and attractions to suit all ages. Whether you’re looking to get up close and personal with Australia’s native wildlife or take on adrenaline-pumping thrill rides; this Gold Coast theme park has it all.
Dreamworld’s movie zones also offer daily shows based on hit franchises like Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar. Expect to see characters such as Po and King Julien live on stage, while visitors love snapping pics with the faux-jade lion guards on the spinning rickshaw ride Pandamonium.
Driving to Dreamworld in a rental car can give you the opportunity to take a scenic route and enjoy the beautiful Gold Coast scenery along the way.
2. Snapper Rocks
The rocky outcrops that make up Snapper Rocks are a highlight of Coolangatta’s Rainbow Bay, and this spot is popular with surfers and families alike. You can conveniently get here via a rental car.
The Gold Coast’s iconic Superbank starts at Snapper Rocks and extends through Greenmount Point and Coolangatta Beach. It’s one of the world’s longest wave rides and is a must-visit for surfing enthusiasts.
Gold Coast Car Rentals to visit Snapper Rocks provides the convenience and flexibility to explore the beautiful Gold Coast beaches and nearby attractions on your own schedule.
3. Aussie World Sunshine Coast
Imagine bundling all your favorite things about Australia into one thrilling experience, and you’ll find yourself at Aussie World on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. This theme park boasts a perfect blend of unlimited family and thrill rides, live entertainment, mouth-watering treats, and an abundance of iconic fun that’s sure to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
Aussie World is conveniently situated just a one-hour drive from the Gold Coast, making it an easy and accessible day trip with a rental car. For those planning to stay in the Sunshine Coast, why not make the most of your experience and spend a night at this exciting theme park before returning to the Gold Coast to continue your adventure? With endless activities and entertainment to enjoy, Aussie World is the perfect addition to any Queensland itinerary.
4. Gold Coast Arts Centre
If you’re a fan of theatre and live comedy, head to Gold Coast Arts Centre for a dose of culture. The arts precinct has two cinemas and a lot of other events to offer visitors.
It also has a beautiful art gallery, which is open to the public on weekends and free of charge. It also features a number of exhibitions highlighting local and international artists.
Renting a car to visit the Gold Coast Arts Centre allows you the convenience and flexibility to explore the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene on your own schedule.
5. The Wax Museum
Located in Surfers Paradise itself you can club your visit to The Wax Museum with Gold Coast Arts Centre and that is the advantage of rental cars for The Wax Museum. The Wax Museum is a must-visit for families. It has lifelike wax replicas of celebrities and a Chamber of Horrors that re-creates historical torture techniques from different periods.
The museum features a range of historical and contemporary figures from various fields of art and politics. The figures are crafted by leading local and overseas sculptors to international standards.
6. Coolangatta Beach
Coolangatta Beach, Gold Coast’s southernmost suburb, is a popular spot to soak up the sun, sand and ocean breeze. It also offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
Surfing is one of the most popular activities at Coolangatta Beach, with professional lessons available for all ages. You can also try your hand at water sports such as stand-up paddle boarding and sailboat cruises.
Who says you can’t do it all? Rent a car and hit up the Wax Museum, Gold Coast Arts Centre, and Coolangatta Beach all in one day – just make sure to bring your sunscreen and a sense of adventure!
7. Pacific Fair
Pacific Fair, the largest shopping centre on the Gold Coast, offers a huge range of stores from your favourite high-end brands to casual fashion. It also has plenty of dining options and event cinemas to keep you entertained.
For the kids, there are plenty of activities to keep them busy including a laser tag arena, a bowling alley, dodgem cars and well over 50 arcade games. Then there are the attractions for adults like Dracula’s, where you can get plucked out of a crowd for laughs.
Gold Coast Car Rentals to visit Pacific Fair Shopping Mall provides the convenience to shop ’til you drop and the flexibility to explore other nearby attractions at your own pace.
8. Surfers Paradise
The Gold Coast has become an extremely popular destination for tourists from across the globe. From its world-class theme parks and towering skyscrapers to beautiful beaches and wildlife sanctuaries, it has something for everyone!
While the area is best known for its pounding nightlife and innumerable -rise apartment buildings, it is also home to some amazing activities. For example, a helicopter tour is a must for visitors looking to see the city like never before!
Renting a car ensures that you have the flexibility to bring your own personal items with you, such as a surfboard for catching waves at Surfer’s Paradise beach. Rather than relying on public transportation and possibly having to rent equipment, having your own rental car allows you to easily transport your belongings and enjoy the beach on your own terms.
Pack Your Favourite Tunes for Your Road Trip to Gold Coast
Don’t forget to pack your favorite tunes for your car rental in Gold Coast! There’s nothing like listening to your favorite music while cruising down the highway or exploring the city. Whether you’re into classic rock, pop, country, or hip hop, there’s sure to be something on your playlist to get you in the mood for your trip. And if you’re looking for some new music to discover, be sure to check out our blog article for some recommendations.
The Power of Music – How It Can Change Your Road Trip Experience