The Gold Coast is unmistakably exciting, with everything from world-class theme parks to family-friendly activities. And when you consider the major events that the city hosts yearly, the Gold Coast is an excellent destination. If, on the other hand, you prefer to visit quiet places and take in natural beauty, the Gold Coast has something for you as well.
Here is a list of outdoor activities you can do on your upcoming trip;
Enjoy an Oceanview Walk at Burleigh Head National Park
Burleigh Heads is a well-known Gold Coast landmark, and this is also where the 27-hectare Burleigh Heads National Park is. You will find beautiful beaches and rocky foreshore, coastal heath, creeks, eucalypt forest, mangroves, pandanus groves, rainforest, and tussock grassland here. During the winter and spring, you may even see humpback whales from the lookouts.
If you want to see the beautiful nature up close and safely, download the walking track maps and follow the access area signs. Always stay on the designated walking paths and behind the barrier fences. Burleigh Head National Park also has two graded walking tracks, each of which is classified according to Australian Standards.
The Oceanview walk is 1.2km one-way and has a grade of 2. The 30-minute oceanview walk track follows the coastline from Tallebudgera Creek to the southern edge of Burleigh Heads township, skirting the rocky headland. At Echo Beach, you can gaze at the tumbled masses of six-sided basalt columns while relaxing by the creek. Once you’re done, you can head back via the same route or via the Rainforest circuit and Tumgun lookout.
The second is known as the Rainforest circuit. This Grade 3 walk is 2.3km and takes approximately 45 minutes. The majority of this trail is flat, but there is a steep section near Tumgun Lookout in the middle. The lookout is an excellent place to spot humpback whales splashing offshore in the winter and spring.
And, before you go, make sure you have everything you need, such as water, a hat, sunscreen, and sun-protective clothing. The climate on the Gold Coast is mild and subtropical. Summer temperatures range from 20 to 28°C, while winter temperatures range from 11 to 21°C. Only day walks are allowed in Burleigh Head National Park.
Meet the fantastic wildlife at David Fleay Wildlife Park
David Fleay Wildlife Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for visitors who want to see and learn about Australia's diverse wildlife. The primary focus of David Fleay Wildlife Park is on Queensland's native species. It includes endangered or rare species and Australia's iconic animals such as emus, kangaroos, koalas, and platypus.
In addition, the park has daily shows that change to ensure that visitors hear more of the wildlife ambassador stories. So, before you come over, double-check the times. Alternatively, you can explore the park on your own by following the wide boardwalks. Take note, David Fleay Wildlife Park is the only place in the world where you can see the shy bridled nailtail wallaby, which was thought to be extinct for over 30 years. So keep an eye out!
Take a Nature walk at Tallebudgera Creek Conservation Park
How does nature walk along Tallebudgera Creek and through mangroves sound? During your walk, you may come across koalas, as well as a variety of native birds and crabs hiding among the mangroves.
This 1.6-kilometre round-trip nature hike is appropriate for people with a moderate fitness level. Take note the walk includes bitumen, a 250-metre boardwalk over the water, a mix of flat and uneven level tracks, and some stairs. This walk can be reached via the David Fleay Wildlife Park car park or Ocean Parade. Just a quick notice. There is only a small amount of parking along this route.
For safety, make sure to visit the Queensland Department of Environment and Science website and download the map of the Tallebudgera Creek walking tracks.
Have a Family Day Out at Ken Mansbridge Park
What about a family day out? Take the kids to Ken Mansbridge Park, a local neighbourhood park across from the Mermaid Surf Life Saving Club. If you see a statue of a mermaid in the garden, her arms outstretched, basking in the sun, then you are at the right place.
Here’s a little history behind the name of the park. There was a drowning along Mermaid Beach in the sixties, but no one raised the alarm. Ken Mansbridge instigated the installation of big cast metal foolproof bells at Nobbys and Mermaid Beaches. He was recognised for his efforts as a lifesaver. In 1994, the Gold Coast's then-mayor, Lex Bell, officially named Ken Mansbridge Park.
Ken Mansbridge Park also has a children's playground, picnic facilities (barbecue, tables, and shelter), and a fitness station. Your furry friends are also welcome, but you must walk them on a leash.
Visit the best children's playground, Laguna Park
Laguna Park, which is well-equipped, is the best children's playground on the Coast. This lovely location has a plethora of interactive and entertaining equipment for children of all ages. Let's begin with Laguna Park's adventure playground.
There's a pirate ship, tons of slides and rockers, a pedal power monorail, funny faces, interactive boards, and tons more for your kids to enjoy. Also, the entire playground is fenced for the little ones’ safety. Moreover, there is a Liberty Swing for kids in wheelchairs on the playground.
Aside from these, Laguna Park also features several barbecues and undercover picnic areas with tables and a drinking fountain, water tap, toilet, and disability toilet. The park also overlooks a lake and has a great relaxing feel with the water views. You will surely enjoy a lovely picnic with the family. And if you visit on the weekend, Laguna Park buzzes with music.
There is plenty of parking available if you are driving, including on-street parking and a dedicated space for park users. Are you ready to go out and have fun outdoor activities on the Coast? Then stay at any Coast Breakz accommodation. Check out www.coastbreakz.com.au and find the perfect Palm Beach accommodation and Elanora accommodation.