Where to Explore in Gold Coast
With the fastest rides and the biggest slides, Gold Coast is the undisputed theme park capital of Australia. But what do you do when you’ve run out of parks to visit? Does that mean your holiday will come to an end? Of course not. The Glitter Strip has all sorts of fun things to do. And there are plenty of ways you can explore its hinterland, from connecting with nature at an ancient rainforest that has been around since dinosaurs roamed the earth to catching crabs with professional crabbers. Here are some of our top picks:
1. Whale watch at the Humpback Highway
Welcome to the “Humpback Highway”, a migration channel for thousands of whales migrating from the chilly waters of Antarctica to sub-tropical breeding grounds in Queensland. The rush hour for this journey is a magical sight to behold. And the best way to experience it? Hop on a luxury boat to get up close and personal with these impressive marine creatures. Watch them play against the backdrop of Surfers Paradise and listen to their unique songs with an underwater microphone on board.
2. Glow big or go home with a glow worm tour
Part of the prehistoric Gondwana Rainforests, and a spot of ecological importance, Springbrook National Park is a brilliant place to discover the beauty of nature. Beyond its lush rainforest and striking waterfalls, venture deep into caves to see glow worms forming a galaxy of bioluminescent light in the dark. You can use a torch to spot nocturnal birds and reptiles on your way out. And once you’re in the open, feast your eyes on a constellation of stars twinkling in the night sky.
3. Catch mud crabs on an adventure cruise
Join the ultimate crab-catching cruise in Australia as you explore the Tweed River. On your trip, navigate mangroves and learn from professional crabbers how you can pump for yabbies (tiny native crustaceans) and pull up crab pots to catch mud crabs. You’ll also observe a live demonstration, as well as feed birds and fish. There’s no better way to experience the natural environment and sample the region’s best seafood fresh from pot to the plate than with an expedition out here.
4. Sip rum at Husk Farm Distillery
Enjoy a bit of rum-ance at Husk Farm Distillery, Australia’s only single estate rum distillery, surrounded by stunning foothills and green pastures. If you’re curious about the new taste of Australian rum, experience it here from farm to bottle with a guided tour around the estate and a tasting flight. Witness the fascinating distillation process, a true blend of art and science, and see why Husk’s rum is so unique, like how it gets made from fresh cane juice instead of molasses, unlike 97% of the world’s rum.