Sightseeing in Gold Coast - what to see. Complete travel guide

Gold Coast is one of the largest cities in Australia, located in Queensland. It is a tourist center of global significance and the most popular beach resort in the country. The main value of the resort is the picturesque beaches and first-class hotel complexes, which are annually chosen by thousands of travelers. At the end of the 19th century, only aboriginal tribes lived on the territory of the current modern metropolis. In less than a hundred of years this undeveloped area has turned into an ultra-modern city with gleaming skyscrapers and fashionable entertainment.

At the turn of the 19 – 20th centuries an active development of the area by Europeans began. They were impressed by the fertile lands. The first European, who set foot on the reserve land, was the world-famous explorer James Cook. Such a significant event happened in May, 1770. It is noteworthy that in those days almost all the territory of the present modern city was occupied by thickets of rare red cedar. Subsequently, almost all the reserved forests were excavated. Then the valuable material was forwarded to the processing European plants.

The young city began to attract its first travelers in 1925, after the construction of the surrounding roads. Its infrastructure has become more and more perfect with every passing year. In the 30-ies the first upscale hotels and resorts appeared there. Its present name Gold Coast received in 1940 thanks to the local journalists. It can be literally translated as "golden coast", which fully reflects the resort’s specific. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Nowadays, Gold Coast is not only a popular beach resort, but also a permanent place for sporting events of world level. Interesting competitions and demonstrations by world-famous athletes are held here every month. Despite the fact that hundred years ago, the ecology of the region was seriously damaged, the unique nature still continues to be one of the main features of the city. Travelers will be able to stroll through the picturesque rainforest and marvel the diversity of the local fauna. There are several national parks on the territory of the city and in the neighborhood.

It is also worth noting that, in addition to the classic beach holiday, Gold Coast is ready to offer tourists a lot of interesting entertainment. The modern resort is perfect for family holidays. Here are a few original thematic parks and entertainment complexes. A huge selection of lovely shopping centers will delight shoppers. Gold Coast is the modern metropolis with gleaming skyscrapers and unique national hospitality. It appeals to active travelers and those who like a beach holiday for sure.

In recent years, the Gold Coast has got the status of an elite resort. As many as 3 million tourists from different parts of the world visit this area every year. Naturally, there are many luxurious hotels. Tourists will also be pleased with gorgeous local beaches. Surfers Paradise is the most famous beach of the resort. As one can guess from its name, the beach is also one of the best destinations for surfing on the resort. Strong waves are typical for this coastal area. There are also several amazing surfing schools in its territory. In the evening, the whole beach turns into one giant disco that shines with neon signs. There are also many nightclubs and bars not far from the beach.

Besides beach recreation, guests of the resort are welcome to participate in interesting hiking tours to the most picturesque areas of the resort. For example, Lamington Nature Reserve is a unique piece of nature not far from the tourist area. It is a large forest, the total area of which is more than 200 square kilometers. During a walk in the reserve, visitors will see many rare plants. A tour guide will take them to the tops of mountains and hills to admire the panoramic view of the region from naturally formed observation decks.

Several years ago, a large amusement park named Dream World appeared in the resort. It has become a favorite destination of family tourists and fans of active recreation. Its size is roughly 85 hectares. The territory of the park is the location of dozens of different thematic amusements and playgrounds for children of different age.

Sea World Oceanarium is a no less important tourist object. It is famous as one of the largest oceanariums in the world. For visitors, it is a unique opportunity to see a large collection of marine creatures. Moreover, the oceanarium has its own dolphinarium with interesting entertaining performances that take place there every day. Vacationers will enjoy the transparent tunnel and see creatures of the deep sea swim next to them. Shark feeding remains one of the most favorite entertainments – tourists never miss an opportunity to see how professional staff feeds the scary predators.