Where to stay

For a big selection of beachfront hotels and the liveliest action on the coast, stay in Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach, together making up the heart of the Gold Coast. In Surfers Paradise, you can hit the waves all day, then head to one of the many nightclubs after dark when the neighborhood really comes to life. Both areas offer convenient access to theme and water parks, museums, casinos, shopping centers and a wide variety of world cuisine at upscale restaurants. Stay in the suburb of Coomera for days full of entertainment, with big-name theme parks from WhiteWater World to Warner Bros. Movie World. Ride the riveting roller coasters, plunge down a water slide, kayak the Coomera River and fish for mangrove jack and flathead.

For a less bustling beach scene - yet with plenty of sand and surf to go around - reserve a room in Main Beach. This is a top place to stay if you want access to nearby attractions (public transportation is readily available) yet without all the hubbub of Surfers Paradise. From here, it's easy to head out to sea on cruise tours, most of which leave from the Marina Mirage docks. Follow the lead of Gold Coast day-trippers and book a hotel in well-heeled Southport, with its lovely local vibe and one of the best sunrise views on the coast. Other quieter spots to stay include Mermaid Beach, Varsity Lakes and Burleigh Heads.

If it's big waves you want, stay in the beloved suburb of Coolangatta, a surfer's favorite for the waves at Snapper Rocks. As the southernmost point on the Gold Coast, it's just far enough away from the frenetic energy of Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, while offering great surf and long swaths of brilliantly white sand. Pop in to local cafes, shops and restaurants for contagious Aussie character and charm. Consider staying in the relaxed neighborhood of Mermaid Beach for its range of watersports and far fewer crowds than busy neighbors Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. The uncrowded break at Heron Avenue is a surfer favorite. Book a hotel in Burleigh Heads for more heart-pumping surfing, complemented by farmers' markets, boutique shopping and chic restaurants on the headland. Here, you're close to Burleigh Heads National Park, a popular spot for watching the sun set, and Tallebudgera Creek, a favorite local swimming hole. For less crowded beaches and watersports from kayaking and paddleboarding to boating, stay in Palm Beach, Currumbin, Tugun or Bilinga. From here, it's just a short drive to Currumbin Rock Pools and Springbrook National Park.