Gold Coast is a coastal city in Queensland, Australia. It’s
located roughly 41 miles south-east of Brisbane, and lies north of New South
Wales. With a population over 630,000, it’s one of Australia’s largest cities.
Originally South Coast, it has a humid subtropical climate, and a landscape
characterised by beaches, waterways and forests.
The Gold Coast was first observed by Lieutenant James Cook -
A British explorer, navigator and captain - who sailed along the region in
1770. However, it wasn’t until 1832 that the region was inhabited, when
explorer John Oxley arrived on Mermaid Beach. In the years that followed, a
number of townships opened up along the coast, including Nerang, established as
a base for industry in 1870.
These days, the Gold Coast is a bustling tourist
destination, celebrated for its beautiful landscape and youthful spirit. The city
has a growing economy focused on construction, and a number of infrastructure
and transformative projects underway that are set to propel the Gold Coast to
new heights. The city’s industrial base is also driven by education,
technology, tourism, creative and sports industries.
Gold Coast’s cultural life is rich and varied. It offers
wonderful street markets like Burleigh, Carrara and South Bank, as well
beautiful outdoor spaces in the form of Spingbrook National Park, Natural Bridge
and Tamborine Mountain. Those into art are advised to pay a visit to either the
Henderson Gallery or HOTA Gallery, both of which are located close by.
The best way to get around the Gold Coast is by car. Over
70% of people drive to work, and the city has a comprehensive network of roads
that connect its inland and coastal suburbs. Its transport system is, likewise,
extensive and includes buses, as well as heavy and light rail. Gold Coast
Airport lies 14 miles south of Surfers Paradise, and serves various major
cities and interstate capitals in Japan, New Zealand and Malaysia.
Complete your trip to the Gold Coast by booking a stay in a
SilverDoor serviced apartment.