wildlifesanctuary

Top Picks for the Gold Coast's Natural Tourist Attractions

If, when you travel, you'd prefer to explore the landscape, wildlife and other natural highlights that make an area unique, the Gold Coast has much to discover, even beyond the infamous Surfers Paradise beach area. One of the most beautiful areas in Australia, there's no shortage of things to do in Gold Coast. Here are some of our top picks:

If You Love to Hike

There's no better way to explore some of the area's most beautiful landscapes than on foot. If you love to hike, you're in for a real treat, as there are many short and long distance 'bushwalks' to choose from.

For those looking for a short walk:

• Palm Beach Parklands - with the option of two different walks in the same area, you can either explore the boardwalk or take to the Tarrabora Reserve. Or better yet, check out both!

·Cougal Cascades - explore some of the Gold Coast Hinterland on this winding walk that finishes up at Springbrook National Park.

Looking for a Longer Trek?:

·Federation Walk - a beautifully scenic 7km walk through headlands, sand dunes and forests.

·Coombabah Lakelands - check out the bush, wetlands and wildlife while you explore the Coombabah Lakelands Track. This is a great place to catch a glimpse of a kangaroo or a koala, or to examine many different varieties of plants.

·Nerang State Forest - take a walk through beautiful, dry rainforests and eucalyptus forests. Choose the distance of your excursion, and whether you wish to do it on foot, horseback or bicycle.

Wonderful Wildlife

One of the most exciting things about a trip to Australia is seeing the wildlife, and one of the best places to see the many different creatures that the area has to offer is at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. With lots of things to see and do for people of all ages, a trip to the Sanctuary won't disappoint!

Stunning Waterfalls

The Gold Coast is also home to many remarkable waterfalls. Take a walk to marvel at waterfalls that include:

·Purling Brook Falls in Springbrook National Park

·Natural Bridge - also in Springbrook National Park

·Goomoolahra Falls - a wheelchair accessible attraction

There are tonnes of Gold Coast tourist attractions, but the natural attractions are definitely among the most unique and exciting. Whether you're normally an outdoor enthusiast or not, schedule time to see some of the places mentioned here. You won't regret it!

Visiting the Gold Coast with Your Family

A trip anywhere is very different when there are children involved. The places where you eat, sleep and visit are all likely to be determined, at least to some extent, by your youngest travellers. The good news is that if you're looking for Gold Coast attractions, there are many family friendly options that will appeal to the whole group.

For starters, the Gold Coast is a great place to visit with your family. Not only does it have awesome weather, but it's packed with incredible natural wonders, exciting attractions, and delicious restaurants. Here's a peek at some of the things you will want to check out:

Get Back to Nature

One of the best things to do at the Gold Coast is to take the opportunity to get back to nature. With World Heritage rainforests and vast golden beaches, your entire family will be amazed and excited by the many opportunities for scenic hikes, perfect picnics and good old family fun in the sun. Feeling hot? An awesome way to cool off on a hot day is to take a splash at the Currumbin rock pools.

Adventure Lovers

Even the youngest adrenaline junkie in your family will never tire when you visit the Gold Coast. The area is home to many theme parks, as well as exhilarating quad biking, jet boating and jet skiing.

Dig for Treasure

A fun and educational way to spend the afternoon together as a family is to dig for thunder eggs at Thunderbird Park.

Check out the Local Wildlife

See one of the largest collections of Australian wildlife in the world at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. The Sanctuary is home to all kinds of critters, from koalas and Tasmanian devils to huge saltwater crocs. Don't miss the chance to feed the lorikeets!

Tangalooma Island Resort

There's lots to entertain the entire family, no matter your interests, at Tangalooma Island Resort. Feed the dolphins or go snorkelling. Play badminton or tennis, take an eco walk or try parasailing.

Learn to Surf

This isn't called Surfers Paradise for no reason! Whether you're an avid surfer already, or you and the kids want to try riding the waves for the very first time, this is the place to do it. There are many places offering surfing lessons along the coast.

One of the best things about the Gold Coast is that there is something exciting to suit the preferences of every person. Whether the members of your family are thrill seekers, nature enthusiasts, beach bums or all of the above, you're going to love this place!

Doing Your Part for Australian Wildlife

When people think of volunteering, they often think of doing things to support other people. While these things are all very important, there's also a need for us to work together to help protect Australian wildlife. At Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, educating the public and giving them the opportunity to get up close to Australian wildlife is just one of the very important roles they're fulfilling, and this not-for-profit organisation couldn't exist without the help and support of volunteers and donors.

Caring for Sick & Injured Wildlife

One of the most important services the Sanctuary provides is free veterinary care for sick and injured wildlife. Currumbin Wildlife Hospital has cared for thousands of mammals, birds, reptiles, marsupials and more, since their doors opened. Here, wildlife receive the life-saving treatments and care they need to recover and return to the wild. Plus, the hospital offers an awesome viewing area, where park visitors can watch the veterinarians and other staff in action.

Love to help wildlife? The hospital is always looking for volunteers, and you can support the efforts by either helping in the hospital or volunteering at various fundraising events.

Get Your Teen Involved

This will be a volunteering opportunity your teen won't refuse! If you have a 15-18 year old who would be comfortable speaking to visitors and providing them with the information they need to fully enjoy their experience, this could be the volunteering gig they've been looking for. Teen volunteers help out at the Sanctuary on the weekends and holidays.

Help with Wildlife and Horticulture

If you love to garden or are enthusiastic about Australian wildlife, you may enjoy volunteering as part of our wildlife and horticulture group. These volunteers go around the park with members of our staff, helping out in many different ways, from raking and sweeping to preparing food and repairing animal enclosures.

Test it Out for a Day

If you're not sure if you will enjoy volunteering at the Sanctuary, or you can't commit to longer term volunteering positions but would like to help out, come and volunteer for a day. You can either participate in the Walk in the Park program, where you will walk around and greet visitors and help them find various attractions, or volunteer at one of our fundraising events.

If you're looking for a rewarding and fun way to give back, consider volunteering at the Sanctuary, where people not only learn about Australian wildlife, but wildlife receive the health care and support they need.

Caring for Australia's Sick & Injured Wildlife

Since Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary was started in 1947 by Alex Griffiths, caring for sick and injured Australian wildlife has been one of the park's key areas of focus. Griffiths, who started feeding the local lorikeets because they were destroying his flowers, was a beekeeper and gardener, but soon became the founder of what is one of the largest collections of Australian wildlife in the world.

The Sanctuary originally started as a place for birds, but the name changed to include wildlife in 1995 as a way to better reflect what was on display there. While thousands of tourists and locals visit the Sanctuary each year to get up close and personal with the local wildlife, one of the leading attractions is the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, where more than 8000 wildlife patients have been admitted and over 50,000 have been treated and released back into the wild.

The Wildlife Hospital

Despite the fact that the veterinarians and other staff at the Sanctuary's hospital are working to protect the native wildlife, the hospital doesn't currently receive any consistent or continuous government funding. Instead, the hospital provides free care for injured and sick wildlife and is operated on funds received from individual donors and corporations.

In addition to helping local wildlife, what's so amazing about the hospital is that it gives visitors the chance to watch the veterinarians and other hospital staff in action. Through large windows on one side of the hospital, visitors can watch sick and injured wildlife receive treatments like surgeries, x-rays and other procedures. This is a great opportunity for anyone who's interested in becoming a veterinarian!

Other Park Highlights

While a trip to the Sanctuary isn't complete without a peek at the hospital, there are tonnes of things to see and do here. Whether you love birds, reptiles, bizarre animals or huge saltwater crocodiles, you will discover all these things and more, at the Sanctuary. Twice each day, visitors have the opportunity to feed beautiful lorikeets, the birds that were the reason for the Sanctuary's founding. There are tree top adventures, segway safaris, a new conservation trail, and even croc feedings. See one of the exciting shows, like the Aboriginal dance or free flight bird shows. See an Aussie sheep shearing or learn something new at Dr. Do-Lots' fun and educational show. There's so much to explore that one trip just might not be enough!

If you have the chance to visit the Gold Coast, don't forget to plan a day at the Sanctuary.  

Gold Coast's Top Natural Attractions

Planning a trip to the Gold Coast of Australia is exciting; there's so much to see and do, it can be hard to fit everything in when you're only visiting for a few days. If you're a nature lover, however, this area boasts some incredible sites for visitors of all ages. These are some of our favourites:

A Trip to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

If you're wondering what to do on the Gold Coast so that you can get up close and personal with some of the native wildlife, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-see. This sanctuary is home to one of the largest collections of Australian wildlife in the world, and offers many attractions, from crocodile feeding, and dingos to Tasmanian devils, free flight bird shows and more. Don't miss the chance to feed the lorikeets, too, something which takes place twice each day.

Surfers Paradise

Even if you don't plan to surf, this incredible collection of beaches spans 70 km along the coast, and is definitely worth a visit. If you want to try surfing, there's plenty of opportunity, or you can simply pack a picnic and relax while watching potentially hundreds of surfers ride the waves.

Ancient Forests

Many of the Gold Coast tourist attractions include dozens of national parks which protect some of the world's oldest forests. Walk through eucalyptus, see amazing waterfalls, and the former Mount Warming volcano. There's also ample opportunity to see some of the native wildlife.

Take a Dip

There are many refreshing swimming holes where tourists and locals alike cool off on hot afternoons. Natural Bridge in Springbrook National Park is a treat, where water has tumbled through the roof of a cave for centuries, creating a remarkable swimming spot. Or, the Currumbin rock pools and waterfalls at Lamington National Park are also lovely.

Glow Worm Caves

Take advantage of a visit to the Gold Coast Hinterland by checking out a Glow Worm Cave at Mt. Tamborine. Thousands of glow worms light up this guided underground tour that can be accessed from Cedar Creek Estate winery.

 Take a Farm Tour

Experience true Aussie bush culture with a half or full day farm tour at Paradise Country. You'll be treated to some great food and music, too!

No matter your interests or age, a trip to the Gold Coast wouldn't be complete without exploring some of the natural landscape and wildlife. There are many opportunities to see and experience all that this part of Australia is famous for.

Free Fun on the Gold Coast

There's much to see and do when you visit the Gold Coast in Australia. From incredible beaches and thrilling amusement parks to exciting opportunities to see and learn about the native wildlife. If you're visiting and looking for some ways to maximise your fun without spending a fortune, there are some inexpensive or even free ways to experience this beautiful part of the country.

Hire a Bike and Go for a Ride

The Gold Coast Oceanway is a series of paths that run along the ocean, creating a great opportunity for a scenic bike ride. Whether you're cycling alone, with your spouse or entire family, this is a great way to see and experience the coast. And, some other fun things to do on the Gold Coast include swimming and picnicking - so pack a lunch and your bathing suit and stop at a nice spot on your way.

A Day at the Beach

Of course, some of the top Gold Coast activities include relaxing at some of the local beaches! Whether you venture to Surfers Paradise or Coolongatta, Rainbow Bay, or any of the other beaches along the coastline, you will have ample opportunity to play in the sand, surf, swim or just relax. Don't forget your sunscreen, a beach umbrella, snacks and water.

Feed the Lorikeets at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

While it's certainly worth it to pay the admission and to see all of the wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, those looking for a free glimpse at some local wildlife can stop by for the free Lorikeet feeding. This takes place daily so check out their website for times.

Stop at Local Parks

There are several parks and playgrounds throughout the area, so there will be no shortage of free fun for those with kids. Top parks in the area include Paradise Point Parklands, Laguna Park, Pat Fagan Park and Rockpools at Southport.

Whale Watching from the Headlands

From May to October, you can hike to the top of some of the headlands to see if you can get a glimpse of the humpback whales that are migrating. Pack some binoculars and your camera!

There's no shortage of activities and sights that will interest and entertain people of all ages. The good news, too, is that you certainly don't have to spend a lot of money to really enjoy yourself. Make note of the tips shared here and get out and see all that the area has to offer!

Surfers Paradise at a Glance

Whether you've visited the Gold Coast in Australia or not, you've probably heard about Surfers Paradise. This infamous beach area has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, incredible surfing, shopping and dining. If you're looking for things to do in Gold Coast, budget a few days in Surfers Paradise!

Fun for Kids

Keeping the kiddies entertained while on vacation is always a top priority, and luckily, Surfers Paradise offers an abundance of entertainment. Whether you take a 'duck' tour, play in the sand, swim in the ocean, or hit up one of the ice cream shops along the beach, your kids are sure to find plenty to keep them busy.

Great Dining

When people hear 'Surfers Paradise' the beach and surfing are often the only things that come to mind, but the area also boasts many great restaurants. Whether you're looking for something quick, affordable and delicious, or you're interested in tasting some of the top cuisine in the Gold Coast, you're sure to find exactly what you desire at some of the many restaurants in the suburb.

Shopping

Whether you're looking for souvenirs to take home or are interested in browsing the wares at some of the more expensive boutiques in Surfers Paradise, you'll discover all types of shopping along the beach and throughout the suburb.

Take a Tour

Cruise the waterways or take a jet boat ride for an exhilarating tour. Fancy a better view? Take a tour aboard a helicopter to see some of the best scenery the area has to offer.

Surfing Lessons

While there's plenty to do if surfing isn't for you, this is clearly a great place to take a lesson if you are interested in hitting the waves. Experienced teachers will show you the fundamentals, like paddling, standing and balancing on your board and riding the waves. This is fun for the whole family!

Check Out the Markets

On Wednesday, Friday and Sunday evenings, check out the beachfront markets to see a huge range of souvenirs, handmade wares, and other treasures, mixed in with live musical performances. A walk through the markets is a great end to an awesome day.

Explore the Hinterland

If you're willing to venture away from the beach, you can see some incredible sights when you explore the nearby hinterland. Spend the day meandering through the rainforest - there will be no shortage of photo opportunities!  

No matter your interests or age, you're sure to find plenty of Gold Coast activities to keep you entertained and amazed. 

https://www.cws.org.au/