The History of the Gold Coast
July 31, 2025
The History of the Gold Coast: From Surf Town to Tourist Icon
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The Gold Coast hasn’t always been high-rises, theme parks, and sun-drenched holidays. Believe it or not, this buzzing beachside city started as a quiet stretch of sand, bushland, and the occasional timber mill. So how did we go from fishing villages to one of Australia’s top tourist spots? Here's the short and sunny version.
Before tourism took over, this region was home to the Yugambeh people, the traditional custodians of the land. European settlers came in the 1800s, mostly for logging and farming — not exactly the stuff of travel brochures.
But the coast’s natural beauty was hard to ignore. Word spread about the beaches and the perfect surf. In the 1920s, a hotel called Surfers Paradise opened, and suddenly, the area wasn’t so sleepy anymore.
By the 1940s, land prices were soaring — and not everyone was thrilled. Locals started calling the area the “Gold Coast” as a bit of a joke about how expensive everything was becoming.
But the name stuck. It had a nice ring to it. In 1958, it became official: the Town of South Coast was renamed the City of Gold Coast. What started as a jab became a brand.
From the 1960s onwards, the Gold Coast went all-in on entertainment. High-rises popped up. Tourists poured in. By the 80s and 90s, we had theme parks, nightclubs, and a reputation as Australia’s holiday capital.
Today, the Gold Coast is a mix of surf culture, family fun, food, and flash. But underneath it all, it still holds onto its original charm: a place where people come to relax, unwind, and soak up the good life.
Your Gold Coast Insider Guide...
Choosing the right apartment for your Gold Coast stay comes down to two things: the experience you want and the practicalities of your trip. Whether you’re choosing based on resort style, budget and atmosphere, here’s our guide to finding your perfect stay. The Wow Stay Standard No matter which category you choose, all our apartments are designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Here’s what’s always included: Spacious layouts with dedicated kitchen, dining, living and sleeping areas Air conditioning for year round comfort Fully equipped kitchens designed for relaxed meals and cooking at home Smart TVs and complimentary Wi Fi Internal laundry facilities (either a Euro-style laundry or full separate laundry depending on apartment type) Essentials for your first night to help you settle in comfortably (tea, coffee and bathroom amenities) Bed linen and bath towels provided for each guest Private balconies with a range of outlooks including ocean, hinterland, city and pool views depending on apartment category
There’s a reason so many of us grew up holidaying on the Gold Coast, and why we keep on coming back. From world class surf and a laid back coastal culture, to theme parks, shopping and endless attractions, it’s a destination that truly caters to all ages. Right in the heart of the city, Surfers Paradise offers the best of both worlds. Whether it’s your first time visiting or it’s been a while between trips, here’s exactly how we’d spend a weekend in Surfers Paradise... Friday Morning — let the journey begin In the days leading up to your stay, you’ll receive detailed instructions from us, explaining our quick and easy lockbox check in process. We’ll also share our ‘Go To Gold Coast Guide ’, filled with our team’s personal recommendations and discount codes for our favourite local spots. If you’ve landed early into Coolangatta or are driving up from NSW, take your time heading north. The stretch from Tugun to Burleigh is one of the most underrated pockets of the coast, known for its relaxed, beach village vibe. Our picks by suburb: Tugun — Palomino's Deli for epic bacon and egg rolls Currumbin — Barefoot Barista for great coffee and ocean views Palm Beach — Neptune Kiosk for a coffee to go and stroll along the Tallebudgera boardwalk Burleigh — Tarte Bakery & Cafe to stock up on pastries and sweet treats
Last week, we gave you the low down on the best playgrounds on the Gold Coast. This week we’re back with the adult version . Think long lunches, sunset drinks, live music and a little bit of buzz….we’re talking our favourite breweries, wineries and distilleries! We’ve (happily) done the research, and here are our top picks for you to check out for your next girls trip, bucks show, or friends getaway on the Gold Coast: BREWERIES Venue: Precinct Location: Miami Why we love it: Spacious, social and always a good time, Precinct is one of my go to spots for meeting friends. It is perfect for bigger groups, with long tables, live music and crispy beers, making it easy to settle in for the afternoon.
When you’re travelling with kids, keeping them entertained (and out of trouble) can sometimes feel like a full time job. While holidays are meant for relaxing and having fun, travel can add up quickly. That’s why we’re always looking for fun, free activities to recommend to our guests. Finding the right playground can make the difference between a good day and a great one. Luckily, the Gold Coast is full of incredible parks that offer far more than a basic swing set. Think pirate ships, climbing towers, giant slides and plenty of space for kids to burn off energy. The best part is many of them are just as enjoyable for the grown ups too. Here are five of our favourite Gold Coast playgrounds for families - all with a decent coffee spot or two nearby. Palm Beach Pirate Park If your kids love pirates, this playground is basically their dream scenario. Why kids love it: The whole playground is pirate themed, complete with a huge wooden ship, climbing ropes, slides and plenty of imaginative play areas. There’s lots to explore and climb, so it’s perfect for little adventurers who love pretending they’re sailing the high seas. Why adults love it: It’s right by the beach, so you get to enjoy fresh ocean air while the kids play. There’s also plenty of grassy space nearby for picnics, and Palm Beach’s great cafes are only a short stroll away if you’re in need of a coffee break. 📍 945 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
March on the Gold Coast is a little quieter, and being shoulder season, it’s the perfect time to visit if you want to explore without the summer crowds. The weather is still beautiful, and there’s always something happening if you feel like getting out and about. This month brings a mix of family friendly fun, from the Festival of Golf and Movies on the Esplanade to the T100 Triathlon along the coastline. Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or planning a last minute coastal escape, here’s what’s on this month:
The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s biggest fitness hubs, and it’s easy to see why. With year round sunshine, world class surf and a strong surf lifesaving culture, mornings here start early. As the sun rises so do the locals, busy walking, running and soaking up the views before the day begins. One of the best ways to truly experience the Gold Coast is on foot, and the best part? It’s completely free! Which means you can save your spending for post walk coffee stops or surf club happy hours along the way. While there are hundreds of hikes and trails to explore on the Gold Coast, we’ve come up with our top 7 ‘leisurely’ walks that we think will help you see all the different areas that make our city iconic. Top 7 Gold Coast walks as voted by the Wow Stay team: Coolangatta Oceanway Cooly → Greenmount → Rainbow Bay → Point Danger This is one of the most scenic coastal walks on the southern end of the Gold Coast. The path is wide, cruisey and easy to follow, making it perfect for all fitness levels. You can start and stop wherever suits you, but we recommend going all the way to Point Danger. Along the way you’ll pass Greenmount and Rainbow Bay, spot plenty of lizards sunbaking on the rocks, and enjoy uninterrupted ocean views back toward the Surfers Paradise skyline. Point Danger marks the border between Queensland and New South Wales, and during whale season (June to November) it’s one of the best places to spot them close to shore. Afterwards, stop in at Black Dingo Café for brunch or coffee, or head to Rainbow Bay Surf Club for incredible views and a chance to rub shoulders with local surfing legends. Burleigh National Park Oceanview Track & Rainforest Circuit If you’re after more of a challenge while still keeping it family friendly, this is the one. The Oceanview Track winds around the headland with stunning coastal views, while the Rainforest Circuit takes you through lush greenery where if you are lucky you will spot a python or two. You can expect a few hills that get your heart rate up, but the lookout view over Burleigh and beyond is well worth the effort. Afterwards, grab a takeaway from James Street and watch the surfers from the headland. The Oceanway Esplanade Walk Main Beach → Surfers Paradise → Broadbeach This iconic coastal stretch connects some of the Gold Coast’s most popular beachside suburbs. Flat, paved and easy to navigate, it’s ideal for families, prams and relaxed strolls. You’ll pass surf clubs, beachfront parks and plenty of spots to stop for coffee or breakfast. Currumbin Creek Boardwalk Beree-Badalla Reserve, Palm Beach For something a little different, the Currumbin Creek Boardwalk takes you through the mangroves in what feels like a hidden oasis. It’s flat, easy and ideal for families, as the little ones will love exploring the over water path. You can follow it all the way along, then stop in at the iconic Tarte Bakery for coffee or the Currumbin RSL for lunch. Natural Bridge Circuit Springbrook National Park This short rainforest circuit leads to Natural Bridge - a waterfall cascading through a naturally formed rock arch. The walk includes some stairs, but the path is well maintained. Surrounded by ancient rainforest, it feels a world away from the bustle of Surfers Paradise. Visit during the day for stunning waterfall views, or book a guided night tour to see the famous glow worms. Miami Beach Mermaid → Nobbys → Miami There are plenty of ways to explore this stretch on foot. You can start at Mermaid and follow the paved beach path for an easy coastal walk, or begin at Nobby’s and wander down to Hedges Avenue. My personal favourite route is along Hedges Avenue - the homes here are some of the most stunning and unique on the Gold Coast. It’s less crowded than Surfers Paradise but still offers wide open sand and beautiful swimming spots. Walk along the shoreline for ocean views, or stick to the paved beachfront paths connecting each suburb. You’ll also be spoilt for choice when it comes to breakfast or coffee, with plenty of TikTok viral cafés nearby. Our favourites are BSKT, the Oxley and Rafiki. Cedar Creek Falls Mount Tamborine National Park For a hinterland escape, Cedar Creek Falls is a must. The short walk takes you down to a freshwater swimming hole and waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. It’s especially beautiful after rainfall when the waterfall is flowing strongly. It’s a refreshing change from the beach and a great way to experience the diversity of the Gold Coast region. Whether you’re after ocean views, fresh rainforest air or a peaceful creekside stroll, the Gold Coast offers a walk for every pace. Staying with Wow Stay? We’re always happy to recommend the best local spots to explore during your visit!
Despite being the shortest month, February is full of events that embrace the lifestyle that the Gold Coast is famous for - surf, sun and a little bit of *glitz*. This month brings it all together, with music and film festivals, world class surfing and iconic surf lifesaving competitions. Whether you’re here for a weekend or calling the Gold Coast home, here’s what to pop in your calendar... AACTA Festival When: February 4–8 Where: HOTA (Home of the Arts), Surfers Paradise What to expect / the vibe: Five days of film, television and industry magic. The AACTA Festival brings together creatives, industry leaders and film lovers for panels, screenings, workshops and networking events. You can expect to see a return of homegrown stars that have made it big overseas, like Dacre Montgomery, Dichen Lachman, Baz Luhrmann and more. Key dates to note: Thursday 5 February: AACTA Festival Industry Conference Day Saturday 7 February: Screen Careers Expo Friday 6 February: AACTA Awards Ceremony & Official After Party Gold Coast Open When: February 18–20 Where: Burleigh Heads What to expect / the vibe: Nothing captures the laid-back Gold Coast lifestyle quite like a surf comp. Perfect for surf lovers of all ages, the Gold Coast Open sees the best of the best battle it out in the waves. Hosted in Burleigh, you can join the crowds and watch from the headland or take a break and explore the many cafes and restaurants in the area.
Everybody knows the best way to truly experience a destination is to explore it like a local. Locals know where to eat, what to order, and those little hidden gems you won’t find in a typical travel guide. To make planning your next Gold Coast getaway easier, our Live Like a Local series shares insider tips straight from the Wow Stay team. From the best cafes and restaurants to bars, beaches and unique things to do on the Gold Coast, these are the places our staff genuinely love and recommend. Our aim is to give our guests a local guide to the Gold Coast you won’t find on Google, while also supporting the small, independent businesses that make this destination so special. This week, we’re sharing the favourite Gold Coast spots of Tania. While she’s proudly called the Gold Coast home for several years, Tania originally moved here from Spain — a culture known for its love of food, conversation and connection. Her guide is perfect if you’re planning a long lunch, a catch up with friends, a night out, or an unforgettable Gold Coast date night. Here are Tania’s top Gold Coast recommendations... Go-to coffee & brunch spot: Bam Bam Bakehouse (Mermaid Beach) Tip: Order the Bam Bam Benny - you won't be disappointed! Dinner or drinks with friends: Lulu Rooftop & Bar (Surfers Paradise) The vibe: An insta worthy aesthetic rooftop bar, perfect for sharing cocktails and small plates. Best date night spot: Yamagen Japanese Restaurant (Surfers Paradise) Tip: Treat yourself to the lunch or dinner set menu. It’s absolutely worth it — otherwise, choosing just a few dishes is near impossible. Favourite place for a knock-off drink: The Exhibitionist Bar at HOTA Tip: Head up close to sunset for unreal views across the city skyline and hinterland. The cocktails are exceptional and if you’re not a drinker, they also offer a High Tea on Sundays. Favourite beach: The Spit (dog-friendly 🐶) Best-kept secret in the area: Mirror Bar (Surfers Paradise) The vibe : Exactly what it sounds like. The floor, ceiling, walls — even the bar — are all mirrors. One drink in and you’ll be seeing double. It's a fun night out and a good chance to try something different! If it’s a sunny day, you’ll find me at: SOAK Bathhouse (Mermaid Beach) The vibe: Relaxed, restorative and the ultimate reset after a busy week! Favourite weekend market: Broadbeach Beachside Markets Held at Kurrawa Park on Old Burleigh Road, every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month, from 8am–2pm. Full of local arts and crafts, jewellery, handmade goods and tasty treats. One Gold Coast hidden gem everyone should visit: Coast Bar & Kitchen (Surfers Paradise) Tip: A coastal beach bar with epic ocean views and even better food. Known for its steak selection, creative cocktails and a $99pp bottomless lunch that locals love. That wraps up this edition of Live Like a Local, we hope you’ve discovered a few new favourites to add to your Gold Coast wishlist ✨
When you hear ‘ Gold Coast’ you instantly think of palm trees, rolling waves and stretches of sand set against the city skyline. With over 35 miles of coastline, the Gold Coast is home to an incredible variety of beaches, each with its own vibe shaped by the surrounding suburbs. While it’s easy to stick to your closest beach, it’s far more fun to explore beyond it and discover what makes each stretch of sand unique. Use this ‘Gold Coast Beach Guide’ to find your perfect fit, and enjoy a true taste of the Gold Coast lifestyle. Closest to Surfers Paradise and Circle on Cavill - These are the best beaches just a short stroll or drive away from the Wow Stay office and majority of apartment locations. Surfers Paradise Beach - the iconic beach you know and love, it’s one of the busiest - but for a reason. Close to everything and well patrolled, you can easily spend all day there soaking up the sun, learning to surf or joining in on beach volleyball. Main Beach - walk a little further down and you will find ‘Main Beach’ tucked in between Surfers and The Spit. This is our go-to beach on the days you want a little more space, while still staying close to the action. Main Beach is perfect for sunset strolls, then stopping in at the surf club for happy hour. Image Below: Surfers Paradise Beach
The tree might still be up (guilty), but Christmas is done and dusted! January on the Gold Coast is all about slowing down and soaking up summer. Think long beach days, chilled nights and saying yes to spontaneous plans. School holidays are in full swing, Australia Day long weekend is incoming, and there’s no shortage of things to do across the city! From horse racing and food festivals to live music, family entertainment and the much loved weekly markets — January is the perfect time to be out and about. If you’re visiting or planning a staycation, here are all the January events and markets on the Gold Coast you’ll want to add to your calendar: TAB Magic Millions Carnival When: 7 – 20 January Where: Gold Coast Turf Club, Bundall What to expect: One of the biggest events on the Gold Coast calendar, Magic Millions is more than just racing. It’s a time to dress up, enjoy those long lunches, and trying to not spend all your winnings at the after party drinks. A Gold Coast summer staple - check out the official website for more event details. Australian Seniors Tennis Championships When: Early January Where: Gold Coast (various venues) What to expect: A mix of fun and competitive matches, with a few familiar faces.. Watch former tennis greats back on the court, bringing plenty of energy and entertainment. Easy to watch, great atmosphere… Voltaren recommended. L.A.B & Stan Walker When: 3 January Where: Broadwater Parklands What to expect: Summer festival vibes, food trucks, drinks and live music by L.A.B and Stan Walker. Dancing in the Shadows of Motown When: 10 January Where: The Star Gold Coast What to expect: A feel good night of Motown classics, smooth vocals and familiar hits. Dress up, sing along, and get your steps done while dancing the night away! Revolve Festival When: 24 January Where: Carrara Markets What to expect: One for the dance music lovers, with performances by 2HOT2PLAY, BIG WETT, CHARLIE SHELL, CHOOMBA, DATSKO, DJ ASSAULT and more. Tickets are essential - grab yours from Megatix . The Taste Festival Gold Coast When: 23 – 26 January Where: Currumbin RSL What to expect: Four days of food, drinks and good times? Yes please! The Taste Festival is coming to the Currumbin RSL showcasing local wine, spirits, craft producers and gourmet eats. Ideal for a long weekend catch up, the Currumbin RSL has stunning views and a playground to keep the kids busy while you catch up. Australia Day Celebrations When: 26 January Where: HOTA, Broadwater Parklands & across the Gold Coast What to expect: A day of family friendly fun! HOTA will be putting on a *FREE* event with live music, activities, local performers and food trucks. Scattered around the rest of the city you’ll find many venues hosting their own Australia Day celebrations with music, set menus & events. Gold Coast Markets to Visit in January... No matter the month, the Gold Coast’s market scene never disappoints! From pre-loved fashion to wholesome farmers markets, every weekend there are multiple options to choose from. The Village Markets When: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month, 8am – 1pm Where: Burleigh Heads State School The vibe: Ever wanted to shop inside an influencer’s wardrobe? The Village Markets are known for their incredible range of preloved fashion, local labels, unique gifts and food stalls. A must visit for the bargain hunters! Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets When: Every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday from 4pm Where: The Foreshore, Surfers Paradise The vibe: The classic Gold Coast beach markets, wander through stalls of local brands, handmade goods and sweet treats. Broadbeach Art & Craft Markets When: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month, 8am – 2pm Where: Pratten Park, Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach The vibe: One of the most popular family-friendly markets on the Gold Coast. Expect handmade art, jewellery, gifts, local designers and plenty of food options! HOTA Farmers & Artisan Markets When: Every Sunday, 6am – 11:30am Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise The vibe: Fresh produce, artisan goods, live music and a wholesome Sunday morning atmosphere. Perfect for stocking up on local produce for an afternoon platter or enjoying breakfast outside before exploring the city. That’s all for an action packed January! Check back next month for your go to Gold Coast February guide.