Andy’s top tips for exploring the Gold Coast

In the lead-up to the 2025 Zone 8 Conference on the beautiful Gold Coast, Past District 9640 Governor Andy Rajapakse shares his top 10 tips for exploring the city beyond the Conference walls.

1. Embrace the beaches: Relax on world-famous beaches like Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta. Swim, surf or just soak up the sun.
2. paradise for thrill seekers: Experience the adrenaline rush of theme parks like Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild and Dreamworld.
3. Hinterland adventures: Explore the lush hinterland with hikes through Springbrook National Park, Lamington National Park and Mount Tamborine. Or join a wine tour and sip your way through a plethora of wineries, distilleries and micro-breweries.
4. Wildlife encounters: Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to get up close and personal with native Australian animals and birds.
5. Shopping sprees: Indulge in retail therapy at premier shopping centres like Pacific Fair in Broadbeach and Robina Town Centre. Stroll through the streets of Surfers Paradise and Burleigh’s James Street, with their boutique stores and exciting dining scenes.
6. Dine with a view: Enjoy delicious meals at beachfront restaurants with stunning ocean views. Rick Shores on the beach in Burleigh Heads is a must do Gold Coast dining experience, while the city’s iconic Surf Lifesaving Clubs offer endless options for brews with views.
7. Explore the arts: HOTA (Home of the Arts) is an iconic Gold Coast destination where art, entertainment, culture and lifestyle meet. A place that locals love and visitors must see. Palette, situated in the stunning HOTA Gallery, is a Three Hat fine dining restaurant focused on fresh local ingredients prepared by a dedicated team led by Executive Chef Dayan Hartill-Law.
8. Relax and rejuvenate: Indulge in a spa treatment at one of the many luxurious day spas on the Gold Coast.
9. Discover local culture: Visit Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre – a must do if you’re interested in learning about Indigenous culture along the Gold Coast.
10. Sail away: Set sail on a Broadwater Sunset Cruise along the stunning Gold Coast Broadwater.