Solo Travel / Solo Travel in Australia

How To Spend 24 Hours On the Gold Coast

TLDR: Spend 24 hours on the Gold Coast, Australia’s ultimate beach destination, known for its golden sands, world-class surf spots, and vibrant nightlife. Perfect for solo travelers, the Gold Coast offers a mix of outdoor adventures, laid-back beach vibes, and social hotspots.

Related Guides

Highlight

Relax on Surfers Paradise Beach, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and soft sands.
Explore Burleigh Heads National Park for stunning views and tranquil walking trails.
Try out water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, or jet skiing.
Experience the bustling nightlife scene in Surfers Paradise.

About the Gold Coast

Located in Queensland, the Gold Coast is a sun-soaked paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, lush hinterlands, and exciting theme parks. The city combines natural beauty with urban energy, making it a favorite destination for travelers of all kinds.

For solo adventurers, the Gold Coast provides plenty of opportunities to connect with others through surf lessons, hostel events, and lively nightlife, all set against the backdrop of golden sands and turquoise waves.

Where to Sleep On the Gold Coast

For budget-conscious travelers, BUNK Surfers Paradise is an excellent option with modern dorms, a pool, and a buzzing social vibe. Another popular choice is Surfers Paradise YHA, offering a laid-back atmosphere and easy access to the beach.

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, QT Gold Coast combines quirky design with high-end amenities and ocean views.

Getting to and From the Gold Coast

By Plane:
The nearest airport is Gold Coast Airport (OOL), located about 30 minutes from Surfers Paradise. Shuttle buses, taxis, and rideshare services are readily available.

By Train:
The Gold Coast is connected to Brisbane via a reliable train service, with routes to and from major destinations in Queensland.

By Bus:
Intercity buses like Greyhound and Premier Motor Service connect the Gold Coast to cities along Australia’s east coast.

Travel Tip: The G:link tram is the easiest way to get around the Gold Coast, especially between Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Southport.

Nearest Airport and Popular Connections

Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is the main gateway, offering both domestic and international flights.

Estimated Flight Costs:

From Southeast Asia: Around €300 to €500 for a return flight (Bangkok, Singapore).
From Europe: Around €1,000 to €1,500 for a return flight (London, Paris).
From the USA: Around €800 to €1,200 for a return flight (Los Angeles, New York).
From New Zealand: Around €200 to €400 for a return flight (Auckland, Wellington).

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The Gold Coast enjoys a subtropical climate with warm weather year-round. The best time to visit is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner.

Summer (December to February) is perfect for beach days but can be busier due to holiday travelers.

Meeting Fellow Travelers

The Gold Coast’s energetic vibe and social hotspots make it a fantastic destination for meeting others:

Hostel Social Events: Hostels like BUNK Surfers Paradise organize pub crawls, BBQ nights, and surf lessons.
Surf Schools: Join a group surfing lesson at Surfers Paradise or Burleigh Heads to connect with fellow beginners.
Nightlife: Visit popular bars like The Avenue or dance the night away at SinCity Nightclub, both great for mingling.
Tours and Activities: Explore the hinterlands or join a day trip to Springbrook National Park for group adventures.

Testimonials from Fellow Travelers

Ella, 24, from the UK:
“The Gold Coast was the highlight of my trip to Australia! Surfing lessons were so much fun, and I met amazing people at the hostel’s BBQ night. The nightlife was incredible, too!”

Ryan, 28, from Canada:
“The beaches on the Gold Coast are unbeatable. I loved the Burleigh Heads walk, and the social vibe in Surfers Paradise made it easy to meet other solo travelers. Can’t wait to go back.”

Budgeting for 24 Hours on the Gold Coast

Accommodation:

Hostels: BUNK Surfers Paradise offers dorm beds from €20 to €30.
Hotels: QT Gold Coast offers luxury rooms starting from €200 per night.

Transportation:

A daily G:link tram pass costs around €5.

Food and Drink:

Breakfast: €5 to €10 for coffee and pastries.
Lunch and Dinner: €15 to €30 for meals at local cafés or beachside restaurants.

Attractions / Entertainment:

Surf lessons cost around €30 to €50.
Entry fees for theme parks or hinterland tours range from €20 to €50.

Miscellaneous:

Budget €10 to €20 for drinks, snacks, or souvenirs.

Total Estimated Budget: A day on the Gold Coast typically ranges from €70 to €150, offering a mix of beach relaxation, adventure, and vibrant nightlife.

Morning

Start your day with breakfast at BSKT Café, a health-focused eatery known for its smoothie bowls and great coffee. After fueling up, head to Surfers Paradise Beach to enjoy a morning of sunbathing or take a beginner-friendly surfing lesson with one of the many local surf schools.

If you’re not into surfing, take a leisurely walk along the beach and snap some photos of the iconic Surfers Paradise sign.

Lunch

For lunch, visit The Collective Palm Beach, a trendy dining spot offering a variety of cuisines under one roof. Choose from tacos, Asian-inspired dishes, or classic burgers while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

After lunch, head to Burleigh Heads National Park, where you can hike the trails for panoramic views of the coastline and spot wildlife in the lush surroundings.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the SkyPoint Observation Deck, located in the Q1 building, for 360-degree views of the Gold Coast. From here, you can see the city skyline, the beaches, and even the hinterlands.

If you prefer more adventure, join a jet-skiing or paddleboarding session at Broadwater Parklands, perfect for enjoying the sparkling waters.

Evening

As the sun sets, head to Rick Shores, a beachfront restaurant in Burleigh Heads, to enjoy a meal with stunning ocean views. Try their signature Moreton Bay bug rolls or fresh seafood dishes.

After dinner, return to Surfers Paradise and experience the lively nightlife at The Avenue or SinCity Nightclub, both popular spots for solo travelers and groups alike.

Departure Morning

On your departure morning, grab a quick breakfast at Bam Bam Bakehouse, famous for its pastries and coffee. Take a final stroll along the beach or shop for souvenirs at the local markets before heading to your next destination.

Where Next?

After exploring the Gold Coast, consider heading to Byron Bay for its laid-back surf culture or Brisbane for its riverfront charm and cultural attractions. For more travel ideas, explore our ’24-hour guides’ series on the Hostelworld app to plan your next adventure!