The Gold Coast is located on the east coast of Australia, just one hour's drive south of Queensland's capital, Brisbane. It is a region of contrasts offering a 70km (44 mile) stretch of unpolluted golden surf beaches, with a hinterland of lush green subtropical rainforests. The Coast boasts over 35 patrolled beaches and year round safe swimming, and the hinterland is Australia's largest area of subtropical rainforest with 29 national parks and nature reserves.

Apart from its natural beauty, the Gold Coast is Australia's entertainment capital, offering an enormous range of sights and attractions to delight visitors of all ages. From theme parks and wildlife sanctuaries to adventure sports, day tours and cruises, to shopping, wining and dining.

The climate is subtropical and the area enjoys an average of over 300 days of sunshine per year.

The average temperature ranges are:

Season	Months	Temp C	Temp F
Spring:	September-November	15-25ºC	(59-77ºF)
Summer:	December-February	20-28ºC	(68-83ºF)
Autumn:	March-May	20-28ºC	(59-77ºF)
Winter:	June-August	11-21ºC	(52-70ºF)

South-East Queensland Map

Links

The Gold Coast stretches from Cabarita Beach in New South Wales north to Beenleigh and South Stradbroke Island. Its main attractions include beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, national parks, quaint villages, craft shops and spectacular views. For further information, try starting at these sites:
Gold Coast Tourism
Gold Coast City Council - visitor information
Dream World
Movie World
Sea World
Currumbin Sanctuary
Ripley's Believe it or Not