It’s time to swap the business suit for something more casual, put your briefcase away and enjoy your time at the Gold Coast. If you’re travelling for business, it can be useful to take the team out of the boardroom and into the local area for networking, or simply some fresh air.
Who says your trip has to be all work and no play? Even if you’re travelling alone, there is an endless list of things to do at the Gold Coast that will make your business trip seem more like a vacation than work!
Here are a few idea for things you can do to make the most of your free time during a busy work trip.
See the real Gold Coast – not just the theme parks
When you hear ‘Gold Coast’, you may immediately think of theme parks, large crowds and great surfing. Well, those things are certainly available if you want them! But there is also plenty more on offer. It’s just a short drive from your hotel to any one of the Gold Coast’s stellar attractions.
Here are just five of the best things to do at the Gold Coast while travelling for business.
Explore and discover the Burleigh Heads National Park
Get in touch with nature and see what photo opportunities can be found in the Burleigh Heads National Park. This natural headland is situated in the heart of the Gold Coast and offers amazing sites and experiences to travellers and locals alike. There’s no need to travel to the mountains to get your fix of hiking.
In the spring you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of whales as they pass by on their annual migration. Dolphins can be spotted all year round while you enjoy a walk along the rocky foreshore.
While most of Burleigh Heads is covered with tussock grassland, eucalyptus forest, pandanus groves and mangroves, but on the northern side of Burleigh Heads is one of Australia’s most famous surfing point breaks. Grab some lunch and watch as daredevil surfers battle the waves!
If bush walks are of interest to you then exploring the rainforest circuit is a must. Or perhaps you would prefer a quiet picnic on the Burleigh foreshore or Echo Beach with the serene sounds of nature? Whatever it is that you enjoy about getting outdoors, the Burleigh Heads National Park has it all!
Shopping – Find yourself a bargain
The Gold Coast has a lot to offer for bargain hunters and boutique shoppers. With four markets, you are spoiled for choice. The arts and crafts markets at Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, Carrara and Coolangatta have so much variety and character that even if you aren’t looking to purchase anything, the vibe is one you won’t forget.
Department store centres like Harbour Town, Pacific Fair and Robina Town Centre are popular shopping locations among locals and tourists. If you like shopping the sales, these convenient centres are a must
Gold Coast City Gallery
If you take pleasure in the finer things in life, the Gold Coast City Gallery is perfect for you. Hosting over 20 exhibitions a year in three gallery spaces, including local, national and international artists, there is always something new and exciting to see.
The art gallery is home to the City’s collection of contemporary and historical artworks that document the Gold Coast’s charm. The gallery offers culture, knowledge and a space for you to wind down and be inspired by the talent of these artists.
The gallery is also part of the larger Arts Centre Gold Coast, which hosts concerts, plays, workshops and speaking tours throughout the year. Why not invite your colleagues for some social fun and networking?
Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Cavill Avenue is the central shopping strip in Surfers Paradise. Just back from the rolling waves and sandy beach, it is a hub of activity, day and night. Restaurants, bars, surf shops and street entertainers – it’s all there. Grab a bite to eat while you watch the ‘beautiful people’ stroll by.
If you’re looking for attractions, why not visit Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! – a museum dedicated to all things weird and wonderful? Check out the incredible wax creations at the nearby Wax Museum while you’re there. Cavill Avenue also provides tour booking facilities if you’re looking to lock in your next Gold Coast adventure.
Dinner and a show
You haven’t fully experienced the Gold Coast until you have wined and dined at the renowned horror-themed Dracula’s Comedy Cabaret Restaurant. Rated MA15+, the show is spooky and a little bit cheeky, but always hilarious. Catch Dracula’s ghost train ride into the Theatre of the Vampire, before sinking your teeth into a three-course meal. Finish your dining experience with their signature ‘Death by Chocolate’ for dessert. The food and service are terrifyingly good.
Other ‘dinner and show’ options include Jupiters Hotel and Casino at Broadbeach, where you can take in a Vegas vibe with glitzy magic shows and big name entertainers. Or head north to Oxenford for the Australian Outback Spectacular, where a juicy steak is served while you watch working dogs, horses and brave trick riders put through their paces.
Just because you are away and travelling for business, doesn’t mean you cannot make the most of your free time in the beautiful Gold Coast region. Wherever your accommodation is, you’ll find impressive attractions and entertainment just a short drive away.
If you’ve found a list of things to do at the Gold Coast on your next visit, make sure you are transported between them in comfort and style! Don’t risk unreliable public transport or getting lost in a city that’s unfamiliar. A chauffeur driven vehicle from Car Australia is more affordable than you think! We’ll drive you to and from your bush walk, shopping spree or big night out, leaving you to enjoy the sights rather than worry about traffic. Contact us today.
Make it easy to discover the many exciting things to do at the Gold Coast with a chauffeured car. Book online or give Car Australia a call today!