MAIN BEACH AND SURROUNDS IN 48 HOURS

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Come and playPristine golden sands and aqua blue waters aren’t the only drawcards for travellers flocking to the Gold Coast.

With an array of things to do in the very heart of the Gold Coast that’s a little less hurried from the rest, unearth pure bliss on your next short or long trip away to Australia’s favourite playground.

Read on for your 2-day relaxed Main Beach and Surfers Paradise itinerary.

GOLD COAST BROADWATER

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Federation Walk Coastal ReserveFishermen’s Co-Operative

The SPit

southport yacht club

Surfers paradise

Palazzo Versace

Harbour Town Premium Outlets

Embark on a bush walk with an ocean view Fancy a stroll? Begin your morning amongst hectares of lush vegetation and almost 3kms of shoreline on the Federation Walk Coastal Reserve. Starting at Philip Park, opposite the Sea World entrance car park, the natural path will lead you to the Seaway and to one of the best vantage points of Wave Break Island. Here you’ll also get sweeping views of the remarkable linear Gold Coast coastline that spans from Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta.

Many bird watchers flock to this area to get a glimpse of the thriving wildlife, with others adopting the area as their regular recreation trails for bike riding, running and even meditation. The round trip is 7kms, so you’ll be sure to have worked up an appetite for lunch upon return.

Shop ’til you drop If you’re the type of holiday-goer that can’t miss out on a spot of shopping, then Harbour Town Premium Outlets is the next stop for you and your travelling party.

Boasting more than 240 outlet stores with big-name brands, together with a dedicated dining pavilion that’s just over 12 months old, you’ll have a ball in the beautiful open-air, palm-lined precinct – with discounts a plenty.

Taste local seafood At just a few minutes’ walk up the road along Seaworld Drive, north of Palazzo Versace, stop dockside at Fishermen’s Co-Operative trawlers for the finest catch of the day.

As one of the first developments on The Spit in the 70s, the Co-Op has long specialised in daily fresh (and cooked) king prawns, spanner and sand crabs and Balmain bugs.

Pack a picnic and enjoy your lunch in the park or beachside back up towards the Seaway; it may just become your go-to afternoon takeaway spot.

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Relax poolside or cruise the waterwaysWake up renewed and ready to take on another day on your Gold Coast adventure at the epitome of luxury and sophistication, Palazzo Versace.

Opt for a buffet breakfast in the IL Barocco restaurant or enjoy your coffee (or morning mimosa – we won’t judge!) beside the 65-metre lagoon pool in your very own private cabana. With views of the marina in the distance, watch the passing superyachts and boats glide by whilst hitting ultimate relaxation mode.

For a more adventure-filled afternoon on the water, set sail aboard a luxurious chartered catamaran with Sailing in Paradise, or in season (generally May to November) experience the natural beauty of migrating humpback whales with Sea World Cruises or Spirit of Gold Coast Whale Watching charters. All of which conveniently depart right next door from the Mariners Cove Marina, next to Marina Mirage.

Discover local markets As late afternoon sky hues start to appear, jump in the car for a 6-minute drive or 30-minute walk into the popular (and aptly named) Surfers Paradise precinct.

Coined as ‘Surfers’ by locals, this ever-evolving coastal area is a mecca for entertainment, beachside shopping, dining and modern bars.

Discover the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets dotted along the foreshore at the end of Cavil Avenue every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night from 5pm. With over 100 stalls from local artists on offer showcasing fashion, souvenirs, knick-knacks and locally grown produce, we guarantee you’ll be taking home more than just great memories.

Dine dockside After a relaxing morning by the water, head in for a late lunch at the award-winning Marina Restaurant at Southport Yacht Club. Catch stunning views of the club’s private 300 yacht marina whilst enjoying your Oysters Kilpatrick, Moreton Bay Bug Meat Linguini and a glass of local red wine.

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TransportSeamless accessibility is all yours with a city that gives you metropolitan infrastructure with boutique city benefits. With smooth connectivity from two international airports, train and light rail services backed up by an abundance of transfer options, you’ll find getting just about anywhere is a breeze.

TWO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTSGold Coast International Airport: 30 minute drive to Surfers Paradise

Brisbane International Airport: 60 minute drive to Surfers Paradise

TRAIN AND LIGHT RAIL SERVICESConnecting train journey from Brisbane Airport into Gold Coast city centre. Find out more at airtrain.com.au

Gold Coast light rail (G:Link)19 major stops around the Gold Coast with frequent services running 7 days per week. The go explore card is designed for use on Translink bus, train and tram services with multiple day passes available.

Find out more at translink.com.au

TRANSFERS AND CAR HIREYou’ll find every mode of transport you’ll need on the Gold Coast with coaches, buses, luxury transfers, taxis and Uber options easily arranged. With hotels and venues in close proximity to restaurants, activities and the beach, it’s a compact city that invites you to live like a local and readily explore what’s on offer.

For more transport information and holiday inspiration, visit destinationgoldcoast.com