There is a reason the Gold Coast is known for endless adventures for every type of explorer. With so many day trips and activities, studying here means that you will never run out of things to do!
When you first arrive, the size of the Gold Coast may feel intimidating, and it can be hard to know where to start. So, I have put together a list of my favorite day trips from my home at Griffith University – all accessible with or without a car!
Coombahbah Lakelands Conservation Area
If you are anything like me, seeing wild kangaroos and koalas was right at the top of my Australia bucket list. It can be tricky to spot them in urban areas, which is why the peaceful sanctuary of Coombahbah is the perfect place to see these Aussie locals up close.
The flat trails offer something for everyone, with circuits that suit any fitness level and options for longer hikes or a quick 20-minute stroll. I recommend starting at the parking lot and heading out along the Kangaroo Trail. From there, you can connect to the Koala Trail, then follow the Boundary and Melaleuca loop to make your way back to the center.
Even if spotting wildlife is not your main goal, the trails are a lovely place for a walk or jog. I think that it is the perfect excuse to take a break from studying and get some fresh air!
Now, the matter of getting there. The easiest route from campus would be to take the 710 bus line from Griffith University Station, then walk about ten minutes to the parking lot. Apple Maps has been my best friend for navigating public transportation. It lists the possible routes, arrival times, and location of bus stops. I absolutely recommend using it!
Coombahbah Lake Conservation Area with lounging koala (top right of tree) and kangaroos in the grass.
Theme Parks!
The Gold Coast is home to five major theme parks, making it a go-to spot for Aussie’s on holiday. The Warner Bros. Movie World and Wet n’ Wild are especially popular for the college crowd, but SeaWorld, Dreamworld, and WhiteWater World are some other favorites worth checking out if you have the chance.
With thrilling rides, stunt shows, and character parades, Warner Bros. Movie World earns its nickname as “Hollywood on the Gold Coast.” It is home to the DC Rivals HyperCoaster – the tallest, longest, and fastest hypercoaster in the Southern Hemisphere. If you are an adrenaline junkie, this is the ultimate day trip for you!
The theme parks can be a bit pricey, but if you are a fanatic, the annual pass is worth it. It pays for itself in just two visits! Plus, getting there from Griffith is super easy with public transport.
Warner Bros. Movie World and its “Escape” rollercoaster.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Is it your dream to hold a koala? This is one of the few places in Australia where you can do it! As an add-on, the koala encounter offers you the unique opportunity to hold, feed, and learn all about these Aussie icons. I feel that it was a great value for my money, as it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get up close and personal with my favorite animal!
This local zoo is a non-profit organization that reinvests all its profits back into the health and care of the animals. Aside from the iconic koalas, you can hand-feed kangaroos, hang out with lemurs, and marvel at “Boss Hogg,” the massive 5-meter-long, 800-kilogram crocodile!
The 700 bus line goes straight from Griffith University Station to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, making this one of the easiest day trips to do!
Holding Emily the koala during a wildlife encounter at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Burleigh Heads
If you are keen for a more laid-back day trip, Burleigh Heads is the place to go. After grabbing an açaí bowl from The Fruit Shop or a tasty breakfast from one of the many cafés lining James Street, you can head straight to the beachfront just steps away. I love to just lie out and watch all the surfers. Home to the 2025 World Surf League, you can imagine that these waves are perfect for seasoned and first-time surfers!
If you are feeling active, the Oceanview Walk is a beautiful 3km coastal loop with scenic views of the Gold Coast skyline. The trail leads to Tallebudgera Creek, another lovely spot to take a dip. As the sun begins to set, you can change into something nicer and head to Burleigh Pavilion for a drink with ocean views, or join the locals on The Hill, a popular lookout spot for watching the sunset.
The G-link tram provides a route to Broadbeach South Station, where you can take the 700 or 777 bus lines to Burleigh Heads.
The scenic view of the Gold Coast skyline from the Oceanview Walk at Burleigh Heads
Springbrook and Lamington National Parks
Gold Coast is perfectly nestled between the coast and some seriously beautiful mountains that are worth exploring. These two parks are closest to Griffith University and offer some amazing hinterland bushwalks, waterfalls, and rainforest terrains. There is no need to worry if you are not much of a hiker- there are plenty of trails for every ability!
Some of my favorite trails in Springbrook National Park include the Natural Bridge Circuit (1km), Purling Brook Falls (4km), and the Best of All Lookout (0.8km). If you are tempted to take a dip in the waterfalls, be aware that leeches are unfriendly locals. It is a good idea to hike in long pants and a long-sleeve shirt to avoid them… or bring salt!
In Lamington National Park, Morans Falls (4km), and the Daves Creek Circuit via Border Track (12km) are great hikes!
Unfortunately, the national parks are not accessible by public transport. I found that renting a vehicle and splitting the cost among friends was way cheaper than renting in the United States, especially through companies like Jucy and Ace. Both rent to drivers over 18 years for a small surcharge!
Purling Brook Falls track at Springbrook National Park.
Tambourine Mountain
Home to Australia’s largest zipline and high ropes adventure course, the Tamborine Mountain Treetop Challenge is a must-do during your studies on the Gold Coast. Tucked into the tree canopy, you get to tackle 120 treetop activities, including ten amazing ziplines!
I highly recommend checking out the Tamborine Mountain Rainforest Skywalk, only a five-minute drive outside of the ropes course. It is a 1.5-km loop that combines forest floor trails and elevated steel bridges to explore the lush Queensland subtropical rainforests. The best part is the 30-meter-high cantilever bridge, which provides an incredible view of the canopy below.
To wrap up your day at Tambourine, I would stop by Hang Glider’s Lookout. It is a grassy spot with stunning views of the hinterland, perfect for watching the sunset and enjoying a picnic!
There is no public transport to Tambourine Mountain, so I recommend renting a car or booking through a travel app that arranges pickup in Gold Coast!
Hang Glider’s Lookout sunset overlooking the hinterland on Tambourine Mountain.
Scuba Dive the Gold Coast!
I’ve listed plenty of on-foot adventures, but if you are keen for something a bit more aquatic, then I suggest booking a dive with Gold Coast Dive Adventures. I booked to explore Wonder Reef, the world’s first buoyant reef, and Palm Beach Reef, where I saw stonefish and wobbegong sharks!
Even if you are not certified, you can still book a Discovery Dive. They will teach you the basics and guide you through a hands-on underwater experience. I would definitely recommend getting your scuba certification while you are here too, as it is way more affordable than in the United States.
Wobbegong shark seen scuba diving on Palm Beach reef.
Australia Zoo
A classic must-do day trip from the Gold Coast is visiting the Australia Zoo – the legendary home of Steve Irwin. Give yourself the whole day to explore, as there are over 1,200 animals and numerous interactive wildlife encounters and shows to see!
I had the opportunity to pet a koala and learn more about their conservation efforts, watch an exciting crocodile show, and even watch an echidna eat! This was a highlight of my time in Australia. I went twice because I couldn’t get enough!
While it is possible to reach the Australia Zoo via public transportation, you would have to buckle in for a four-hour journey each way. I would rent a vehicle for the day or find a friend with a car for this trip!
Tense image of a handler during a crocodile show taken at the Australia Zoo.
Noosa Heads
This trip is the furthest, but totally worth it! Noosa, a coastal town located about three hours from Gold Coast, is perfect for wildlife lovers, foodies, surfers, and campers. While you can explore it in a day if you are up early enough, I recommend an overnight stay with a rented car. I have camped at Habitat Noosa Ecocamp twice, and it is an incredible spot. I had the chance to see kangaroos hop across the beach at sunrise, and I even saw a few with joeys!
During your stay, I would recommend a kayaking tour through the Noosa Everglades. Nicknamed the “River of Mirrors,” the still water reflects the tea trees like glass! If you prefer to stay on foot, there are beautiful coastal walks that lead to the famous fairy pools, natural tidepools perfect for a swim!
Kayaking the glass-like water of the Noosa Everglades.
There is no shortage of things to do on the Gold Coast, and I have only scratched the surface. I would recommend diving into everything you can during your studies: Explore new places, meet new people, and make the most of your time at this amazing location. Who knows what hidden gems you could stumble upon once you start exploring on your own!