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Adventure Sports In Gold Coast
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Best Water Sports In Gold Coast

Activities to Do in Gold Coast Besides Theme Parks

Skydiving in the Gold Coast, Snorkeling  in the Gold Coast, Sightseeing Dinner cruise, Visit Lamington National park, Explore the arts at Gold Coast, Visit Gold Coast Wax Museum, Go karting, Hot Air balloon ride, Gold Coast Wax Museum and more!

Are you too bored of amusement parks and looking for some exciting things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks? For the thrill and adrenaline seekers, there are a plethora of adventurous things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks, starting from skydiving and hot air ballooning to go karting and jungle trekking. You can also explore the major attractions of the city with the lip smacking dinner in the Sightseeing Dinner Cruise.

If you are visiting the Gold Coast during the summer season, you can head to the various pristine beaches of the city and enjoy a myriad of exhilarating water activities like snorkeling and surfing. If you are in the city with your family or young children, you can spend the day enjoying a day out in the Lamington National Park or exploring the various art galleries of the city.

Here is the list of best things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks:

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Explore All (37)
34 Ratings
Superb 34 Ratings
4.5
01
34 Ratings Ratings
  • 1H
  • 1H
34 Ratings
Superb 34 Ratings
4.5
01
34 Ratings Ratings
₹ 3,045 ₹ 2,101 per Senior

Activity Location: Elkhorn Ave & Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia

Activity Timings: 10:30 AM - 04:45 PM

Activity Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)

About Quack'r Duck Amphibious Tour In Gold Coast:

The Gold Coast is built around a complex system of twisting canals and waterways that might be challenging to explore on your own. In the Quack’rDuck Amphibious Tour throughout the region focuses on the city's attractions and landmarks. Drive through Surfers Paradise, Southport, and Main Beach in an amphibious bus, then dive into the waterways for a tour.

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30 Ratings
Superb 30 Ratings
4.5
02
30 Ratings Ratings
  • 1H
  • 1H
30 Ratings
Superb 30 Ratings
4.5
02
30 Ratings Ratings
₹ 11,569 ₹ 6,710 per Adult

Activity Location: Surfers Paradise, 74 Seaworld Drive Marina Mirage, Main Beach QLD 4217

Activity Timing: Various time slots available between 9:00 AM & 2:00 PM

Activity Duration: 1 hour

Flight Duration: 8 minutes

About Parasailing in Gold Coast:

Enjoy the enthralling activity of Parasailing in the Gold Coast City and witness the beautiful views from Surfers Paradise to Brisbane. Have fun as you get propelled by a parasailing boat with all the safety gear for about 8 minutes. You can also opt to do parasailing with a companion.

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37 Ratings
Superb 37 Ratings
4.5
03
37 Ratings Ratings
  • 4H
  • 4H
37 Ratings
Superb 37 Ratings
4.5
03
37 Ratings Ratings
₹ 10,200 ₹ 6,521 per Adult

Activity Duration: 4 hours (approx.)

Starting Time: 7:00 AM

Pick-up details: Round-trip transfers to and from your hotel

About Scuba Diving in Gold Coast:

Scuba dive in the pristine waters of Gold Coast, offering you a unique opportunity to discover the mysterious yet beautiful underwater world consisting of colorful marine life. This dive site is suitable for both professional and uncertified divers, especially because of the supportive PADI staff here. Get an adrenaline rush while swimming with beautiful fishes and witnessing coral reefs. 

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33 Ratings
Superb 33 Ratings
4.5
04
33 Ratings Ratings
  • 2H
  • 2H
33 Ratings
Superb 33 Ratings
4.5
04
33 Ratings Ratings
$ 100 $ 77 per Adult

SkyPoint Location: Q1, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia

Starting Time: 09:30 AM

Activity Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

About SkyPoint Climb Tickets:

Find yourself standing atop Australia's tallest structure. Visit the SkyPoint Observation Deck in Surfers Paradise's renowned Q1 building to get a bird's eye view of the entire Gold Coast skyline. Take in the beauty of the coast from SkyPoint's unique vantage point. The Observation Deck, at a breathtaking height of 230 metres above sea level, commands a 360-degree view of the surrounding area.

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40 Ratings
Superb 40 Ratings
4.5
05
40 Ratings Ratings
  • 3H
  • 3H
40 Ratings
Superb 40 Ratings
4.5
05
40 Ratings Ratings
₹ 5,370 ₹ 3,705 per Child

Activity Duration: 3.5 hours (approx.)

Operational Hours:

  • 09:30 AM - 01:00 PM
  • 02:30 PM - 06:00 PM

Meeting Location: 58 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217

About Whale Watching Cruise in Gold Coast:

Watch the giant whales of the glimmering ocean of Australia and take some photos by opting for this tour. En route a journey of admiring the magnificent beauty of the whales in the Gold Coast for 3-hours straight with your family and friends. See how these beautiful creatures blend in their natural habitat and make the most out of your day.

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29 Ratings
Superb 29 Ratings
4.5
06
29 Ratings Ratings
  • 8H
  • 8H
29 Ratings
Superb 29 Ratings
4.5
06
29 Ratings Ratings
₹ 16,310 ₹ 9,623 per Adult

Pick-up/ Drop-off Location: Any centrally located hotel/ residence in Gold Coast

Operational Days: Wednesday - Sunday

Activity Starting Time: 9:30 AM

Activity Duration: 8 Hours (Approx.)

About Tamborine Mountain Walking Tour in Gold Coast:

Embark on an exclusive walking tour of the Tamborine Mountain in Gold Coast. You can discover some of the hidden gems of the region like the Joalah Section waterfall amidst the lush greenery of the rainforest. Soak in the serenity while sipping your glass of wine/ beer/ juice and then proceed on to enjoy a delicious lunch in the scenic setup. Visit a local family-owned distillery, the Tamborine township shopping area, and more while learning about the region's history & culture from your expert guide. Plus, you get convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off services to enhance your experience.

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31 Ratings
Superb 31 Ratings
4.5
07
31 Ratings Ratings
  • 3H
  • 3H
31 Ratings
Superb 31 Ratings
4.5
07
31 Ratings Ratings
₹ 7,825 ₹ 5,321 per Adult

Pick up & Drop off Details: Hotel pick up and drop off is only available from Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, Main Beach

Starting Time: 06:30 PM - 09:30 PM

Activity Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

About Evening Rainforest and Glow Worm Experience:

Famed for its surfing spots and sandy beaches, Gold Coast is a beautiful city in Queensland, Australia. Just as the sun sets on the Gold Coast, you can have an out-of-this-world adventure. Travelling through the rainforest at night with native guide comments about nocturnal flora and creatures is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You'll see glow worms in their natural habitat alongside a hidden national park waterfall near the end of your journey. Also, enjoy a delicious dessert at a local restaurant nearby.

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08

Skydiving in the Gold Coast

Image Credit : Photo by Russ Jani
  • One of the most adrenaline-fueled things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks is skydiving which will definitely give you an adrenaline rush. 

  • If you are beginners or experienced you can go tandem skydiving assisted by a certified professional crew. 

  • The guide will make sure you get the best experience and your safety is maintained.

  • Enjoy a spine-chilling freefall at a speed of a whopping 200 km/h for around 30 seconds.

  • As you float around 10,000 feet above the spectacular white sand beaches of the Gold Coast, catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing landscapes from Coolangatta to Brisbane.

Location: Main Beach QLD 4217, Australia

Also Checkout: Theme Parks Australia

Book Now: Skydiving in Gold Coast
09

Snorkeling in the Gold Coast

Image Credit : Photo by Miles Hardacre : https://www.pexels.com/photo/
  • Known as the abode of some of the best beaches in the world, the Gold Coast offers unmatched snorkeling opportunities.

  • Snorkeling in the clear waters is considered one of the favorite things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks, especially amongst the marine enthusiasts.

  • With all safety measures taken care of and necessary gears facilitated, you will snorkel under the guidance of a certified instructor, who will aid you with the required techniques.

  • Once you are under the water, you can spot a number of fascinating stingrays and vibrant corals. 

Location: Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

Duration of activity: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Also Checkout: Australia Winter

Book Now: Dreamworld Gold Coast Tickets
10

Go for Hot Air Balloon Ride

Image Credit : Photo by Pixabay
  • Letting you explore the city from a whole new perspective, hot air ballooning is one of the most enjoyable activities to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks.

  • Soar up to the deep blue sky and float over the breathtaking dramatic landscapes.

  • As you enjoy your aerial ride, soak in the mesmerizing 360-degree panoramic views of lush forests, pastures, rolling fields, and vineyards.

  • Take a bath in the golden morning light of the sun and raise a toast right in the middle of the sky, celebrating this surreal moment in the Gold Coast.

Location: Surfers Paradise, Queensland, Australia

Duration of activity: 4 hours (approx.)

Also Checkout: Australia Monuments

Book Now: Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon Ride
11

Sightseeing Dinner cruise

  • One of the most recommended activities to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks for couples is experiencing the surreal sightseeing dinner cruise.

  • If you are seeking some fun  things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks, book this experience and enjoy sailing alongside the breathtaking Surfers Paradise in the lovely evening with your beloved.

  • As you cruise along the serene waters, soak in the views of some of the most iconic landmarks of the Gold Coast, including Sea World, Marina Mirage, and the Palazzo Versace.

  • You will also enjoy the enchanting music and savor a delicious widespread dinner hosting the finest local produce of the Gold Coast.

LocationSurfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

Duration of activity: 
45 minutes to 1 Hour

Also Checkout: National Parks Australia

Book Now: Sightseeing Dinner Cruise in the Gold Coast
12

Visit Lamington National Park

Image Credit : Photo by Lukas Kloeppel
  • Spending a day/night out in the lush, breathtaking Lamington National Park is one of the most off-beat things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks.

  • You can spend your time engaging in a host of fun and thrilling activities to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks like treetop walking, bird watching, and hiking.

  • Visitors can also spot many picturesque waterfalls here like Elabana Fall, Purling Brook Falls, and Morans Falls.

  • Keep your eyes open for some fascinating wildlife commonly spotted here, including Australian parrot, southern fig parrot, Richmond birdwing, Albert’s lyrebird, the blue Lamington crayfish, large-eye pied bat, beech skink, platypus, and regent bowerbird.

  • You can also enjoy night camping in this national park, sleeping to the gurgling sounds of the waterfalls and waking up to the enchanting bird chirpings.

Location: Queensland, Australia

Entry Fee: $ 6.65 per head and $ 26.60 per family for a night

Duration of activity: 1 day

Also Checkout:  Things To Do In Australia

Book NowLamington National Park, OReillys and Vineyard Tour
13

Explore the Arts at Gold Coast

Image Credit : Photo by JULIO NERY
  • Packed with a plethora of amazing local galleries, Gold Coast is known popularly for its thriving art, both classic as well as contemporary.

  • If you are an art enthusiast, exploring the impressive artworks can be one of the best things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks.

  • Some of the most recommended art galleries that you may want to check out include 19 Karen Contemporary Art Space, Art Lovers Australia, Dust Temple, HOTA Gallery, Urban Paradise Gallery, The Walls Art Space, The HIVE Art Gallery, Gallery One, and Anthea Polson Art.

Location: Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

Also Checkout: Things to Do in Surry Hills

Must Checkout & Book: Australia Trip Packages
14

Visit Gold Coast Wax Museum

Image Credit : https://australiagoldcoast.com/the-exhibits/
  • One of the most family-friendly things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks is meeting the global icons at the famous Wax Museum.

  • Take an exploration tour of this unique museum and see the impressive life-like wax statues of your favorite celebrities including movie stars, singers, artists, characters, and other eminent historical figures.

  • Click some amazing pictures with the wax models and carry home as unique souvenirs of this lifetime’s worth of experience at the Gold Coast Wax Museum.

Location: 56 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia

Price: 
$26 per head for children; $33 per head for adults

Duration of activity: 
1 to 2 hours

Also Checkout: Unusual Things to Do in Sydney

Click Here to Book: Honeymoon Tour Packages in Australia
15

Go-Karting

Image Credit : Pexels
  • Go karting is one of the most favorite things to do in Gold Coast besides theme parks for people of all generations.

  • This activity is perfectly suitable for action-seeking people who want more fun and less adventure.

  • This activity provides experience at various places in Gold Coast, so you can check for your location and book the tickets online.

  • You can also experience indoor go karting, if you want to experience karting, but do not want to get exposed to the extreme weather conditions.

  • The track surface is amazing and lets the karts easily drift around.

  • Multiple karts can run on these tracks at any given time in distinct racing styles.

Location: Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

Duration of activity: 
30 minutes to 1 hour

Also Checkout: Things to Do in Circular Quay

If you are planning a trip to Sydney, you should Checkout: Sydney Packages

People Also Ask About Gold Coast

  1. What are the most popular things to do in Gold Coast with children?

    1. Bouncing and climbing at BOUNCE INC Trampoline Park
    2. Ice Skating at Surfers Paradise
    3. Indoor go karting
    4. Playing Indoor Mini Golf
    5. Visiting the Lamington National park
    6. Experiencing thrilling rides at SeaWorld

      Also Checkout & Book: Melbourne Trips
  2. What is famous on the Gold Coast?

    Gold Coast is known famously for its mind-boggling theme parks, pristine beaches, endless shopping opportunities, and intoxicating nightlife culture. The city is also popular for its adrenaline-fueled activities to do in Gold Coast besides Theme Parks, such as snorkeling, surfing, hot air ballooning, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and Go karting.
  3. Which are the best places to visit on the Gold Coast at night?

    Main Beach Miami Marketta Australian Outback Spectacular Surfers Paradise Timezone Putt Putt mini golf Frida Sol in Palm Beach Dreamworld Sea World
  4. What are the top attractions to visit in Gold Coast?

  5. What are the bet Australia packages that we can book from Thrillophilia?

Newly Added Gold Coast Experience

Adventure in Gold Coast

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Gold Coast Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Gold Coast

More Gold Coast Attractions

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Chakravartee Butt Gold Coast Water Sports Combo
Excellent
We chose jet ski and flyboarding option on this tour and are very happy with the experience. Flying above the waters and in the middle of beautiful views added a cherry to the cake. Thank you thrillophilia for providing Gold Coast water sports combo ticket at cheap prices
Excellent
60 metres above the ground gave me chills. The instructor was very good and he gave me all the necessary information. After he helped me wear all the safety gears, I was confident. I am glad I was able to do it and I am glad I choose this.
Adventurous zipline and too above most beautiful views, it was a perfect combination. Going above the greenery at a great speed and winds blowing on my face refreshed me. Gold Coast canyon flyer zipline tour was better than perfect.
Excellent
The driver was very friendly and he helped us reach the airport without letting us miss the flights. It was a budget transfer option that we could choose and value for money as well. The vehicle was clean and air-conditioned. Thanks to the driver and thrillophilia
Excellent
Shared Gold Coast airport transfers was a comfortable and convenient package. We did not have to worry about being transferred to the hotel as the driver was at the right time. Would recommend this over taxis
Excellent
Alex took care of me while I was surfing. He was so friendly and knowledgable and helped me learn from scratch. He even showed us his skills which were amazing. I would recommend beginner surf experience in Gold Coast to all.
Excellent
Being a beginner I was worried about availing this tour at first. But Thrillophilia did what it promised. I was so excited when the experience started. I could learn the basics of surfing and show off my moves to all. Thank you Thrillophilia for this package.
Excellent
It was a thrilling time. From booking tickets to availing it everything was very easy. This was my first time and at first I was scared but then I I started to get the hold of it, I enjoyed it throughly.
Excellent
this experience in Gold Coast was one the most memorable . Driving a jetski gave me goosebumps and being an advance one, we could do so many things. At that moment I could feel the adventure reaching at max level.
Excellent
The ground staff which helped us throughout this package was super friendly and supportive. We enjoyed thoroughly and had a great overall experience. I personally liked parasailing and will recommend to all the travellers.

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