Gold Coast, Australia—Fully Figured Out! 🇦🇺🌊
✈️ Getting There Fly domestically within Australia to reach Gold Coast (usually via Sydney/Melbourne). Buy a prepaid SIM card in advance (e.g., Optus/Telstra)—plug & play on arrival! 🚗 Transport Tips Rent a car for maximum freedom! Combine Brisbane + Gold Coast for a perfect road trip. Public transport (trams/buses) works too, but driving is king here. 🏨 Where to Stay? Surfers Paradise is the GOAT 🏄♂️—beachfront hotels, restaurants, and shops all in one. Meriton Suites: Surfers Paradise (26F+ = Airbnb-style; 1-26F = hotel). Pro: Insane ocean views! Con: Housekeeping only every 3 days. Avoid Southport if you want the viral-worthy skyline. 🦘 Must-Do Activities Cuddle a Koala at Currumbin Zoo 🐨 Pre-book tickets on Fliggy (cheaper!), then pay $3 AUD onsite for photos. Koala hugs end at 11:30 AM, resume at 12:30 PM—queue early! Warner Bros. Movie World 🎢 Stop here if driving from Brisbane! Don’t miss the "Justice League" coaster (tallest/fastest in the Southern Hemisphere!). Byron Bay Skydive ✈️ #1 most scenic drop zone globally! Book online, add photo/video onsite. Warning: Not ideal if you’ve had LASIK within a year (dry eyes = ouch). Sunrise at Miami Beach 🌅 For epic shots, navigate to Savvy Sessions Photography spot via Google Maps. 🍷 Pro Tips BYO toiletries (most hotels skip toothbrushes/slippers). Pack a light jacket—mornings can be chilly! BWS/Dan Murphy’s are your go-to for booze runs. Book tours on Chinese OTAs (e.g., Ctrip)—way cheaper than Aussie sites! 📍 Nearby Gems Burleigh Heads National Park (hike + picnic!) Brisbane (1hr north) Cairns (for reef trips!) #GoldCoast #AustraliaTravel #KoalaCuddles #SkydiveAustralia #SurfersParadise