Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
The very warm climate, golden sands and crystal blue waters make gay Gold Coast Australia a place of interest for vacation destinations. The city is primed with beautiful sights and even more beautiful gay nightlife.
Located just south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast boasts over 57 kilometers of coastline, including some of the world’s best beaches. Surfers Paradise is perhaps the most famous, with its high-rise buildings, white sand, and clear blue waters. But there are plenty of other beaches to explore, including Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, and Coolangatta.
Beyond the beaches, the Gold Coast is home to a plethora of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. The city’s theme parks are some of the most popular, with Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, and Wet’n’Wild all in proximity to each other. Each park offers a unique experience, from thrill rides to marine animal shows.
For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the Gold Coast’s hinterland offers a beautiful contrast to the coastline. The Lamington National Park, for example, is a world heritage-listed rainforest that is home to an abundance of wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies.
The park offers a range of walking trails and camping sites, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in nature.
The Gold Coast also hosts several LGBTQ+ events throughout the year, including the Gold Coast Pride Festival, which celebrates the local queer community with a parade, live music, and other festivities. The festival has been running for over a decade and continues to grow in popularity each year.
Despite these positive aspects, the Gold Coast still faces challenges when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex marriage was only legalized in Australia in 2017, following a national postal survey that showed overwhelming support for marriage equality. While this was a significant step forward, there are still issues around discrimination and hate crimes that need to be addressed.
The Gold Coast’s LGBTQ+ community is actively working towards equality, with local organizations such as the Gold Coast Rainbow Network advocating for the rights of queer people in the region. The organization hosts regular events and provides resources for the local community, including support for people who may experience discrimination or other issues related to their sexuality or gender identity.
In this article we will cover...
Attractions in Gay Gold Coast, Australia
The Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, is a destination that offers a plethora of attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Known for its breathtaking beaches, stunning hinterland, and bustling city atmosphere, the Gold Coast is a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern excitement.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping rides, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just some rest and relaxation, the Gold Coast has something to offer. With a range of activities and attractions available, you can explore the vibrant nightlife, immerse yourself in nature, discover local history and culture, or simply soak up the sun on the beach.
As a new visitor to Gay Gold Coast, there are plenty of things to see and do, regardless of your sexual orientation. One of the best ways to experience any new city is to visit some of its most iconic landmarks and attractions, including visiting historical monuments, museums, and art galleries.
We also love gazing at architecture up close, exploring parks and gardens, sampling the local cuisine, visiting local markets, and attending cultural events such as festivals, concerts and shows.
Even as the out-and-proud queer we are, we still love to just explore the city and its culture in the same way as everyone else. Doing so allows us the opportunity to learn more about the city and its people and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture. As such, these are our favorite must-see attractions on Gold Coast.
Surfers Paradise Beach, on the Gold Coast of Australia, is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. With its stunning coastline, warm climate, and wide range of activities and attractions, Surfers Paradise Beach offers something for everyone.
One of the primary draws of Surfers Paradise Beach is its long, wide stretch of golden sand. The beach spans over three kilometers, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or jog. The soft sand provides a comfortable spot for sunbathing, while the clear, blue waters of the Pacific Ocean offer a refreshing dip on a hot summer’s day.
If you are looking for a bit of adventure, Surfers Paradise Beach is a hub of water sports activities. The waves here are ideal for surfing, and there are plenty of surf schools where beginners can learn the basics. Jet skiing, parasailing, and wakeboarding are also popular activities on the beach. In addition, there are plenty of beach volleyball courts, as well as areas for soccer and other team sports.
Surfers Paradise Beach also offers a wide range of dining options, from casual beachside cafes to more upscale restaurants. You can enjoy fresh seafood, juicy burgers, or a refreshing cocktail as they take in the stunning views of the beach and the surrounding area.
Another attraction in Surfers Paradise is the bustling nightlife. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a vibrant party scene. Bars and nightclubs come to life with live music, dancing, and DJs spinning tunes late into the night.
The beach is also home to a variety of annual events and festivals. The Gold Coast 600 V8 Supercars race takes place in October each year, while the Gold Coast Film Festival in April showcases the best in local and international cinema. Local vendors at the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets sell everything from jewelry to art.
The sanctuary is home to over 1,000 animals, including kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birds. One of the principal attractions is the daily Lorikeet feeding, where visitors can feed and interact with hundreds of colorful parrots that flock to the sanctuary each day.
The sanctuary offers a range of experiences, including animal encounters where visitors can get close to some animals and learn more about them. These encounters can range from holding a koala to feeding a kangaroo, and they offer a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most beloved creatures.
Besides the animal encounters, the sanctuary also has a range of shows and exhibits. The Crocodile Behaviours Show is a popular attraction, where visitors can see the sanctuary’s resident saltwater crocodiles in action. The Free Flight Bird Show is also a highlight, with birds of prey soaring over the audience as they learn about their natural behaviors and habitats.
Tamborine Mountain is a picturesque mountain village in the Gold Coast Hinterland of Queensland, Australia. The mountain is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning natural beauty, charming village atmosphere, and wide range of activities and attractions.
One of the principal attractions of Tamborine Mountain is its breathtaking scenery. The mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the coast and the nearby rainforest. Visitors can take scenic drives, go hiking or take in the views from the various lookouts.
Another popular attraction on Tamborine Mountain is the rainforest. The mountain is home to several national parks, including the Tamborine National Park, which boasts a variety of walking trails, waterfalls and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the rainforest or take part in guided tours to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area.
Tamborine Mountain is also known for its arts and crafts scene. The village is home to many art galleries, craft shops, and antique stores, selling everything from pottery to handmade jewelry. The area is popular for hang-gliding and paragliding, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also take part in activities such as abseiling, rock climbing and horse riding.
Tamborine Mountain also has a range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. The area is known for its fresh produce, with many restaurants and cafes using locally sourced ingredients.
SeaWorld is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, and theme park on the Gold Coast of Queensland, Australia. It is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a range of exciting and educational experiences.
One of the chief attractions of Sea World is its marine animal exhibits. Visitors can see a wide variety of sea creatures up close, including dolphins, seals, penguins, sharks, and tropical fish. The park also has a world-class aquarium, which houses over 10,000 marine animals, including rare and exotic species.
Another popular attraction at Sea World is the daily shows and presentations. Visitors can watch dolphins perform amazing acrobatic feats, see seals balance balls on their noses, and watch sharks being fed. There are also educational presentations where visitors can learn more about marine conservation and the importance of protecting the ocean’s wildlife.
SeaWorld also offers a range of rides and attractions. The park has several roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions. Some of the most popular rides include the Jet Rescue coaster, the Storm Coaster, and the Viking’s Revenge Flume Ride.
The major attraction of WhiteWater World is its range of water slides. The park has over 30 water slides, ranging from gentle slides for young children to extreme slides for thrill-seekers.
Some of the most popular slides include the Green Room, a six-story high slide that drops riders into a massive wave, and the Super Tubes Hydrocoaster, a water coaster that propels riders up and down hills and around tight corners.
If you are looking for a more relaxing experience, WhiteWater World has several lounging and relaxation areas. You can choose to relax on the sandy beach or in one of the park’s many shaded seating areas. There are also several private cabanas available for rent, which offer a more secluded and comfortable experience.
South Stradbroke Island, also known as “South Straddie,” is an island located off the coast of the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. It is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, as well as stunning natural beauty.
One of the principal attractions of South Stradbroke Island is its beaches. The island has over 20 kilometers of pristine beaches, with crystal clear water and soft, white sand. Visitors can swim, surf, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
South Stradbroke Island is also a popular destination for outdoor activities. The island is home to several nature trails and hiking paths, which offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding bushland. Visitors can also go kayaking, fishing, or taking a guided tour to explore the island’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems.
One of the unique attractions of South Stradbroke Island is its wildlife. The island is home to a wide range of bird species, including the endangered Eastern Curlew, as well as wallabies, kangaroos, and other native animals.
Federation Walk Coastal Reserve
Federation Walk Coastal Reserve is a protected coastal reserve located on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. It is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of the Gold Coast and offers a range of outdoor activities and stunning scenery.
One of the main attractions of Federation Walk Coastal Reserve is its walking trails. The reserve has several walking trails, which wind through the coastal bushland and offer stunning views of the ocean. Visitors can explore the reserve on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Federation Walk Coastal Reserve is also home to several beaches, which offer opportunities for swimming, surfing, and fishing. The reserve’s beaches are less crowded than those in other parts of the Gold Coast, making them a popular destination for visitors looking to escape the crowds.
The reserve is home to a wide range of wildlife, including native birds, reptiles, and mammals. Visitors can spot wallabies, kangaroos, and other native animals in their natural habitat, as well as several bird species that are unique to the region.
One of the principal attractions of Lamington National Park is its extensive walking trails. The park has several hiking trails that range from simple walks to challenging treks, taking visitors through ancient rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning vistas. The trails offer opportunities to spot native wildlife, including wallabies, koalas, and a wide range of bird species.
The park is also home to several stunning waterfalls, including the popular Elabana Falls and the breathtaking Moran Falls. Visitors can swim in the natural pools at the base of the falls or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery.
Lamington National Park is also home to some of the most ancient and diverse rainforests in the world. Visitors can explore the park’s rich biodiversity, which includes unique plant and animal species that are found nowhere else on Earth. The park is also home to several endangered species, including Albert’s lyrebird and the Coxen’s fig parrot.
Gay-Friendly and Gay Hotels in Gold Coast, Australia
Gold Coast is a popular tourist destination in Australia and has many options for gay-friendly hotels. These hotels are known for their inclusive policies, welcoming atmosphere, and comfortable accommodations for LGBTQ+ travelers. These hotels often offer a range of amenities designed to make guests feel relaxed. The facilities may include comfortable rooms and spa services.
Being gay-friendly accommodation means that the establishment is welcoming and inclusive to guests who identify as LGBTQ+. This can include but is not limited to, having policies and practices in place that demonstrate a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ guests, such as non-discrimination policies, and providing support and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Some gay-friendly accommodations may also provide amenities specifically catering to the LGBTQ+ community, such as rainbow flags or literature about local LGBTQ+ events or resources. Furthermore, gay-friendly accommodations may be located in an area that is known for being LGBTQ+ friendly.
While Gold Coast does not have any specifically gay hotels or resorts, these are the most fabulous and pro-actively gay-friendly hotels in Gold Coast. Needless to say, there are also hundreds more hotel and hostel options in Gold Coast if none of these suit your desired budget, facilities or area – but these are the best hotels according to other gay travelers and us.
Whatever your needs are, Gold Coast has you covered.
Meriton Suites Broadbeach ☆☆☆☆☆
Meriton Suites Broadbeach is a stunning luxury hotel in the heart of Broadbeach on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. The hotel’s architecture and interior design are a perfect blend of modern sophistication and coastal elegance, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and stylish stay in the region.
The 55-story tower features a sleek and contemporary façade, with clean lines, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a minimalist aesthetic that reflects the hotel’s commitment to modern design. The tower is topped by a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the Gold Coast skyline and the ocean, making it a popular spot for guests to relax and take in the scenery.
The suites at Meriton Suites Broadbeach are spacious and stylish, with a color palette that reflects the coastal surroundings of the hotel. The décor is modern and elegant, with a focus on clean lines, natural materials, and soothing colors that create a relaxing and comfortable environment for guests.
Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences ☆☆☆☆☆
Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences is a luxurious hotel and residential complex in the heart of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. The hotel’s architecture and interior design are a perfect blend of modern luxury and coastal elegance, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a stylish and comfortable stay in the region.
The tower features a contemporary and sleek façade with glass balconies that provide stunning views of the ocean and the Gold Coast skyline. The tower is topped by a rooftop terrace that features a swimming pool, a lounge area, and a bar, making it the perfect spot for guests to relax and take in the breathtaking views.
The hotel’s guest rooms and suites are spacious and stylish, with a color palette that reflects the coastal surroundings of the hotel. The décor is modern and elegant, with a focus on comfort and luxury, with each room and suite equipped with state-of-the-art amenities such as flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and premium bedding.
The exterior of Novotel Surfers Paradise is a striking building with a contemporary design. Clean lines, a neutral color palette, and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning views of the ocean and the Gold Coast skyline characterize the hotel’s façade.
The hotel also has a spacious outdoor area with a swimming pool, a sun deck, and a bar, making it the perfect spot for guests to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
A design that blends modern style and coastal charm makes the interior of Novotel Surfers Paradise equally impressive. The hotel’s lobby is spacious and inviting, with warm lighting, contemporary furnishings, and natural materials that create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for guests. The lobby also features stunning artwork and sculptures that add a touch of luxury and sophistication to the space.
Mantra Legends Surfers Paradise ☆☆☆☆
Sun, surf, sand, and the best of the Gold Coast await at Mantra Legends Surfers Paradise. With a wide selection of accommodation options ranging from hotel rooms to premium suites, some accommodations have excellent views of the Surfers Paradise cityscape, Pacific Ocean, Gold Coast Hinterland, Nerang River, and Gold Coast canal waterways.
Tequila Sunrise Hostel Central Surfers Paradise ☆☆☆
Tequila Sunrise Hostel Central Surfers Paradise is a popular accommodation option for travelers visiting the Gold Coast in Australia. In the heart of Surfers Paradise, this hostel is just a short walk from the beach, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers. The hostel offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including dormitory-style rooms and private rooms.
The dormitory-style rooms at Tequila Sunrise Hostel Central Surfers Paradise are clean and comfortable, with each bed equipped with a personal locker, PowerPoint, and reading light. The rooms are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi, which is available throughout the hostel. Private rooms come with either a shared or private bathroom and are well-appointed.
The hostel has a communal lounge area where guests can relax, watch TV, and meet fellow travelers. There is also a fully equipped kitchen where guests can prepare their meals, as well as a BBQ area where guests can enjoy a cookout. The hostel staff regularly organizes social events and activities, such as barbecues, pub crawls, and movie nights, which are great ways for you to meet other travelers.
Gay Nightlife in Gold Coast, Australia
The city’s LGBTQ+ community has a firm presence, and there are plenty of options for gay nightlife.
One of the most popular areas for gay nightlife on the Gold Coast is Surfers Paradise. This bustling neighborhood is home to a variety of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that cater to the LGBTQ+ community. It’s common to see rainbow flags and other symbols of LGBTQ+ pride throughout Surfers Paradise.
Besides Surfers Paradise, there are also several other neighborhoods on the Gold Coast that are known for their gay nightlife. Broadbeach, for example, is home to several high-end bars and clubs that attract a diverse crowd of locals and tourists. Southport is another area worth checking out, particularly if you’re interested in live music and performance art.
Exploring the gay and gay-friendly nightlife in a new city can be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences while traveling – and Gay Gold Coast is no exception. Not only will you have the opportunity to meet new people and make friends, but you’ll also get a taste of the local culture and learn more about the city’s LGBTQ+ community.
Going out and experiencing the queer and queer-friendly nightlife in a new city can also be a great way to break out of your comfort zone and try new things. Whether it’s dancing the night away at a gay club or mingling with locals at a gay-friendly bar, you’ll have the chance to make memories and create lasting connections.
So, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore the gay and gay-friendly nightlife in Gold Coast. You’ll be glad you did!
Gay and Gay-Friendly Bars and Clubs
The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill Robina
If you are into sports, catch up with all things sports as you have a drink or three in this amazing gay-friendly sports bar.
This bar has a daily itinerary of uncommon events that span all week. The shows include comedy nights, drag shows, martini Mondays and many more. You will have a swell time when you come here. Plus, the drinks are super affordable and superb.
The avenue is a gay-friendly bar that ensures the gays are just as entertained as the Straights. They host live music shows and every Wednesday is dragalicious Wednesday. You are definitely going to have a great time here.
If you want to experience local artists on the Gold coast, this is where to go. Elsewhere is a gay-friendly bar that hosts upcoming artists and their services are respectful to all guests.
Underground Nightclub
Underground is in Surfers Paradise on the well-known nightclub strip, Orchid Avenue, and serves R&B and Hip Hop on Friday and Saturday nights till late.
(Temporarily or permanently closed. If you know something, please suggest an edit.)
SinCity is Gold Coast’s hottest gay-friendly nightclub! Enjoy the best nightlife in Surfers Paradise in magnificent settings and with a true Vegas atmosphere. Modern multi-million dollar décor inspired by the best Vegas clubs, with the best in sound, lighting, video, and gorgeous designer mezzanine-style levels.
With wrap-around views of the Miami waterfront, this 200-seat dining space makes the most of the beach view. The bistro menu, inspired by the surroundings, provides enhanced renditions of classic pub favorites, such as burgers, fish & chips, and chicken parma, as well as next-level share platters designed to be eaten in a group setting.
This is a relatively new gay-friendly club on the Queensland coast that host themed weekend parties every weekend. It is a great place to socialize and have fun.
Retroes advertises itself as a welcoming environment where you may expect to run into new acquaintances. A location where songs from the 1980s are blasting, songs from the hedonistic 1990s are pumping, and songs from the modern 2000s are whisking you away. As a result, the gay community frequents the establishment on Friday and Saturday nights.
Gay Saunas & Cruising Clubs in Gold Coast, Australia
When traveling to a new city, it can be exciting to head out for more than just a stiff drink. One aspect of the Gay Gold Coast scene that many queer men enjoy is visiting gay saunas and cruising clubs.
Sure, the sauna culture in Gold Coast is not as hedonistic as in Amsterdam, Barcelona or Berlin, but these venues still offer a chance to meet new people, socialize, and engage in sexual activity – without resorting to gay hookup apps.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that these venues can vary greatly in terms of atmosphere, clientele, and rules, so it’s a good idea to prepare yourself before visiting. If you are apprehensive, we advise studying our guide to visiting a gay bathhouse for the first time, which should help set your mind at ease, and always practice safe sex.
Additionally, it’s important to be aware of and respect local laws and customs regarding gay venues and sexual activity. With a little bit of planning and an open mind, visiting gay saunas and cruising clubs can be a fun and exciting part of your gay Gold Coast travel itinerary.
Gay Sauna
This nightclub offers more wonderful drinks, wonderful drinks, music and parties. It also has a gay sauna where you can relax and chat with other gay men. The staff is friendly, and the ambiance makes sure you have an unforgettable experience.
Gay Map Of Gold Coast
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is in Gold Coast? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!