A$3,000 | 10 days | from Sydney | Comfortable
Why you'll love it
The Gold Coast is Queensland's best-known beach strip, with surf beaches, a big dining scene and rainforest hinterland less than an hour inland. It scores 9 out of 10 for beaches, families and safety, so it's an easy, no-passport pick for a beach holiday from elsewhere in Australia.
The best time to visit the Gold Coast is September to November. Spring brings warm, mostly dry days, fewer crowds than summer and the chance to see humpback whales heading south. Families may want to avoid Schoolies Week in late November.
Burleigh Heads has a relaxed, local feel, with a headland walk and good surf. Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach are livelier, with more restaurants and nightlife. For a day away from the coast, the hinterland's Springbrook and Lamington national parks offer waterfalls and rainforest walks.
The Gold Coast suits families, couples and anyone wanting a short-flight beach week with plenty to do.
Your trip cost
For 10 days from Sydney