7 Free Things to Do in Gold Coast

Gold Coast, is a haven for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of work and leisure. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and laid-back lifestyle, it's no wonder many choose to stay for months at a time. While living costs can be high, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy that can help balance your budget. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are nine free things to do in Gold Coast that will enrich your extended stay without breaking the bank.

Burleigh Hill

Overlooking the iconic Burleigh Heads Beach, Burleigh Hill is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It's the perfect place to have a picnic, watch surfers, and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. On weekends, you'll find a lively atmosphere with groups of friends and families soaking up the sun and the laid-back vibe of the area.

Location: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads, QLD 4220. The hill is a prominent feature at the end of the beach, easily spotted from the coastline.

Travel Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset views, as it can get quite crowded, especially on weekends.

Nearby: After your visit, take a short walk to the James Street precinct where you'll find a variety of cafes and eateries, such as Paddock Bakery, known for its delicious pastries and rustic charm.

The Spit

The Spit is a long stretch of coastline that offers a quieter beach experience away from the more crowded tourist areas. It's a great place for a leisurely walk, fishing off the pier, or simply enjoying the natural beauty. The Spit also features the Federation Walk Coastal Reserve, a green space with paths that wind through native vegetation.

Location: Seaworld Dr, Main Beach, QLD 4217. Located at the northern end of Main Beach, past the Sea World theme park.

Travel Tip: Bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the skyline and the occasional sighting of dolphins in the water.

Nearby: The Fisherman's Wharf Tavern is a short drive away and offers fresh seafood with views over the marina.

Miami Marketta

While not entirely free, as you'll likely be tempted by the food, Miami Marketta is a street food market that offers free entry. It's a cultural hub where you can enjoy live music, browse local artisan stalls, and sample a variety of international cuisines. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for a fun night out.

Location: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami, QLD 4220. Nestled in the suburb of Miami, it's a local favorite away from the main tourist areas.

Travel Tip: Visit on a Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday evening when the market is in full swing. Be sure to bring cash, as not all vendors accept cards.

Nearby: The Marketta is surrounded by its own bars and dessert stalls, but if you're looking for a post-market drink, The Cambus Wallace is a nearby nautical-themed bar with a great selection of rum.

Tallebudgera Creek

Tallebudgera Creek is a picturesque spot where the water is calm and crystal clear, making it ideal for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. The creek is surrounded by the Burleigh Heads National Park, which offers excellent walking trails and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Location: Awoonga Ave, Burleigh Heads, QLD 4220. The creek is easily accessible from both Palm Beach and Burleigh Heads.

Travel Tip: If you're into fishing, the creek is a great spot to catch bream, whiting, and flathead.

Nearby: The Tallebudgera Surf Club is a great place to grab a bite and enjoy views of the creek and ocean.

Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens

The Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens are a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. You can explore themed gardens, take a stroll around the lake, or relax in the sensory garden. The gardens also host free workshops and guided walks at certain times of the year.

Location: 230 Ashmore Rd, Benowa, QLD 4217. Situated in the suburb of Benowa, it's a short drive from the city center.

Travel Tip: Check the gardens' website for information on free events and workshops during your stay.

Nearby: Benowa Village is a short drive away and has a range of cafes and eateries, including the popular Providore Marina Mirage for fresh, organic produce.

Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area

For a lesser-known nature retreat, the Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area offers a chance to see kangaroos, koalas, and a variety of birdlife in their natural habitat. There are several walking tracks that allow you to explore the wetlands and eucalypt forest at your own pace.

Location: Shelter Road, Coombabah, QLD 4216. Located in the northern part of Gold Coast, it's a hidden gem away from the tourist trail.

Travel Tip: Visit at dusk or dawn for the best chance to see the resident kangaroos grazing in the open fields.

Nearby: After exploring the conservation area, head to Harbour Town Outlet Shopping Centre for a coffee break at one of its many cafes, such as Zarraffa's Coffee.

Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets

The Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets are a great way to spend an evening browsing through a variety of stalls selling everything from local crafts to street food. The markets are held every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday night along the Surfers Paradise foreshore and are a great way to experience the local culture.

Location: The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217. The markets stretch along the beachfront, making them impossible to miss.

Travel Tip: While the markets start in the late afternoon, they really come to life after dark, so plan to visit then.

Nearby: Post-market, you can enjoy a drink at one of the many bars along the Esplanade, such as the Surfers Paradise Beer Garden.

Mount Tamborine National Park

Mount Tamborine National Park is a bit of a drive from the Gold Coast, but it's well worth the trip for the stunning rainforest walks and waterfalls. The park offers several walking tracks, such as the Curtis Falls track, which leads to a beautiful waterfall and is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the hinterland.

Location: Tamborine Mountain, QLD 4272. The national park is located in the Scenic Rim region, about an hour's drive from Gold Coast.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a jacket, as it can be cooler in the hinterland than on the coast.

Nearby: After your hike, visit the nearby Tamborine Mountain Gallery Walk for a selection of cafes, such as the Polish Place, which offers hearty meals and spectacular views.

Snapper Rocks

Snapper Rocks is a world-famous surfing spot located at the southern end of the Gold Coast. Even if you're not a surfer, it's a fantastic place to watch the pros ride the waves, especially during the annual Quiksilver Pro surfing competition. The nearby Point Danger lookout offers excellent views of the Gold Coast and is a prime spot for whale watching during migration season.

Location: Snapper Rocks Rd, Coolangatta, QLD 4225. Situated at the southern tip of the Gold Coast, near the border with New South Wales.

Travel Tip: Bring binoculars if you're visiting during whale watching season (June to November) for a closer look at these majestic creatures.

Nearby: After enjoying the ocean views, grab a coffee or snack at the Rainbow Bay SLSC, which offers a great vantage point over the beach and surf.

These free activities in Gold Coast offer a diverse range of experiences for digital nomads looking to explore the area without spending a fortune. Whether you're into nature, markets, or just soaking up the local vibe, there's something for everyone to enjoy.