The Gold Coast boasts approx. 60 km of pristine sandy ocean beaches, yet is only 30 minutes drive to the mountains with rain forest walks and national parks. All the main beaches are patrolled by life guards. Paradise Point, a 5 minute drive, on the Broadwater has sandy beaches, a netted swimming enclosure and nice picnic spots and cafes.
We are 10 minutes drive from Harbourtown, a huge outlet shopping venue, and 2 large shopping malls. There are local shops/medical etc. only minutes away. An hour by train takes you to Brisbane where you can take a City Cat to explore the Brisbane River.
Theme parks for the young, or young at heart are nearby. There are world class golf courses handy. Whale watching is popular from July to October as the whales make their way from the Antarctic to Central Queensland to give birth in the warm waters. Diving, jet skiing, bush walking and hiking are popular, but if you want to sit under a palm tree with a cold beverage that's just fine (and indeed is encouraged). There are 2 family style taverns nearby for reasonable meals and there are a myriad of restaurants to choose from. If you fancy a 'flutter' on poker machines (slot machines) most pubs, clubs and taverns have them.
A drive into Northern New South Wales (1 hour aprox.) is good for a change of scenery if you tire of swimming, BBQing and lounging about. Coolangatta airport services the Gold Coast and from there you can visit domestic destinations or some international spots, NZ, Fiji for instance. There is a gym 5 minutes drive away, if you are so inclined with no joining fees.
You can choose the best of both worlds on the Gold Coast, the lights and razzmatazz of 'the glitter strip' or the beautiful natural resources of beaches, waterways and forests.