Melbourne
Melbourne to Gold Coast trip from Thursday, 8 May to Monday, 12 May 2025:
📅 Itinerary Overview
Day 1 – Thursday, 8 May: Travel to Gold Coast + Explore Surfers Paradise
• Morning: Flight from Melbourne to Gold Coast (approx. 2 hrs)
• Check-in at your accommodation
• Afternoon: Explore Surfers Paradise (beachfront, Cavill Avenue shopping)
• Evening: Sunset at SkyPoint Observation Deck
Day 2 – Friday, 9 May: Theme Park Adventure
• Choose one major theme park:
• Warner Bros. Movie World – Hollywood-style rides & shows
• Sea World – Marine life shows + rides
• Dreamworld – Largest, mix of thrill rides & wildlife
• Evening: Dinner at Broadbeach + stroll at Kurrawa Beach
Day 3 – Saturday, 10 May: Hinterland Day Trip
• Morning: Visit Tamborine Mountain
• Gallery Walk (local art & cafes)
• Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
• Curtis Falls or Cedar Creek Falls
• Evening: Return to Gold Coast and relax at local bar or night market
Day 4 – Sunday, 11 May: Chill Day + Optional Activities
• Morning: Beach time, surfing lesson, or spa session
• Optional: Jet boating / kayaking / whale watching (seasonal)
• Evening: Dinner cruise or rooftop dining (e.g., The Island Rooftop)
Day 5 – Monday, 12 May: Return to Melbourne
• Morning: Souvenir shopping or final beach walk
• Late Morning: Check out & head to the airport
• Afternoon: Fly back to Melbourne
🏨 Accommodation Suggestions (Gold Coast)
• Mid-range:
• Mantra on View Hotel (Surfers Paradise)
• Novotel Surfers Paradise
• Luxury:
• QT Gold Coast
• JW Marriott Resort & Spa
• Budget:
• Vibe Hotel Gold Coast
• The Island Gold Coast
🍴 Food Recommendations
Breakfast & Cafes
• Elk Espresso (Broadbeach – stylish & tasty)
• Paradox Coffee Roasters (Surfers Paradise)
• Bam Bam Bakehouse (Mermaid Beach croissants to die for)
Lunch & Casual Eats
• Betty’s Burgers (Surfers Paradise)
• Govindas (vegetarian buffet – Southport)
• Burleigh Pavilion (great views + seafood)
Dinner & Fine Dining
• Mamasan Kitchen + Bar (Asian fusion – Broadbeach)
• Social Eating House + Bar
• Rick Shores (Burleigh Heads beachfront modern Asian)
📌 Tips
• Transport: Get a GoCard for easy travel on trams/buses
• Pack: Light jacket (May evenings can be cool), sunscreen, swimmers
• Book in advance for theme parks and popular restaurants
• Look for combo passes if visiting multiple theme parks
• Weather: May is autumn – pleasant days (22–25°C), cool nights