Dip more than a toe in

Surfers Paradise was once just a massive stretch of world-beating surf. Today, the surf is still there but with many additions: high-rise accommodation, giant theme parks, exotic nightlife, countless restaurants and 300 days of sunshine a year. No wonder they call it 'the coast with the most'.

The sweeping coastline and its stunning array of beaches are a major drawcard. Palm Beach, Rainbow Bay, Mermaid Beach and Surfers Paradise are some of the alluring names given to surfing beaches, all which offer soft golden sand, rolling waves and the opportunity for a perfect suntan.

Myriad activities await visitors: from swimming, sailing and boating to surfboard riding, windsurfing or even beach volleyball. This is the place to soak up the sun, fun and holiday atmosphere of the Gold Coast.

The calm Southport Broadwater, with an extensive inland canal system, provides another ideal setting for water sports with a huge range of exciting pursuits from para-sailing and jet-skiing to toboggan rides and water skiing.

The Broadwater, spreading north to Moreton Bay, is one of Australia's largest protected waterways, with huge sand and mangrove islands that are great for exploring.

A classic way to take in the magnificent rivers and canals of the Gold Coast is to climb aboard a sleek cruise vessel. You can cruise the waterways or stop off at a secluded private island for a barbecue, water sports or just to laze in the sun.

The theme-park capital

Fantasy, thrills, action rides, daring stunts, live shows and fun for all ages - this is the Gold Coast, home to the best themed attractions in the southern hemisphere.

The action starts at Sea World, the spectacular marine zoological park. Amazing dolphin and sea lion shows and daredevil skiing stunts keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Take a ride into the mysterious Bermuda Triangle or brave the thrilling Corkscrew Roller Coaster or Wave Breaker.

Hollywood comes alive at Warner Bros Movieworld. See real movies being made, enjoy stunt shows and experience virtual reality. Don't miss the Road Runner Rollercoaster, Lethal Weapon and Wild Wild WestFall rides.

Enter through the impressive gates of Dreamworld for fun and intrigue. View Bengal tigers, ride the rapids in a hollowed-out log, catch a movie on a seven-storey screen or take a chance on the fastest, tallest thrill rides in the world: the Tower of Terror and The Giant Drop. Drop in to the Big Brother house where the hit TV series is made. Or take a ride on a genuine steam train and alight to cuddle a koala.

Wet 'n' Wild Water Park features a giant wave pool and Mammoth Falls slides. Frozen World takes you through a frozen forest and the Great Wall of China carved in ice. Head to Cable Ski World for a fun day go-carting, cable skiing and slingshot bungee.

Nature lovers can lose themselves in Currumbin Sanctuary, home to hundreds of mountain parrots, and Fleays Wildlife Park where kangaroos and emus roam.