The Gold Coast has a population of around half a million people and is an area of Queensland situated on the eastern coast, about one hour's drive south of Brisbane. But unlike Brisbane, this place really is on the beach. And right in the centre of those beautiful beaches is Surfers Paradise, probably the area's main attraction.
But the Gold Coast is not all about beaches. The area is also enriched by the surrounding hinterlands, mountains and spectacular national parks, all of which are breathtaking. Tambourine Mountain is especially worth a visit. The Gold Coast also boasts over 400 km of canals and is home to a spectacular array of sea life and wildlife.
The Gold Coast also has a cluster of theme parks, it's Australia's theme park capital; with Movie World, Wet 'n' Wild, Sea World, White Water World, Dreamworld as well as the Australian Outback Spectacular and for nature lovers, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
So, you see? It's not all about beaches. But the Gold Coast does still have beaches aplenty, over 40 km stretching from Southport all the way down to Coolangatta on the New South Wales border. And these beaches are just perfect for surfing.
I'm not sure, but the already mentioned Surfers Paradise may well be the most commercial Beach in Australia, that's what I am told. But I am a guy who has been to Blackpool and I was born in Southend. Both of those beaches resorts ARE commercial. To me, Surfers was quiet by comparison.
But I am told that late nights over the weekend it can get quite boisterous. But if Surfers is still too busy for you, there are plenty of other beaches to choose from in the area that are even quieter.
So beaches, mountains, hinterland, theme parks, canals, surely this has got to be the best place to live in Australia? Perhaps, but it is very much a tourist area and it is also probably one of the most expensive area in Australia to live in. It's a close call between it and Sydney.
What's the weather like?
 Being only around 70 kilometres south of Brisbane, the weather on the Gold Coast is not too dissimilar from that of the city.
Although it does boast even more sunshine, getting around eight hours each day. Again, winters are very mild so you can make use of the beaches all year round.
Possible severe weather around the Gold Coast are, again, as in Brisbane, cyclones and some flooding.
The Gold Coast can be broken down into four main areas:
The areas of the Gold Coast:
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