| GOLD COAST - QUEENSLAND |
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  Relaxing on the superb beaches  Shopping centre at Surfers Paradise  Looney Tunes at Movie World  Fun at Wet 'n' Wild  Spectacular exhibits at Sea World |
The Gold Coast is a one hour drive south of Brisbane, a 70 kilometre stretch of Pacific Ocean
coastline with wide, clean beaches of golden sand that stretches from Stradbroke Island to
Coolangatta, and across the border into northern New South Wales. The waters are ideal for surfing and annually attract thousands of water enthusiasts from both within and beyond Australia's shores. Temperatures in the region range from a winter average of 21 degrees Celsius and a summer average of 28 degrees. There are around 300 days of sunshine each year. The sun sets behind the beaches over lush sub-tropical highlands that rise 1,000 metres to form a contrasting back-drop to the coastal features. Temperatures are cooler in the highlands than along the coast. Rainforests and associated flora and fauna are there to be appreciated, the scenery is breathtaking in its beauty and there are panoramic views of the plains below that can be viewed from look-outs scattered throughout. The rugged ranges are suited to the fitter and more adventurous of bush-walkers wishing to tackle some of the 160 kilometres of walking trails in the area. The hub of the region is Surfers Paradise which has developed since the middle years of the twentieth century. Development now stretches north and south from 'Surfers' as the permanent population of the Gold Coast has grown and to cater for the increasing number of holidaying visitors. A great diversity of accommodation is available to choose from - international standard five-star hotels and motels that soar above the landscape affording magnificent views in all directions; less expensive motels, hotels and guest houses; caravan parks; camping grounds and backpackers' hostels. Although the climate is ideal for outdoor activities, there are activities to suit all tastes and budgets - theme parks that include Dream World, Sea World and Movie World; sporting facilities, including a range of quality golf courses that are particularly popular with international visitors; restaurants and shops; Jupiters Casino and night entertainment at a variety of venues; national parks, sanctuaries and reserves, both close to the coast and further inland. To fully appreciate the Gold Coast it is necessary to experience the natural features that first attracted people to the region, and appreciate the developments that have followed that settlement - the two aspects complement and are in harmony with each other, making this region an inviting destination.
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© Copyright Peter W. Wilkins
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