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Quick facts aboutthe Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is Australia's sixth largest city located in South East Queensland, known for its stunning beaches, lively atmosphere, and thriving tourism industry. Here are some interesting facts and statistics about the Gold Coast, including population, area, weather and more.

Area:

1402 square kilometres (approx. 541 square miles). The coastline is 57km long from South Stradbroke Island to Rainbow Bay.

Geography:

The region encompasses diverse landscapes, including ancient rainforests, mangrove islands, coastal heathlands, and farmland. Gold Coast City stretches from Beenleigh to the New South Wales border, featuring holiday resorts, surfing beaches, and commercial hubs like Southport and Surfers Paradise. To the west lies the Gold Coast hinterland, protected by Lamington National Park, renowned for its geological features and rare rainforest species, attracting nature enthusiasts and day-trippers.

Population:

647,078, (in 2022) with an annual average population growth rate of 2.13% (Aus average is 1.8%)

Median age:

39

Climate: 

The Gold Coast has a subtropical climate, characterised by warm temperatures throughout the year. Summers are typically hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the 30s degrees Celsius (86-95°F). Winters are mild and pleasant.

Average Temperatures:

Summer: 20 to 28 degrees Celsius (68 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit). Winter: 9 to 21 degrees Celsius (48 to 69 degrees Fahrenheit).

Economy:

In addition to tourism, the Gold Coast's economy is diversified, with sectors such as education, healthcare, and technology playing significant roles. The city has become a hub for education with institutions like Griffith University and Bond University.

Tourism:

Tourism is the cornerstone of the Gold Coast's economy, drawing approximately 10 million visitors annually. The city boasts 60 km of pristine beaches, 600 km of canals, and vast nature reserves. With 65,000 beds available, accommodation options range from hostels to luxury resorts.

Major attractions include renowned theme parks like Dreamworld and Sea World. The iconic Q1 tower, once the world's tallest residential building, offers unparalleled views from its observation deck. Gold Coast Airport provides easy access, while Brisbane Airport is just an hour away. 

Tourism generates over $4.4 billion annually, sustaining one in four jobs in the area. Surfers Paradise Meter Maids, a unique feature since 1965, continue to add charm to the city's culture.

The Star Casino
Girls cycling on the Gold Coast
Pair on a Gold Coast beach

Floral Emblem:

Banksia Aemula Proteaceae or Wallum Banksia - flowers in late summer and autumn. Grows into a small twisted tree and prefers sandy soil with good drainage in full sun. The red, well-marked timber has been used for cabinet making. It is a dominant tree in some areas of sandy coastal heathland and dune ridges and is the species that has given its name to the natural habitat of sandy soils and vegetation that occurs in various places along the coastal margin.

Wallum is the Aboriginal name referring to the natural habitat in which it grows. The Aboriginal people have been reported as gatherers of honey from the flower heads. The genus was named after Sir Joseph Banks the botanist with Captain James Cook on his voyage in the Endeavour.

Environment:

In 1998, research undertaken for the preparation of the City Council's Nature Conservation Strategy highlighted the fact that the Gold Coast is the most biologically diverse city in Australia. Its vegetation ranges from mountain rainforest to coastal wetlands and is home to more than:

  • 34 species of amphibians
  • 323 birds
  • 72 mammals
  • 71 reptiles
  • 25 species of fish

Attractions & Features:

The Gold Coast is a dynamic city with a wide variety of built and natural attractions including:

  • 57km of beaches with an average water temperature of 22 degrees
  • A large Broadwater and five major river systems
  • Major shopping centres as well as numerous boutiques, specialty shops and markets
  • More than 500 restaurants and cafes offering cuisines from around the world
  • Nightlife entertainment from nightclubs, restaurants, clubs, hotels and The Star Casino to Broadway musicals, ballet and theatre
  • Theme parks including Warner Bros Movie World, Sea World, Dreamworld and Wet 'n' Wild as well as several wildlife parks such as Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Rural hinterland stretching to the west and north of the City encompassing many natural wetlands
  • Tropical rainforest with abundant wildlife and numerous bush walks
  • Large sugar cane farms and a wealth of industry in the northern districts of the City
  • World-class sporting and recreational facilities
  • A huge range of accommodations from five-star international resorts to camping grounds
  • The Gold Coast Seaway (completed 1986) provides safe ocean access and over 270km of navigable waterways

Gold Coast Marathon
Blurs on Broadbeach
Quicksilver pro event

Major Events:

The Gold Coast is fast becoming the regional sporting and events capital of Australia. The City hosts many national and international events including:

  • Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games
  • Vodaphone Gold Coast 600
  • Schoolies Week
  • Quicksilver Pro Surfing Titles
  • Blues on Broadbeach 
  • Magic Millions Horse Racing Carnival
  • Swell Sculpture Festival 
  • The Asia Pacific Masters Games
  • The Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships
  • The Gold Coast Airport Marathon

In addition, the City hosts yacht classics, horse races, triathlons and competitions in a variety of sporting codes.

Information courtesy Gold Coast City Council.

Images courtesy Tourism & Events Queensland, Tourism Australia, Destination Gold Coast & Getty Images

Things to do and seeOn the Gold Coast in Queensland

Theme Parks

Combo passes & packages

Free things to do

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Cruises

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