Fish, swim or dive in the crystal-clear waters around Coolangatta, then sample some Aussie-style al fresco hospitality.
Coolangatta, at the southern end of the Gold Coast, tends to be quieter than its more commercial neighbour, Surfers Paradise. For this reason it’s especially popular with walkers, swimmers, families and lovers of the great outdoors.Coolangatta’s sheltered beaches have been attracting visitors since the late 1800s, yet they are still refreshingly unspoilt and offer a quieter alternative to the busy north end of the coast. The north-facing beaches of Rainbow Bay and Greenmount provide protection from the highest breakers, making them particularly suitable for youngsters and less confident swimmers, while fitness fans flock to nearby Kirra to walk or jog in the cool green expanses of the oceanfront park.The relatively calm waters around Coolangatta are perfect for diving, and you can rent all the equipment you need in Greenmount before catching a boat to the Cook Island Marine Reserve. Here you can also book a whale-watching tour during May to October or take a surfing lesson. On a sunny winter’s day you can often spot dolphins and migrating whales from the lookout on Snapper Rocks on the border of Queensland and New South Wales. Just across the border you can also visit the sacred Bora Ring initiation site at the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre to learn more about the indigenous population of the area.After all that exercise and culture, you’ll be in need of some refreshments, and luckily Coolangatta has that in abundance! The Showcase on the Beach mall is packed with shopping, dining and entertainment to suit all tastes. Take your pick from a range of European and Asian-style menus, or enjoy superb ocean views and local specialities at the Australian Outback Grill, where the al fresco dining will satisfy even the most demanding of appetites. If you prefer to try your luck at a spot of fishing for your supper, keep on the right side of the law by checking first with the tackle shops for local regulations relating to size and protected species.Coolangatta is reached along the Gold Coast Highway towards the airport. There is free parking at the Showcase on the Beach.
