If you are getting tired of the Gold Coast’s party-hungry lifestyle, head to the southern suburb of Coolangatta. While it shares the wide beaches and high-rise apartments of the rest of the Gold Coast, Coolangatta is famous for its peaceful atmosphere, relaxed residents and family-friendly beaches. Recline on the beach, learn how to surf and watch the sunrise from a mountain peak.

Explore the variety of beach options spread throughout the Coolangatta area. The long stretch of Coolangatta Beach offers plenty of space to spread out a towel and sunbathe. Just north, Kirra Beach offers several kilometres of uninterrupted sand perfect for a walk along the coast. Both Coolangatta and Kirra Beach are generally safe to swim, but the waves can get choppy. In case of rough conditions, head to Rainbow Bay to the south, which is protected from heavy surf.

Surfing is one of the most popular pastimes in Coolangatta. If you are an experienced surfer, ride the waves at Snapper Rocks or Duranbah Beach, which offer some of the best surfing on the Gold Coast. If you are a beginner, Coolangatta is a great place to learn. Book some lessons with a local surfing instructor to get started.

Just off the Coolangatta coastline lies Cook Island, a tiny landmass surrounded by a coral reef. Book a seat on a diving boat to explore the reef and see if you can spot native turtles and rays.

Head to the southwest of Coolangatta to find a rich natural landscape of hills and rainforest. Mount Warning stands here, the peak of which is the first place on the Australian continent that receives sunlight each morning. Hike the trail to the peak of the mountain by dawn and watch the sunrise.

Coolangatta is located on the Queensland-New South Wales border and is just over an hour’s drive from Brisbane. Experience the beauty of the Gold Coast without the noise of Surfers Paradise on the beaches of Coolangatta.