Best things to do in Coolangatta for an exciting trip || AS

Coolangatta is a small seaside town on the southern end of the Gold Coast. While always seeming to play second fiddle to some of its more famous neighbors, this is a laid-back resort with its own charm and loads to see and do.

Whether you are a local looking to shake up the ordinary or a tourist looking for the ultimate Gold Coast getaway, Coolangatta has it all for everyone. Here is a fun and comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Coolangatta.

1. Hit the Beach

i) Coolangatta Beach

Coolangatta Beach is the spine of this beach town. Its perfectly golden sands and clear blue waters make it an excellent swimming and sunbathing spot or simply a place to enjoy with a good book.

You can also enjoy the surf break if you like riding the waves. Do not forget your sunscreen and beach towel!

ii) Rainbow Bay

Just a short walk to Coolangatta Beach, Rainbow Bay has sheltered waters and easy surfing. Good for families or even quieter to just relax in. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore or splash around in the calmly behaved waters.

2. Visit the Tweed River

i) River Cruises

Take a wonderful cruise along the Tweed River, which has great views of the hinterland and coastlines that are open to you. Local wildlife, such as dolphins or sea turtles, are often spotted. Just fantastic to spend a bit of time here, learn a little history, and relax.

ii) Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Alternatively, if you are an adventurous type, go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding and chart your own discovery of the river. Paddling up the peaceful stream is a great workout while acquainting oneself with the natural charm of Coolangatta.

3. Uncover Local Wonders

i) Cafes and Restaurants

Coolangatta offers fabulous places to dine. From a delightful breakfast at one of the quirky cafes, such as The Black Sheep Coffee or Café Dbar, lunch or dinner should go straight to local favorites like Bellakai or the Coolangatta Sands Hotel. Whether it is fresh seafood, international cuisine, or just a burger, you will find something that suits your tastes.

ii) Coolangatta Markets

Every first and third Sunday, Coolangatta Markets breathes life into this place with fresh produce, arts and crafts, and lip-smacking street food.

The good thing is that this is a super venue where you could sample the local flavors of your choice, pick some classy souvenirs, or just take pleasure in how lively it feels.

4. Walk on the Scenic Greenmount Hill

Greenmount Hill will treat you to some of the finest views in Coolangatta. This is a fantastic walk to take up the track and have a picnic or simply enjoy what nature has to offer.

The path takes you up to the top, where you can see panoramic views of the Gold, Including the stunning coastline and then the distant hinterland. Nothing better than watching out for sunrise and/or sunset.

5. Enjoy the Coolangatta Art Scene

i) Local Art Galleries

Coolangatta has a healthy, thriving arts scene with some fabulous local galleries showcasing the work of talented artists.

Be sure to check out exhibitions at the Tweed Regional Gallery or the Coolangatta Art Gallery. You might find yourself leaving with a unique piece of art to commemorate the trip.

ii) Street Art

Keep your eyes open for street art everywhere. Coolangatta has some awesome murals and artwork installations that add a little color and creativity to the streets, with which it is fun to wander around and spot a few gems you would not otherwise.

6. Coolangatta Surf Life Saving Club

To the locals, it’s just a local spot for the local lifeguards, but to a first-time traveler – it’s a treasure trove of cultural beauty. Dinner while viewing some of the most beautiful ocean scenes at the restaurant is possible there.

It is a laid-back spot where one might grab a cold drink and some good old-fashioned Australian pub food.

7. Explore the Hinterland

i) Springbrook National Park

Situated just outside Coolangatta, this naturalist’s dreamland is accessible by car with an easy drive.

Imagine lush rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, and scenery-filled walking trails. That is exactly what you can expect here. A picture-perfect waterfall and beautiful rock formation are the centerpiece of the Natural Bridge.

ii) Mount Tamborine

A pretty place full of great views and quaint villages, Mount Tamborine is the ultimate unwinding place for travelers. Here, you can undertake scenic drives, wine tasting at local wineries, or Tamborine Mountain Rainforest Skywalk. Basically, if you want anything but the coastal scene and busy roads, Mount Tamborine is where you want to be.

8. Enjoy Some Family Fun

i) The Strand at Coolangatta

Another family-friendly destination is The Strand – the shopping and dining precinct down right on the beach – which is perfect for spending an afternoon with the family.

There is a playground for the kids and plenty of shops and choices for dining your heart out. Once you are done, just get an ice cream and amble leisurely on the boardwalk.

ii) Snapper Rocks

Snapper Rocks is a surfer’s hot spot, loved for its consistent waves and stunning beauty. Indeed, numerous surfing competitions are held throughout the year. Perfect for an adventure junky, right?

9. Relax and Unwind

i) Spa Treatments

Treat yourself to a little pampering at one of the fabulous Coolangatta spas. Here, you can get a massage, facial, or even something more – unwind and rejuvenate yourself.

Options such as The Spa at The Southern Cross or Drift Health and Fitness offer several treatments to get you refreshed and relaxed once again.

ii) Beachfront Parks

Take a lazy walk or have a picnic at one of Coolangatta’s beachfront parks. The grassy spots surrounding the beach are ideal for lazing around, playing games, or simply enjoying the sea breeze.

10. Local History

i) Kirra Hill Lookout

For a panoramic view of the Gold Coast and a small dose of history about the local area, head up to Kirra Hill Lookout. You will find informative plaques there that give insights into the past of the region and how it has developed over time.

ii) Tweed Heads Historical Society Museum

The Tweed Heads Historical Society Museum is located just a few kilometers from Coolangatta and provides a very informative look at local history.

This museum contains several displays of the heritage of the area, including artifacts and photographs that give a glimpse of the past.

11. Local Events

i) Coolangatta Art and Craft Markets

A big part is the fact that Coolangatta does art and craft markets all year round. This is where local artisans and vendors show their creations-they are very good at getting one-of-a-kind things and helping local talent. You might also be interested in what will feature on the market program during your stay.

ii) Live Music and Festivals

Coolangatta is alive with the sounds of music and its live performances and festivals. Bands, both local and famous ones, come to town-anything happens at any time.

So, keep your ears open for venue events in your local towns, such as The Coolangatta Hotel, or look for your local event newspapers.

12. Whale Watch

i) Whale Watching Tour

Take a whale-watching tour from Coolangatta during the migration season, June to November.

Whales pass by along this coast, which will provide great opportunities for whale watching. Observing these tremendous creatures close is thrilling and, of course, unforgettable.

13. Visit Nearby Burleigh Heads

i) Burleigh Heads National Park

Only fifteen minutes away from Coolangatta, this stunning national park features exquisite walking tracks, stunning ocean views, and the possibility of meeting some local wildlife at Burleigh Heads National Park.

Walking trails are available in the park that take you through dense forests and along the rugged coastline.

ii) Burleigh Heads Beach

It is also an excellent beach for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. There are only a few cafes and restaurants in that area, which easily enable you to get any food of your preference.

14. Try Some Water Sports

i) Surf Lessons

For an adrenaline-packed rush, take a jet ski from Coolangatta. You can also take surfing lessons if you are a beginner or just want to improve your surf riding skills. There are several experienced instructors out there who will have you riding waves in no time.

Pump your adrenaline in Coolangatta. Take a jet ski tour from Coolangatta. Many rent jet skis, and operators also give guided tours so you can see the coastline up close.

15. Wildlife at Your Doors

i) Tropical Fruit World

They can visit Tropical Fruit World to see a great variety of fruits and plants available in each region.

The park undertakes guided tours in which they get to learn about tropical agriculture as their taste buds get tantalized with some great fruit samples. It is a great and educational experience for all ages.

ii) Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Located a few miles from there, this is the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, which features a wide range of Australian animals-from kangaroos and koalas to crocodiles. The sanctuary offers interactive experiences and educational programs for a great outing for a wildlife lover.

Wrapping Up!

Coolangatta may be small, but it is big on action and things to do for everybody’s interest. Beach break, nature discovery, local cuisine, or cultural immersion might define the holiday here in Coolangatta. Packed the baggage, slathered on sunscreen, and you are all set for a fun adventure in Coolangatta!

Now if you think this article was helpful for you to narrow down the best things to do in Coolangatta, then all you need to do is give us a like and comment below.

Nabamita Sinha