Exploring the Gold Coast on a budget
Welcome to the jewel of Queensland where there’s attractions for everybody to enjoy! You don’t have to worry about breaking the bank, however, as there are plenty of affordable, or entirely free, activities on offer. From the stunning plethora of picturesque beaches, to the bonanza of man-made entertainment, we list the top attractions to help you experience the Gold Coast on a budget.
Free
Go beach hopping
The most obvious free attraction in a place named the Gold Coast is to drink in the stunning strips of sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters. The Gold Coast is blessed with 21 individual beaches, starting from Rainbow Bay in the south and ending at Southport Spit in the north.
Beyond paying for any parking, food and drink, days spent on the beach are completely free and can occupy everyone in the family. Go for a paddle, surf, swim, dive, fish or simply lounge on the dunes for a picnic.
Under $50 pp
David Fleay Wildlife Park
Get up close and personal with Queensland’s local wildlife and see them in their natural habitats at this immersive and fun-filled animal park. Say hello to the birds of prey, reptiles and other Australian mammals that call this sanctuary home and wander around free in their naturalistic enclosures. Adult admission is $21.50 per person.
Mini-golf
Always a crowd favourite, head on over to Holey Moley, King Tutts Putt Putt, or Putt Putt Mermaid Beach for some miniature golf that promises big fun. From haunted houses, to glow in the dark caves and the classic spinning windmill, you’ll find all kinds of glory and frustrations at these popular courses. Adult entry starts at $15 for one course and three for $23.
Under $100 pp
You can’t visit the Gold Coast without a day or more at one of the iconic theme parks available. Whether you’re after thrills, spills, adventure or animals, there’s something for everyone! Adrenaline junkies should head to Movie World or DreamWorld to tackle the blood pumping and fast-paced rollercoasters and rides available. And those looking to splash around should head to Wet’n’Wild or WhiteWater World.
Single day adult passes are all under $100 each, but if you want to go slightly above your budget, consider upgrading to a multi-park pass for 3 days. That way you can visit Movie World, Sea World and Wet’n’Wild for $129.
Explore the Gold Coast with a rental car
Take your budget further and book a rental car with Ace Rental Cars to explore the Gold Coast at your own pace. Speak to our team today by calling 1800 620 408.
Ace Rental Cars Gold Coast Car Hire Branch
Branch Information: Click for more info
Address: 3 Queensbury Ave, Currumbin Waters, Gold Coast, Australia Get Directions
Toll Free: 1800 620 408
Office Hours: Open 7 days a week
Branch Locations
We have rental car locations all over Australia so no matter where you plan to pick up your car rental or drop off your rental car we will be able to accommodate your needs, our locations are all open 7 days a week and with arrangement offer after-hours Rental car pickups and drop-offs.
Adelaide Airport, Brisbane Airport, Cairns Airport, Cairns CBD, Gold Coast Airport, Melbourne Airport, Sydney Airport and Perth Airport
Check out to find out more about our rental cars
