The best times to visit the Gold Coast

Queensland’s Gold Coast is a destination that truly has it all: sun-drenched beaches, world-class surfing, great nightlife, theme parks, lush hinterlands, and plenty of family-friendly attractions.

So, when is the best time to visit the Gold Coast? The answer depends on what you want from your trip; whether that’s warm, sunny weather, smaller crowds, or specific activities like surfing, hiking, or visiting theme parks.

Overall, the best times to visit Gold Coast are the shoulder seasons of autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November). During these months, temperatures are pleasant, humidity is lower than in summer, and popular spots are less crowded with tourists, making it easier to enjoy beaches, explore national parks, hit the waves, or check out local cafés and attractions.

But of course, the best time to visit Gold Coast really comes down to what kind of trip you want. Maybe you’re chasing waves, planning a theme park adventure, soaking up the nightlife, or just dreaming of a relaxing, budget-friendly holiday by the sea.

*Price is in AUD per adult, based on booking at virginaustralia.com. Subject to availability. Seat selection and checked baggage are not included in Economy Lite fares. Payment surcharge and travel periods may apply. T&Cs apply.

So, to make planning easier, we’ve created a guide exploring the best times to visit the Gold Coast based on different interests and preferences.

Here’s a quick overview of the best times to visit Gold Coast.

Read on for the full details!

Overall: March to May and September to November
For weather: March to May and September to November
For crowds and prices: Late April to May
For surfing: March to September for experienced surfers and December to February for beginners
For theme parks: March to May and September to November
For whale watching: June to November
For beaches: December to February
For hiking and national parks: March to May and September to November
For snorkelling and water activities: November to March

Best time to visit Gold Coast for weather

The Gold Coast has a warm, subtropical climate, offering sunshine and pleasant temperatures through much of the year. So, the best time to visit Gold Coast for the weather depends on the kind of holiday you’re planning, but for the most pleasant weather, autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) are ideal. During both shoulder seasons, you’ll avoid the high heat and humidity of summer and the cooler temperatures of winter. If you choose to visit during autumn, you’ll also avoid the windy conditions that can occur in spring.

Here’s a breakdown of Gold Coast by season and what each is best for, depending on your holiday priorities.

Summer (December to February) brings hot, humid days with highs around 24–30°C, perfect for swimming, surfing, and lounging on iconic beaches like Surfers Paradise and Burleigh Heads. While the weather is ideal for a classic beach holiday, it also comes with high humidity, occasional afternoon storms, and large crowds, so booking flights and accommodation ahead is essential.

Autumn (March to May) offers warm, comfortable temperatures ranging from 18 °C to as high as 27°C, lower humidity, and fewer tourists. These conditions are excellent for exploring the hinterland, hiking in national parks, or visiting theme parks without the summer heat.

Winter (June to August) is milder and drier, with daytime temperatures 18°C to 24°C, and lows that can drop to 6°C in peak winter. While the cooler water may not be ideal for casual swimming, it’s a great time for surfing, and enjoying quieter beaches, with the added benefit of lower prices for flights and accommodation.

Spring (September to November) combines warm temperatures with highs ranging from 19°C to 25.5°C (and temps as high as 29°C near summer!), sunny days with low humidity and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for beach trips, outdoor adventures, and exploring festivals or local events. However, note that these months can be quite windy, which may affect outdoor dining and certain water activities like parasailing.

Season	Weather	Best for
Summer	Hot, humid, occasional storms	Beach holidays, surfing, snorkelling and water sports
Autumn	Warm, sunny, lower humidity	Hinterland hikes, outdoor adventures, sightseeing, theme parks
Winter	Mild, dry, cooler evenings	Surfing, family-friendly attractions, quiet getaways
Spring	Warm, sunny, low rainfall, but windy	Beaches, outdoor activities, festivals

For more information on Gold Coast's weather by month, including average temperatures, rainfall, and humidity, read our Gold Coast weather and climate guide.

Best time to visit Gold Coast for crowds and prices

The Gold Coast attracts visitors year-round, but some seasons see bigger crowds and higher prices than others. For the most affordable and quietest time to visit Gold Coast, book your trip for late autumn (late April to May). This is generally the true low season as it's after the Easter school holidays and before the mid-year winter school break, so visitor numbers tend to be low, beaches and attractions are quieter, and rates for flights and accommodation are usually cheaper. Another benefit of this time is that the weather is still mild, making it pleasant for outdoor activities - though sea temperatures may be too frosty for some.

While winter (June to August) is often thought of as the low season for travel with cheaper prices and fewer crowds, the Gold Coast’s mild, sunny winter weather attracts visitors from cooler southern states during this time, especially during the school holidays (late June to mid-July). During that peak winter holiday period, families flock to the Gold Coast for the warm weather, which temporarily raises prices and crowd levels. Outside the school holiday spike, the rest of winter (early June, late July and August), still offers shorter queues, quieter beaches, and good deals for flights and accommodation, although ocean temperatures are less suitable for swimming and water activities.

High season

Summer (December to February) is the busiest time in Gold Coast, coinciding with school holidays, Christmas, and New Year celebrations. Beaches, theme parks, and popular nightlife spots are packed, and major events like the Gold Coast Open and the Shannon Eckstein Ironman Classic can also drive up crowds and prices. Flights and accommodation are at their peak, and securing a room at sought-after hotels or resorts often requires booking months in advance.

Shoulder seasons

Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) are considered Gold Coast's shoulder seasons. Crowds are lighter than summer and the weather is still warm, making it ideal for beaches, surfing, hinterland hikes, and family-friendly attractions. Prices for flights and accommodation are generally lower than in summer, though major events like Schoolies at the end of November can temporarily raise demand and rates in specific areas.

Within autumn, late April to May is often one of the best times for the quietest crowds and deals on flight and accommodation as it falls in the post-Easter holiday period and is before the mid-year winter break, when Gold Coast tourism tends to pick up.

Low season

Winter (June to August) is generally quieter than summer but still tends to be busy during the winter school holidays as the mild Gold Coast weather often attracts tourists from colder states.

The mid-year school holidays (late June–mid-July) cause a temporary spike in crowds and prices. Outside of that (early June, late July and August), visitors enjoy quieter beaches, shorter queues at attractions, and lower accommodation rates. Cooler water temperatures and less predictable weather mean swimming may be less appealing, but it’s ideal for budget-conscious travellers or a more peaceful getaway. Also keep in mind that both the Gold Coast Marathon and the Bleach Festival take place in July so expect a temporary rise in prices and visitor numbers. To get the best deals, consider visiting in early June or August.

Best time to visit Gold Coast for activities

With its warm, subtropical weather, the Gold Coast is a destination that delivers something for every type of traveller throughout the year.

Beyond its famous beaches and surf breaks, the region offers exciting theme parks, lush hinterland trails, and beautiful snorkelling opportunities. The city’s arts and culture scene is also growing, with galleries, live music, theatre, and bustling markets giving visitors plenty to discover.

Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, ride the waves, explore rainforests, watch whales on migration, or dive into local culture, the Gold Coast has plenty to keep you entertained.

Here’s a guide to some of the most popular activities and the best times to enjoy them, so you can plan your trip around what excites you most.

Surfing

The Gold Coast is a surfing paradise, attracting beginners and pros alike and the best time to visit Gold Coast for surfing depends on your experience level and the type of waves you’re after. Iconic breaks like Snapper Rocks, Burleigh Heads, and Kirra offer waves year-round, but the size and consistency vary with the seasons.

For experienced surfers, the season runs from March to September, when autumn and winter bring bigger, more powerful swells and stronger currents. Autumn (March–May) is often considered the most reliable period for consistent waves.

For beginners or those keen to take lessons, December to February offers gentler summer conditions, with smaller, more forgiving waves. Local surf schools operate year-round, but summer’s calmer surf is ideal if you’re just starting out.

Theme parks

Home to Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, Wet’n’Wild and Sea World, the Gold Coast’s theme parks are a major draw for families and thrill-seekers alike. The best time to visit Gold Coast for its theme parks is during the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring, when warm weather and shorter queues make for a more enjoyable experience.

During summer school holidays, the parks are at their busiest, so if you want to avoid long lines and intense heat, aim for the shoulder seasons. Similarly, winter school holidays bring many families to Gold Coast and its popular theme parks. And although winter brings fewer visitors outside fo the school holiday period, some attractions and rides may be closed or operate on shorter schedules.

If you’re planning to visit Sea World, make sure to check out our guide to the top 10 best rides at Sea World

Whale watching

The humpback whale migration is one of the Gold Coast’s most spectacular natural events. The best time to visit Gold Coast for whale watching is between June and November, with peak sightings from August to October. The highest likelihood of spotting whales is between August and September, but September toOctober is a great opportunity to see mothers and calves swimming closer to shore, so you can spot them from land.

Tours departing from the Broadwater, Point Danger, or nearby Byron Bay provide excellent viewing opportunities. Winter mornings are often calmest for boat trips, making it easier to spot whales breaching or tail-slapping. It’s a magical experience for families, couples, and wildlife lovers alike.

Beaches

The best time to visit Gold Coast for beaches is during summer (December to February), when the water is warm, days are long and sunny, and you can swim, surf, or simply relax on the sand.

Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, Coolangatta, and Main Beach are the most popular beaches in Gold Coast, so they can get crowded during the summer holidays (December to February).

If you prefer quieter beach conditions while still enjoying warm, clear weather, the best time to visit Gold Coast's beaches is early autumn (March and April). The outdoor temperature is hot, the water is still warm, and you’ll find more space to stretch out your towel, enjoy beachside cafés, or take a leisurely walk along the coastline.

Hiking and national parks

The Gold Coast hinterland is filled with scenic trails, waterfalls, and rainforest wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers.

The best time to visit Gold Coast for hiking is during autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November), when temperatures are comfortable, humidity is lower, there’s less chance of rain, and mosquitoes are less of an issue.

Lamington National Park, Springbrook National Park, and the Gondwana Rainforests offer well-marked trails, lookout points, and stunning waterfalls. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring suspension bridges, ancient trees, and hidden swimming holes while photography enthusiasts will love capturing the lush landscapes and native birds.

Arts and culture

The Gold Coast’s arts scene has grown significantly in recent years, and while any time is a good time to explore it, the best time to visit Gold Coast for arts and culture is during autumn and spring, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.

HOTA (Home of the Arts) hosts live theatre, concerts, and exhibitions, while local galleries showcase contemporary and Indigenous art. Outdoor events, such as the Swell Sculpture Festival in September and the Groundwater Country Music Festival (CMF) in October, make this season an ideal time to experience the city’s cultural highlights.

Snorkelling and water activities

The best time to visit Gold Coast for snorkelling, kayaking, or paddleboarding is late spring through early autumn (November to March), when the water is warmest and conditions are calmest.

Snorkelling enthusiasts will love exploring the crystal-clear waters around South Stradbroke Island, Tallebudgera Creek, or The Spit to see marine life up close.

Many tours provide equipment and guided experiences, making it perfect for beginners or families. Also, note that early mornings are often the best time for calm waters and great visibility.

And if you need more inspiration when it comes to the best activities to do in Gold Coast, read our guide on the best things to do in Gold Coast.

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Flights to Gold Coast

Best time to visit Gold Coast for festivals and events

With events happening almost every month, the Gold Coast comes alive with festivals celebrating music, arts, food, and sport, and attracting visitors from across Australia all year round. Here’s a list of the most popular events in Gold Coast if you wanted to plan your holiday around one (or more!) of them.

Swell Sculpture Festival (September)

Held annually at Currumbin Beach, the Swell Sculpture Festival is a celebration of contemporary sculpture, art, and design. Artists from around the world display their works along the coastline, creating a unique outdoor gallery experience. The festival also includes workshops, talks, and family-friendly activities, making September a great month for art lovers.

Gold Coast Open (End of March to beginning of April)

After being off the schedule for several years, the Gold Coast Open made a triumphant return in 2025 and is set to come back in 2026. This five-day competition will bring together some of the world’s top surfers to go head-to-head with Australia’s best at the iconic Burleigh Heads.

The Gold Coast Open is part of the World Surf League and features both shortboard and longboard divisions. The longboard segment is particularly important, serving as a qualifier for the WSL Longboard Tour.

Surfers Paradise Live Music Festival (End of April to beginning of May)

This lively autumn festival brings music, food, and entertainment to the heart of Surfers Paradise. With performances spanning local and international acts, pop-up food stalls, and street performances, it’s perfect for music fans and families looking to soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Gold Coast Film Festival (End of April to Mid-May)

The Gold Coast Film Festival showcases Australian and international cinema, including feature films, documentaries, and shorts. Screenings are held at venues across the city, accompanied by talks and networking events. April is a great time for film enthusiasts to experience the city’s creative side.

Bleach Festival (End of July to Mid-August)

Showcasing contemporary theatre, dance, music, and visual arts, the Bleach Festival brings the Gold Coast to life in winter. Family-friendly activities, pop-up exhibitions, and late-night events make it the perfect time to visit for both tourists and culture seekers.

Gold Coast Marathon (July)

One of Australia’s largest running events, the Gold Coast Marathon, attracts thousands of participants and spectators. In addition to the race, there are expo events, community runs, and live entertainment. July is, therefore, a great time to visit Gold Coast for sports enthusiasts, but note that this can temporarily raise accommodation and flight prices in the area.

Worst time to visit Gold Coast

The worst time to visit the Gold Coast largely depends on what you do or don’t want from your trip, but for many travellers, peak summer (December to February) is one of the worst times to visit Gold Coast. This period coincides with school holidays, Christmas, and New Year celebrations, so it’s incredibly busy. Summer is also notorious for hot, humid weather, the chance of thunderstorms, crowded beaches, packed theme parks, and higher prices for flights and accommodation. Popular events like the Gold Coast Open can also add to the crowds and push up costs, making it harder to secure bookings at popular hotels or attractions.

Another time to avoid Gold Coast for high prices and big crowds is mid-winter (July). While most of the winter season is quieter and more affordable, events like school holidays, the Gold Coast Marathon and the Bleach Festival can temporarily raise accommodation prices and increase crowds.

FAQs

When is the cheapest time to visit Gold Coast?

The cheapest times to visit Gold Coast are typically the low seasons of late April to May, in the period between Easter holidays and winter holidays, and early June, late July and August outside of the peak school holiday period and the Gold Coast Marathon. Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds mean lower rates on flights and accommodation, though some attractions may operate on reduced hours.
How many days do you need to visit the Gold Coast?

To experience the highlights comfortably, most travellers spend 3 to 5 days on the Gold Coast. This allows time for beaches, theme parks, hinterland hikes, whale watching (in season), and sampling local food and culture without feeling rushed.
What time is the best to visit Gold Coast with family?

The best time to visit Gold Coast with family is autumn or spring, when the weather is comfortable, crowds are lighter, prices tend to be cheaper than peak summer and winter holidays.
Is summer a good time to visit the Gold Coast?

Summer (December to February) in Gold Coast is great for beach lovers and surfers, with warm water and long sunny days. However, it’s peak tourist season, so expect crowded beaches, higher prices for flights and accommodation. It’s also prime time for hot temperatures that can bring occasional heatwaves and storms.
Is the Gold Coast a good destination for a winter holiday?

Yes! Winter (June to August) is great for a holiday in Gold Coast as the weather is mild and sunny, and most of the season is quieter and perfect for exploring national parks, hinterlands, and cultural attractions without the summer crowds. The weather is cooler but still mild with average maximum daily temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C, with mornings and evenings being more crisp and cool. Therefore, some water activities may be less ideal, but it’s a great time for budget-conscious travellers and peaceful escapes. If you want to avoid the winter crowds, avoid the school holiday period (late June to mid-July) and the Gold Coast Marathon.