Where sun-drenched city streets meet golden coastlines, Brisbane and the Gold Coast offer a dynamic slice of Australia. Whether you’re chasing ocean swims, waterfall walks, or slow afternoons under the Aussie sunshine, this corner of Queensland offers an easy to explore escape.
Where to Stay in Brisbane
I stayed with family for this trip but don’t hesitate to check for hotels in Brisbane below:
If you’re looking to get away from the city, also check out Tiny Away stays and use code ‘JAYNEY’ for 10% off your stay.
Food & Drink
Charis Seafoods
Located on the Gold Coast, There’s a whole range of seafood on display ready to purchase for a fish & chips lunch.
They also feed a flock pelicans behind the store on the beach at 1.15pm every day, a free activity while you feast, but watch out for the hungry birds that wait nearby!
Felons Brewing Co
In the heart of Brisbane city, Felons provides plenty of space along the riverfront to enjoy the view of the Story Bridge and CBD with a cold drink in hand.
There are different restaurant sections with slightly different menus. Wherever you decide to sit, you can order from a QR code and they’ll bring your food & drinks to you!
I came here with a friend for a gourmet lunch with wine. Winery tours and tastings can be booked at the front desk.
Witches Falls Winery
Between Brisbane & Gold Coast, in the more countryside area, Witches Falls winery offer tasting paddles for wine, cider & beer for $20 – $25 a person.
Not far from the winery, we went to a waterfall at Mount Tamborine straight after:
Sights & Activities in Brisbane & The Gold Coast
Curtis Falls, Mount Tamborine
This is a free short walk to a nice waterfall. It’s easy to spot plenty of water lizards out and about.
The Ginger Factory
Ride a train around the site and learn about its history, or go on a tasting tour. Great place for edible souvenirs – I took home some ginger marmalade and a bottle of ginger sauce to cook with.
You can enjoy a snack with their ginger products at the cafe that sits in the centre as well – The scone with ginger marmalade was delicious!
Australia Zoo
The Australia Zoo was one of my bucket list items for visiting Brisbane!
There’s plenty to see and do at the zoo, so make a whole day out of it!
Check the brochure for different animal encounter times or plan your day ahead online.
Wildlife Warriors Show!
Don’t forget to add the Wildlife Warriors show to your itinerary! At 1.15 everyday, you’ll get the chance to see a showcase of the different kinds of animals you can see around the zoo, learn about them, and if you’re lucky, the segment on crocodiles will be delivered by the Irwins!
Thanks for joining me on my journey!
If you’re looking for some visual travel inspo for Australia, check out my Australia Pinterest Board – it also has a dedicated section for Brisbane / Gold Coast.
I’ll also be returning to the area in June 2026, so if you have any recommendations for places to visit, comment them below!
