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 The South East Queensland region consists of a number of smaller areas which are, heading north to south, from the coast to the hinterland and beyond.
> Fraser Coast South Burnett
> Sunshine Coast
> Brisbane
> Gold Coast
> Southern Downs
> Toowoomba & Golden West
Visit the Gold Coast Region Qld
 The Gold Coast is a holiday destination of wonderful contrasts - from the sophistication of Main Beach, the glamour of Surfers Paradise, action-packed theme parks and wildlife sanctuaries to championship golf courses, fabulous shopping and rainforest wonderlands right at the back door! It really is...the coast with the most!
A sweeping 70 kilometre coastline offers more than 40 patrolled beaches during peak holiday seasons that are among the best in the world. The beachfront esplanades of vibrant centres like Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, Palm Beach and Coolangatta, invite you to sit back, relax and soak up the fun and holiday atmosphere.
Heading south from Brisbane you will reach the Gold Coast. Below are some of the towns and beaches that make up the Gold Coast.
 South Stradbroke Island
Ferry services operate to South Stradbroke Island from Runaway Bay Marina, a 20 minute drive north of Surfers Paradise. The trip takes you to beautiful unpopulated beaches. The island has several resorts that offer facilities for day trippers, including water sports and environmental tours and is also great for beach fishing, swimming and surfing. A seaplane from Marina Mirage can also be used to visit the island.
 Southport
Southport was established in 1875 and is home to two of the city's well known private schools, as well as the Gold Cost Hospital. Situated across the Nerang River from Surfers Paradise. Southport overlooks the Southport Broadwater and the Southport Spit. The township features one of the Gold Coast's largest shopping complexes and is well located to access the Gold Coast's world famous surf beaches and exciting attractions and theme parks.
 Main Beach
Vigorous walks are a great way to explore the region's beaches. One of the most popular walks starts at Surfers Paradise and stretches north to cosmopolitan Main Beach. On your way you will pass Narrowneck where an artificial reef has been created to protect this beautiful expanse of sand from big surf conditions. Stop for refreshments at the historic Main Beach bathing pavilion or the Southport Surf Life Saving Club. Just past Main Beach is the Southport Spit where you can head out along the sand-pumping jetty which stretches 500 metres out to sea. This area also features several dive sites including the wreck of the Scottish Princes.
Surfers Paradise
Along the busiest stretch of the Coast is Surfers Paradise, a great spot for families with its perfect swimming beach. Free beach volleyball competitions offer fun for all ages, while the nearby cafes and shopping areas make it easy to take a break with an ice-cream or a cool drink. The huge Paradise Centre on the main shopping street Cavill Avenue, has enough games and rides to keep everyone entertained. Every Friday night a craft market is set up along the beach esplanade where you can find quality handicrafts and gifts.
 Broadbeach
Broadbeach is well known for its wide expanse of sand, warm blue waters and adjoining parkland offering playground equipment and picnic facilities. The area also is home to Kurrawa Surf Life Saving Club, host of the annual Australian Surf Lifesaving Titles. With this beautiful beach as a backdrop, shopping and dining become totally relaxing experiences. Broadbeach Mall and Surf Parade are lined with trendy outdoor cafes and restaurants. Broadbeach offers beachfront craft markets on the first and third Sunday of every month.
Mermaid Beach
Mermaid Beach offers a magnificent beachfront, and is famous for its 'millionaire's row' of beachfront homes. There are a variety of restaurants, take aways and bistro's and a value - for - money cinema complex. One of Australia's largest shopping complexes, Pacific Fair, close by.
 Burleigh Heads
Located halfway along the Gold Coast's 70 kilometre coastline, Burleigh Heads holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Nestled beneath the rolling green Burleigh headland, studded with its distinctive pines and pandanus palms, this gently curving beach is protected and offers magical views north to Surfers Paradise. Famed worldwide for its tubular Burleigh Barrel waves, the beach is the venue for major international surfboard riding tournaments. The dramatic Burleigh headland was formed by an ancient volcano and is a sacred spot for Aborigines who once gathered here to fish and feast. It adjoins the Burleigh Head National Park on the banks of the Tallebudgera Creek.
 Currumbin
Currumbin is a photographer's paradise with spectacular views north and south. The gentle surf and small rock pools make the area's beaches popular with young families. Try your hand at a spot of fishing along the picturesque Currumbin Creek. A multiple winner of Queensland's cleanest beach award, Palm Beach lures agile locals looking to stretch their muscles along golden sands and cool off in sparkling warm waters. After a busy morning workout at the beach, sit back and quench your thirst at the Surf Life Saving Club.
 Coolangatta
At the southern end of the Gold Coast, Coolangatta has some of the region's prettiest beaches. The rugged headland of Point Danger gives way to delightful Rainbow Bay where gentle surf offers a safe haven to small children. Further north is the tree-studded Greenmount headland, the perfect vantage point to watch the sun rise over crystal waters. Below are the white sands of Coolangatta's sheltered beach and nearby picnic areas. Coolangatta's bistros and cafes are close by for lunch or a snack. On the second Sunday of the month market stalls are set up along the beachfront where you can browse through local handicrafts.
For more information regarding Queensland National Parks and reserves go to Queensland Parks & Wildlife Service.
If travelling to Queensland have a look at Queensland Holidays.
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