Coolangatta has stunning beaches, an abundance of restaurants and cafes, a rich surf history, great food and drinks, and sunny skies. So whether you’re spending a few days, a week or even longer here, you know it’s going to be a great time.
But with so much to do, you might find it hard to plan your time here. So to help you figure out what to do, here’s a suggestion for how you could spend five days in Coolangatta.
Day One
Morning
Welcome to Coolangatta. Whether you’ve arrived from somewhere else in Australia or overseas, we welcome you to our little piece of paradise. It’s time to get your bearings and there’s no better way to do that then to pick up a bunch of brochures, sit down, grab a coffee and plan out your week. Cafe 28 is our pick for a coffee, offering breathtaking views of Coolangatta Beach. It’s also part of the Boardriders store, meaning you pick up your surf gear ready for the days ahead.
Afternoon
Now that you’ve unpacked and checked out what you can do it’s time to take a stroll through the town. Get to know the great range of boutique shops in the Strand at Coolangatta and spend some time at the beach. If you feel like a longer stroll, take the beautiful scenic walk between Kirra and Point Danger. Winding from Kirra all the way up and over to Duranbah Beach, you can check out some of the most famous surf breaks in Australia.
Evening
Get to know the locals and have dinner at the Coolangatta Hotel. This is the place where friends come together and the surf breaks in the background. One of Australia’s best live entertainment venues, there’s always something on and a great band to listen to. Our restaurant serves up a large menu and you’ll instantly be made to feel at home.
Day Two
Morning
You’re on holiday, so treat yourself to a sleep in. Following that, grab some breakfast at Crema Espresso and take a stroll through Coolangatta beachfront art and craft market if it’s on. Located next to the beach, it’s an amazing sight to see and it showcases the best local artisans from the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast. If the markets aren’t on, consider going for a snorkel instead.
Afternoon
If you’re not one to get up early with the locals and hit the surf, contact longtime local and former professional surfer Dave Davidson for an afternoon surfing lesson. Learn to Surf Coolangatta will cater to every skill level, ensuring you get up on some of Coolangatta’s legendary waves.
Evening
Keep the relaxed surfer vibe going and grab a bite of healthy Mexican food at Beach Burrito. This iconic restaurant offers a fun and friendly atmosphere and an extensive menu with surfer favourites such as nachos, taquitos, burritos, fajitas and quesadillas. Wash it all down with a jug of sangria or margarita, and then finish with a beer and a dance at the Coolangatta Hotel.
Day Three
Morning
Make an early start today and head to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary for lorikeet feeding at 8am. Experience the thrill of feeding wild lorikeets straight from your hands, head and shoulders all for a gold coin donation. If you want to see more of the Sanctuary, Currumbin is also home to koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, dingos, wombats and a whole lot more. You can check out showtimes here.
Afternoon
If the kids are in tow stop at Kirra Beach playground on your way back into Coolangatta. The modern playground isn’t overly big but it’s got plenty of shade and a challenging A-line maze mountain. If the kids prefer gaming over swings, check out Timezone in the Strand at Coolangatta.
Evening
Hop on board the Gold Coast’s premier dinner cruise experience and enjoy a 3-hour a la carte dinner cruise with Wyndham Cruises. Take in the spectacular Gold Coast skyline by night and enjoy live onboard entertainment. Relax on the rooftop lounge and enjoy full bar amenities.
Day Four
Morning
If you’re looking for one of the most extreme things to do in Coolangatta, Gold Coast Skydive will take you on an adrenaline-pumping ride high in the sky where you can see the stunning region from above. Once you’ve reached your drop point you’ll leap from the plane and free-fall down to paradise, landing on Kirra Beach.
Afternoon/Evening
With the heart pumping and excitement in the air, head to the Cooly Hotel and celebrate with a cold beer. Whether you’re planning to party into the night or looking to unwind after an action-packed morning, the Cooly Hotel is the place to be. Check out our What’s On page to see what’s happening and plan to let your hair down for your last night in Coolangatta.
Day Five
Morning
Sadly, it’s the day you say goodbye to Coolangatta. Take a stroll to the Rocky Headland before breakfast and take in the view and the Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse. Stand in two time zones at once – one foot in Queensland and one foot in New South Wales. Enjoy one last time the very scenic beachfront around Coolangatta Beach and Greenmount Beach, and then make your way to Jaffles HQ for a gourmet toastie and a coffee. Get some sandwiches or wraps to go and then make your way to Currumbin Rock Pools, a 20-minute drive from Coolangatta.
Afternoon
Currumbin Rock Pools are a series of secret swimming holes popular with the locals. A flashback to days when kids hung from rope swings and leapt off ledges into the icy cold water, the rock pools are the perfect way to end a relaxing short break.
Evening
It’s time to depart Coolangatta and start planning your return – we hope you’ve enjoyed your stay and come back soon!
Don’t miss out
If you’re planning on visiting Coolangatta, check out the Cooly Hotels’ What’s On page and menu before you come. You won’t believe the entertainment we’ve locked in for you and can guarantee there’s something on the menu for everyone.
