Sure, there are days we all wanna marinate in our PJ’s, binge watch crime dramas and play it extremely fast and loose with the ‘Are you still watching?’ button – but what about when we’re craving action of the outdoor variety?

If you’re looking to carve out the kind of self-care where you fill your lungs with crisp, mountain air, surround yourself with greenery and escape the grind for the day… we’re rather spoiled with some absolutely cracker spots on the GC.

From hidden water holes to World Heritage-listed walking tracks to explore, here are eight of the best in our own backyard. What are you waiting for? Get amongst it.

Burleigh Hill
Aaah, bookending our weekend by kicking back on Burleigh Hill to share a couple’a sundowners with the squad… what’s not to love? Well, middle-aged back pain would like a word, and it would like to *gently* remind us of the alternative for the mind, body and soul that lies a little further up the hill – that is, working up a sweat with a lap or two around the spectacular headland. Bask in the lush flora of Burleigh’s National Park, get the muscles moving and be rewarded with knockout birds-eye views of the coast in the process – it’s win-win. (Plus, there’s always the option for some post-workout brewski’s afterwards, if you’re so inclined.)
Where: Burleigh Hill (you probs won’t miss it)

Picnic Rock
Obviously our stunning national parks never fail to deliver when it’s serenity you’re craving, and the Picnic Rock trail is a particularly spectacular example of this. Here you can hike 3.5km of World Heritage-listed, waterfall-studded rainforest in all its glory, so rustle up some picnic provisions (as the aptly named spot implies) your ol’ faithful sneakers and set off in Canungra’s general direction (bless you, GPS). And honestly, the drive alone is pretty zen-inducing in and of itself. Once you reach the rock, perch up and reward your efforts with said packed lunch and savour a slice of paradise in our own backyard.
Where: Drive to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat (Canungra) then take the Border Track until you see the Picnic Rock turn off

Gold Coast Botanic Gardens
Often slept on by locals in our humble options – don’t discount the green space gem that is Rosser Park for your next nature hit. With 31 hectares of uninterrupted greenness to lose yourself in (not literally, pls) the Botanic Gardens are a sure fire way to give the serotonin levels a boost without having to go too far. There’s boardwalks and scenic trails to perambulate, picnic spots a plenty, plus the native Butterfly Garden and smell-and-touch Sensory Garden to frolic in. Aaaand, exhale.
Where: 230 Ashmore Road, Benowa

Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area
Whether you fancy a bush walk (or ride, or run.. apparently some people are into that kind of thing) or even a spot of birdwatching – there are some seriously stunning wetlands to the north of our delightful city just begging to be explored. With a whopping 1,200 hectares of wetlands, eucalypt forest, salt marshes and mangrove habitats to roam around, Coombabah’s Conservation Area is one of the best when you wanna connect with nature. The protected ecosystem is also home to some 274 species of animals, so channel your inner David Attenborough and keep your eyes peeled for rare birds, marsupials and more. Smashing!
Where: Shelter Road, Coombabah

The Wishing Tree Track
Aside from making us hungry for our iconic, coconut-coated snack, Lamington National Park is famously known for several walks well worth going out of your way for – and the delightful Wishing Tree Track is no exception. A leisurely yet enchanting 2.4km round trip, this pretty trek snakes through lush flora and across a suspension bridge before revealing the yawning hollows of its fabled tree. Once there, you can hang out a while, marvel at mother nature and throw a few wishes into the ether (what have we got to lose, really) – or opt to go the Glow Worm Gully side quest while you’re in the vicinity.
Where: At the Green Mountains below O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, Canungra

Currumbin Rock Pools
Currumbin’s natural swimming hole may well be one of the coast’s worst kept secrets… for very good reason. Tucked a mere ten minutes west of the Gold Coast Hwy on Currumbin Creek Rd, the idyllic pools are a natural wonderland where you can round up your crew, soak up the serenity of the cascading freshwater and cool off with a dip. If you’re visiting – or just yet to be acquainted with this soul-rejuvenating spot, we’d suggest you pack a picnic and make a day of it because once you get there, you won’t want to leave.
Where: Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Valley

Warringa Pool
A secluded little swimming hole nestled in a rainforest-flanked valley of Springbrook National Park – those who make the 3km trek there are rewarded ten-fold with a breathtaking vista and a peaceful place to take a refreshing dip in fresh mountain waters. Part of the Purling Brook Falls Circuit, the picturesque hike (which follows the river a ways downstream for a section) is open year-round and warrants checking out in and of itself even when the conditions are a little chilly for swimming. How’s the serenity!
Where: From the Settlement day-use area in Springbrook National Park, take the path to the Purling Brook Falls lookout

Hinze Dam
More than just our trusty H2O supply, Hinze Dam also has the inbuilt advantage of offering some excellent recreation options when you’re craving wide open spaces. With shades of blue and green far as the eye can see, marvel at the mammoth body of water while you cruise around and find a spot to chill that tickles your fancy, or perch up at View Cafe and soak up the picture-perfect outlook with a cuppa and tasty treat. Outdoorsy types will also appreciate roaming the multi-use trails, kayaking or perhaps a spot of (catch and release) fishing. Rex Hunt would be proud.
Where: Advancetown Road, Advancetown

Words by Kellie Leader.

When it comes to impressing visiting family and friends, is there any better way than going on an adventure and chasing a waterfall — or two? Because beyond epic beaches, and one of the world’s most renowned surfing reserves, we also have world heritage listed rainforests and breathtaking surrounds literally right on our doorstep. And the best part about these fantastic places and mind-blowing natural spectacles is they are entirely free!

So we highly recommend you clear your schedule, pack your swimmers and embark on a fun-filled sojourn into the green behind the gold in search of large pieces of falling water. Set your phone to silent and let the serenity feed your soul.

Here are a few of our favourites, all within an hour or so from the Gold Coast.

Beechmont
Lip Falls
38.7km from Surfers Paradise
Just a 50-minute drive from Surfers Paradise and nestled amongst the Denham Scenic Reserve are the Beechmont rock pools — or Lip Falls as the locals call them. Once you park your car (on Doncaster Road), it’ll only take half an hour to make your way down to the falls. Be aware; these walking paths are steep and narrow and right next to deep gorges.
Where: 45-57 Doncaster Dr, Beechmont

Mt Tamborine
Cedar Creek Falls
44km from Surfers Paradise
Cedar Creek Falls are one of the better-known waterfalls on Mt Tamborine and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike (be warned – it can get quite busy). Your best bet is to explore the area via the Cedar Creek Circuit (3.2km), which will take you along all the cascades and rock pools.
Where: Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain – To get there, take Tamborine Mountain Road until you get to Cedar Creek Falls Road, just past the information map stopping bay on the left. From there, it’s only a short drive down a narrow road and across a small creek before coming to the Cedar Creek Falls section and the car park at its entrance.

Curtis Falls
39.2km from Surfers Paradise
It’s a short, beautiful walk through the rain-drenched Eucalyptus forest to the magical Curtis Falls. You’ll wander past towering trees and through a canopy of ferns, down to this miniature and photogenic waterfall. There are lots of cute creatures to spot along the way too, keep an eye for resident platypuses and wallabies. The walk should only talk half an hour or less to get down to the falls, but you will likely want to stay awhile and soak up the peacefulness. It’s just a 1.1km round trip, so you can knock it over in the early morning then stop for a spot of morning tea at the Curtis Falls Cafe.
Where: 16 Eagle Heights Rd, North Tamborine – Get there via Eagle Heights Road and park right at the entrance to the walk.

Lamington National Park
Elabana Falls
67.4 km from Surfers Paradise
Elabana Falls are certainly a hidden gem located amongst Lamington National Park close to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat (a great spot to grab a bite to eat after your waterfall adventure). Park your car at O’Reilly’s and make your way through the rainforest, past Picnic Rock and further downhill for another 400 metres until you reach the cascading falls. Make sure you refresh yourself with a snack or sit down before embarking on your way back up; it gets pretty steep!
Where: Lamington National Park Rd, Canungra

Springbrook National Park
Natural Bridge
47 km from Surfers Paradise
As you probably know, Natural Bridge is a heavenly cave-like rock formation at Springbrook National Park that is home to glow worms and a colony of tiny bent-wing bats – it’s also one of the most photographed spots on the Gold Coast. Start the short one-kilometre rainforest walk clockwise to the Natural Bridge rock arch to get down to the action.
Where: Nerang-Murwillumbah Rd, Springbrook – It’s super easy to find; just follow Nerang-Murwillumbah Road until you get to the car park signage at Bakers Road.

Twin Falls
40.6km from Surfers Paradise
Start your 4km journey through the sub-tropical rainforest from the Tallabana picnic area or Canyon lookout in an anticlockwise direction. You’ll reach a small bridge, flowing water and immense rock formations after a couple of minutes (perfect for an Insta snap). Keep hiking down the track until you come across two rushing waterfalls. At the base of Twin Falls — after a worthy hike — you’ll find a large rock pool perfect for a rewarding swim!
Where: Canyon Pde, Springbrook

Purling Brook Falls
37km from Surfers Paradise
The Purling Brook Falls are immense, towering at over 100 meters in height and are naturally best visited after rainfall. Start your 2 hour hike clockwise along a scenic and elevated path into a subtropical gorge to view the amazing falls from below. Venture further down the track until you reach waterholes that are great for swimming. When you have had enough, prepare for a steady climb up through the rainforest, which will bring you back to the picnic area.
Where: 63 Gwongorella Parade, Springbrook

Northern NSW
Minyon Falls
113km from Surfers Paradise
Yes, we know the following two locations aren’t on the Gold Coast, they aren’t even in Queensland, but it will take you a short drive along what is probably the most breathtaking scenic drive, until you reach Nightcap National Park in Northern NSW. Make sure you come prepared because getting to Minyon Falls can be quite the journey (well worth it, though). We recommend you start with Minyon Falls Lookout, providing you with outstanding views before adventuring further downstream towards the base of the falls.
Where: Nightcap National Park, Newton Dr, Nightcap 

Killen Falls
108 km from Surfers Paradise
Killen Falls are undoubtedly one of the most epic waterfalls to dive into with its large swimming hole and rock pools. The rock has been eroded significantly behind the waterfall, forming an impressive cave. Ever wanted to take a waterfall shower? Well, at Killen Falls, that’s not a problem as you can swim across the pool and climb up the rocks just to sit right underneath the falling water.
Where: Killen Falls Dr, Tintenbar – Killen Falls are super easy to find, just minutes off the Pacific Highway near Byron Bay.

But it’s important to remember, whilst it’s tempting (and refreshing) to go for a swim in the rock pools and lagoons, it’s prohibited in some, so please adhere to any safety signs and be 100% sure it’s safe to swim before diving in. Also, be sure to pack closed-in shoes, plenty of water, mozzie repellent and sunscreen (the sun will still get you between the canopy).

Last but not least, take nothing but photographs and leave nothing but footprints behind!

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

If your Insta game’s not strong, are you even a Gold Coaster? With a herd of Insta-worthy spots across our stunning city, there’s no excuse for not rocking an A-lister Instagram account.

To make life easier and ensure you’re the envy of all your mates, here are our list of local Insta-worthy spots.

Surfers Paradise Sign
It’s on every Gold Coast tourists’ bucket list and makes the perfect background for a ‘look where I am’ pic. The Surfers Paradise sign is located right where bustling Cavill Ave meets the beach. Try to make it for sunrise (whether you get up, or stay up, we won’t judge!).
Where: The top of Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Natural Bridge
Springbrook National Park offers you a couple of great Insta pic locations, the most beautiful and unique being the Natural Bridge rock arch.  When you get the right angle and the light hits the water running through the cave, it’s a guaranteed winner! So make sure your battery is fully charged and get ready for a rainforest adventure (watch out for the cave dwelling bats!).
Where: Springbrook National Park, Numinbah Road

Miami Hill
It’s a fitness junkie’s kryptonite but the top of the hill also gives you great views of Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta. You may snap some great pics during the day, but we urge you to make the effort and go during sunrise or sunset – it’s mind blowing and no filter necessary.
Where: The southern end of Miami

Burleigh Hill
It’s safe to say that we’ve all snapped shots on Burleigh Hill at some point. A sweet location with balmy breezes and picture-perfect views of Surfers Paradise’ skyline. If you’re lucky enough, you might even spy a whale breaching!
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Tallebudgera Creek
If taken from the right angle, a picture at Talle Creek can easily be mistaken for a beach in Thailand or the Caribbean (but it’s on the Coast and that’s even better). The calm waters and palm trees are nothing short of #paradise!
Where: Awoonga Avenue, Burleigh Heads (northside) and Murlong Crescent, Palm Beach (southside)

Elephant Rock
There is not just one but two huge rocks at Currumbin Beach and they’re the perfect natural objects for your next Instagram pic! Who doesn’t love a great scenic shot of the deep blue sea? Hot tip: Visit during Swell Sculpture Festival (held in September) and take pictures of the abstract outdoor sculpture gallery against the ocean.
Where: Currumbin Beach, Currumbin

Waterfalls
With so many waterfalls and rock pools to choose from, it’s not easy to decide which ones to visit. You should probably just go see them all, but we’ve created a list of our faves right here.
Where: Various locations

Don’t forget to tag us in your pics using #insidegoldcoast and @insidegoldcoast.