Gold Coast

Friday, midday

Check into the recently rebranded and revamped The Island (doubles from £94, www.theislandgoldcoast. com.au), a stylish boutique option near the beach in Surfers Paradise.

12:30pm

Queensland’s seafood is superb. Dive in at Omeros Bros in the plush Marina Mirage (www.omerosbros. com). Book a table on their waterfront terrace and order the grilled Moreton Bay Bugs, a kind of squat lobster.

2pm

Helicopter rides (www.goldcoastheli tours.com.au) are a thrilling way to see this spectacular city.

3pm

The sweep of sandy beaches are what attract tourists to the Gold Coast so enjoy a couple of hours relaxing on the sands. An efficient tram network runs along this sinewy city. Hop off at Broadbeach where the sands are quieter than in Surfers Paradise.

7pm

In the lead up to 2018’s Commonwealth Games the dining scene has massively improved. Social Eating House (www. socialeatinghouse.com.au) is a shining example with its creative cocktails and delicious tapas.

9pm

Relax and enjoy an ice cold stubby beer at the Beach Café (www. thesurfersparadisebeachcafe.com) at this laid-back haunt just by the beach.

Saturday, 9am

The Gold Coast overflows with theme parks – two of the best are Sea World (www.seaworld.com.au) and Dream World (www.seaworld.com.au).

1pm

Tackle Australia’s highest external building climb at Skypoint (www. skypoint.com.au) and appreciate epic views of the Gold Coast.

1:30pm

If you’ve booked the Climb and Dine package you can enjoy lunch afterwards whilst you continue to soak in the vistas.

7pm

The Kitchens has transformed the mall at Robina Town Centre with food stall operators and suppliers. Honey Eater (www.honeyeater.com. au) offer bright, creative dishes using the freshest of local produce.

Sunday, 9am

Enjoy a whale watching tour (www. whalesinparadise.com.au). ■