just an hours drive from the state capital, Brisbane.

It's a fast-growing city of a half million people,

drawn by the miles of perfect coastline,

and a sun-drenched lifestyle.

The central Gold Coast skyline looks like a gathering of giants wriggling their toes

in the warm Pacific.

There's a natural spirit here, found in the incredible beaches,

the ocean's shifting moods, and in the cool waterfalls and deep forests of the hinterland.

But there's a human spirit too, dedicated to family, vitality, and,

having the time of your life!

The Gold Coast got its start as a vacation retreat in the 1850s,

near its northern end. It's here, that the Gold Coast still shines brightest.

Surfers Paradise, is a complete destination in itself;

a glittering resort, shopping and entertainment strip.

Head to the Sky-point Observation Deck to see the Gold Coast's beaches

unfurl in a 20-mile ribbon of sand, studded with headlands, parks and waterways.

Just to the south of Surfers Paradise is Broadbeach, where the pace begins to slow.

The further you move down the coast the more relaxed the vibe.

Burleigh Heads, is home to a stunning national park, and one Australia's legendary surf breaks.

It's easy to see why this headland has been an Aboriginal gathering place

for thousands of years.

A little further south is Currumbin, a place where the bush meets the beach.

Hit the waves between Elephant and Currumbin Rocks, or just go for a float in the sparkling

serenity of the estuary.

Follow the shoreline south to the Gold Coast's most southern beachside neighborhood, Coolangatta.

Just a five minute drive from the Gold Coast's international airport,

Coolangatta is the regions gateway for most international and interstate visitors.

With its shady parks, sheltered beaches and river,

Coolangatta is a popular choice for families.

And when the conditions are right, it produces some of the most spectacular surf in Australia.

The Gold Coast offers plenty of thrills besides its fabulous coastline,

it's the theme park capital of Australia.

Spend a day riding the waves and waterslides at Wet 'n' Wild.

Just up the road, cool off and ride the tubes at Dreamworld's White Water World.

Dreamworld is Australia's largest theme park.

It features over 40 rides for all ages, and themed lands like Tiger Island.

Experience Hollywood on the Gold Coast, at Warner Brothers Movie World.

Strap yourself in and take off, on some of the best roller-coasters Downunder.

Then buckle up, for The Hollywood Stunt Driver show.

Next door, at the Australian Outback Spectacular,

saddle-up to a three course meal as some of the country's best horsemen and women celebrate

the spirit of the bush.

At Sea World, celebrate the spirit of the ocean with some of the sea's most endearing

creatures, and a few of the less cuddly ones too.

There's also plenty of rides to explore between the shows.

If you're feeling the need to settle the nerves after all those theme parks, head to the hills.

Just a 30 minute drive inland and perched high on the rim of an ancient volcano,

is Mount Tamborine.

Explore the rainforest trails and skywalk,

before sampling the local produce and wines at Tamborine Village.

A little further South, is Springbrook, a world heritage listed national park

filled with ancient forests, secret places, and waterfalls

that have been flowing since the dawn of time.

From up here, high on the escarpment, the Gold Coast beckons,

back to the sand, back to the rides,

and back to the spirit of Australia's brightest vacation destination.