Some time ago I dreamt of a rainbow of gold and purple and red. When I woke up all I could remember of it was that it was beautiful and I wondered what made me clash such colors in my sleep. Frazer island is an enigma like that. Sand and rainforests go seemlessly together, freshwater lakes, dingos, creeks, the world's longest sand isalnd with rainbow beaches... that's Frazer island. The island is such a detination in itself that it even boasts a museum!
Lady Elliot Island is a must visit for taking in a sight of the Great Barrier Reef. This coral cay is one of the most popular destinations for reef diving and you can while away hours snorkeling and scuba diving with rainbow colored sea anemones, tropical fish, manta rays for company. There's 25 meters visability!
The island is also home to some 57 species of bird, nesting sea turtles and has one of the first lighthouses built in Australia for a landmark.
Sunshine Coast has pristine beaches and tranquil hinterland. You'll be greeted by glass house mountains and pineapple farms on your way to Noosa, a great place to do some window shopping. At Underwater World in Mooloolaba you mighteven get to touch a shark's egg! Sunshine Coast is a very populat holiday spot and you might want to take off from Gold Coast for a mere day to wallow in it.
Mount Tambourine is an enchanted escape with orchards and vineyards, 7 national parks, sub-tropical rainforests and a gorgeous view over Gold Coast! Whether you indulge in some wine tasting, view a craft show, hike around walking trails or tour through the wildlife sanctuary, Mt Tambourine will fill your day well. Infact you might find that you wnat to stay longer once you see how much there is to do once you get there. There are restaurants and galleries, fuschia farms and a fishing world as well as a heritage center.
Lamington National Park is a world heritage park with immense rainforests. The most exciting thing about a visit to the park is the treetop walkway where you get to walk 16 feet above the ground amid the trees! While there, also take some time to enjoy the Alpaca Barn which houses the unique Alpaca, bred by Inca Indians in the Andes. You can sit there and enjoy a tranquil view.
Of course, if you got to Gold Coast straight from your hometown, you might want to venture into Brisbane for a day. See the ever growing and young city, relax on the river, go trawl through the Cultural Centre, Museum or Treasury Casino. Visit South Bank Parklands, which is Australia's only inner city beach.
Besides this, drive your car to Cairns and hot air balloon, hitch a ferry to Moreton Bay and whale-watch. Talk to the locals and ferret out your own day trips (and let me know about them).
Picture Courtesy: www.flickr.com
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