They both offer glittering coastlines of white sandy beaches, pristine waters, and plenty of fun attractions too. Bookending Brisbane along the south east coast of Australia, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast have a lot to offer any lucky visitor planning to head there, but how do you choose which one your family would enjoy the most? Although both coasts are much-loved by our team here at Brisbane kids, they definitely have their differences, and so to help you (hopefully!) decide we have detailed the main ones below.
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Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast: Proximity to Brisbane
Being the capital city of our Sunshine State, Brisbane is quite often the base for most families looking to visit either coast. For some who choose to live on their coast of choice, trips to Brisbane may still be a regular occurrence be that for work or major events. For this reason, the proximity to Brisbane may be a factor worth considering.
The Sunshine Coast, although a spread of suburbs rather than one main centre, is located approximately 1.5 – 2 hours north of Brisbane. The Gold Coast is a lot closer, with the northern suburbs resting only 45 minutes south of Brisbane.
Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast: Beaches
There is absolutely no denying the fact that at both the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast you will be met with endless stretches of golden sands, clear waters and simply stunning beaches. If we are looking for some differences between the two though then we would have to say that the beaches on the Sunshine Coast tend to be a bit more protected, with more sheltered conditions. This means that they are probably more suited to families with younger and more inexperienced swimmers.
Both are well-loved by surfers, although the Gold Coast has more of a surfing culture and vibe.
Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast: Weather
Being based in southeast Queensland, both the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast experience an average of over 300 sunny days in the year. Even so, as the Sunshine Coast is closer to the tropical North Queensland area it’s average daily temperatures are hotter than those on the Gold Coast. This means that even in winter the weather it can be pretty balmy. For those visiting from a colder climate, the temperatures on the Gold Coast may be more bearable, and for most are considered perfect. At both coasts though, swimming is possible and enjoyable (although slightly chilly for some in winter) all year round. Really though, there isn’t a lot of difference between the two in the great scheme of things.
Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast: Crime and Safety
As a tourist, both the Sunshine Coast the Gold Coast are safe places to travel, as long as you stick to the main areas and use common sense. In general, the Sunshine Coast is considered the safer destination as there appears to be more recorded incidents on the Gold Coast, particularly when it comes to violence.
Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast: Age Demographic
Regardless of your age, whether that be young or nearing retirement, both the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast can provide a stunning backdrop to call home. In saying that, the Gold Coast tends to attract a younger demographic, mostly due to its active nightlife and events, while the Sunshine Coast is a popular retirement destination for older Australians chasing a quieter lifestyle. The Gold Coast also tends to have a lot of “new money” investments, while the Sunshine Coast is more “old money.” Both do attract families, for all the reasons mentioned elsewhere in this article.
Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast: Atmosphere
When it comes to general atmosphere and lifestyle, this is where the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast have a little more of a difference. The Sunshine Coast lifestyle is one that is quieter and more laid back, with residents more interested in heading to the beach or hinterland for some tranquil nature time. It is less commercialised and touristy than the Gold Coast. In this regard, the Sunshine Coast is a great choice for nature lovers and those looking for a quieter, family-friendly environment.
On the other hand, the Gold Coast is well known for its lively atmosphere, with some nicknaming it ‘party central’. If you are chasing an active nightlife and busy social calendar full of events and shows then you will definitely want to head south. Compared to the north coast, the Goldie has a real buzz of glamorous people living glamorous lives. Each year, when school finishes, it also literally overflows with excited teenagers who arrive in droves to party 24-7 on the beach and in the clubs. For this reason, the Gold Coast is perfect for anyone who wants the beach lifestyle but also an active social scene too.
Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast: Attractions
When it comes to attractions, both the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast have a lot to offer visitors in locals. On the Sunshine Coast, these are much more nature-focussed, with Australia Zoo and the SeaLife Aquarium being two of the most popular. The mountains and lush hinterland towns are filled with natural beauty.
The Gold Coast also has a beautiful hinterland, but is more well known for being the home of Australia’s biggest theme parks and water parks. There are also plenty of man-made attractions, shows and also the casino for adults. Sea World and the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary are two of the more popular wildlife-centred attractions on the Gold Coast.
Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast: Transport
Public transport is readily available at both coastal hotspots, although it is more frequent and efficient on the Gold Coast. There is even a fast train that travels between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Although traffic travelling to and from both of them can be busy, the traffic in the central suburbs of the Gold Coast and around Surfers Paradise can be quite bad at times. Fun fact though – regardless if you are on the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast, you will be able to climb aboard the infamous Aquaduck and ride both on the land and the water all on one trip!
Sunshine Coast vs Gold Coast: Costs
Depending on where you choose to live, both the Sunshine Coast the Gold Coast can prove quite expensive places to stay. In general, the Gold Coast rental market and costs in the main centre are more expensive in our opinion.
For some more information on both the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast you might also enjoy:
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