Winter may not be the main tourist season on the Gold Coast, but for those seeking a quieter holiday in our beautiful region, winter is definitely a great option.
The weather does cool off a bit - you can expect temperatures of approximately 9 degrees overnight to 21 degrees during the day. But with a scarf and warm jumper, you will be all set to enjoy what the Gold Coast has to offer in the middle of the year.
Here are some of the events you might like to check out this winter:
Gold Coast Airport Marathon
Calling all athletes...and spectators! July sees some of the world's best runners coming to the Gold Coast for a scenic marathon alongside our beautiful beaches. Events include a 42.2 kilometre Marathon, 21.1 kilometre Half Marathon, 10 kilometre Run, five kilometre Challenge and Junior Dash races for the kids. Lots of entertainment provided for spectators as well.
When: 3-4th July, 2010
Where: Starts and finishes in Southport
Cost: Free to watch, costs vary to participate
> Find out more here - www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au
Cooly Rocks On Festival
One of the most famous festivals on the Gold Coast, Wintersun is a celebration of rock 'n' roll music and retro culture. For 10 days, Coolangatta comes alive with street parades, exhibitions and shows featuring hot rods, dancing, singing and lots of food! Many of the streets are closed so you can stroll around and soak up this great event. Definitely not to be missed!
When: 4-14th June, 2010
Where: Coolangatta, southern Gold Coast
Cost: Most events are free
> Find out more here - www.wintersun.org.au
Broadbeach Jazz and Food Festival
If you're a jazz buff or a foodie, you will love this festival. Several leading Australian jazz musicians perform live on outdoor stages and venues around the beautiful Broadbeach plaza precinct. Headlining in 2010 is Australian music legend Kate Cebrano! Plus tickle your tastebuds with celebrity chefs and food demonstrations at the event as well.
When: 19-22nd August, 2010
Where: Broadbeach
Cost: Most events are free
> Find out more here - www.broadbeachgc.com/events
The Gold Coast Show
The 104th Annual Gold Coast Show takes place in August, with everything you would expect at a family event like this. There's the animal pavilion, carnival rides, vintage cars, woodchopping competitions, arts and crafts and of course, fireworks. Most of these attractions are included in your admission tickets, so it's a relatively budget-friendly day out with the family!
When: 27-29th August, 2010
Where: Southport Parklands
Cost: $45 for a family of 2 adults and 3 children
> Find out more here - http://www.goldcoastshow.com.au/
Plus, there's the usual markets, great restaurants, huge shopping centres and outdoor activities to keep you well and truly occupied while you are here. We hope you enjoy your time on the beautiful Gold Coast, no matter what season you are here!
Car rental Gold Coast
To ensure you can get around quickly and easily while you are on the Gold Coast and if you head further north to Brisbane, hire an affordable Gold Coast rental car from Surfers Rent A Car.
