Surfers Paradise. The high-energy centre puts beach, nightlife, and shopping at your door. Best for first-timers and those who want the buzz. Good for: First-timers, nightlife.
Broadbeach. A more polished neighbour with the casino, Pacific Fair mall, and a strong restaurant scene by a patrolled beach. Great for dining and families. Good for: Dining, families.
Burleigh Heads. The coast's coolest suburb blends surf culture, a national-park headland, and a hip cafe and bar strip. Choose it for local flavour over glitz. Good for: Surfers, foodies.
Main Beach. An upscale enclave near the Spit and Broadwater, with Tedder Avenue's boutiques and dining. Quieter and refined, close to Sea World. Good for: Couples, calm.
Coolangatta. At the southern end by the NSW border, this relaxed twin-town has great surf and a slower pace. Handy for the airport and quieter beaches. Good for: Surf, value.