The Gold Coast has many names and many reputations.

For some, it is considered to be the party capital of Australia and is home to the annual school-leavers party every year.

It is also home to towering skyscrapers that flank the coastline and a thriving dining, drinking and entertainment culture which has earned the region the moniker as The Glitter Strip. 

And, of course, it is home to some of the best beaches in Australia and a climate that delivers locals and tourists alike an endless summer.

If you have never been, these are the must-see attractions for people from all walks of life when visiting the Gold Coast on the Queensland and New South Wales border.

The beating heart of the Gold Coast is Surfers Paradise with its nightclubs, restaurants, tourist attractions and the gorgeous Main Beach that begins right where the Caville Avenue mall ends.

But it is important to explore beyond Surfers Paradise, as it is just the tip of the breaking waves that make up the Gold Coast.

If you are after all of the beauty of Surfers Paradise without the crowds and chaos, Main Beach is located just to the south and offers the same experience and high-end (plus budget) accommodation and easier parking opportunities.

Further south again is Broadbeach which is a mecca for food lovers, home of The Star Gold Coast and a very family-friendly location.

It is also home to Pacific Fair Shopping Centre which is one of Queensland's largest regional shopping centers.

You can paddle board at Tallebudgera Creek, pretend you're part of the millionaire's club at Mermaid Beach, experience bohemian culture at Burleigh Heads or learn to surf with the locals at Currumbin.

There is so much more to explore as well, so take the time to break away from Surfers Paradise and soak up all the Gold Coast has to offer.

The Gold Coast is the home of Australia’s theme parks and there are a variety of experiences including:

When you are looking for an all-around experience, you can't go wrong with Australia's largest theme park at the Coomera exit just north of the Gold Coast. 

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, there are high-octane rides galore along with plenty of rides that are more family-friendly as well.

You can enjoy plenty of carnival experiences or take to the water slides of Whitewater World which can be included on the same ticket.

If water slides are your game, this theme park has Australia's largest and most diverse range of water slides - similar to Six Flags in the United States.

Whether plummeting seven stories straight down through a tube is the thrill you seek, or a cocktail in a tube in a leisure pool or lagoon is more your style, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Perfect for the young and young at heart.

Meet all your favorite superheroes (and villains) and enjoy the themed rides based on popular DC comics and movie franchises including the iconic Batman.

Seek some thrills on the Green Lantern Roller Coaster or Superman Escape, or visit the characters from Looney Tunes at the Kids’ Fun Zone.

Many people associate the Gold Coast with beaches, high rises, nightlife and theme parks.

But just outside of the metropolitan areas on the coastline lies a whole other world to explore.

The Gold Coast Hinterland is packed full of natural attractions.

Tamborine Mountain is like another world as if you were transported to the set of Lord of the Rings.

Explore waterfalls, rainforests, and markets before enjoying lunch made from the finest local produce washed down the wine from the local vineyards. 

There are numerous lookouts, waterholes, forests, hiking trails and memorable moments to be had in the hinterland and you will need more than just a day trip to explore them all.

Explore it by car, on foot or even from the heavens in a hot air balloon tour. 

Must-visit destinations in the hinterland include the Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens, Tamborine Mountain Distillery, Springbrook National Park, Witches Falls and Cedar Creek Falls!