Three Gold Coast Experiences to Make You Want to Blow Your Budget.

Things to do 

Irresistible Adventures

Being a student is hectic. In between juggling university, work, extra-curricular and internships, we’re rarely left with any time for ourselves. Even if we manage to squeeze in some time for pampering our finances are usually at an all-time low. Curse our avocado toast and boba milk tea addiction! But if you do find yourself winning a lottery, or more likely, your parents gifting you on your birthday, here are some experiences totally worth blowing the student budget for!

  • Snorkelling at South Stradbroke Island/Wavebreak Island.

This 5-hour excursion includes leisurely kayaking in pristine blue waters to South Stradbroke Island where you may get to see dolphins, turtles, stingrays and whales as you paddle. You can then have breakfast on a secluded beach followed by some snorkelling at Wavebreak Island. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a Golden Wallaby, native to only South Stradbroke Island in all of Australia. With expert guides to give you instructions on using kayaks, snorkelling gear and safety equipment this tour is suitable even for first-timers.

  • Jet Boat + Helicopter Ride

Step aboard a jet boat and zip through the Gold Coast's beautiful shoreline featuring landmarks such as Palazzo Versace Hotel, Marina Mirage, Sovereign Island and Moreton Bay Marine Park. You’ll find yourself enjoying high-speed runs, drifting and doing tricks such as 360° spins, so be prepared to get drenched! The jet boat ride is followed by a helicopter tour that showcases the captivating skyline of this amazing city, flying over Main Beach, Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach while taking in views that will leave you breathless. The tours vary depending on operators, so it’s best to confirm routes before the trip.

  • Skydiving/ Indoor Skydiving

Skydiving really requires you to step out of your comfort zone, but I promise you, it will be the experience of a lifetime. Size up the stunning views of the Gold Coast skyline before taking a leap of faith and then free-falling with a rush like you wouldn’t believe! If skydiving isn’t your cup of tea, head to iFly at Surfer's Paradise and try indoor skydiving, a simulation of free-fall conditions in a vertical wind tunnel. It might prove to be good practice if you eventually decide to try the real deal.