The Gold Coast Botanic Gardens will give you a touch of wilderness and adventure on your holiday
There are so many things to do and places to enjoy on the Gold Coast. Primarily visitors come here for the sun, the sand, and the surf; but what do you do when you have had your fill and want a break from the beaches? Well, the good news is that there are plenty of things to do aside from lazing on the beach; you just have to explore some of the Gold Coast’s undiscovered treasures. Find out what the locals do!
One popular and beautiful spot is the Gold Coast Botanical Gardens located at 258 Ashmore Road at Benowa on the central Gold Coast. If you are driving it is an easy 5.4 km drive and should take you less than 15 minutes. You can get there by bus from the Cavill Avenue Bus Station. There are several options but the easiest route it to catch the tram from Surfers Paradise to Pacific Fair (Broadbeach South Bus Station) Then catch the 741 bus that takes you right to the gate. You can stop over for lunch at the new and vastly improved Pacific Fair shopping Centre on the way – although if you are shopping you may want to do that on your return journey.
The Botanic Gardens is a relatively new development on the Gold Coast and was only established in 1998. There is endless variety in these gardens, which have been carefully planned and laid out to create both visual and sensory experiences.
The Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens are open year round. Entry is free as is visitor parking. When you arrive at the gardens check out the “Friends Visitor Centre” (open from 10am to 2pm) where you will be able to pick up walking maps, fact sheets and other guides to the attractions of the gardens. Guided walks are often available and it would be a good idea to check with the volunteer staff if any are being offered during your visit.
The display garden and lake boardwalk are flat areas and suited for disability access. A visit to the Botanic Gardens makes an ideal day out for the entire family, so if you are looking for a break from the beaches, come and walk a little on the wild side; explore the gardens where you can chat to the birds, smell the roses, kick a ball around in the open meadow area and of course, enjoy some peaceful time with your family. But don’t forget to bring your camera.
Find out more from the the official website of the Gold Coast.