Ecotourism

The Gold Coast’s thriving tourism industry is firmly established.  

While our beaches and theme parks will always be top drawcards, the City is pivoting into new experiences to become the number one ecotourism destination in Australia and a world leader in sustainable tourism. With evolving traveller preferences and growing environmental consciousness, we are diversifying our offering to remain competitive in the global tourism landscape.  

Blessed with natural beauty, from pristine beaches to lush hinterland, the Gold Coast is a magnet for tourists drawn to the grandeur of the outdoors. Research from global travellers interested in experiences recognises ‘The Nature’ experience cluster involves ‘Immersion into nature via landmarks and wildlife’. Underlying this is travellers' desire to ‘travel for good’ with deeper, more meaningful experiences to increase participation in this new era of transformational travel.  

The City’s Our Natural City Strategy 2032 supports development and promotion of nature-based experiences that have a positive environmental impact.

Ecotourism presents an opportunity to curate well-conceived experiences that showcase the region’s diverse ecosystems.  

Diversifying our accommodation and experience offering will increase visitor length of stay and expenditure, and create new jobs through design, construction, maintenance and hospitality.  

We are preparing for the influx of visitors pre, post and during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games when our city and our natural assets will be on show to the world.

Our 5-year Ecotourism Plan will provide opportunities for private investment and partnership in the world's fastest growing tourism sector.