Coolangatta, the southernmost town of the Gold Coast, is a picturesque coastal destination that serves as a gateway between Queensland and New South Wales. It shares a twin-city connection with Tweed Heads, located just across the border. This region is home to Point Danger and its historic lighthouse, standing at 28.1667°S 153.55°E, marking the easternmost point of mainland Queensland.

From Coolangatta, an uninterrupted stretch of holiday resorts and world-class surfing beaches extends northward for approximately 40 kilometers to Main Beach, and further onto Stradbroke Island, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The commercial heart of the Gold Coast lies in the bustling suburbs of Southport and Surfers Paradise, known for their skyscrapers, shopping precincts, and vibrant nightlife.

The Nerang River, the city's major waterway, once flowed through vast wetlands between the coastal strip and the hinterland. Today, this landscape has been transformed into a network of over 260 kilometers (160 miles) of man-made canals and artificial islands, surpassing the length of Venice’s famous waterways by more than nine times. These waterways are now lined with luxurious waterfront homes, adding to the city’s appeal as a high-end lifestyle destination.

Beyond the coastline, the Gold Coast Hinterland provides a stark contrast to the city's modern developments. Part of the Great Dividing Range, this region includes the 206-square-kilometer (80-square-mile) Lamington National Park, a World Heritage-listed area celebrated for its ancient rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Visitors to the hinterland can enjoy bushwalking trails, breathtaking lookouts, and encounters with native species, including the Black Flying Foxes, which play a crucial role in pollination and seed dispersal.

With its stunning coastal views, bustling urban centers, and untouched hinterland, Coolangatta and the surrounding Gold Coast region remain one of Australia’s most dynamic and sought-after destinations.