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Brisbane & Gold Coast In 6D5N: The Muslim-Friendly Itinerary You’ve Been Looking For

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Faruq Senin •  Mar 13, 2019

Brisbane, Australia’s third largest city and the capital of Queensland has caught our attention with its sweeping transformation across the city ? Vibrant city life, music venues and trendy restaurants meet pretty riverside gardens - this is 1 Australia city that is on our next to-visit list! Thankfully, with a direct (and comfy!) 8-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane with Malaysia Airlines, it’s so convenient to start exploring Brisbane and its surrounds. Here’s an itinerary that we’ve curated to show you the best bits of Brisbane city (plus a road trip to Gold Coast!)

#HHWT Tip: Did you know that Malaysia Airlines flies 4 times weekly from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane? Check out promotional airfares to Brisbane on Malaysia Airlines here!

Note: This is a self-drive itinerary. We recommend renting a car and driving as it’s the most convenient way. But for the days in Brisbane city, it’s easier to get around with public transport instead. We’ve also provided public transport options for all the days for those of you who aren’t keen on driving ?

[P.S. Still not convinced to visit Brisbane? We've got 8 amazing reasons why you should!]

Day 1: Brisbane

Sightseeing around downtown Brisbane (2h)

  • Start your trip with a cultural immersion of Brisbane. First stop: the iconic Brisbane City Hall!
  • Public transport options: Check out Brisbane’s free bus city loop services here.

Credit: @brisbanecityhall on Instagram

  • This 80-year building is no ordinary City Hall as it’s home to the Museum of Brisbane where you can find exhibits on the city’s culture and history. We recommend signing up for a free tour as you’d be able to find out more interesting stories from a local’s perspective ?

Credit: @chenfp.29on Instagram

  • Don’t miss the Clock Tower Tour which will bring you all the way up the building. What’s interesting about this tour is that you’ll get to operate an antique lift and learn more about what makes a clock work. When you reach the top of the tower, you’ll be rewarded with a view of Brisbane’s skyscrapers.
  • #HHWT Tip: Only 8 people can go for the tour at a time and it runs every 15 minutes, so do come early to get your tickets! It’s free!

Shopping starts at Queen St Mall (2-3h)

  • After an informative time at the City Hall, it’s time to explore Queen St Mall, Brisbane’s main shopping and commercial district.
  • Spend your day mall-hopping from the iconic Brisbane Arcade to Tattersall’s Arcade (beautiful heritage architecture!) and then wander into Adelaide Street for small boutique shops. Find out more about the shopping spots here.

Credit: @queenstreetmall on Instagram

  • Even if you’re not shopping, you can also hang out at one of the many cafes here, enjoy a live street busker's performance or simply just enjoy the great Queensland weather!

Credit: @mixerki0414on Instagram

  • Feeling hungry after all that walking? Then pop by one of the many halal eateries around Queen St Mall. Rock N Roll Kebab Pizza at George St serves affordable meat skewers, Angus beef burgers, BBQ Chicken Pizzas and more! (Price: from AUD8.90)
  • One dish that you can’t miss is their Halal Snack Pack. Originating from Australia, this wonderful dish is a delectable combination of doner kebab, fries and topped with different kinds of sauces ?
  • Halal status: Muslim-owned
  • #HHWT Tip: Rock N Roll is open 24/7 and you can request to do your prayers at their prayer room too!

Ride the free CityHopper ferry service (10-15 min)

  • After that yummy meal, take a short walk to the North Quay ferry terminal and hop aboard the CityHopper, a free inner city ferry service on the Brisbane River.

Credit: @chinekungon Instagram

  • This iconic red-and-white ferry is one of the best ways to discover the city’s scenic river scene while taking in some spectacular views of Brisbane’s skyscrapers too!
  • The total duration of the ferry ride is 45 minutes but in this guide, we’ll only be taking the ferry to cross the river to the other side of town.

Hang out at South Bank Parklands (3-4h)

  • After the ferry ride, alight at South Bank 3 ferry terminal and you’ll be greeted with Brisbane’s very own green backyard, South Bank Parklands.
  • Although it’s located very near the city centre, the vibe at South Bank is vastly different and it’s a perfect respite from the city.

Credit: @andrewbali on Instagram

  • Here’s where you can also find Streets Beach, the world’s ONLY city beach! With a beautiful lagoon, fine white sand and crystal clear waters, can you believe that this is a manmade beach?
  • Don’t forget to bring your swimming gear so you can have some fun at the beach and bask in the afternoon sun ?

[P.S. Think Streets Beach is awesome? Then, check out these 12 surreal places in Australia!]

Credit: @visitsouthbank on Instagram

  • Besides Streets Beach, South Bank is also home to other iconic sights like the colourful Brisbane sign. Set against the backdrop of the Brisbane skyline, snapping a photo here is a must!
  • If you’d like, you can also get onboard The Wheel of Brisbane, a Ferris wheel rising 60 metres above South Bank, giving you a spectacular panoramic view of the city. Ticket prices: $21 (Adults), $18 (Student), $14.50 (Child).

Credit: @collectivemarkets on Instagram

  • #HHWT Tip: If you’re here on Friday evening or the weekend, be sure to catch the South Bank collective markets happening at the Stanley St area.
  • You can find lots of items here from clothes to handmade trinkets, snacks and more! Definitely a great place to snag some awesome souvenirs back home.

Treat yourself to juicy steak (2h)

  • Cap off your first day in Brisbane with a hearty meal at Black Hide Steakhouse. Specialising in Wagyu (marble score: 5+) and Angus (marble score: 3+) beef, you’ll definitely satiate your meat cravings here ?

Credit: @blackhidesteakhousebne on Instagram

  • Take your pick from fillet to ribeye, sirloin and even Tomahawk for the Angus beef!
  • Besides their juicy meats, Black Hide also serves other scrumptious dishes like duck breast, beef short ribs, roast prawns and grilled scallops.
  • Price: AUD50 and above
  • Disclaimer: Do note that while the meat served at Black Hide is halal-certified, the eatery sells alcohol, so do dine at your own discretion!
  • Public transport options: From South Bank, take bus 61.

Spend the night in Brisbane

  • After a fulfilling first day, it’s time to retreat and spend the night in Brisbane.
  • If it’s your first time to Brisbane, we recommend picking accommodation in the CBD or the South Bank area!

Day 2: Brisbane

Meet koalas at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (3h)

  • Is a visit to Australia complete without paying a visit to koalas and kangaroos? Our answer is no!
  • Head over to the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary located just about a 30-minutes’ drive away from downtown Brisbane.

Credit: @indahnadapuspita on Instagram

  • There are over 130 koalas here and one of the things you must do here is to cuddle these furry beings ?
  • You can also get up close and personal with other animals at the park like kangaroos, emus and lorikeets.
  • Ticket prices: $38 (Adult), $22 (Child)
  • #HHWT Tip: If you’re not driving to the sanctuary, you can get here via buses 430 and 445 or take the Mirimar river cruise from South Bank.

Explore the hip district of Fortitude Valley (2-3h)

  • After a morning well-spent with koalas, make your way to the hippest part of town, Fortitude Valley!

Credit: @silverly0 on Instagram

  • Home to heritage-listed buildings, the gentrified district is a cool blend of old and new.
  • Here’s where you can find quirky laneways with street art and cool cafes. Not to mention shops with unique fashion and retro boutiques too!

Credit: @rynasequeira on Instagram

  • #HHWT Tip: Make sure you take a selfie with the iconic waiting man at Winn lane.
  • Pop by James St and discover over 130 specialty stores – these range from flagship stores to local boutiques and those by top designers.

Credit: @mecca.bah on Instagram

  • #HHWT Tip: While you’re at Fortitude Valley, why not stop by for lunch and refuel? Head over to Mecca Bah for some halal Middle Eastern grub.
  • Take your pick from Moroccan tagines to lamb shanks and chicken kebabs! (Price: AUD20-30)
  • Halal status: Muslim-owned
  • Public transport options: There are many buses that run on Adelaide St from the CBD to Fortitude Valley.

Go on the Story Bridge Adventure Climb (2h)

  • This is something you need to tick off your Brisbane checklist! The iconic Story Bridge is 1 out of only 3 bridges in the world which you’re allowed to climb.
  • Not only will you get an exhilarating experience of climbing a bridge, but you’ll also get to admire the stunning views of Brisbane ?

Credit: @mclean83 on Instagram

  • You can choose when you want to climb the bridge, be it during sunrise or sunset, in the day or even at night (from AUD129).
  • Story Bridge is also the only bridge in the world where you can do both climbing AND abseiling so, you definitely won’t want to miss this!
  • Public transport options: From Fortitude Valley, take either bus 227 or 232 to get to the Story Bridge Adventure Climb.

Chill out at Kangaroo Point Cliff (2h)

  • Spend a relaxing evening at Kangaroo Point Cliff, an area which overlooks the Brisbane skyline and Brisbane River.
  • There are green spaces and benches here too so you can bring some snacks and have a mini picnic.

Credit: @stephandlukasandr on Instagram

  • With such a gorgeous sweeping view of Brisbane, you’ll have no problems snapping the perfect photo for the ‘gram!
  • If the Story Bridge climb wasn’t enough adventure for you, you can try abseiling down the Kangaroo Point Cliff too. (Price: AUD45)
  • Directions: It’s about a 15-minute walk from Story Bridge to Kangaroo Point Cliffs.

ALTERNATIVE: Have a feast at Eat Street Northshore (2h)

  • If you’re in Brisbane on Friday and the weekend, then you can choose to head over to Eat Street Northshore instead ?

Credit: @jenuzt_ on Instagram

  • This space has containers and food trucks where you can indulge in a smorgasbord of food from all around the world.
  • Good news, there are halal, seafood and vegetarian options too! Here are some halal options: Slinky’s potato twist snack (MainDeck, container 24), Miss Claude’s Crepes (MainDeck, container 27), Pizza 4007 (Diner, container 95), Pizza & Pasta (TrawlerDeck, container 58). Check out the full list here.
  • Public transport options: Take the Northshore Hamilton TransLink ferry service from Riverside and alight at Northshore Hamilton.

Spend the night in Brisbane

FLY TO BRISBANE WITH MALAYSIA AIRLINES!

Malaysia Airlines flies 4 times weekly from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane. Check out promotional airfares to Brisbane on Malaysia Airlines here!

Day 3: Gold Coast

Drive down to Gold Coast via highway M1 (45min-1h)

  • Start your morning bright and early by driving down to Australia’s “playground”, Gold Coast! This coastal town is filled with exciting theme parks, stunning beaches and awesome attractions ☺️
  • Public transport options: Take the Airport line train from Brisbane Central to Helensvale and then bus TX7 to get to your first destination, Movie World!

Spend an exciting day at Movie World (6-7h)

  • Conveniently located on the way from Brisbane to Gold Coast, you definitely need to make a stop at Movie World, one of Australia’s top theme parks!
  • Ticket prices: from AUD95

Credit: @vanillaa98 on Instagram

  • #HHWT Tip: The park opens at 10am but make sure you arrive early (at least 30 minutes before!) so you can rush straight to the popular rides when the gates open. And don’t forget to purchase your tickets online too!

Credit: @chriswickes on Instagram

  • Adrenaline junkies, make sure you head straight to the park’s newest coaster, the DC Rivals Hypercoaster. Did you know that this is the tallest, longest and fastest roller coaster in the Southern hemisphere, reaching speeds of 115 km/h??
  • Those travelling with young kids can head over to the Kids’ WB Fun Zone or hop aboard the Justice League 3D ride and Road Runner roller coaster.

Credit: @movieworldaus on Instagram

  • Don’t miss the opportunity to catch up with your favourite Warner Bros. Studio characters and superheroes too like Batman, Superman, Looney Tunes and more.
  • P.S. Get up close with them at the Streets Star Parade, which happens every day at 3.30pm!
  • Halal dining options: Movie World has a halal-certified restaurant called Legends but it’s only open on certain days when there are group bookings of more than 40 people. The park management has also confirmed that all chicken meat used throughout the park is halal but do check with individual eateries and dine at your own discretion. The park also allows you to bring your own food for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Prayer facilities: While the park doesn’t have a prayer room, you can visit Guest Services and they might be able to accommodate to your prayer needs.

Admire Gold Coast from its highest point (2h)

  • After screaming your lungs out at Movie World, head up the 230m SkyPoint Observation Deck, Australia’s only beachside observation deck!

Credit: @ta.ana5599 on Instagram

  • Experience a 360-degree view of the ocean and the city – it’s definitely the best of both worlds. Not to mention a stunning view of the famous Surfers Paradise beach ?
  • Ticket prices: AUD25 (Adult), AUD15 (Child)

Credit: @skypoint_au on Instagram

  • For the adventurous souls, take sightseeing a notch higher and try SkyPoint climb for a thrill. (from AUD75)
  • Public transport options: From Movie World, take bus TX7 to Helensvale. Then, take the G link train and alight at Surfers Paradise.

Unwind at Surfers Paradise (2h)

  • Time to soak in the sun and sea at the world-renowned Surfers Paradise beach.

Credit: @janna_yerman on Instagram

  • With over 57km of unbroken coastline, beach-hopping in Gold Coast is highly recommended as you get different vibes and views from each of the different beaches. For this day, we recommend that you make Surfers Paradise a pit stop.
  • P.S. If you have been here, then it’s time to head to Southern Gold Coast instead – Burleigh Heads or Currumbin for a new perspective of the beautiful Gold Coast (it’s also slotted in for last day so do read on!)

Credit: @3d_lights_aus on Instagram

  • If you’re here on Wednesday, Friday or Sunday evenings, the area comes alive with the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets.
  • When night falls, head over to the nearby Cavill Mall, a vibrant pedestrian walk where you’ll find shops, cafes and street performers ?

Indulge in a scrumptious Persian meal (1-2h)

  • No need to worry about finding halal food in Gold Coast! Surfers Paradise Blvd is a haven for halal food – from Middle Eastern to Indian and even Indonesian food.
  • One of the must-try halal restaurants is Shiraz, which specialises in Persian cuisine.

Credit: @shirazgoldcoast on Instagram

  • From tender and juicy lamb shanks to lovely kebab platters, you’re in for a fulfilling meal at Shiraz. Not a fan of meat? They have vegetarian and seafood options too!
  • After you’ve filled your tummy, complete your meal with decadent baklava (rich, sweet dessert pastry) and refreshing Persian tea.
  • Halal status: Muslim-owned
  • Price: Around AUD20-40

Spend the night in Gold Coast

  • After 2 nights in Brisbane, you’ll be spending 3 nights in Gold Coast!
  • There are 2 main areas to stay at in Gold Coast – Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. If you want a lively atmosphere and convenience, stay in Surfers Paradise. But if you’re looking for somewhere more upscale, pick Broadbeach instead.

Day 4: Gold Coast

Experience a cruise around Gold Coast (1h)

  • You’ve seen Gold Coast from above, now it’s time to head out into the waters around Gold Coast!
  • Sign up for a tour with Aquaduck Safari and you’ll be treated to both a city tour AND river cruise.

Credit: @fashion.tour.bar on Instagram

  • The “amphibious” vehicle can operate both on land and water, and it’ll be fascinating to see it moving from land to sea.
  • The 1-hour guided tour will tell you more about the history and landmarks of Surfers Paradise and pass by one of the world’s famous surf breaks. Then it makes its way into the water where you’ll get awesome views of Gold Coast’s canals before cruising by glitzy waterfront mansions of the rich and famous!

Credit: @kittygardiner23 on Instagram

  • For those of you with kids, your child can try driving the Aquaduck and get a certificate from the Captain. Pretty cool, right?
  • Ticket price: AUD40 (Adult), AUD30 (Child)

ALTERNATIVE: Try jetboating (1h)

  • For those of your travelling with older kids or friends and you’re looking for some thrill, we recommend doing jetboating instead!

Credit: @paradisejetboating on Instagram

  • The jet boat will manoeuvre on the waters of Gold Coast and you’ll be able to experience full 360-degree spins and high-speed drifting. With so many twists and turns, you might just feel like you’re on a roller coaster on water!
  • Ticket price: from AUD60

Feast on fresh seafood (2h)

  • What’s a trip to Gold Coast without indulging in some fresh seafood right?
  • Located about a 15-minute drive from Surfers Paradise, Charis Seafoods is known for its wide variety of quality seafood in Gold Coast. It’s also the biggest seafood retailer in Queensland!

Credit: Theresa Su’a on Facebook

  • What’s great about Charis is that you can choose from a range of whole fish, prawns, oysters, mussels, crabs, lobsters (and more!) and the staff will suggest the different ways to prepare your chosen seafood.
  • Whether you want it grilled or fried, you can customise your own meal!
  • Do note that all meals are takeaway but the best part about this is that you can have your meal by the beach. Price: varies according to how much you choose but a fillet of fish costs around AUD7
  • Halal status: Seafood options available

Credit: @carmen_jh on Instagram

  • One highlight that you shouldn’t miss at Charis Seafood is its pelican feeding time. Every day at 1.30pm, one of the staff from Charis will feed leftover fish to hundreds of pelicans.
  • Visitors are advised to arrive before 1.30pm as the pelicans would assemble even before feeding time, so it’s a really eye-opening experience!
  • Public transport options: From Surfers Paradise, take the G link train from Cavill Ave and alight at Southport South station. From there, take bus 704 to Charis Seafoods.

Shop till you drop at Pacific Fair (3-4h)

  • After a wonderful time out on the coast and indulging in fresh seafood, it’s time for retail therapy!
  • There’s no better place for shopping in Gold Coast than at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre. Home to over 400 stores ranging from global brands, Australian retailers and luxury items, Pacific Fair is Queensland’s premier shopping destination ?

Credit: @ywhy0609 on Instagram

  • Whether you’re looking for international brands like H&M, UNIQLO or Sephora, or shopping for luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, there’s something for everyone here!
  • #HHWT Tip: There’s a prayer room located at the Visitor Lounge so you can do your prayers at ease.
  • Public transport options: From Charis Seafoods, take bus 704 to Southport South, and then the G link train to Broadbeach South.

Spend the night in Gold Coast

FLY TO BRISBANE WITH MALAYSIA AIRLINES!

Malaysia Airlines flies 4 times weekly from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane. Check out promotional airfares to Brisbane on Malaysia Airlines here!

Day 5: Gold Coast

Drive to Tamborine Mountain (50 min)

  • After a day by the coast, it’s time to head to the highlands of Gold Coast and get in touch with nature.
  • This mountainous area has lots of great activities and it’s only a 50-minute drive from Gold Coast!
  • Note: Unfortunately, there are no public transport options from Gold Coast to Tamborine Mountain but you can sign up for a day tour with Klook or Southern Cross 4WD tour.

Embrace nature at Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk (1h)

  • For those in need of a nature respite, why not take a leisurely walk through Tamborine Mountain’s beautiful canopies?

Credit: @tamborinerainforestskywalk on Instagram

  • This 45-minute walk is perfect to take with your travel buddies and you’ll be able to see a variety of trees, plants and wildlife.
  • Do note that there’s an admission fee of AUD19.50.
  • #HHWT Tip: If you’re looking for a more thrilling activity, then head over to the Treetop Challenge instead! You’ll be able to zip line through the canopies and try out high obstacle courses.

Shop for souvenirs at Gallery Walk (2-3h)

  • If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and gifts to bring back home, then you’ll love Gallery Walk!

Credit: @alina_xiao on Instagram

  • With over 60 art and craft shops, knick-knacks, antiques and artworks, you’ll definitely be spoilt for choice ?

[P.S. Have you got all the souvenirs you need? We've rounded up all the unique Australian souvenirs that you can bring home!]

Credit: @kathrynf83 on Instagram

  • If you’re feeling hungry, stop by Masala Shanti for their seafood and vegetarian options like Spiced Grilled Barramundi or Dhal Makhani (lentils with butter and spice).
  • Price: AUD20-30
  • Disclaimer: Do note that Masala Shanti does not serve halal meat but they don’t use pork/lard or alcohol in their cooking. Do dine at your own discretion!

Curtis Falls (1h)

  • After a satisfying lunch, enjoy a cool and refreshing walk to Curtis Falls. There’s a boardwalk that’ll lead you to a great view of the falls and a large rock pool ?

Credit: @ali.agan on Instagram

  • If you’re not an avid hiker, don’t worry! The walk is easy and should take you no more than 60 minutes.
  • #HHWT Tip: Although the falls run all year round, it is most spectacular after heavy rainfall!

Feast your eyes at Glow Worm Caves (1h)

  • An experience not to be missed at Tamborine Mountain is the Glow Worm Caves!
  • Thanks to a conservation effort, the caves here are designed to accommodate thousands of glow worms any time of the year.

Credit: @thenerdyexpat on Instagram

  • Although tours to the cave run for only about 30 minutes, witnessing the thousands of worms glowing is a magical sight.
  • Admission fee: $14 (Adult), $6 (Child)
  • Note: To ensure that no light enters the cave, do note that you can’t bring your phone cameras inside the cave!

Admire breathtaking views at Rotary Lookout (1-2h)

  • Before you leave Tamborine Mountain, make sure you stop by Rotary Lookout for a scenic view of the Gold Coast hinterland.
  • This is one of Tamborine’s most popular lookouts and it’s even well-equipped with benches and binoculars.

Credit: @ming.isabellaa on Instagram

  • Spend some time here to simply take in all the picturesque scenery or you can also have a picnic here!
  • This area is also a great spot for hang gliding, and you can try the sport here too. It costs close to AUD300.

Dinner at Cocohut (1-2h)

  • After a relaxing day at Tamborine Mountain, it’s time to return to Gold Coast for dinner.
  • It’s day 5 and you’re probably missing a familiar taste of home, so head over to Cocohut to savour some yummy Thai dishes!

Credit: Cocohut Taste of Thailand on Facebook

  • Their wide variety of curries, soups and stir-fried dishes like pad thai will surely delight your taste buds ?
  • For those of you craving something a spicy and sour, get their specialty Coco Tom Yum Noodle where you can customise your choice of meat, noodles and spice level!
  • Halal status: Halal-certified
  • Price: AUD10-20

Spend the night in Gold Coast

Day 6: Gold Coast / Brisbane

Drive down Southern Gold Coast (3-4h)

  • It’s already your last day of the trip ? But before you take that flight home in the evening, you still have a full day ahead of you!
  • Pack your bags, check out from your hotel and start your day with a nice, leisurely drive down the Gold Coast to Point Danger.

Credit: @__ameliajellison__ on Instagram

  • This picturesque lookout point is located at the border between Queensland and New South Wales. Remember to take a picture here because it’s such a rare moment to be standing at the border of 2 Australian states!
  • Public transport options: From Surfers Paradise, take the G link train to Broadbeach South and then bus 700 to Point Danger.
  • After spending some time at Point Danger, drive back up the coast but this time, make a stop at Burleigh Head National Park instead.

Credit: @shellinda_ on Instagram

  • Known for having one of the best views of the Gold Coast, a hike at Burleigh Head will take you through a rainforest, abundant wildlife and stunning cliff views of the ocean.
  • There are a few lookout points at Burleigh where you can catch a wide view of the skyscrapers at Surfers Paradise.
  • During winter and spring, you can spot humpback whales from Tumgun Lookout too!
  • Public transport options: From Point Danger, take bus 700 to Burleigh Heads National Park.

Enjoy scrumptious fish and chips (1-2h)

  • After the morning drive and hike, it’s time to refuel! What better way to end your time at the coast than to feast on delicious fish and chips?
  • Head over to Oceans Fish & Chips Bar which prepares their seafood by combining both Australian and Japanese tastes.

Credit: @tomohisafuse on Instagram

  • You can opt for different kinds of fish from Dory to Hoki, Barramundi or Snapper (from $10.95) and then choose how you want them to be prepared – panko crumbed, tempura battered or grilled.
  • Not a fan of fish? Then have some crumbed prawns or calamari instead!
  • Disclaimer: Oceans is not halal-certified but they don’t serve pork, so we only recommend getting the seafood options. However, do note that the eatery serves alcohol and some of their sauces might include alcohol too. So, do check with the staff and dine at your own discretion.

Get your coffee fix (1h)

  • Spend your last few moments in Gold Coast by sipping a hot (or cold!) cuppa at one of the many cafes overlooking the ocean. Swing by Nook Espresso for their smooth and tasty brews.

Credit: @robyacoub on Instagram

  • With such great coffee and atmosphere, Nook is a local favourite!
  • Do note that Nook is just a simple coffee stand but there’s plenty of space around to chill out and unwind with a great view of the ocean ?
  • Price: around AUD4

Drive back to Brisbane (1h 30min)

  • Your time in Gold Coast has come to an end ? After you’ve filled your tummy and had a quick pick-me-up, take a drive on the Pacific Motorway back to Brisbane.
  • Public transport options: From Burleigh Heads, take bus 765 to Varsity Lakes station. From there, take the Gold Coast line back to Brisbane Central station.

Watch the sunset at Mt Coot-tha (2h)

  • End your trip by winding down with a sunset at Mt Coot-tha. It’s only about a 20-minute drive from Brisbane city centre!
  • Being the closest elevation point to Brisbane’s CBD, Mt Coot-tha makes for an ideal place to catch a bird’s eye view of the city skyline.

Credit: @imlee_ on Instagram

  • Public transport options: Take bus 471 from Adelaide St in the CBD
  • #HHWT Tip: If you didn’t manage to squeeze in Eat Street Northshore earlier during your trip, you can use this time to head over there, bask in its lively atmosphere and treat yourself to some Muslim-friendly treats.
  • Plus, it’s really near to Brisbane Airport too so it’ll be a convenient stopover before your flight!

6 days is probably not enough to cover all that Brisbane and Gold Coast has to offer, but we hope our itinerary has swayed you to plan that awesome vacay to Queensland. Plus, with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane on Malaysia Airlines, it’s not a hassle to plan your trip at all. With so many charming sights in Brisbane and Gold Coast, you’re bound to have an epic time with your travel buddies ?

[P.S. Still not convinced to visit Brisbane? We've got 8 amazing reasons why you should!]

FLY TO BRISBANE WITH MALAYSIA AIRLINES!

Did you know that Malaysia Airlines flies 4 times weekly from Kuala Lumpur to Brisbane? Check out promotional airfares to Brisbane on Malaysia Airlines here!

This article is brought to you by Malaysia Airlines.