The Goldie will host its first international cricket match this year when Australia takes on South Africa at Metricon Stadium. Better still, the event will be a hive of festivity, with entertainment such as music and fireworks. Families are made welcome with designated dry zones and family zones within the stadium, and you can pack your own picnic to enjoy as you watch the game (just leave the booze and glassware at home).
The stadium is less than 10 kilometres from the Gold Coast’s pinup beach, Surfers Paradise, which is constantly abuzz with music, dancing and dining and has plenty of accommodation options. Some of the best surf is found further south, so consider tripping down the coast to Burleigh Heads, Snapper Rocks, Kirra or Coolangatta if you want to factor in some wave time. The entire Gold Coast is a strip of suburbs each with its own character, so consider stretching gameday out to a week or more to capitalise on the GC’s endless summery fun.