12 Scenic Destinations on the Gold Coast (Queensland) You Need to See

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The Gold Coast totally surprised me. Yeah, I knew about the endless beaches, but nobody mentioned I’d be casually watching whales breach from Burleigh Heads while surfers caught waves below or spotting wild koalas on my morning walks. The beautiful places in the Gold Coast aren’t just pretty; they’re the kind that make you spam your friends’ phones with “look at this!!” messages all day long.

Want to discover a slice of Australia where ancient rainforest meets perfect surf breaks and where every sunset turns the whole coastline into a pink and gold light show? Here are 12 spots that proved to me the Gold Coast is way more than just surf culture and theme parks.

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in the Gold Coast

Looking to explore the Gold Coast’s most beautiful places? From the stunning beaches of Surfers Paradise to the lush landscapes of the Hinterland, the Gold Coast is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the vibrant streets of Broadbeach, marvel at the natural beauty of Springbrook National Park, or explore the lively atmosphere of Burleigh Heads. Discover the tranquil allure of Currumbin Beach, the breathtaking views from SkyPoint Observation Deck, or the serene trails of Lamington National Park. Whether you’re into beaches, rainforests, or vibrant city life, here are 12 of the Gold Coast’s most breathtaking spots!

1. Burleigh Heads Beach

• 📍 Location: Gold Coast, Queensland, approximately 15 minutes south of Surfers Paradise
• 🏆 Best For: Surfers 🏄‍♀️, swimmers 🏊‍♂️, nature lovers 🌿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Surfing the famous break, walking the oceanfront trail, enjoying the monthly markets
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round (summer from December-February for swimming, winter from June-August for whale watching) 🐋
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Burleigh Mediterranean Resort – Stylish apartments just steps from the beach

Escape the chaos of adulting at Burleigh Heads Beach, where pristine golden sand meets your work-free weekend dreams. This iconic spot balances natural beauty with vibrant coastal energy that’s perfect for thirty-somethings seeking both relaxation and adventure. The consistent surf break attracts wave enthusiasts while the oceanfront walkway offers breathtaking views alongside Burleigh Head National Park.

I’ve spent countless Sunday mornings exploring the Village Markets where local artisans showcase unique crafts and delicious food. For the ultimate experience, grab takeaway from Rick Shores restaurant and head to Burleigh Hill for sunset picnics with spectacular ocean panoramas. The beachfront cafés serve some of Queensland’s best coffee, perfect for that mandatory caffeine fix before tackling the day’s adventures.

2. Coolangatta Beach

• 📍 Location: Southern Gold Coast, right on the Queensland-New South Wales border
• 🏆 Best For: Families 👪, beginner surfers 🏄‍♂️, border-hoppers ⏱️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the protected bay, standing in two states at once at Point Danger, watching surfers at Snapper Rocks
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-May for swimming and beach activities, June-August for whale migration views 🐳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mantra Coolangatta Beach – Oceanfront apartments with stunning beach views

Craving that perfect Instagram backdrop without the crowds? Coolangatta Beach has social media gold with its crystal-clear waters and stunning headland views. This sheltered stretch offers the ideal escape for thirty-somethings seeking both relaxation and bragging rights. The calm waters of Rainbow Bay and Greenmount Beach provide safe swimming while nearby Point Danger lets you literally stand between two states.

When I visit, I always catch sunrise from Snapper Rocks where world-class surfers tackle the famous Superbank break. The beachfront buzzes with trendy cafés serving artisanal coffee and healthy breakfasts perfect for post-workout refueling. Coolangatta’s charm extends beyond the beach with its relaxed vibe, boutique shopping, and monthly markets. The sunset view of Gold Coast’s skyline creates the perfect backdrop for evening beach walks.

3. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

• 📍 Location: Southern Gold Coast, midway between Coolangatta and Burleigh Heads
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts 🦘, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, bird watchers 🦜
• 📸 Top Experiences: Feeding wild lorikeets, cuddling koalas, watching the free-flight bird show
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with morning lorikeet feedings at 8am and 4pm daily 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sanctuary Lake Apartments – Comfortable accommodations just minutes from the sanctuary

Channel your inner Steve Irwin at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where getting a colorful lorikeet selfie feels like winning the Australian wildlife lottery. This heritage-listed sanctuary spans 27 hectares of coastal rainforest and offers a refreshing break from adulting. The sanctuary houses hundreds of native animals including koalas, kangaroos, and Tasmanian devils.

My favorite experience here is the twice-daily rainbow lorikeet feeding where these cheeky birds perch on your arms and shoulders. The Free Flight Bird Show showcases magnificent birds of prey while the Aboriginal Cultural Performance connects visitors with the world’s oldest living culture. Conservation-minded thirty-somethings will appreciate the on-site Wildlife Hospital which treats thousands of injured native animals yearly. For an adrenaline boost, tackle the TreeTop Challenge with over 80 ziplines soaring through the lush canopy.

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4. Federation Walk Coastal Reserve

• 📍 Location: Northern Gold Coast, at the Spit, just north of Main Beach
• 🏆 Best For: Nature walkers 🚶‍♀️, birdwatchers 🦅, beach enthusiasts 🏖️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the 3.5km coastal trail, spotting native plants and birds, enjoying secluded beaches
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat, especially during summer months (December-February) 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sea World Resort – Family-friendly stay with beachfront access and close proximity to the reserve and Main Beach attractions

Need to escape your email notifications? Federation Walk Coastal Reserve offers digital detox nirvana just minutes from the Gold Coast’s urban energy. This 93-hectare coastal sanctuary protects one of the last undeveloped dune systems in the region. The namesake 3.5km trail winds through native vegetation with ocean glimpses perfect for clearing a busy mind.

The diverse ecosystem supports over 100 bird species along with echidnas and wallabies. You might feel like you’ve discovered a secret as you access less-crowded beaches perfect for swimming or fishing without the usual Gold Coast crowds. The northern section connects to South Stradbroke Island at low tide for extended exploration options. The contrast between wilderness and the visible Gold Coast skyline creates a perfect balance for thirty-somethings seeking nature without completely abandoning civilization.

5. Kirra Beach

• 📍 Location: Southern Gold Coast, just north of Coolangatta
• 🏆 Best For: Surfers 🏄‍♂️, photographers 📸, nostalgic beach lovers 🏖️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Surfing the legendary Kirra Point break, walking the oceanfront pathway, enjoying the retro beach town vibe
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with the best surfing conditions typically from January to May 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kirra Beach Apartments – Centrally located accommodations with ocean views

Discover your next LinkedIn background at Kirra Beach, where legendary surf culture meets photogenic coastline that’s too good not to share. This iconic stretch of sand represents the soul of Australian beach life with laid-back vibes perfect for thirty-somethings seeking authenticity. The famous Kirra Point consistently ranks among the world’s best right-hand breaks, producing barrel rides that haunt surfers’ dreams.

Beyond excellent waves, Kirra exudes nostalgic charm with its retro beach pavilion and historic Kirra Surf Club. I love grabbing morning coffee from one of the local cafés before walking the oceanfront pathway with its spectacular coastal views. The golden sand and generally safe swimming conditions in patrolled areas make this perfect for both adventure and relaxation. For the ultimate experience, enjoy fresh seafood at Kirra Beach Hotel while watching surfers catch the day’s final waves.

6. Lamington National Park

• 📍 Location: Gold Coast Hinterland, approximately 1.5 hours drive from Surfers Paradise
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, birdwatchers 🦜, nature photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking among ancient Antarctic beech trees, spotting colorful birds, traversing the Tree Top Walk
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-October for comfortable hiking temperatures and clearer views, especially during spring (September-November) 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat – Historic accommodation within the national park

Trade your office plants for 20,000 hectares of ancient wilderness at Lamington National Park, where work stress dissolves under a canopy of trees that predate your career anxieties. This UNESCO World Heritage site protects some of the world’s oldest subtropical rainforest across the McPherson Range. Over 160 kilometers of walking tracks lead through spectacular landscapes of towering trees and hidden waterfalls.

The park divides into two sections: Green Mountains (O’Reilly’s) and Binna Burra, each offering unique experiences. At O’Reilly’s, the famous Tree Top Walk suspends visitors 15 meters above ground for unmatched canopy views. Wildlife enthusiasts will spot rare birds like the Albert’s lyrebird and vibrant regent bowerbird. Walking among 2,000-year-old Antarctic beech trees helps put deadline stress into perspective. I recommend staying overnight to experience the magical transformation of the rainforest from day to night.

7. Point Danger Lookout

• 📍 Location: On the Queensland-New South Wales border, at the southern end of the Gold Coast
• 🏆 Best For: Coastal views 🌊, whale watching 🐋, history enthusiasts 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Captain Cook Memorial, spotting whales during migration season, walking the coastal path
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to November for whale watching, year-round for spectacular coastal views 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mantra Twin Towns – Stylish seaside hotel just a short stroll from the lookout, offering ocean views and easy access to beaches and dining spots

Need an Instagram-worthy backdrop that will make your friends question their travel choices? Point Danger Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views along Australia’s east coast. This historic site marks the border between Queensland and New South Wales, named after Captain Cook’s 1770 journal entry. 

I’ve spent hours here watching humpbacks breach offshore during migration season without paying for expensive boat tours. The Centaur Memorial honors a WWII hospital ship, adding historical depth to your visit. Follow the coastal walk to connect with Snapper Rocks and Rainbow Bay, where world-class surf breaks attract professionals year-round. The early morning light creates perfect photography conditions, especially with the Gold Coast skyline shimmering in the distance.

8. Springbrook National Park

• 📍 Location: Gold Coast Hinterland, 45 minutes drive from Surfers Paradise
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, waterfall chasers 💦, birdwatchers 🦜
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing Natural Bridge and its glow worms, hiking to Twin Falls, exploring ancient rainforest
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: After rainfall for spectacular waterfalls, nights for glow worms, spring for wildflowers 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Mouses House Rainforest Retreat – Charming chalets nestled in World Heritage-listed rainforest

Escape the digital world and reconnect with nature in this ancient wonderland just minutes from your beachside cocktails. Springbrook National Park forms part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Area, featuring pristine rainforest older than most civilizations. The landscape emerged from a massive volcano that erupted 23 million years ago. 

The park’s crown jewel is Natural Bridge, where water cascades through a hole in the cave ceiling. Visit after dark when thousands of glow worms illuminate the cave like a living constellation. My favorite moderate hike is the Twin Falls Circuit, showcasing multiple cascades throughout its 4km loop. The aptly named Best of All Lookout offers panoramic views stretching to the coast. Each section of the park presents distinct ecosystems worth exploring over multiple visits.

9. Surfers Paradise Beach

• 📍 Location: Central Gold Coast, the heart of the tourist district
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, nightlife enthusiasts 🍹, shoppers 🛍️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in patrolled areas, visiting the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets, enjoying the skyline views
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to May for warmest swimming conditions, year-round for beach activities 🌡️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Q1 Resort & Spa – Iconic skyscraper with stunning ocean views and luxury amenities

Forget about being a responsible adult for a weekend at Surfers Paradise Beach, where golden sand meets urban energy in perfect harmony. This world-famous 3km stretch balances natural beauty with big-city excitement as pristine beach sits beside gleaming skyscrapers. Lifeguards patrol year-round, making swimming safe between the flags. The consistent waves provide ideal conditions for surfing beginners. 

When sun-soaked relaxation turns to hunger, bustling Cavill Avenue waits just steps away with world-class dining options. I always recommend timing your visit with the Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday night Beachfront Markets. For unforgettable views, head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck in Australia’s tallest residential tower for a 360-degree perspective that justifies every camera click.

10. Tallebudgera Creek

• 📍 Location: Southern Gold Coast, between Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach
• 🏆 Best For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, paddleboarders 🏄‍♀️, picnickers 🧺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the calm turquoise waters, paddleboarding through the estuary, picnicking at Palm Beach Parklands
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for warmer water temperatures, weekdays to avoid crowds 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mariner Shores Resort & Beach Club – Family-friendly resort with spacious apartments, indoor and outdoor pools, and direct beach access

Looking for that perfect social media blue water without the crowds or danger of remote locations? Tallebudgera Creek offers crystal-clear turquoise waters flowing between Burleigh Heads National Park and Palm Beach. This pristine estuary presents a tranquil alternative to surf beaches with calm, shallow waters perfect for families. The creek divides into several swimming spots, with the southern side typically offering calmer conditions. Water enthusiasts can rent stand-up paddleboards to explore upstream where the waterway winds through mangroves teeming with birdlife. 

The Palm Beach Parklands features excellent facilities including the Pirate Park playground and barbecue areas. I’ve spent entire afternoons here alternating between refreshing swims and relaxing under shady trees. For nature lovers, follow the Oceanview Track to spot sea eagles and migrating whales.

11. Tamborine Mountain

• 📍 Location: Gold Coast Hinterland, 45 minutes drive from Surfers Paradise
• 🏆 Best For: Wine enthusiasts 🍷, romantic getaways ❤️, rainforest walkers 🌴
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling through Gallery Walk, visiting wineries and distilleries, exploring the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Autumn for perfect temperatures and fewer crowds, winter for cozy fireplace experiences 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Witches Falls Cottages – Private cottages with fireplaces and spa baths

When adulting gets too intense, this emerald escape offers sophisticated relaxation just 45 minutes from the beach. Tamborine Mountain rises from the Gold Coast Hinterland, boasting charming villages surrounded by rainforest, avocado groves, and boutique vineyards. The commercial heart is Gallery Walk, a colorful strip packed with art galleries, fudge shops, and cafes selling handcrafted treasures. Nature lovers can explore numerous short rainforest walks leading to spectacular waterfalls like Curtis Falls and Cedar Creek Falls. 

Wine enthusiasts appreciate the mountain’s cool-climate vineyards with award-winning varieties. The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk lets you stroll among ancient treetops for unmatched perspectives. I found the mountain’s elevation provides natural air conditioning, making it a popular summer retreat and cozy winter destination with fireplaces and mulled wine.

12. Warner Bros Movie World

• 📍 Location: Oxenford, northern Gold Coast, 20 minutes from Surfers Paradise
• 🏆 Best For: Thrill-seekers 🎢, movie fans 🎬, families with older children 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding DC Comics-themed roller coasters, meeting movie characters, watching the Hollywood Stunt Driver show
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during school terms for shortest lines, winter for cooler temperatures 🌡️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Sea World Resort – Family-friendly accommodation with theme park package deals

Channel your inner teenager without judgment at Warner Bros Movie World, Australia’s only movie-related theme park just 20 minutes from Surfers Paradise. This cinematic playground brings beloved films and characters to life through immersive experiences that justify acting like a kid again. Thrill-seekers can challenge Australia’s most extreme roller coasters, including the DC Rivals HyperCoaster, the Southern Hemisphere’s tallest and fastest. Families enjoy the gentler Kids’ WB Fun Zone while everyone appreciates cooling off on Wild West Falls Adventure Ride. 

The signature Main Street features regular character meet-and-greets with Batman, Wonder Woman, and the Looney Tunes gang. The Hollywood Stunt Driver show demonstrates jaw-dropping automotive stunts that had me holding my breath. For maximum enjoyment, visit during weekdays when lines remain manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in the Gold Coast

Keen on deepening your insights into Gold Coast’s scenic gems? Here are some typical questions about its must-visit tourist spots.

What is the highest attraction on the Gold Coast?

The highest attraction on the Gold Coast is the Q1 SkyPoint Observation Deck. Located in the iconic Q1 building, this observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, the hinterland, and the coastline. It’s a must-see in Gold Coast for those who want to experience the city from a bird’s-eye view.

What is famous on the Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and world-class theme parks. Surfers Paradise is often the epicenter of activity, with its beachfront markets, high-rise skyline, and bustling shopping precincts. Additionally, the Gold Coast hinterland, with attractions like Tamborine Mountain and Springbrook National Park, showcases the region’s natural beauty. The city is also famous for events like the Gold Coast 600 and the Magic Millions horse race.

Where are the prettiest places in Gold Coast for nature lovers?

Nature enthusiasts often flock to the Gold Coast hinterland. Areas like Lamington National Park and Springbrook National Park are home to ancient rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. These are some of the Gold Coast’s beautiful places that offer a serene escape from the city’s hustle.

How many days in Gold Coast is enough?

The ideal length of stay on the Gold Coast depends on your interests and the type of vacation you’re planning. Below is a suggested breakdown for various types of trips:

1. Short Trip (3-4 Days):

• Day 1: Explore Surfers Paradise, visit SkyPoint Observation Deck, and enjoy the beach.
• Day 2: Choose one or two theme parks (Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, or Dreamworld).
• Day 3: Visit the Gold Coast Hinterland, explore national parks, and enjoy nature walks.
• Day 4: Relax on the beach, shop, and explore local dining and nightlife.

2. Medium Trip (5-7 Days):

• Day 1-2: Explore Surfers Paradise, visit SkyPoint, and enjoy various beaches.
• Day 3-4: Visit multiple theme parks and attractions.
• Day 5: Explore the Gold Coast Hinterland and national parks.
• Day 6: Enjoy water activities (boating, jet-skiing, or parasailing).
• Day 7: Relax, shop, dine, and explore local arts and culture.

3. Long Trip (8-14 Days):

• Day 1-3: Explore different neighborhoods and beaches.
• Day 4-6: Visit all major theme parks and attractions.
• Day 7-9: Explore the Hinterland, go hiking, and visit wildlife sanctuaries.
• Day 10-11: Enjoy water sports and outdoor activities.
• Day 12-14: Relax, explore local cuisine, arts, and culture, and revisit favorite spots.

Which are the Gold Coast destinations ideal for families?

Families have a plethora of options, from theme parks like Warner Bros Movie World and Dreamworld to calm beaches like Tallebudgera Creek. The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is also a hit, allowing kids to interact with native Australian animals.

Where to explore Gold Coast?

The Gold Coast in Australia is a vibrant coastal city known for its sun-kissed beaches, lush hinterland, theme parks, and lively nightlife. Here are some top places and activities to explore in the Gold Coast:

1. Surfers Paradise: The iconic heart of the Gold Coast, it’s famous for its high-rise skyline, shopping, entertainment, and the renowned Surfers Paradise Beach.
2. Theme Parks: The Gold Coast is home to several major theme parks, including Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild, and Dreamworld.
3. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Get up close with Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles.
4. Burleigh Heads: A relaxed beach suburb known for its surf break, national park, and trendy dining scene.
5. Lamington National Park: Located in the Gold Coast hinterland, it offers stunning rainforest walks, waterfalls, and birdwatching opportunities.
6. Springbrook National Park: Home to the famous Natural Bridge and a number of beautiful waterfalls and lookouts.
7. Tamborine Mountain: Explore rainforest walks, local wineries, and the Tamborine Mountain Skywalk.

What are the Gold Coast’s beauty spots for surfing?

The Gold Coast is a surfer’s paradise, with spots like Burleigh Heads Beach, Coolangatta Beach, and of course, Surfers Paradise Beach. Each offers unique waves and conditions suitable for both novices and pros.

Are there any hidden gems or less-known beautiful places in Gold Coast?

Absolutely! While the main beaches and attractions often steal the limelight, places like Federation Walk Coastal Reserve and Kirra Beach offer a quieter, yet equally captivating experience. Exploring the lesser-known parts of the Gold Coast often leads to delightful discoveries.

What is special about the Gold Coast in Australia?

The Gold Coast in Australia is a renowned destination, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and a plethora of activities and attractions. Here are some aspects that make the Gold Coast special:

1. Beautiful Beaches:

• Famous Beaches: The Gold Coast boasts some of Australia’s most famous beaches, including Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Burleigh Heads.
• Surfing: Known for its excellent surfing conditions, the Gold Coast attracts surfers from around the world.
• Golden Sands: The coastline is adorned with golden sandy beaches, perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, and beach sports.

2. Diverse Wildlife and Natural Beauty:

• Hinterland: The Gold Coast Hinterland is a haven for nature lovers, with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and national parks, such as Lamington National Park and Springbrook National Park.
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and David Fleay Wildlife Park allow visitors to encounter Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and various bird species.

3. Thriving Arts and Culture Scene: The Gold Coast hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and art shows, reflecting the area’s vibrant arts and culture scene. The region is home to various galleries, theaters, and cultural centers.

4. World-Class Entertainment and Nightlife:

• Theme Parks: The Gold Coast is home to several world-famous theme parks, including Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, and Dreamworld.
• Nightlife: The area offers a lively nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

5. Events and Festivals: The Gold Coast hosts various events, including the Gold Coast 600 (a car racing event), the Quiksilver Pro Gold Coast (a surfing competition), and the Gold Coast Film Festival.

6. Culinary Delights: The Gold Coast’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant. It offers a range of dining options from gourmet restaurants to casual cafes, with a focus on fresh, local produce and seafood.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast, with its shimmering beaches, lush hinterlands, and thrilling attractions, is a tapestry of experiences waiting to be unraveled. It’s not just the sun-kissed shores or the adrenaline-pumping theme parks that make it special; it’s the moments in between. It’s the early morning surf sessions, the tranquil walks through ancient rainforests, and the sunsets that paint the sky in hues of gold and crimson. Every corner of this vibrant city tells a story, from the bustling streets of Surfers Paradise to the serene beauty of Tamborine Mountain.

For travelers, the Gold Coast offers a journey of discovery. It’s a place where you can dive into the heart of the action or find a quiet spot to reflect and rejuvenate. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking for a laid-back beach holiday, the Gold Coast has something for you. It’s a destination that captures the essence of Australia’s beauty and spirit.

So, as you plan your next adventure, fly to Australia and consider the Gold Coast. Let its charm enchant you, its beauty captivate you, and its spirit inspire you. Because here, every day is an opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.