Planning a summer escape on the Gold Coast? Start the year with a beach towel and sunscreen. January and February bring a packed schedule of major events on the Gold Coast in easy reach of Main Beach.
Film fans gather at HOTA to catch screenings and panel talks during the AACTA Festival. Surfers take centre stage at the Gold Coast Open, drawing big crowds to the shoreline.
Valentine’s Day wraps up the season with rooftop dinners and waterfront experiences. This guide shares what’s on, how to get there, and tips to help you enjoy each event.
Unmissable Events in Gold Coast to Start Your Year Right
Summer at Main Beach sets the scene for a vibrant start to the year. January and February bring a mix of live entertainment, sporting highlights, and cultural celebrations that energise the coast.
Magic Millions 2025 – Racing and Style on the Turf
Magic Millions 2025 returns to the Gold Coast Turf Club between January 3 and 14. The event brings together race fans, fashion enthusiasts, and holidaymakers keen to start the year with something special.
This annual Gold Coast event signals the start of the summer social calendar with a combination of sport, glamour, and outdoor excitement. Travel from Main Beach is simple. Catch the tram to Broadbeach South and continue by rideshare to the venue.
General admission costs between $20 and $40. Tickets are available online and should be purchased early. For daytime visits, bring a hat and sunscreen. Racegoers tend to dress up, so plan an outfit that suits the occasion.
Magic Millions 2025 is one of the leading events on the Gold Coast this season. If you enjoy a lively crowd and want to experience something iconic, this is the place to be.
Gold Coast Open – Surf, Food and Summer Energy
The Gold Coast Open is expected to return in late January. This annual Gold Coast surf comp takes place at Burleigh Heads and draws a mix of athletes, locals, and visitors.
The beach transforms into a festive zone with surf action, live music, food trucks, and open-air energy that defines summer on the coast.
Entry is free, making it a strong option for anyone searching for what to do in the Gold Coast during the warmer months. The atmosphere is relaxed, with great spots to sit along the shoreline.
Local cafés offer casual meals, and food trucks add to the variety. Burleigh is around 30 to 35 minutes by car from Main Beach. Public transport is a good idea, as parking can be limited.
Bring a beach towel and arrive early for the best viewing locations. This is one of the coolest things to do on the Gold Coast, especially for visitors looking for activities to do in Gold Coast that showcase local culture.
AACTA Festival and Awards – Australia’s Film Stars Take the Stage
Film lovers visiting in January should check the schedule for the AACTA Festival and Awards. Hosted at HOTA, just over ten minutes from Main Beach, the event celebrates
Australian cinema through screenings, panels, and on-stage conversations with industry figures. The location makes it easy to include in any holiday plan.
Some sessions are free, while others require tickets available through the HOTA website. Rideshare is a practical option, though onsite parking is available.
For guests curious about the Australian screen industry, the festival provides insight and entertainment in equal measure.
AACTA is a highlight for those interested in entertainment in the Gold Coast and appeals to travellers looking for more refined Gold Coast activities for adults. During the day, the HOTA Café serves light meals. Guests can also bring a picnic and enjoy the surrounding parklands.
The AACTA Festival brings a creative edge to the summer schedule and offers a refreshing change of pace.
Valentine’s Day on the Gold Coast – Romance by the Water
February 14 gives couples a chance to mark their stay with something memorable. If you are looking for Valentine’s Day events, the Gold Coast delivers a mix of settings, cuisines, and views.
Options near Main Beach and Surfers Paradise cater to different styles and budgets. SkyPoint hosts rooftop dinners with coastal views. The Nerang River offers private gondola rides. HOTA’s open-air cinema features films selected for the occasion. Each of these experiences provides a romantic setting without requiring a long journey.
Bookings are essential. Popular restaurants offer set menus ranging from $70 to $150. Cruise-style outings cost between $20 and $40. Evenings are breezy, so a light layer is a smart addition to your outfit.
For anyone asking what to do on the Gold Coast, Australia, around mid-February, this evening is worth planning. The night is also a great opportunity to explore the best things to do in Gold Coast for couples, while some venues run free family activities, Gold Coast guests can enjoy earlier in the day.
Make the Most of Summer Near Main Beach
Now is the right time to book your stay near the Gold Coast’s key summer events. A well-chosen location makes it easy to enjoy the full schedule while giving you space to relax between outings. After a day out, it’s refreshing to return to a quiet apartment close to the coastline.
Main Beach gives you quick access to racing, film, surf, and seasonal dining without long commutes. Start your morning at an event, enjoy a swim or a rest in the afternoon, then head out again for an evening experience. This pace gives your stay structure without feeling rushed.
Where to Stay Near Gold Coast’s Biggest Events
Pacific Views Resort offers a quiet retreat close to the Gold Coast’s most anticipated summer events. Located near Main Beach, the resort gives you easy access to race days, surf contests, outdoor films, and waterfront dining without the need for long travel times.
Each apartment is modern, spacious, and fully self-contained. With ocean views and all the essentials for a relaxing stay, you can enjoy comfort and privacy throughout your visit. Facilities on site include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a tennis court, a sauna, and a gym.
Main Beach is just outside the front door, and Surfers Paradise is only a short drive away. This location gives you a smooth balance between activity and downtime. If you plan to enjoy the best events on the Gold Coast this summer, Pacific Views Resort provides the ideal base for your holiday.
Image Credit: Magic Millions Barrier Draw 2025
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