The neighborhood of Currumbin is framed by a golden beach, wetlands and a valley covered in rainforest, making it a one-of-a-kind suburb in the otherwise quite heavily developed Gold Coast region of Queensland. Visit Currumbin to pet and admire iconic native Australian animals, surf the waves, or relax on the beach with the whole family.

The low-set houses of Currumbin cling to the hillside. The residents are fun and easy-going, but by far the most remarkable locals are the creatures of the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Here you can cuddle a koala or feed kangaroos and lorikeets. Keep a lot more distance to admire the emus, crocodiles and Tasmanian devils. The kids will love taking the little train that runs through the park. See if they can spot the shy satin bowerbird in the Forest Fringe Aviary.

To learn how surfing has become part of the Gold Coast way of life, pay a visit to the on-site Surf World Gold Coast museum with its collection of remarkable surfboards and surfing paraphernalia.

Once the day heats up, head to Currumbin Beach. If you are an experienced surfer, grab a board and ride “the Currumbin Alley,” the famous local surf break at the river mouth. Beginners can sign up locally for surfing lessons first. Every spring, usually around September, Currumbin Beach becomes the venue for the Swell Sculpture Festival.

A quieter swimming spot is the Currumbin Creek Estuary, which is sheltered and popular with stand-up paddleboarders too.

At the end of the day, drive along the town’s elevated Pacific Parade and take your pick from one of the cafés with ocean views. The Elephant Rock Café and nearby Vikings Surf Life Saving Club on the beach are real local icons. If you are on a budget, take a picnic, barbecue or drinks with snacks up to the Elephant Rock Lookout and enjoy the stunning views.

At sunset, the skyline of Surfers Paradise shimmers in the distance like a mirage. There is simply no better spot to say goodbye to Currumbin and give a toast to the Gold Coast.