The Gold Coast, located 90km south of Brisbane, is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations for international and domestic travelers. Its popularity is largely due to its subtropical climate, surf beaches, canal and waterway systems, theme parks and nightlife.
To the west, the Gold Coast is bordered by the Great Dividing Range (the Gold Coast hinterland). A section of the mountain range is protected by Lamington National Park which has been listed as a World Heritage area in recognition of its "outstanding geological features displayed around shield volcanic craters and the high number of rare and threatened rainforest species." The area is popular among bushwalkers, campers and day-trippers.