Ten ways to spend a rainy day on the Gold Coast (lifesaver!)

When the ‘Sunshine State’ turns into the ‘Saturated State’, how does one spend their days? Well, on the contrary to popular belief, a world of fun does exist beyond the Gold Coast’s beach culture. Here are our top 10 tips for a rainy day on the GC:

1. Indoor Rock Climbing

Whether you’re a novice or a pro, indoor rock climbing is a fantastic rainy day activity. Gather a group of friends for a laugh or challenge your stamina and endurance with an advanced course. Paramount Adventure Centre based in West Burleigh will be able to sort you out – http://www.paramountadventures.com.au

2. Cooking Class

One of the most gorgeous locations on the Gold Coast to spend a rainy day has to be Mount Tambourine. Squint your eyes a little and you could be relaxing in the English countryside. Tambourine Cooking School is run by professional chef Terri Taylor from the purpose built class kitchen of her sprawling Queensland homestead. Take the girls or test the hubby and enjoy your choice of French, Middle Eastern, Asian, Australian, Spanish and more, coupled with a glass of wine (or two). Book online – http://www.tamborinecookingschool.com.au

3. Gold Coast Art Centre

Food, wine, art galleries, cinema and comedy club all under one roof – there is your rainy day sorted. Now showing Hitchcock, Les Miserables, Life of Pi, Samsara and The Impossible. Did you know for just $13 you can take a glass of wine into the cinema with you? Well, you can. You can also catch Hung Le at Comedy in The Basement on Friday 1^st February and the FlickerFest from Saturday 2^nd February. Learn more here – http://www.theartscentregc.com.au

4. Black Coffee Lyrics and Cards

Find a cosy corner at renowned Black Coffee Lyrics cafe and bar. Snuggle in with a cup of coffee or signature Scotch, enjoy a number of board games available to guests and regular live music. The perfect meeting place when it’s wet outside. http://blackcoffeelyrics.com.au

5. Fox & Hounds Country Inn

The quintessential English pub experience located at Wongawallen. Established in 2008, the Fox and Hounds Country Inn has a fine range of English and Irish memorabilia adorning the walls. Most of the internal fittings of the Fox and Hounds came from the Sussex Arms Hotel in Tunbridge Wells making it that much more unique. Enjoy pot pies and pints complete with a cosy fireplace. http://www.foxandhounds.net.au

6. Me Time

The one bonus of a rainy day is, you can enjoy guilt free ‘me time’ indulgence. Catch up on your beauty routine, paint your nails or refresh your skin with a facial. For all your pampering needs head to spaQ at QT Gold Coast – complete with Turkish inspired Hammam. You can also top-up your sunless tan with a quick spray. Bring the girls and make a day of it. https://www.qthotelsandresorts.com/gold-coast/spaq/

7. Indoor Go Karting

On days like this, try something completely different. Race on down to the indoor Go Karting centre at Nerang and unleash your inner rev-head. Great for the kids and young at heart. http://www.gokartinggoldcoast.com.au

8. Ten Pin Bowling

At Surfers Paradise Tenpin Bowling Centre, disco meets bowls. The perfect activity to share with friends or family. The centre also offers pool tables, a games room, cafe and bar. http://www.surferstenpin.com.au

9. Oskars on Burleigh
Gold Coaster’s, don’t let the rain get your spirits down! You can still enjoy the beach…from your prime seat at Oskars on Burleigh. Watch the rainfall over the city, while the waves lap at your step. At times like this, you’ve just gotta crack the Champagne and watch the show of Mother Natural unfold in style. http://www.oskars.com.au

10. Start a new series
If you just can’t handle leaving the house, then here is your TV watching tip. Download the Parks and Recreation series featuring Amy Poehler, Rashida Jones and Aziz Ansari. From Emmy Award-winning executive producers Greg Daniels and Michael Schur, this ensemble comedy follows mid-level bureaucrat Leslie Knope and her tireless efforts to make her American town more fun. http://www.nbc.com/parks-and-recreation/