A great holiday often comes down to the moments that surprise you. A laugh during a cabaret show, a quiet evening at an outdoor concert, or the buzz of a beachside festival can turn an ordinary day into something special. 

Entertainment on the Gold Coast plays a big part in the experience. It adds colour, energy, and a sense of discovery. If you’re staying at Royal Palm Resort in Palm Beach, you’re in a perfect spot. 

Festivals, theatre nights, and family attractions are all close by. No matter your travel style, you’ll find something that feels just right. Here’s what to explore and book while you’re here.

Holiday Entertainment in Gold Coast

Entertainment on the Gold Coast brings energy and colour to every stay. Live music, theatre, and family wildlife shows offer something for all travel styles. Couples and groups can enjoy cabaret nights or themed dinner performances, all within easy reach of Palm Beach.

With events changing each season, every visit brings its own highlights. Whether you’re here for a short break or a longer escape, the entertainment scene adds stories that stay with you long after the holiday ends.

Events This August Worth Adding to Your Itinerary

August brings a lively calendar of events across the Gold Coast, with something happening most weekends. It’s a great time to enjoy live music, explore local markets, and take part in cultural celebrations. If you’re staying in Palm Beach, many of these experiences are just a short drive away.

BLEACH Festival Gold Coast (July 31 – August 10)

Tip: Book early for free and ticketed events
Editor’s choice: Sunset concerts in Burleigh
Local tip: Arrive early for lawn seating
Transport: 10–15 mins drive (Burleigh venues

Burleigh becomes the centre of creativity during BLEACH*. The festival features open-air concerts, dance performances, and visual art installations. Sunset shows are a highlight and fill up quickly, so early arrival is a good idea. Some events are free to attend, while others require booking ahead.

Gold Coast Show (August 29–31, Broadwater Parklands)

Best for: Families
Transport tip: Parking is limited – arrive early
Drive: 35–40 mins from the resort

The Gold Coast Show is a family-friendly favourite with fireworks, food stalls, rides, and craft displays. Entry is usually free, but some activities need tokens or passes. Parking fills quickly, so it’s best to arrive early or use public transport where possible.

Live Shows and Cabaret That Light Up the Night

The Gold Coast comes alive after dark. If you’re searching for things to do on the Gold Coast at night, live shows are a great place to start. Comedy, cabaret, and dinner theatre offer a fun way to spend an evening out. For guests staying in Palm Beach, many top venues are only a short drive away.

Dracula’s Cabaret (Broadbeach)

Show type: Comedy, burlesque, dinner theatre
Audience: Adults only
Booking: Must pre-book online
Drive: 20–25 mins

This well-known venue mixes comedy, burlesque, and musical theatre in one high-energy dinner show. It’s designed for adults and known for its bold humour and lively atmosphere. Booking ahead online is recommended, as seats fill quickly.

The Pink Flamingo Gold Coast

Style: Modern cabaret, circus, dance
Audience: Adults/groups
Local tip: Go for the late show on weekends
Transport: Uber or drive + paid parking

Located in the heart of Broadbeach, this Spiegelclub brings a mix of circus, dance, and cabaret to the stage. The weekend late shows are a favourite among groups and couples looking for a standout night out.

Cultural Highlights for Theatre Lovers

The Gold Coast has a theatre scene that surprises many first-time visitors. Beyond large stages, you’ll find smaller venues that deliver high-quality performances and community charm. 

Theatre Gold Coast experiences offer a mix of live concerts, independent shows, and seasonal events across different suburbs. Many are within easy reach of Palm Beach, making it simple to add a show to your evening plans.

Home of the Arts Gold Coast (HOTA)

Type: Multi-arts centre with theatre, cinema, and live concerts
Highlight: August shows, last-minute performances, outdoor cinema
Tip: Check the “What’s On” page for weekly updates
Drive: 25–30 mins

HOTA is a cultural hub known for its wide range of events. August brings theatre shows Gold Coast fans won’t want to miss, along with concerts and open-air cinema sessions.

Gold Coast Little Theatre

Type: Community theatre
Drive: 25–30 mins

Budget-friendly, charming option for culture lovers

Tucked away in Southport, this intimate venue is home to local talent. It’s an ideal choice for visitors who enjoy community-driven productions at an affordable price. The setting feels personal, and the shows are often a pleasant surprise.

Family Fun Near Palm Beach That’s Easy to Plan

For families staying in Palm Beach, the Gold Coast offers a variety of activities that are close by, full of energy, and easy to organise. These attractions provide great value and help make your holiday memorable without the stress of long travel times.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – Wild Skies Bird Show

Location: 7 to 10 minutes’ drive from Royal Palm
Tip: Arrive early to enjoy the quieter morning session

Value: Multi-attraction passes can offer better overall savings
Highlight: A live bird show set within the sanctuary’s natural outdoor arena

The Wild Skies show brings native birds into close view as they glide above an open-air crowd. Large raptors and brightly feathered species take turns in a carefully timed performance that blends care with spectacle. Visitors often leave with a new appreciation for Australia’s birdlife, and kids love the chance to see these creatures in full flight.

A Coastal Holiday Filled With Energy and Discovery

Entertainment helps shape the memories you take home. On the Gold Coast, performances and events offer a blend of music, movement, and story that leaves a strong impression. 

A lively cabaret or a peaceful morning spent watching native birds can turn an ordinary day into something you remember. These experiences give your holiday its character and make each moment feel meaningful.

Stay Where It All Comes Together at Royal Palm Resort

A good location takes the stress out of holiday planning. Royal Palm Resort in Palm Beach puts you close to local entertainment without the need for long travel times. 

You can head out for a sunset concert, catch a last-minute theatre show, or pick something fun for the kids. The resort’s self-contained apartments offer plenty of space, making it easy to wind down after a busy night. 

If you’re unsure what’s on, the tour desk can help you find nearby shows, events, and attractions. With everything this close, you’ll spend less time planning and more time enjoying your stay.

Make Royal Palm Resort your base for an unforgettable getaway.


Image credit: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – Wild Skies Bird Show

973 Gold Coast Highway Palm Beach
Gold Coast 4221 Australia
Email: reservations@royalpalm.com.au ▪ Phone: 07 5534 5999 ▪ Fax: 07 5534 5849