Looking for a destination with a little bit of glamour? Soak up the sun in Australia’s Gold Coast.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to travel to the Gold Coast in Australia, one word can sum it up: Sparkle. The way the sun illuminates the clear blue waters as they crash against the cream-color sand makes everything seem to sparkle. The haute high-rises that dot the beach seem to sparkle as they extend and reach toward the clouds. And the restaurant scene full of modern meals and impossibly chic patrons truly sparkles. Indeed, there are many things about the Gold Coast that makes it quite the sparkly destination.

But unlike many luxurious travel destinations, you won’t find any pretentiousness in the Gold Coast. The surfer attitude and laidback vibe permeates into the everyday lifestyle. It’s a city where you’ll find kids at the beach taking surfing lessons before the sun even rises and hear the “click-clack” of designer heels flitting through the hippest restaurants by sundown. Yes, no matter what type of vacation you’re in the mood for, the Gold Coast offers something for everyone. Take this guide as your go-to resource on where to stay and play on your Gold Coast vacation.

For Family Time
For those traveling en famille, a stay at Sea Temple Surfers Paradise will please the party. The five-star luxury apartments offer amazing views of one of Australia’s most famous beaches, Surfers Paradise, and plenty of posh amenities to boot. The modern two- and three-bedroom beach-view condos boast floor-to-ceiling windows and comforting amenities for long stays like a full-size kitchen, a washer and dryer and modern décor. In fact, it’s truly the best of both worlds at Sea Temple Surfers Paradise where you’ll enjoy the privacy of an apartment and access to typical hotel amenities like a concierge, room service, hotel pool and workout facilities.

Sea Temple Surfers Paradise is also a short 30-minute jaunt to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, a must-visit for any wildlife enthusiasts and for those traveling with tots. You’ll be able to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most famous wildlife like koalas, kangaroos and other native animal species.

For Posh Pampering
If you’re quite the discerning traveler and want a front-row seat to some of the Gold Coast’s best shopping and dining, a stay at Palazzo Versace will give you just that. The property is the world’s first luxury fashion brand hotel and includes signature touches like Versace-print furnishings and ultra-luxurious fabrics. You’ll also enjoy posh perks like ordering from the in-room Bath Bliss Menu which features decadent treats like the perfect-for-nighttime Lavender Bliss experience.

Palazzo Versace has three restaurants to tantalize your taste buds; be sure to indulge at the breakfast buffet at Il Barocco and try a light lunch at Vie Bar & Restaurant which affords fantastic views of the marina. For more world-class dining and shopping options, you’ll want to stop by Marina Mirage, located a mere few steps away from Palazzo Versace. Christensen Copenhagen, Hermés and Carla Zampatti are just a few of the shopping destinations there you won’t want not to miss.