Brisbane to Gold Coast: things to do
 

We're going to attend a convention in Brisbane. After the convention, we'll have 2 days to wander around.

Please suggest things to do in Brisbane, or should we just go on a day trip to Gold Coast?

If we'll go to Gold Coast, should we rent a car or can we just take the bus or ride a train?

It will be our first time to Australia. How do we go around Brisbane and Gold Coast? Are there subways?

There's lots of options in southern Queensland.

It helps if we know who 'we' are. Is it family, looking for kids activities? Is it a group of young professionals who like to party? Etc. Also, how much time do you really have? 2 full days, or just one night?

Public transport is not great in the area, but there are trains and trams. Most likely, a car is best, but I would decide what you want to do before renting one.

2 days is not a lot of time. If you want to see local animals, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is close to Brisbane and accessible by river cruise (so no car needed and particularly convenient is you are staying in the city). Daily Cruises Koala and Brisbane River Cruise Australia Zoo is further north so it would take more time and effort to access, but is better rated.

The Gold Coast, particularly Surfer's Paradise, is very tourist-centric, with generic attractions like theme parks for the family and bars, clubs, and strip joints for the party-goer. it does have nice wide beaches and good surfing. I would avoid it if you only have 2 days, but again, it depends what you are after.

The Sunshine Coast (north of Brisbane), is quieter and more authentic Australia, while still catering to visitors. There is hiking in the Glasshouse Mountains region and plenty of nice swimming or surf spots. I think Noosa Heads is particularly nice. The Brisbane airport is on the north side of the city, so it isn't too much of a drive back to catch your flight out (2 hours from Noosa, though there are closer spots), but still, maybe driving isn't what you want to do with your limited time.

Need more information to provide better guidance.

We are not so young professionals (40s to early 50s). We have 2 full days, maybe 3 if we opt to skip a day of the convention.