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The Gold Coast is many things to many people – a party hub for Schoolies, a front row seat to the grunting V8 Supercars, or a destination for checking out the fillies, beachside or at Magic Millions – but to the city’s faithful, the Coast is so much more.
It will come as no surprise that the coffee scene on the Goldie is part of the daily grind. Speciality coffee shops and brunch spots stretch the length and breadth of the Coast. No matter where you are, you’ll find a decent brew but there are a couple you should keep in mind.
Bumbles Cafe at Budds Beach would have to be right up there with the best of them. Not only is its waterside position to die for, the coffee is smooth, the menu fab, and the cake cabinet simply divine. Renowned for its beautiful interiors, it’s the ideal venue for an intimate cuppa with friends or a kitchen tea/baby shower. Be sure to check out the gift shop next door, it’s fabulous!
For a more eclectic experience Ground & Sound on Musgrave Avenue at Chirn Park, is a feast for the senses. Decked out with some of the coolest posters and music memorabilia around, this cafe is as much about the music and the nostalgia as the coffee and menu offerings – if you’re a muso you’ll love it, but do try and book cause it hits all the right notes with everyone and seats are limited!
If a garden style coffee is to your liking, Cafe63 is the spot for you. Part of the Ross Evans Garden Centre at Runaway Bay, this alfresco space is welcoming and the perfect location to enjoy a quiet cuppa or lengthy lunch. Don’t leave before wandering around the nursery, it’s packed with garden inspiration.
The Exhibitionist Bar at Home Of The Arts (HOTA) on Bundall Road is one of the hottest spots for a sundowner right now. While only relatively new, it provides breathtaking views of the Surfers skyline from its 5th floor gallery location. Whether looking for a drink before a show or a nightcap after dinner, this classy addition to the offerings is first-class. A word of warning though, don’t expect big meals, the portions are a little on the lean side – more a tapas sharing style arrangement.
Burleigh Heads is the city’s most popular tourist mecca. James Street is the place for retail outlets and funky cafes, while Burleigh Hill is the go-to spot for those wanting to watch the world’s top surfers go to work. When the sun goes down, Burleigh Pavilion is the place to be. It’s classy and exudes modern coastal luxe, serving up sensational cocktails and the most incredible beachside views.
For something a little bit different, make a beeline for the hinterland. Pack a bottle of your favourite drop or stop off at the distillery on Tamborine Mountain and head to the hang gliding departure point at North Tamborine – Robert Sowter Park Lookout – set up a picnic and sip as the sun goes down.
La Coast Motel is the beach shack to rival all beach shacks. Positioned on the southern end of the Coast at Bilinga. The refreshing mint exterior and vintage bicycles give it its retro appeal, and its proximity to the beach (50 metres by foot) and the local surf club add to the appeal.
If you’re looking for an Airbnb, Drake Studio Lodge at Paradise Point is a great cosy spot. Best suited to a couple, this ultra-modern converted garage offering hosted by Robin and Phil is fully self-contained, and just a short five-minute walk from the Broadwater and a 15-minute stroll to the Point and its popular cafe strip.
While there are plenty of upmarket stay options, one of the best positioned hotels is Novotel Surfers Paradise. Situated on one of the city’s main drags, it is within walking distance of Surfers Paradise boulevard, Cavill Mall, and sits directly opposite the Surfers tram line. The views from the higher floors on either side are worth the price alone.
In a word, Soakhouse Bathhouse. This one-stop Mermaid Beach relaxation spot, below left, is all about pressing the reset button. With a set-up that includes communal mineral baths, hot spas, cold plunge, steam room and traditional dry cedar sauna, it is guaranteed to melt your worries away. A unique space, it also serves as a co-working space, yoga and meditation space and a private experience portal.
Take a drive to Paradise Point and stroll the length of the Broadwater. Not only will the whack of salt air elevate the holiday vibes, if you time it right the reflections on the water will take your breath (and everything else) away. Afterward, head along to Brewed Brewery for a refreshing ale
Currumbin Surf Life Saving Club is one of the Coast’s best, above right. Not only does it offer some of the tastiest fare, it has a terrace from which to enjoy the city backdrop while digging into a parmi and chips.
Kurrawa Surf Club is another to consider if you’re based in the Broadbeach precinct. Family-friendly and well-priced, this SLSC is tough to get into on a Saturday night but if you book early enough you’ll get yourself a table.
Ferry Road Markets in Southport continues to be the hub for gourmet foodies who seek fresh vegetables and seafood, quality meat, and some of the tasties smallgoods around. Do yourself a favour and take a look around, stop for a coffee, and enjoy an afternoon gelato.
The Bundall Farmers market boasts some of the freshest produce in town. Held every Sunday from 6am until 11.30am you can expect stall upon stall, each filled with flavour.
Ground Currumbin is a multi-faceted venue worth checking out. Whether you’re looking for a grocer, healing power, or fresh organic coffee, the team here has it covered.
Kyomi at The Star is an experience not to be missed. Located on the second floor of the casino, you will be blown away by the indulgent Japanese flavours. Sashimi, foie gras, innovation, and authenticity, once you’ve dined here there’ll be no doubt why it’s up there with the best on the Coast.
Also worth considering: The Italian Kitchen Co. (Mermaid Beach); The Cuban (Broadbeach), and Rick Shores (Burleigh Heads).
For more informaton about the Gold Coast check out the Tourism Queensland or Destination Gold Coast websites.
For as long as I can remember I’ve been a writer, combining that with an inquisitive mind and a desire for adventure and cultural immersion, and well, that’s me.
