Travel Guide: On Getting Golden in the Goldcoast
A weekend of swims, skyscrapers, surf, and sunshine
With skyscrapers lining the shore and golden light bouncing off miles of beach, the Gold Coast feels like a sun-drenched blend of relaxation and party vibes. It's the hometown of Margot Robbie, and at times, I felt like I’d been dropped into a version of Miami with some Aussie accents swapped in.
The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations, drawing nearly 11 million visitors each year. It almost feels like Miami (one of the suburbs is named Miami) but from above the skyline looks more like Fort Lauderdale.
My time here was short, but sweet. Grab a Lime bike or throw on your sneakers to spend time along the oceanfront. It's the perfect way to take it all in.
Where to Stay
Treat Yourself:
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort: A waterfront resort with a stunning pool layout, located in Southport Split (a quieter part of the Gold Coast).
Mondrian Gold Coast: Ocean front views, a wellness centre, and on-site massage and sauna make this beachfront spot extra luxe.
Budget-Friendly:
Dorsett Gold Coast: In a central location near Kurrawa Beach with beautiful rooftop pool.
What to Do
Wellness + Recovery
LAN Spa & Bathhouse: Massages, magnesium pools, and more. Best way to start the day.
Breath Performance: A one-stop shop with Pilates, coffee, a bathhouse, and a sleek recovery studio. Houses the Goldcoast’s first recovery focused bathhouse.
Nature & Adventure
Burleigh Head National Park, Lamington National Park & Mount Tamborine: All gorgeous walks or hikes.
Jet ski rentals & surfing lessons: Easy to find along the coast.
Whale Watching: Visit June - October to catch whales migrating along the coast.
City Culture
HOTA (Home of the Arts): Concerts, rooftop bars, galleries, and pop-up events.
Walk around Surfers Paradise: Tourist central, but iconic for a reason.
Weekend Escapes
Beechmont Estate: A luxury resort outside of Lamington National Park. Surround yourself with nature and ocean views.
Gwinganna Wellness Retreat – Fully inclusive wellness resort. You can pick a two day Wellness Weekend or the full seven Day Detox. Select from a range of options, including Women’s Empowerment, Conscious Living or Beat Burnout with Dr Libby.
Where to Eat & Drink
Sweet Treats
Milkman’s Daughter: Great coffee and baked goods. Try the Dulce de Leche coffee drink.
Paddock Bakery: The Goldcoasts most awared cafe. Try the pizza danish.
The Holiday: Order the pistachio dark chocolate chip cookie. You won’t regret it.
Brunch & Lunch
Janus Deli: Incredible sandwiches and pastries within walking distance to the beach. A must.
Commune Cafe: Bright, airy, and delicious. Try the açai bowl and eggs benedict over a hash brown.
Bake House Gozen: A Japanese bakery known for unique weekly croissant flavours like cheese kransky.
Dinner
Jimmy Wah’s: Vietnamese cuisine with waterfront views. Make sure to try the Dumplings and Bao Buns.
Rick Shores (at Burleigh Pavilion): Higher-end Asian fusion.
The Tropic ( at Burleigh Pavilion): More chill, with pub food and DJs on weekends.
Light Years: Bold Asian fusion (also in Byron).
Miami Marketta: A local favourite with indoor/outdoor food markets, live music, and chill vibes.
Tommy’s Italian: Cozy and casual Italian food with beach views.
Etsu Izakaya – Sexy Japanese vibes, great cocktails. Ideal for girls' night or a date.
Coffee
Currumbin Valley Harvest: A farmers market café with quality coffee and local produce (open daily 8am–2pm).
Dust Temple: A warehouse-style space with great coffee and art.
Cocktails & Nightlife
Kirra Beach House: Perfect for sunset drinks. Mediterranean food by Kirra Beach.
Paloma: Wine bar and bites with good energy.
Malibu Racquet Club: Trendy, modern vibes with with different cocktails each week.
Burleigh Pav: DJs, beach views, and a party scene.
Maman: Mediterranean-inspired and effortlessly chic.
Whether you're after nightlife, wellness, or just a golden tan, the Gold Coast delivers. It's a place where you can wake up and take a beach walk or go to a Pilates class, chase waves or take a hike, and wind down with a beach front cocktail. What more could you ask for?