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No longer is the Gold Coast just geared to theme park-loving families and overseas sunseekers. Hip cutting-edge cuisine, breweries and cool markets are now synonymous with GC, as well as new luxury hotel. If you planning a visit here’s 5 ways to ensure you have a cool weekend away.
1. HANG OUT AND DINE WITH THE A-LIST
Want to spot a star? Just visit one of the renowned restaurants on the GC. It’s truly a foodie mecca. Book in for the five-course tasting menu at Little Truffle at Mermaid Beach—it’s said Hugh Jackman enjoys dining here. Meanwhile, over in Broadbeach grab some brekkie and a coffee at Elk Espresso, which recently moved from its original premises to the Oasis Shopping Centre—we know Orlando Bloom was a regular when he was on the GC. During a stay on the Gold Coast Blake Lively had the best coffee of her life at No Name Lane, also in Broadbeach. “I have to say it on record, the cappuccinos were amazing but the cold brew—Oh, my gosh,” the star revealed on a radio show.
2. SHOP MARVELLOUS MARKETS
There’s good reason why Miami Marketta is so lauded. It’s here that you can sample exceptional street food, including Mexican, Japanese, Greek and vegetarian, and then shop for fashion, have a drink and watch live entertainment.
Want more market action? Time your GC stay for the 1st or 3rd Sunday of the month to check out some of Australia’s best emerging designers at the Village Markets. Held in Burleigh Heads, there’s also vintage clothing to rummage through, pop-ups and handcrafted furniture. thevillagemarkets.co; miamimarketta.com
3. HAVE A SIX-STAR STAY
Want to be treated like royalty with butler service, pampering, and rooftop restaurant and bar offering vistas across the coast? Book into one of the 57 brand-new luxury suites at The Darling, part of the new look Star Gold Coast. The highlight? The infinity pool perched 67 metres above ground and five metres beyond the side of the tower. The refurbished Star Grand is also on site. star.com.au/goldcoast
4. EXPERIENCE ARTS AND CRAFT BREWERIES
Currumbin is known for its (impressive) wildlife sanctuary. But now it’s so much more. What used to be an industrial estate in Currumbin has been transformed into a haven for hipsters. First stop needs to be a brew tasting at Balter Brewing Company. The brainchild of recently retired pro-surfer Mick Fanning and his mates, here the vibe is laid-back and the beer delicious. Afterwards head to view galleries and listen to live music at Dust Temple, a creative space where you can also grab a coffee.
5. SLOW DOWN AND GET BACK TO NATURE
What’s a trip to the Gold Coast without a walk along that famous stretch of sand? There is in fact 57 kilometres of beach to discover with some of the best surf breaks, including Kelly Slater’s fave, Kirra, and Greenmount Point. And just beyond the highrises, restaurants and cafes is world heritage-listed rainforest, so finish your day with a stroll through the hinterland of Lamington National Park or Springbrook National Park to view tumbling waterfalls and colourful birdlife.
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