Whether you’re escaping the heatwave by heading to the ocean, or just looking to get away for a weekend, we’ve got you covered with an in-depth eatinerary of the Gold Coast.
Slip, slop, slap, grab a hat, and get ready for a whale of a time.
SATURDAY
While there are many great places to stay on the Gold Coast, QT is a must when it comes to affordable, contemporary, and quirky accommodation. Serving old-school Miami realness, QT even has two tennis courts, and complimentary retro bikes for you to use at your leisure.
Looking for something a bit more bougie? Make yourself at home in the chic apartments of Bon Sol, Burleigh’s beachfront holiday rental.
Now that you’re all settled in, it’s time for brekkie, and you’re hungry. No worries, Canteen is here to get your morning started right, serving smooth coffee from 7am alongside vibrant meals with everything from caramelised banana, pistachio, and chocolate ganache on sourdough, to kale and rocket bowls with avo and halloumi.
Before heading straight into the surf (gotta wait 30 mins after eating, safety first), explore the gorgeous trails of Burleigh Head National Park. Not only will you burn off some of that breakfast in preparation for lunch, you’ll be able to cool off afterwards in the clear blue waters of Burleigh Beach.
Speaking of lunch, once you’ve finally emerged from the ocean, find yourself seated at Burleigh’s award-winning seafood restaurant, The Fish House. With a beachside views and high-quality service, you’ll enjoy your dining experience whether you’re after grilled swordfish, Patagonian toothfish, or some classic fish ‘n’ chips.
No matter if your post-lunch plans look like perusing the Gold Coast’s shopping strips, meditating by the beach, or having a well-deserved nap, one thing’s for certain – happy hour is sorted at The Island Rooftop. Gilligan is shook, because this Island is stocked full of tasty nibbles and refreshing cocktails to enjoy while you watch the sun set.
Can’t decide what cuisine you’re feeling for dinner? How about all of them? Leave dinner in the capable hands of The Collective, a market style restaurant with five kitchens serving American, Italian, Mexican, Asian and contemporary Australian eats! You’ll be spoilt for choice, but who’s complaining?
SUNDAY
Good morning! Sleep well? Great, because we’re kicking off the day with a breakfast from GC fave, Bam Bam Bakehouse. You may know them from their famous egg benny croissants, but this café is far from overhyped. Think avocado on sourdough with beetroot hummus, croissant French toast, chilli crab omelettes, as well as a range of tasty burgs and salads.
Once you’ve consumed your weight in croissants, you might want to grab a few treats for the road, because Springbrook National Park is next on the agenda. Spend a few hours wandering through the magical walking tracks, watching out for platypus, and exploring the many picturesque water holes throughout the park.
After heading back to the beachside, refuel at Hellenika for some Greek food goodness. Enjoy plates on plates of kalamari, moussaka, and souvlakia, and don’t forget to indulge in a few beers from the bar.
Fork out some dosh for a quick shopping spree at Pacific Fair! Whether you’re after a gorgeous hat to keep the sun at bay, a new pair of togs, or the perfect outfit, you’re sure to leave with a few bags of goodies.
Once you’ve donned your new look, step out on the town and head to Mamasan in Broadbeach. With an extensive menu of traditional and modern Asian cuisine, enjoy everything from san choy bau to Mooloolaba king prawn green curry while you’re sipping some house saké.
There’s always room for dessert, so treat yourself to a decadent dessert experience at Infinite Dessert Bar. With blood orange mousse and whisky, s’more brownies, Snicker’s and peanut butter cheesecakes and more, you might need to be wheeled out. Just sayin’.
Next time you’re on the Gold Coast, you know what to do.
