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Live Like a Local in the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is known for its golden beaches and exciting theme parks – and trust us, these iconic attractions are a must on any GC itinerary. But if you want to experience the Gold Coast like the locals, take yourself off the beaten path and explore these hidden gems.
Arts, Markets & Culture
The Gold Coast’s arts and culture scene has exploded in recent years. Events, festivals and creative spaces are popping up all over the city once known only for its surf and sand. And you don’t need to wait for the weekend to find plenty of ways to fill your cultural cup. Explore wares from local artisans at the Currumbin Community Farmers Market, held on Thursday mornings from 7am – 11am all year round. Fill your picnic basket with local produce and head to the hinterland where you can spend the day exploring the Gallery Walk at Mount Tamborine – full of art galleries, cafes, boutique shops and highland vibes that will give you a taste of green behind the golden coast.
For something a little further afield, jump in the car and take a drive to the impressive Tweed Regional Gallery just 45 minutes south of the Gold Coast. Here you’ll find the Margaret Olley Art Centre featuring paintings, objects and recreation of the famous Australian artist’s studio.
Family Fun
The Gold Coast is the ultimate family playground – and there’s so much for families to see and do beyond the main tourist attractions. Start the morning at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the southern Gold Coast where you can feed swarms of rainbow lorikeets for free each morning from 8am. You’ll want to make your next stop the Currumbin Rock Pools where you can have a refreshing inland dip away from the beachfront crowds. Chasing waterfalls? Head for Springbrook’s Twin Falls or Purling Brook Falls for some easy hikes that even the kids can enjoy.
Just back from the main glitter strip, you’ll find the Broadwater Parklands in Southport – a wide, open waterfront space for the community with shady spots for a picnic and free barbecue facilities. Plus, the kids can have a splash around the GC Aqua Park inflatable course or take the little ones to explore the free, supervised rockpools.
Foodie Trail
There’s no shortage of great places to dine on the Gold Coast – especially if you know where to look. Burleigh has become one of the coast’s best dining destinations – from morning acai bowls to five star dining, sports bars, steak houses and hole-in-the-wall coffee shops plus great Italian, Middle Eastern, Thai and Mexican at your fingertips. For street food inspired eats paired with live tunes, you can’t go past Miami Marketta – open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night. For casual fine dining overlooking the ocean, treat yourself to bug rolls and cocktails at Rick Shores.
Each little village also has its own hidden gems – Mudgeeraba has put hinterland dining on the map with the likes of The Wine Barrel and Anekawa Japanese, while Coolangatta’s Tasca and Francie’s Pizzeria have turned the southern dining scene into a must-try destination with a friendly local feel.