Edgy, Luxe & New: A Guide to the Gold Coast of TODAY
Throw any preconceptions you may have of the Gold Coast as nothing more than a ‘glitter strip’ right out the window, because we’re here to tell you that this Queensland destination is a multifaceted gem, with plenty to offer even the most seasoned travellers.
From laidback coastal towns where the coffee culture pumps as hard as the surf, to sleepy hinterland villages and over 100,000 square kilometres of World Heritage national parks and conservation area, a burgeoning fine-dining scene, and more boutiques and bars than you can shake your credit card at, there’s plenty here to surprise and delight every member of your travel party.
STAY:
For those who love the finer things in life the Gold Coast delivers a decadent array of luxury accommodation. These are some of our favourites:
The Langham
Bringing serene sophistication and coastal charm, The Langham, Gold Coast is the first new beachfront luxury hotel to arrive on the Gold Coast. A refined beach escape, offering uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean or the Hinterland, its 169 hotel rooms and 170 residences are ideally positioned on absolute beachfront.
QT
A short stroll from one of Australia's most famous surf beaches, hedonistic high-rise QT Gold Coast hotel is a stylish, fun-filled design den, with dreamy dining options, a cool pool, stylish spa, and sea-view rooms.
The Darling at The Star
Offering the perfect combination of boutique design and luxury, The Darling at the Star features 56 well-appointed suites with bespoke fittings and the finest amenities and finishes. Complemented by The Star Gold Coast’s signature restaurants and bars, world-class gaming, state-of-the-art theatre, and exciting nightlife.
PLAY:
Forget the region’s famous theme parks because the Gold Coast is teeming with action, pampering, beaches, yachts, and gourmet fare so whatever your pace, there’s plenty of more refined playing to be done.
For a hit of culture, you’ll want to make a beeline for HOTA Gallery - a world-class venue boasting incredible interactive art installations and experiences. For a day of art appreciation, HOTA Collects is a permanent collection of over 100 beautiful pieces from Australian artists, which outside the creativity continues with HOTA’s Sculpture Walk where you can discover art in nature.
Speaking of nature, the Gold Coast abounds with outdoor delights and if you’re travelling as a family, one of the most memorable experiences in the region is the iconic Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Set within 27 hectares of Currumbin rainforest, it is a not-for-profit organisation where all proceeds are reinvested into wildlife and conservation programs.
While you’re on the southern end of the Gold Coast, why not head out to Currumbin Rock Pools - a ‘secret’ swimming hole ensconced in ancient rainforest, a mere fifteen-minute drive from Currumbin Beach. There are waterfalls, an easy walking trail, picnic tables and oodles of fresh air.
The beaches down this way are also quieter than their northern counterparts, and if you’re a surfer, the waves are famously more impressive too. Head to Snapper Rocks – home of the Billabong Pro – for a morning of quality surfing, learn to surf in the gentle calm of Currumbin Alley, or take a relaxing stroll along the boardwalk at Rainbow Bay or along the famous path at Kirra point.
Each of these suburbs are bursting at the seams with cute cafes and delicious dining outlets, so grab a coffee, acai bowl, smoothie, or gourmet fish and chips, and spend a morning soaking up the sunshine and stunning beachside views.
If you’re a lover of wellness or simply looking to unwind, there are plenty of options on the Gold Coast for a beautiful massage, spa treatment or bath house session. SpaQ at QT is a haven of luxurious spa splendour, where the menu is packed with some serious therapeutic punch, as well as the option for flexibility, customisation and individualisation. The Bathhouse at Ground is a beautiful hydrotherapy centre set amongst remnant rainforest in a lush outdoor setting under the canopy of a majestic fig tree where you can treat yourself to a soak in a mineral enhanced plunge pool, traditional hot tub, or ice bath, or kick back in a wood fired or infrared sauna.
HOTA
Home of the arts and your cultural immersion
DINE:
Whether you’re looking for a cute break spot, a great wine bar, a brewery for an afternoon session, or a high-end restaurant for an evening of gastronomical delights, the Gold Coast has become a dining hotspot.
When it comes to million-dollar views, they don’t get much greater than a seaside seat at Rick Shores, which promises Pan-Asian flavours in one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic locations and focuses on fresh, locally-sourced produce intended to be shared.
The darling of Palm Beach’s dining scene, Balboa Italian Restaurant, brings Italy to the Gold Coast and delivers high quality food and beverages in an inclusive, elegant atmosphere. New to the same suburb - which is celebrating an explosion of trendy dining options - is T’ang Court, the Langham’s culinary crown, serving fine Cantonese dining.
Some of our other favourite tasty treats for foodies are Restaurant Labart in Burleigh Heads, Mamasan Kitchen & Bar in Broadbeach and Nineteen at the Star - all of which combine a touch of luxury with impeccable food in beautiful settings.
Rick Shores
Fine dining by the seaside