Gold Coast city life

This guide has loads of fun activities and great dining options in the main drag of the Gold Coast. If you’re after lots of things to do on your holiday, Surfers Paradise is the place to go. Broadbeach is the neighbouring suburb, which is packed with fantastic restaurants and a slightly less touristy feel. If you don’t want to venture too far out of the city strip, this guide is perfect for you.

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ELK Espresso

@josieking

The perfect spot for a relaxing and delicious beach-side brunch. This cafe offers inventive and quality warm breakfast meals as well as a large selection of the best pastries. Located centrally on the GC, right next to Broadbeach beach, a lot of people like to grab a takeaway coffee and treat and sit by the water. They also offer a bottomless mimosa brunch for a fun morning with the girls.

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Jet Ski Safaris

@josieking

Such a fun activity if you’re looking for something adventurous on your holiday. Great to do with a group of friends, family or your partner. Ride the jetski over to South Stradbroke Island for a quick drink and bite to eat. Really exhilarating experience when you’re driving at full speed over the open water.

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The Spit Gold Coast

@josieking

The Spit is the most northern section of the Gold Coast beach strip and is a popular spot with the locals to enjoy a relaxing day out. You can pack a picnic to enjoy in the parkland area, take surfing lessons, go fishing, or bring your furry friend for a run around. The dog beach is well kept and very popular among pet owners. You can walk to the end of the very long jetty and be surrounded by the beautiful water and sea breeze. I’d recommend doing a trip here if you’re staying close to the area, such as at SeaWorld Resort or at Surfers Paradise/ Main Beach.

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Sea World Resort

@josieking

Beautiful resort on site of the famous attraction, Sea World. Very convenient place to stay if you want to spend a couple of days at Sea World, but it is also very close to the tourist hotspot, Surfers Paradise. There’s a lovely large pool and is also right on Main Beach, so I’d recommend coming in the warmer months (October-April), but is still great any time of year. It’s a very family-oriented place but also romantic for a couples getaway. You can make the most of your stay by purchasing package deals to all the theme parks or the Outback Spectacular.

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Jet Boat Extreme

@josieking

As the name suggests, this is a fast boat ride that goes zipping across the Gold Coast’s main beach. The ride is almost an hour, and it departs from the tourist hotspot of the GC, Surfers Paradise. It is such a fun experience and you get fabulous views of the city line on the beach that the GC is famous for. It is a bit expensive to buy the professional photos, but could be worth it if you’d like a memory of this cool experience. Otherwise you can bring your own GoPro or waterproof camera to take photos/ videos.

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Surfers Pavilion

@josieking

Lovely location overlooking the canal in Surfers Paradise. During the day, Surfers Pavillion has a casual and relaxing feel, which transforms into a bustling bar scene at nighttime. There’s a great atmosphere here and good selection of food and drinks. I’d definitely recommend coming here for a meal or some drinks if you’re staying nearby.

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Infinity Attraction

@josieking

This is a unique and fun activity to do while in the touristy Surfers Paradise area. You’re given white gloves that glow under the blue light to help you feel where you’re going. I’d recommend taking your time and enjoying the experience as you find your way through the rooms, instead of rushing to the end. It might not be for you if you’re afraid of getting stuck in enclosed spaces, but rest assured it is perfectly safe and the staff can come and get you at any time. Definitely add this to your itinerary if you’re visiting the city, whether you’re with kids or not.

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La Luna Beach Club

@josieking

It’s an amazing dining experience at La Luna. By the water at Marina Mirage, it’s a lovely atmosphere to sip on some bubbles and enjoy exquisite food. It’s a little bit pricey but definitely worth it for the quality of food and beautiful surroundings. You’ll feel like a celebrity relaxing by the pool in a lounger or booth. Attached is also Mare restaurant, which is a great option if you’d like to get a little dressed up as opposed to lounging in swimwear.

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Gold Coast Gondolas

@josieking

Such a cool and romantic activity to do with a partner. Decide which Italian meal you’d like upon booking and they bring it fresh to the gondola.

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YOT Deck

@josieking

This waterfront restaurant is such a fun and upbeat place for some drinks and nibbles. With live music and a lovely view over the water, it’s a great spot to bring a group of friends to enjoy the afternoon.

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Sea World

@josieking

I used to love coming to SeaWorld as a teenager. There are acquariums, live dolphin shows and rides to keep you and your family entertained for the whole day. The rides are child-friendly but are also fun for adults, so you can have an adventurous date here with a partner. I’d recommend staying at the SeaWorld Resort if you’d like to spend more than one day exploring this amazing attraction.

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Pacific Fair Shopping Centre

@josieking

Pacific Fair has undergone enormous renovations in recent years and is now the second-largest shopping centre in QLD. It has over 400 shops that range from cheap to high-end fashion. It has a luxurious feel and is a pleasant place to spend the day. Would also recommend dining and catching a movie at event cinemas.

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Nineteen at The Star

@josieking

To feel like the rich and famous, go check out Nineteen at the Star and sit on one of the pool loungers overlooking the city skyline. Located on the 19th floor of the Star casino, this bar is very popular and gets crowded on weekend nights. Great place to go with some friends for drinks and people watching if you don’t mind the hustle and bustle.

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Atrium Bar

@josieking

Atrium bar is the place to go if you want to have a good boogy on the dance floor. It draws a mixed crowd being at the casino but always has a great dance floor playlist, with plenty of early 2000s bangers.

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Dorsett Gold Coast

@josieking

Beautiful hotel to stay in Broadbeach, right next to the casino and just across the road from Pacific Fair shopping centre. It’s a short walk to all the popular local restaurants. They have amazing views and and a large, luxurious resort-style pool where you can sip on cocktails while sunbaking. It’s only a short walk to the beach as well.

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Hideaway Kitchen & Bar

@josieking

Delicious Asian cuisine with fun and bright decor. The menu has lots of items great for sharing as well as some very tasty main courses if you’d prefer your own meal. Convenient location in Broadbeach, not far from Pacific Fair shopping centre and other bars & restaurants along the main strip. Would recommend for a group of friends or family or even a date night.

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Little Mermaid Cafe Bar

@josieking

Little Mermaid is a very pretty little store on the corner of the Gold Coast highway, in Mermaid but close to Broadbeach. It’s decorated beautifully with lots of plants and pastel colours. The food, coffee and juices are all fabulous, so it’s a great spot for breakfast if you’re staying nearby.

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Mecca Bah Gold Coast

@josieking

I’ve been to Meccah Bah multiple times and have never been disappointed. The Mediterranean style food is so delicious and they have a great array of drinks. My personal favourite menu option was the banquet, which was the perfect to share on a date with lots of yummy dishes to try.

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Gemelli Italian

@josieking

Gemelli has such good quality, tasty, authentic Italian food. I don’t think you can go wrong with anything on the menu. It’s also conveniently located in the centre of Broadbeach, so there’s plenty of places to go to for drinks or dessert afterwards. If you’re feeling stuffed, I love doing a walk along the beach at nighttime after dinner to help disgest.

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Mamasan Kitchen + Bar

@josieking

Mamasan is one of my favourite restaurants. This Asian cuisine is so delicious and the popular restaurant fills up, so make sure you book a couple of weeks in advance.

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endota spa Broadbeach

@josieking

My favourite spa to relax and get a decent massage. Very calming and soothing environment and staff. I’ve been many times and always leave feeling very relaxing and my muscles loosened. Perfect for a little bit of me-time when you need to take a break for yourself.

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Miss Moneypenny's Broadbeach

@josieking

I went here for a boozy lunch on my bachelorette weekend and had a great time. They have a great cocktail menu and the food menu is easy to share in a group or have your own. They had very good service and made sure we were well looked after.

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Pinot & Picasso Gold Coast

@josieking

A fun activity to do with friends. Have some laughs while sipping on wine and painting the selected picture of the day. No need to be artistic or good at painting- it’s something everyone can enjoy.

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Suave At The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub

@josieking

Fantastic entertainment for a night out with the girls. I went to a show here on my Hen’s weekend and it didn’t disappoint! You can order food and drinks to your table while enjoying the jaw-dropping show.

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The Loose Moose

@josieking

The Loose Moose is a Canadian style grill house and bar. It has a warm, welcoming atmosphere and is located right in the middle of the popular Broadbeach strip. You can get a delicious, hearty feed here, but it’s more of a bar scene later in the evenings.

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Social Eating House + Bar

@josieking

One of my all time favourite restaurants. Such delicious, quality food. Great for sharing with a group. Would highly recommend the beef empanadas and tuna crackers to start.

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Edgewater Dining and Lounge

@josieking

This waterfront restaurant feels so elegant at nighttime with beautiful views of the city lights over the canal. The atmosphere is the selling point in my opinion, so it’s a lovely spot for a drink. The food was good but not exceptional in my opinion. Wait times can be somewhat extended with the busyness of the venue, so it’s ideal to come here with no time constraints to enjoy a relaxing meal.

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SkyPoint Observation Deck

@josieking

This is a popular activity with both tourists and locals, and for good reason! The Skypoint deck is located at the top of the iconic Q1 building overlooking the beach and city. The view is amazing and is a must-do at least once if you get the chance.

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Q1 Gold Coast - Resort And Spa

@josieking

The Q1 is the tallest residential building in the southern hemisphere and is probably the Gold Coast’s most well-known attraction. It’s located right in the centre of Surfers Paradise, so there’s seemingly unlimited activities and restaurants not too far away. The staff are friendly and the rooms are very specious, with incredible views all around. The pool is also very enjoyable and adjoining is the very popular Longboards eatery, where you can get the most delicious burgers and cocktails.

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Longboards Laidback Eatery & Bar

@josieking

If you’re into surf culture, Longboards has interesting surf-related decor. It’s a lovely spot for dinner sitting by the Q1 pool with coloured lights that really add to the vibe. The gourmet burgers are huge and delicious and the cocktails are also worth trying.

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Timezone Surfers Paradise

@josieking

Timezone is very popular for kids and young adults. It’s a great place to go as a family for a fun day of games and entertainment. It’s located in central surfers paradise, so is easy to walk to if you’re staying in the city.

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iFLY Gold Coast

@josieking

This is an exhilarating and adventurous activity for those young at heart. It simulates skydiving while in the safety of an indoor tunnel with an instructor by your side. It’s a very fun activity for both kids and adults.

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White Rhino Bar & Eats

@josieking

A popular bar in the main drag of Surfers Paradise city. They have live music on Friday and Saturday evenings and half priced drinks at happy hour. I’ve been here a few times, including for New Years Eve, and had a great night! The atmosphere is fun and vibrant with a jungle theme. Would recommend checking it out for dinner and some drinks.

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House of Brews

@josieking

For the best burgers and cocktails around, check out House of Brews. It’s an American-style grill and bar that serves huge portions. They’re famous for their massive, creative burgers that aren’t just Instagram-worthy but also delicious. They have great share options too, such as the nacho platter, which is great for groups of friends or families. It’s right in the main strip of Surfers Paradise, so you can continue the night at any of the other locales nearby.

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Steampunk Surfers Paradise

@josieking

As you’d guess by the name, this is a steampunk-themed bar, which is located in surfers paradise. The atmosphere is moody but upbeat, especially when the live music starts. It draws quite a crowd, not only for the epic burgers and cocktails, but also for the fire display out the front. Great spot for dinner and drinks with the family, friends or on a date.

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Holey Moley Golf Club Cavill

@josieking

A fun activity to do with a group of friends or the family. You can play putt putt, do karaoke, get some funny photos and have dinner or some drinks at Holey Moley. If you want to have a look at what you’re in for, head to their website and take the 360 degree tour.

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The Avenue - Surfers Paradise

@josieking

The Avenue is a really popular bar that starts off a bit quieter in daytime hours but by the evening it’s the best spot in town for a great boogey on the dance floor. It’s not too overpriced and the atmosphere is fun and inviting for a night out. They’re also open for lunch 7 days a week and host live bands and karaoke.

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Hurricane's Grill & Bar Surfers Paradise

@josieking

Hurricane’s is a large grill joint where you can enjoy a low key lunch or dinner overlooking the beach in Surfers Paradise. It’s a great spot for the family, where you’ll be sure to find something for everyone to enjoy. Would recommend going for a walk around afterwards and visiting the beachfront markets if you’re there on a Wed, Fri or Sat evening.

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Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets

@josieking

Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 4-9pm the beachfront comes alive with markets. There’s a wide variety of stall types, including crafts, clothing, gifts, jewellery etc. It’s really nice to have a stroll through at nighttime after dinner.

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QUBE Resort

@josieking

I stayed here for 3 nights over my bachelorette weekend and it was the perfect spot! Right in the centre of Broadbeach, it’s easy to walk to numerous restaurants and bars. We had a huge balcony that was well-separated from neighbours so we didn’t have to worry too much about privacy or noise. The apartment was very spacious and clean and the service was good. Would definitely recommend staying here!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Josie King

I’m a 28 year old female who loves to travel and share my experiences! I really enjoy going out for meals and drinks, so I can give you plenty of dining suggestions. I also like to recommend fun activities and places where you can just relax and explore. I lived on the Gold Coast in Australia for 25 years, so I know heaps of fantastic places to visit there. My family is from Tasmania, so I have done many trips to the beautiful state and have lots of tips to share. I have been to Europe 3 times, one of which was a gap year spent nannying and travelling. I’m very honest in my reviews and recommendations, so if you need helpful tips for your next trip, check out my guides!

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