A local’s guide to the most booming Gold Coast suburbs

Just steps beyond the surf, a huddle of personality-packed Gold Coast suburbs hum with distinct brands of good vibes.

Hypnotising swells and extended months of sunshine make it tough to peel yourself away from the Goldie’s epic beaches. But dusting the sand off to uncover a diverse network of glittering Gold Coast suburbs will forever change the way you feel about this phenomenal city.

From hipster-laced meccas frothing up magnetic cafe culture and world-class dining, to neighbourhoods spilling over with luxury accommodation and covert pockets of laid-back boutiques, this is modern-day beach culture that manages to thrill in some corners while it soothes in others.

Central Gold Coast suburbs

The bottom line: Round-the-clock entertainment, the world’s most renowned luxury hotel chains and acclaimed dining help maintain this region as the coast’s indisputable beating heart.

a beachfront hotel at Langham Gold Coast — The Langham Gold Coast is unobstructed beachfront luxury. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

It’s the Gold Coast from your childhood – towering skyscrapers, big-name eateries and thumping nightlife. But Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Main Beach and Southport are all Gold Coast suburbs worth exploring a little deeper. Home to some of the coast’s most luxurious accommodation, including The Langham , QT Gold Coast and its six adorable qtQT Cabins , one of the country’s two five-star Darling hotels and JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa , this concentration of high-end bliss is riddled with up-all-night activity, drawing tourists by the truckload daily.

Surf lessons, gondola rides through neighbourhood canals, wax museums, river cruises, extreme water sports, indoor skydiving, miniature golf and even a Hologram Zoo (so very Surfers) are all on your doorstep. When it’s time to chow down, standouts include Broadbeach’s flame-licked kost Bar and Grill , Surfers’ exquisite three-hatted Palette within HOTA (Home of the Arts) and Main Beach’s fun-fuelled Holy Ship trawlers.

Palette within HOTA (Home of the Arts), Gold Coast — The elegant Palette fine diner is situated in the vibrant HOTA Gallery. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

It’s worth noting that these days, Broadbeach rivals Surfers when it comes to finding a spot in the thick of it all. Remember Dracula’s dinner theatre? It’s still alive and kicking, celebrating its 40th trip around the Gold Coast sun in 2025, while the retail haven of Pacific Fair across the road continues to draw hot labels including LSKD activewear and a Jurlique concept store that offers treatments.

a staff training a seal at Sea World Gold Coast — Say hello to seals at Sea World Gold Coast.

Meanwhile, Main Beach is still your go-to for Sea World Gold Coast and at-sea charters departing Marina Mirage, which is also home to extremely chic pool parties care of La Luna Beach Club . Southport’s Broadwater Parklands is worth an entire day out with little ones, but don’t forget their cozzies – multiple play attractions, including The Rockpools splash zone and the Broadwater’s calm estuary waters, provide plenty of opportunity to get wet.

Holiday makers should also note that Southport welcomed Tryp by Wyndham , one of the Gold Coast’s newest hotels, in December 2024, and the suburb also boasts one of the best Gold Coast spa experiences: Vikasati , a bathhouse with spacious outdoor facilities.

Northern Gold Coast suburbs

The bottom line: You’re a short drive from the chaos of Central Gold Coast while gaining spacious pastures, countless outdoor activities for kids and tranquil water views.

Love the energy of Surfers, but keen for quiet time once the sun sinks? Northern Gold Coast suburbs are just the ticket for an escape that’s close to the action without the often-frenzied crowds of Central Gold Coast. Sizable sporting fields and play areas, pretty, unpopulated vistas and an outspread of restaurants, accommodation and attractions make its two biggest suburbs, Sanctuary Cove and Coomera, huge hits with travelling families who want action (hello, Gold Coast theme parks) close to waterfront downtime.

a thrilling ride at Dreamworld, Gold Coast — Dreamworld features kid-friendly attractions and spine-tingling coasters.

At the energy plus end of the scale, Coomera is where you’ll find Dreamworld and WhiteWater World, and just 12 minutes down the road, you’ll spy Warner Bros. Movie World and Wet’n’Wild. Needless to say, accommodation is fit for families, including BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park which is a nine-minute journey to Dreamworld and WhiteWater World, and even closer to the others.

A little more towards the coastline, Sanctuary Cove is a boaties’ delight, dripping with million-dollar yachts, calming Broadwater views and fine dining galore. The marina is the place to be, where Reds Kitchen & Bar always provides a vibe and The Fireplace within the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort nails flame-cooked fare.

steak lunch at Reds Kitchen & Bar, Gold Coast — Order a flame-kissed steak for lunch at Reds Kitchen & Bar.

In nearby Benowa, another northern Gold Coast suburb, you’ll find excellent overnight digs at the RACV Royal Pines Resort Gold Coast, hands down one of the best resorts in the city, which flows with amenities including three nine-hole golf courses, a day spa and multiple dining options.

Burleigh area

The bottom line: This fast-growing, people-watching corner of the Gold Coast is littered with creative minds pushing the envelope through elevated dining, extremely cool bars and one of 2025’s most anticipated hotel unveilings.

A magnet for post-pandemic relocators (including this Australian Traveller writer), forever recalibrated by the upswing of remote working, the beach-side cluster of Burleigh Heads, Mermaid Beach, Miami and their surrounds offer countless gems. Each haven is dotted with its own collection of breezy eateries and fine dining, dishing up coffee to rival Melbourne’s finest, spectacularly executed bars, and beachy-cool boutiques.

a couple arriving at Restaurant Labart, Gold Coast suburbs — Step into the stylish Restaurant Labart for European bistro-style dining. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Burleigh Heads is already well-discovered, tapped by visitors for its wide range of activities. James Street’s string of boutiques and restaurants, including nationally acclaimed superstars Paloma wine bar and Freddy’s chicken shop, is always busy, and you’ll need to plan in advance if you want tables at Rick Shores , Restaurant Labart , Jimmy Wah’s and The Tropic . Come nightfall, Burleigh is an adults-only wonderland as an eclectic mix of speakeasies and cocktail bars keep party animals well hydrated. Don’t miss Rosella’s on the Gold Coast Highway for their game-changing ‘Fantales’ concoction that expertly blends rum and chocolate with a homemade take on the nostalgic sweet itself. We can confirm it’s even more delicious than its inspiration.

a bartender preparing a drink at Paloma wine bar, Gold Coast — Sip on expertly curated drinks at Paloma wine bar. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Burleigh also said hello to Australia’s first Mondrian hotel in June 2025. Offering a pool club, multiple dining experiences and that signature cool the international hotel chain is synonymous with, the hotel will undoubtedly be the place to be seen in the months ahead.

inside a bar at Miami Marketta, Gold Coast suburbs — Miami Marketta features onsite bars with live music every night. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Miami, just north of Burleigh, is equally exciting as trendy watering holes make waves. It’s grown just about as hectic as Burleigh in recent years as uber-cool hospitality types stamp their mark on the once-sleepy suburb. Miami Marketta is a food truck lover’s dream, offering live music and tasty treats in a grungy food hall, Paddock Bakery (technically Burleigh, but right on the border and feeling very Miami-esque) is the suburb’s most popular baked goods pit-stop and Precinct Brewing Co. offers awesome locally crafted cold ones.

a strawberry tart at Bam Bam Bakehouse, Gold Coast — Try the special strawberry tart at Bam Bam Bakehouse. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Mermaid Beach continues its rise as Burleigh’s cooler little sibling, offering cult foodie destinations such as the much-loved Bam Bam Bakehouse , one of the Gold Coast’s best dessert venues, and rooftop rowdiness at JuJu at the southern end near Nobby Beach. It’s also where the team behind Rick Shores opened up their double-delicious Latin American-inspired second venture, Sueno terrace bar and diner, upstairs from the outstanding Norte — a serious contender for the Gold Coast’s most impressive fine dining restaurant.

Chained to your offspring? Sorry about that. Mermaid might be more your speed, home to a three-course putt-putt golf extravaganza, plus Turtle Beach Resort , one of the most fun-filled accommodation options for families with kids.

Southern Gold Coast suburbs

The bottom line: You’re only about 30 minutes’ drive away, but Surfers Paradise feels like another planet compared to the Gold Coast’s southern beaches. Think laidback beach town vibes, killer cafes, and Instagramable eateries alongside some of the most striking coastal vistas around.

unique wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Gold Coast suburbs — Learn more about Australia’s native wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Firmly focused on showcasing the greatest of the outdoors, the southern Gold Coast suburbs are a nature lover’s paradise while still offering brilliant man-made experiences. No doubt, crowds thin out by the time you’ve touched down in Palm Beach, Currumbin, Tugun and Coolangatta, but a smorgasbord of understated attractions isn’t so secret anymore.

a spread of food on the table at Dune Cafe, Gold Coast — The menu at Dune Cafe is loaded with top-quality local produce.

Palm Beach, just south of Burleigh, delivers outstanding cafes and the Gold Coast’s most scenic surf club . Pop in for a barefoot post-swim feed at Dune Cafe , overlooking the magical Currumbin Lagoon, or feast on flavour-packed Mexican at Frida Sol ’s rooftop restaurant. The 1960s vibes remain strong in this neck of the woods, most notably in The Mysa Motel , offering a slice of Palm Springs via seven Instagram-friendly rooms.

the restaurant exterior of Tommy's Italian, Gold Coast suburbs — Snag a beautiful spot for a long lunch at Tommy’s Italian.

Currumbin, the next suburb down along the coastline, is this writer’s favourite Gold Coast beach, and where you’ll find the long-serving, and long-loved, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary , just down the road from the beach itself. There’s also a serious foodie scene with Tommy’s Italian providing long lunch overlooking the waves, while Swell Sculpture Festival , staged annually right across the beach, brings in culture vulture points.

a sculpture at the Swell Sculpture Festival, Gold Coast suburbs — See spectacular installations at the Swell Sculpture Festival. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Neighbouring suburb Tugun is a small, laid-back pocket filled with more cafes, boutiques and restaurants including Stable within the very trendy Cornerstone mecca of retail outlets, and Niche & Co plating up vegan-friendly creations. While you’re in town, book a stay at yet another Palm Springs-inspired motel, Tessa’s on the Beach , located in Bilinga which is on your way down to Coolangatta.

a couple with their bicycles outside Tessa’s on the Beach motel, Gold Coast — The stark white Tessa’s on the Beach retro motel pays homage to Palm Springs. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

As for Cooly, right on the border of New South Wales and Queensland, don’t miss the opportunity to spend a night inside the very rock and roll Pink Hotel Coolangatta, nodding once again to 1960s Americana through its furnishings and striking facade. Coolangatta itself is full of great shops and chain eateries but drive just a few minutes south for the unmissable, always-pristine Rainbow Bay beach and legendary Snapper Rocks surf spot.

Gold Coast Hinterland suburbs

The bottom line: Switch out a day at the beach for the chance to immerse yourself in lush countryside, rainforest and farmland, all found within a shockingly short drive from the coastline.

The Gold Coast’s coastal charms are world-renowned but don’t overlook the city’s spectacular Hinterland. The shift from beach to bush is so sudden, it feels as though you’ve been transported to another state entirely. Encompassing several Gold Coast suburbs and regions including Tallebudgera Valley, Currumbin Valley, Lamington National Park, Mount Tamborine, Springbrook National Park and the Numinbah Valley, the Gold Coast Hinterland fringes much of the city.

a couple relaxing in the pool at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Gold Coast suburbs — Enjoy peak serenity at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Step into fresh, forest air for unexpected treasures to pop out from nowhere, such as Pasture & Co , a sprawling cafe complete with its own kitchen garden, storybook fig tree and wild kangaroos, located in the Currumbin Valley. Tallebudgera Valley offers its own surprises, including one of the country’s leading health experiences, Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat .

Lamington National Park is teeming with unique wildlife, as is Springbrook National Park which also offers some of the most stunning natural waterfalls in Australia. Meanwhile, the Numinbah Valley, located just north-west of Springbrook, offers rich camping accommodation in the way of Numinbah Valley Bush Camping and the postcard-perfect Mount Tamborine is home to Witches Falls ’ excellent wine, French-inspired dining and trendy shops. Stay at The Tamborine for stylish luxury enveloped with magical views and the warmest of hospitality.

a couple touring around Witches Falls Winery, Gold Coast suburbs — Go on a scenic tour of Witches Falls Winery on Tamborine Mountain. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Discover the best things to do on the Gold Coast

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

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