8 Must-Visit Places On The Gold Coast (That Aren’t Beaches)
The ultimate guide
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Golden beaches and sparkling blue waterways – that’s the Gold Coast we all know and love. But beyond the beloved shores, there’s a flourishing culinary scene, world-class hotels, and hidden gems waiting to be explored, showcasing a different side to the coastal oasis. From the hustle and bustle of Surfers Paradise to the laidback ambience of Currumbin, this iconic destination is the perfect playground for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
O’Reilly’s
Set at 930 metres above sea level and cocooned by the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Brisbane. Yet, it’s just a two-hour drive from the city. Craving an escape from reality? O’Reilly’s is calling your name.
Whether it’s the cosy, hotel-style rooms or the self-contained, luxury villas perched atop the sloping hillside – both providing sweeping views of the stunning Scenic Rim – there are no wrong choices when it comes to accommodation. Then, there’s the question of what to do. Whether you’re flying solo, with friends, or it’s a family affair, there’s plenty to experience. Nature lovers can explore over 500 majestic waterfalls and over 160 kilometres of beautiful walking trails, while thrill-seekers have flying foxes, exhilarating eBike tours, and wildlife encounters to look forward to. And if your idea of a holiday is doing nothing at all, the award-winning Lost World Spa and stunning infinity pool are waiting for you.
fTop it all off with world-class wining and dining at the Rainforest Bar, Dining Room, and the nearby O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards, and you will never want to leave. BRB, just submitting our annual leave…
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
Indulge in unparalleled luxury at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, a sanctuary where opulence meets relaxation. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the coastal lifestyle, offering an elevated experience in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Boasting 238 exquisitely designed rooms and suites, each starting at a spacious 42 square metres, you can expect breathtaking views of both the hinterland and the ocean. Just a short stroll from the iconic Gold Coast beaches, JW Marriott Gold Coast is a haven for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity.
The resort’s pool area is truly an unmatched experience, featuring a variety of pools catering to all ages. The saltwater lagoon, teeming with over 300 tropical fish, provides a unique snorkelling experience, while the freshwater pool, with its thrilling slide, is a hit amongst younger guests. The poolside cabanas and lounge areas provide the perfect spot for relaxation, making it an ideal retreat for the travellers looking to unwind. The resort’s dining venues spotlight the finest local produce with a range of dishes crafted from sustainable, ethically sourced ingredients harvested from the JW Garden. Whether you’re enjoying award-winning Citrique’s renowned seafood buffet and farm-to-table a la carte dishes, or savouring the vibrant Japanese flavours at Misono, every meal celebrates the region’s rich culinary heritage.
QT Gold Coast
Playful sophistication is found at QT Gold Coast, where designer luxury collides with coastal cool. Skirting the Surfers Paradise city fringe, this five-star resort blends a splash of quirkiness with the vibrancy of the Gold Coast. Experience a unique getaway in the cosy cabins at qtQT, featuring an open-air rooftop sanctuary surrounded by tropical greenery and a golden horizon. Designed with eclectic decor and stocked up with a collection of locally sourced amenities, your cabin showcases the signature QT style. With absolutely no need to leave the premises, spend the day soaking up the sun-drenched luxury at The Spring, complete with poolside cabanas, mini spaQ pampers, and cocktails and bites.
Looking for a little self-care? SpaQ has you covered with blissful relaxation. Dining-wise, QT Gold Coast delights. FIXX Cafe is known for its QTea high tea and viral events like Brooki Bakehouse and Pistachio Papi pop-ups, offering a decadent and rotating menu. Enjoy dinner at the multi-award-winning Yamagen Japanese, where Chef Adam Lane presents Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. Bazaar Marketplace features dynamic global flavours, and Stingray Lounge is the perfect place to kick on. With one of Australia’s best beaches nearby and shopping and entertainment at your doorstep, QT Gold Coast is the ultimate coastal playground.
Dorsett Gold Coast
Welcome to Dorsett Gold Coast, a jewel nestled in the vibrant heart of Broadbeach, where coastal charm and urban excitement seamlessly converge. As a prime feature of The Star’s renowned leisure and entertainment precinct, Dorsett Gold Coast offers an unparalleled stay just 500 meters from Kurrawa Beach. Whether guests are in the mood for a day at the beach, a shopping spree at Pacific Fair, or a visit to the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, they are always close to the action. At the Isoletto Pool Club, visitors can bask in the sun all year round. They can unwind on submerged wet lounges or savour expertly crafted cocktails while enjoying the breathtaking view through the stunning 12-meter viewing wall. Whether for work, leisure, or a combination of both, Dorsett Gold Coast ensures a truly unforgettable sophisticated stay.
Sanctuary Cove
Maybe you made the trip from Brisbane, in which case, you’re likely hungry from the drive (which is approximately one hour from the CBD). Fortunately, a variety of mouthwatering eateries are waiting for you to discover. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch, a gourmet seafood spread, cocktails and bar snacks, a Mexican feast, or something else entirely, the Marine Village boasts exceptional cafes, restaurants, bakeries and bars to choose from, satisfying every craving. With a range of unique boutiques offering everything from specialty homewares to designer and local fashion labels alike, you’re just as likely to find a thoughtful gift for a loved one as you are a new favourite outfit. The award-winning marina is also the glamorous setting for the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, an unmissable event that draws tens of thousands each year, showcasing over 600 boats and 1000 marine products.
For those who love the game, the Sanctuary Cove Golf Club features world-class greens and challenging courses. Plus, the Sanctuary Cove Country Club offers an ideal setting for enjoying various other workouts, including yoga, swimming, tennis, and reformer Pilates. With all this on offer, you might find yourself wanting to extend your day trip. Well, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort provides a fantastic base, with its five-star accommodation and amenities, including lush gardens, stylish suites, and a one-acre lagoon beach pool.
The Langham, Gold Coast
While many Gold Coast hotels can claim to be beachside, few can boast prime beachfront status. Enter The Langham, Gold Coast, the first luxury hotel in 30 years to offer direct access to these sandy shores. Perfectly positioned for a seaside stay, the five-star experience delivers uninterrupted views of the coastline on one side and the hinterland on the other, providing visitors with the best of both worlds. Globally renowned as a prestigious hotel with locations all around the world, each destination is more than just a place to rest your head. With 170 residences and 169 rooms and suites, each featuring expansive balconies that offer stunning vantage points, the spaces are tastefully designed to reflect the coastal charm of the surroundings while upholding the hotel’s commitment to luxury. A visit to the Chuan Spa is a must, where indulgent treatments rooted in traditional Chinese medicine provide a holistic approach to wellness.
Complementing the spa are a state-of-the-art health club, a 20-metre indoor magnesium pool, and an outdoor pool featuring a sandy, lagoon-style entrance, complete with a fully serviced swim-up bar to enjoy refreshing cocktails while basking in the sun. As for the dining options, considered culinary concepts are the icing on the cake of your stay. From T’ang Court, the tantalising Cantonese fine-dining restaurant, to Akoya, a refined casual dining experience spotlighting local produce, The Langham, Gold Coast does not hold back in its foodie offerings.
Capri on Via Roma
First, coffee. If you’re the kind of person who can’t fully function until they have their morning caffeine fix, then Urban Fix Espresso, South Coast Coffee Co, and Bisou Bakery are for you, brewing from the early hours. Make sure to grab a bite for breakfast while you’re there too. Not a coffee drinker? Avocado Queen is the spot for you, with delicious juices, smoothies, salads, and sandwiches made fresh daily.
Capri on Via Roma is home to the only Harris Farm Markets on the Gold Coast, making it a must-visit for fresh produce and gourmet groceries. You’ll also find a variety of specialty services, including a car wash, gym, chemists, dentist, post office, medical centre, and travel agent, so you can check off your to-do list as you go. There’s nothing more peaceful than spending a day on the water, and GoBoat provides the perfect opportunity for those without a boating license. These electric, private picnic boats are easy to drive and can accommodate up to eight people—fur babies included.
Once you’re back on land and have bid goodbye to your sea legs, why not treat yourself to some TLC? Start with a massage at Pure Peace Massage, then book in for a pampering at one of the local hair and beauty salons. Or if retail therapy is more your style, explore the beautiful boutiques offering a range of fashion and gifts. As the day winds down, enjoy a waterfront feast at Isla Cantina or Edgewater Dining, where you can wine and dine with a view. For authentic Asian cuisine, Valyn Thai Restaurant and Madam Fu are the perfect spots to end your day on a flavourful note.
The Cheshire Cat Motel
Step into The Cheshire Cat Motel and experience the perfect mix of nostalgic charm and contemporary luxury. This revamped gem, which was once a classic 1960s Gold Coast motel, now displays a fresh, Palm Springs-inspired aesthetic. With seven uniquely styled rooms and a cosy two-bedroom bungalow, guests can unwind in style. The property features a refreshing plunge pool, a lively pool deck adorned with lush greenery and cacti, and a communal co-working terrace. The decor, in warm tones of burnt orange, eucalypt green, and creamy white, sets a laid-back, summery mood. Located just 200 meters from the beach, it’s tempting to stay outside and soak up the sun. Owned by a local husband-and-wife duo, The Cheshire Cat Motel blends its rich heritage with a touch of modern elegance.
Header: Dorsett Gold Coast
