A local's guide to the Gold Coast

A morning swim followed by brunch is a rite of passage for Gold Coast locals - and cafes slinging high quality breakfasts can be found all along this stretch of coastline.

Refinery Coffee in Currumbin Waters is a local favourite known for Asian-inspired dishes - and a bottomless brunch option for those leaning into the holiday spirit. Tucked into the the beautiful Cornerstone Stores in Tugun, Stable Coffee and Kitchen leans heavily on local produce, with plenty of plant-based options and great coffee too.

Head north up the Gold Coast Highway and you could drive right past Bam Bam Bakehouse, but you’d be missing out. Part French-style patisserie, part breakfast bistro, the locally owned Mermaid Beach hangout has secured a place in the hearts of Gold Coast locals thanks to the great vibe and even better food. In fact, the bakehouse is so beloved it has a celebrity fan base. The Bam Bam Benny – eggs benedict served on a croissant – is a Gold Coast experience worth seeking out.  

Must-do activity

Beaches may be the region's biggest drawcard, but a close second is the Gold Coast Oceanway - the 36-kilometre network of shared bike and pedestrian pathways that trace along the city’s iconic coastline. This is where you'll find the locals from sunrise each morning: walking, running and cycling beside views money can't buy.

Nomatter where you've chosen to stay on the Gold Coast, make your way to the esplanade and get moving. You'll find plenty of cafes to grab a cuppa for the walk, or if cycling is more your style there are a number of rental companies who can gear you up - try Kool Bike in Coolangatta, Fun for Rent in Surfers Paradise, or Mikes Bikes in Miami.

Where to watch the sun go down

Head to Burleigh Headland for an afternoon of sunshine, sweeping coastal views, and good company. Burleigh Hill is far from a local secret, but it's one of the best sunset spots on the Gold Coast. Grab takeaway from one of the many shops nearby, or DIY a picnic setup with cheese and nibbles from Golosi Food Emporium.

Dinner and drinks

The Gold Coast's food scene really has it all: fine diners for date nights, iconic waterfront restaurants, hip hangouts and casual spots like beloved surf clubs found from north to south. Nomatter your tastes, you'll never be far from a good feed.

Burleigh Heads' restaurants are always bustling with a local crowd - particularly the rooftop at Justin Lane, known for sourdough pizzas, handmade pasta and an atmosphere that can get a little rowdy. For a more casual slice, Franc Jnrs pizzeria slings classic and Detroit-style pizzas for walk-ins and takeaway at two locations, Coolangatta and Mermaid Beach.

Get a taste of Kyoto at Itoshin in Mermaid Beach - an under-the-radar hang for hotpit, sashimi, omakase and specialty sake. Or venture to Palm Beach to witness a local dining scene on the rise: this southern suburb has become a haven of taquerias with Frida Sol, Los Palmas and Costa Taco all beckoning diners for Mexican cuisine and spicy margs.

Thirsty for an afternoon beer? These local breweries will hit the spot, grab a table overlooking the water at Rainbow Bay SLSC, or get a few friends together for beers and bowls at Burleigh Heads Bowls Club.

Kicking on? The Gold Coast's rooftop bars always bring the vibes, but you'll find the best cocktails on the coast at The Cambus Wallace, a merchant ship-themed bar named after the ship that wrecked nearby at Stradbroke Island in 1894. Expect great service, a range of signature and classic cocktails, and - rightly so - a huge menu of rum and whisky to boot. 

Weekend activity

Shopping at The Village Markets is  one of the best non-touristy things to do when in town. With a bustling Sunday atmosphere and live local music, the markets showcase emerging designer and vintage fashion and are the perfect spot for a lazy stroll. Set among the trees at Burleigh Heads State School, the markets are held on the first and third Sunday of each month.

Here are more local markets to hit up while you're on the Gold Coast.

Best family outing

Got a family full of water babies? A day at the beach is an easy activity that'll win the whole family over - especially if you pick one of the Gold Coast's many kid-friendly beaches. Snag a spot on the sand, throw down a towel, and tuck in to some of the Gold Coast’s best fish and chips.

Set up your beach umbrella at Tallebudgera Creek for a splash in calm waters. It's a great spot to bring boogie boards and SUPs, with both a kiosk and a bakery/cafe nearby when hunger strikes (or when the parents need a coffee). The best access for families bringing beach gear is from the south side at Palm Beach, which has a carpark (access from Burleigh Heads requires a walk through the national park to reach the beach).

Currumbin is another popular spot with the option to explore and play on the surf beach or the calmer waters of Currumbin Creek. There's surf schools for the kids, and great meals at Currumbin Beach Vikings SLSC.

Want more? This guide to the beaches of the Gold Coast has plenty of family favourites.