How to spend your time at Main Beach on the Gold Coast

Main Beach on the Gold Coast remains one of Queensland’s biggest drawcards, and for good reason. This seaside destination on the northern end of the beach strip is not only home to an impressive population of beautiful beaches, but is equally abundant in surf-free activities, from drinking and dining spots, to shopping strips and even easy access to a theme park (or three). Not to mention it’s conveniently located, just an hour’s drive from the Queensland capital. But if this is your Main Beach debut, you may be after some advice on how to spend your time - let this ultimate guide to the region lead the way.

Eat

Feeling peckish? Main Beach restaurants are ample, promising to satisfy the hunger pangs of the whole family. Seafood is rather unsurprisingly the specialty of the Gold Coast, with plenty of opportunities for visitors to get a taste of the sea across a varied group of different eateries. Some of the most reputable include casual local institution Peter’s Fish Market, the multi-award-winning Omeros Brothers Seafood in Marina Mirage precinct, and the rather refined Shuck Restaurant, which sits in the dining and shopping precinct of Tedders Avenue. Elegance also abounds at the waterfront Glass Dining.

If you’re more of a sweet tooth you can grab dessert from the outpost of specialty gourmet Ungermann Bros Ice Cream, or take to high tea at the Palazzo Versace’s Le Jardin Cafe. And not forgetting about the most important meal of the day, breakfast. Specialty coffee houses are scattered across this region, but Hott Shot remains a favourite among locals for a quality brunch.

Drink

Main Beach bars number in the dozens. If you prefer to keep things casual, make way for Southport Surf Club, within arm’s reach of Main Beach and considered one of the best of its kind in the region (and the oldest, built back in 1936). The views are unparalleled making for a great spot to spend the afternoon, cold schooner in hand, and some seafood on the side.

Or treat yourself to something a little more indulgent with a visit to lounge bar Glass Dining, the elegant waterfront abode with a reputation for its fine dining fare, and sophisticated tipple. So too does Birdcage, the popular Asian-inspired spot on thriving Tedder Avenue. Picture bao buns and dumplings partnered with bespoke cocktails served in teapots. Also keep an eye out for La Luna Beach Club, an upcoming bar and bistro built on floating pontoons out the front of the luxury Marina Mirage.

Stay

As for Main Beach accommodation, there’s something to cater to every budget. The population of Main Beach hotels is ever-expanding, and ranges rather dramatically. If you’re eager to splurge, the region is more than happy to help you indulge. Book in for a stay at the opulent Palazzo Versace, a place branded in the luxury brand’s motif from pool to bathrobes. Though if you have kids in tow you may prefer somewhere a little more child-friendly, and activity-laden, like the Waterford on Main Beach, Sheraton Grand Mirage, or the Seaworld Resort. Or keep it simple with a stay somewhere more easy on the wallet - get a look at Crest Apartments, Golden Sands on Main Beach, or the Main Beach Tourist Park - the iconic caravan park directly on Main Beach.

Play

To say there’s plenty to do while at Main Beach on the Gold Coast would be an understatement. First and foremost is the beach itself (of course!). There’s swimming and surfing galore in these parts, at Main Beach itself, or take the dog with you to the canine welcoming sands of Muriel Henchman Park. Not yet a surfer but set it in your sights? Join the Get Wet Surf School to practise your pop-ups. And don’t forget to make a stop at the historic old bathing pavilion, Pavilion 34, revamped into a casual beach cafe complete with chiko rolls, potato scallops, pineapple fritters and fish and chips, alongside the original male and female change pavilions.

Adrenaline junkies may prefer to partake in a Jet Ski Safari tour to South Stradbroke Island, or join the Paradise Jet Boating team as they zoom around the maze of waterways nearby. Back on land there’s plenty of activities to enjoy too of course - take to the famous theme parks nearby, like Seaworld or Warner Bros. Movie World. Rev heads may also want to schedule their stay to coincide with the Gold Coast Supercars annual event.

But if you fancy a holiday heavy on the leisurely, rest assured that taking it easy is also an option. While on Main Beach you have the chance to go for a shop through Marina Mirage Waterfront Shopping District, or grab your bike and cruise along the coastline, to the idyllic Southport Spit.