Keen to escape the chill of winter? Whether you’re dreaming of warmer weather or tossing up the idea of a staycation, the Gold Coast should be top of your list for a mid-winter break.
While it was once better known for schoolies, meter maids and buff locals, the Gold Coast of today has so much more to offer for a relaxing break for two or fun-filled holiday for the family. The golden shores of southern Queensland are the perfect spot for escaping the winter blues and we’ve found the top six reasons why.
Not that you should need too much convincing…
#1 The sun shines more in winter
Welcome to the sub-tropics, baby – where rain is reserved for the summer months and winters are dry, sunny and mild. Although it’s not as balmy as the peak of summer, a top of 21 degrees in July and 22 degrees in August makes for great holiday weather. Do bring a jumper because it can get down to 11 degrees at night and can be windy in coastal areas. The clear days are the drawcard to this beachside oasis – outdoor activities are rarely interrupted by rain at this time of year.
#2 Fun for the whole family
For reluctant water-goers, a spot in the sun with a book at one of the famously idyllic Gold Coast beaches will satisfy. For those a little braver to the cold but unsure about the surf, Tallebudgera Creek is a calm inlet for sea-bathing – without the impending waves. Coolangatta’s Rainbow Bay is another semi-protected spot for leisurely swimming.
For thrill seekers, surf could be up at Currumbin Alley, Burleigh Heads headland and Snapper Rocks (Rainbow Bay), so check the daily surf reports. Rookies can pull on a wettie and join Go Ride a Wave at The Star’s local stretch of sand Broadbeach. If the sparkling waters of the Gold Coast are on the frigid side, head to one of its world-famous amusement parks. SeaWorld will bring you close to some of the magnificent creatures of the ocean, Warner Bros. Movie World will delight film buffs and Dreamworld has enough rollercoasters to make the bravest family member a little green.
#3 Prime whale watching
Just as you’re chasing the sun during the winter, so too are the whales swimming after warmer water up north. From June to October the humpback and southern right whales migrate north, and the Gold Coast is adjacent to their watery highway. Book ahead for a whale watching boat tour that is sure to get you the best seat in the house for viewing these magnificent creatures. If no whales are spotted, then your money is refunded and you can try again for another day.
Check out Spirit Whale Watching or Sea World Cruises for the dates and timings of the whale watching experiences.
#4 The exciting nightlife
While there’s any number of nightclubs to visit on Surfer’s Paradise’s famous Cavill Avenue, you’ll find more lowkey options in the surrounding areas.
If you’re staying at The Star Gold Coast, start the night at speakeasy-inspired Veladora for a signature cocktail or perch yourself at an outdoor table to catch the last rays of the day at Garden Kitchen & Bar – with drink in hand of course.
Moxy’s rooftop bar in Coolangatta is slinging picture-perfect cocktails four out of seven nights of the week (Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday). Check out local breweries Balter and Burleigh Brewing for a brewery tour or taste of their wares.
#5 A chance to indulge
What’s a sun-soaked holiday without a little pamper session? Azure Spa & Fitness at The Star Gold Coast is open seven days for indulgent facial therapies, massage packages and mani/pedis.
Green House The Bathhouse is an oasis of calm in Burleigh Heads. The bathhouse is a communal (unisex) space in which you can dip between hydrotherapy spas, a wet steam room, red cedar sauna and plunge pool. Add on a massage treatment to your soak session for a higher level of holiday relaxation.
Get back to nature with an organic treatment at Earth & Skin in Mudgeeraba. They also sell a vegan and toxin free beauty and skincare range.
#6 The food scene
All that sunshine is sure to encourage your appetite and the Gold Coast has fresh produce, gourmet meals and fresh flavours that will satiate the largest hunger.
You won’t need to venture too far from your hotel room for delicious food in a unique setting with Nineteen At The Star on your doorstep. Bellini Saturdays is the perfect afternoon wind-down and includes a share menu of freshly shucked oysters, arancini balls, a cheese plate and, of course, Bellini’s. Come back on Sunday for one of the Gold Coast’s best brunches, staring Queensland produce.
If you’re after a hearty Italian meal, then head to Cucina Vivo, with new chef Gavin Hughes of The Byron at Byron fame at the helm. Popular breakfast spots on the Gold Coast include the Paddock Bakery (Burleigh Heads) and No Name Lane (Broadbeach) – where you’ll also get an excellent coffee.
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