The Stylish Side to Surfers Paradise

Stylish is not a word you often hear association with Surfers Paradise. The Gold Coast city is perhaps better known for surfers, school leaver parties (Schoolies Week) and its proximity to theme parks. But Surfers Paradise does indeed have a stylish side and I have proof of it. Whether in the city for business or pleasure these are the stylish spots I recommend you seek out.

Surfers Paradise golden arc of beach is truly breath-taking but it can get very busy. For a more peaceful waterside perch head to Budds Beach, a little enclave of sand overlooking the river a few blocks back from the main beach. Budds Beach is where the locals come to canoe, paddleboard or sail on their weekends. The gentle waters and narrow banks of clear sand are perfect for bringing young children, whilst the pier is a reflective spot any adult will love having to themselves.

Overlooking Budds Beach is the homely Bumbles Café. Separated into several cottage-like rooms and strewn with bunting, the atmosphere at Bumble’s is great for families and friends looking for a charming spot to enjoy some tea and cake. They also serve delicious breakfasts – think bacon, avocado, eggs and sourdough – which you can enjoy outside overlooking the water. If you do manage to get the Budds Beach pier all to yourself though, you can grab a takeaway coffee and cake from Bumble’s for some solo self-indulgence.

Situated just outside the main Surfers Paradise nightlife hub, Helm Bar attracts a more low-key crowd. With several rooms and a terrace overlooking the river, this is a great venue for larger groups and networking events. The seafood here is particularly tasty.

Bringing it’s own quirky brand of glamour to the Gold Coast is the QT Hotel. Featuring pictures of life-size pin-up girls in the lift, cockatoo lamps in the bedroom and an arty chair in every corner, this hotel is where art, fashion and a little bit of weirdness meet! The hotel’s Stringray Bar attracts a well-heeled crowd as does its immaculate pool and astro-turfed lawn. Facilities for guests include free Wi-Fi (something which is still very scarce in Australia) and complimentary use of cute retro-style bikes. Situated equidistant between the ocean, river and mountains; rooms come with an impressive view no matter which side of the building you are on. Plus if you really like the décor you can pick up your own pineapple candle and pop art in the hotel boutique. You can also find a spa on site (SpaQ) and Café Fixx serves tempting treats as well as organic snacks throughout the day.

Surfers Paradise offers something tempting for shoppers too. Every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Market brings more than 100 stalls to the beach. Offering a range of fashion, art and photography the Beachfront Market is great for bargain-hunters and window shoppers alike. Weather permitting the market can be found year-round along the Surfers Paradise Foreshore (in front of Cavill Mall) and is open from 1600-2100 May to August and 1700-2200 September to April.

Not just for surfers, Surfers Paradise has a lot to offer the stylish traveller too!

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About The Author:

Jayne Gorman is a freelance travel blogger and social media manager who is currently based in Australia. Find her blogging about travels, sweet treats and street art at Girl Tweets World or on twitter as @jayneytravels.