Glori’s guidebook
Sightseeing
Get there early in the day and attend the free workshops available. There's a cafe there but feel free to bring a packed lunch. Around lunch time there's free face painting available at the playground below the cafe. If you're fond of crystals or books there's shops that sell these items.\
The best way to enjoy is to take a deep breath and just feel you're surroundings.
350 locals recommend
Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens
81 Monet DrGet there early in the day and attend the free workshops available. There's a cafe there but feel free to bring a packed lunch. Around lunch time there's free face painting available at the playground below the cafe. If you're fond of crystals or books there's shops that sell these items.\
The best way to enjoy is to take a deep breath and just feel you're surroundings.
Tropical Fruit World
29 Duranbah RdGreat Farm tours that kids will enjoy.
Popular and close great place to spend a quiet day for free and learn some interesting facts about the area's history.
22 locals recommend
Tweed Regional Museum - Murwillumbah
2 Queensland RdPopular and close great place to spend a quiet day for free and learn some interesting facts about the area's history.
If you're interested in the true history of the area this is where to look. There's a tour that will take you on a walk with an Indigenous guide and teach you about their culture and practices before finishing up here for a picnic. Should be wheelchair accessible.
16 locals recommend
Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
17 Kirkwood RdIf you're interested in the true history of the area this is where to look. There's a tour that will take you on a walk with an Indigenous guide and teach you about their culture and practices before finishing up here for a picnic. Should be wheelchair accessible.
Brunswick River Eco Tours is a boat tour that's very popular/ It will take you along the river giving you gorgeous view of the scenery. If that's your scene, this is your tour.
17 locals recommend
Brunswick River
Brunswick River Eco Tours is a boat tour that's very popular/ It will take you along the river giving you gorgeous view of the scenery. If that's your scene, this is your tour.
Absolutely breath-taking. Definitely aim to go around sunset to see the glow worms in the cave. Definitely no flash allowed.
Will need a border pass since in QLD.
193 locals recommend
Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park
Bakers RoadAbsolutely breath-taking. Definitely aim to go around sunset to see the glow worms in the cave. Definitely no flash allowed.
Will need a border pass since in QLD.
You arrive and you don't know what to do, here's your first stop. They'll have all the best attractions and events for your interest and all the up-to-date information regarding booking requirements/closures/etc.
You arrive and you have a plan, still worth taking a look. You'll find some of the best local secrets here that you'll be sorry to have missed.
There's lessons from crab catching, lamp shade making, musical instrument making to candle making. Look and you will find great things.
10 locals recommend
Murwillumbah Visitor Information Centre
284 Tweed Valley WayYou arrive and you don't know what to do, here's your first stop. They'll have all the best attractions and events for your interest and all the up-to-date information regarding booking requirements/closures/etc.
You arrive and you have a plan, still worth taking a look. You'll find some of the best local secrets here that you'll be sorry to have missed.
There's lessons from crab catching, lamp shade making, musical instrument making to candle making. Look and you will find great things.
Interested in trying new things? Here's a great start.
12 locals recommend
CATCH A CRAB - Birds Bay Oyster Farm
17 Birds Bay DrInterested in trying new things? Here's a great start.
The view of the Gold Coast unfurling against the ever stretching horizon of the ocean. Amazing views at the tallest skyscraper in Australia, don't hesitate to enjoy their delicious breakfast at SkyPoint Bistro.
213 locals recommend
SkyPoint Observation Deck
9 Hamilton AveThe view of the Gold Coast unfurling against the ever stretching horizon of the ocean. Amazing views at the tallest skyscraper in Australia, don't hesitate to enjoy their delicious breakfast at SkyPoint Bistro.
15 different galleries of weird and jaw dropping artifacts from around the globe that will leave you questioning whether you believe it or not? It has to be seen to be believed.
52 locals recommend
Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Surfers Paradise
Cavill Avenue15 different galleries of weird and jaw dropping artifacts from around the globe that will leave you questioning whether you believe it or not? It has to be seen to be believed.
Travel into the future and go into sensory overload as you travel through mazes filled with special effects and optical illusions. This is a great activity to do as a family and is suitable for everyone over 8 years.
67 locals recommend
Infinity Attraction
3240 Surfers Paradise BlvdTravel into the future and go into sensory overload as you travel through mazes filled with special effects and optical illusions. This is a great activity to do as a family and is suitable for everyone over 8 years.
Grab your Powercard and get ready for entertainment overload, keep the kids (and big kids) occupied for hours with some family friendly competition at the Surfers Paradise TimeZone, the largest of its kind in the world. Arcade games, mini bowling, air hockey, glow mini golf, laser skirmish, bumper cars … the list of things to do is endless, whatever your game of choice may be.
92 locals recommend
Timezone Surfers Paradise
Cavill AvenueGrab your Powercard and get ready for entertainment overload, keep the kids (and big kids) occupied for hours with some family friendly competition at the Surfers Paradise TimeZone, the largest of its kind in the world. Arcade games, mini bowling, air hockey, glow mini golf, laser skirmish, bumper cars … the list of things to do is endless, whatever your game of choice may be.
The ultimate family experience, enjoy fun commentary onboard as you drive past key landmarks in the city before entering the water past Seaworld where you will witness the beauty of the Gold Coast on the Broadwater. Taking a late afternoon tour allows you to enjoy the changing colours of the skyline on-board your Gold Coast River cruise as the sun slowly sets in the west, and the city turns golden.
32 locals recommend
Aquaduck Safaris Gold Coast
34 Cavill AveThe ultimate family experience, enjoy fun commentary onboard as you drive past key landmarks in the city before entering the water past Seaworld where you will witness the beauty of the Gold Coast on the Broadwater. Taking a late afternoon tour allows you to enjoy the changing colours of the skyline on-board your Gold Coast River cruise as the sun slowly sets in the west, and the city turns golden.
Meet the locals, sift through treasures, unique fashion and jewellery pieces and homewares in cute market stalls and treat yourself to a memory to take home from your holiday. Markets are open every Fri and Sat from 4pm – 9 pm. (times may change depending on the season).
259 locals recommend
Surfers Paradise Beer Garden
Orchid AvenueMeet the locals, sift through treasures, unique fashion and jewellery pieces and homewares in cute market stalls and treat yourself to a memory to take home from your holiday. Markets are open every Fri and Sat from 4pm – 9 pm. (times may change depending on the season).
Perfect for all ages from 3 to 103, and a unique and fun way to experience Skydiving within the safety of the iFLY Wind Tunnel. No experience is necessary, so bring the entire family to fly, as is suitable for all abilities, and is not weather reliant. Lasts 1 hour for the whole experience.
29 locals recommend
iFLY Gold Coast
3084 Surfers Paradise BlvdPerfect for all ages from 3 to 103, and a unique and fun way to experience Skydiving within the safety of the iFLY Wind Tunnel. No experience is necessary, so bring the entire family to fly, as is suitable for all abilities, and is not weather reliant. Lasts 1 hour for the whole experience.
This is where the bush meets the beach on the Gold Coast. With beautiful beaches and estuaries to explore, there's plenty of activities to do.
84 locals recommend
Currumbin Beach
This is where the bush meets the beach on the Gold Coast. With beautiful beaches and estuaries to explore, there's plenty of activities to do.
Australia's largest themepark and the best suited for younger kids with a wider range of fun, non-scary rides suited for all ages.
429 locals recommend
Dreamworld station
Australia's largest themepark and the best suited for younger kids with a wider range of fun, non-scary rides suited for all ages.
With plenty of high-paced scary rides for thrill seekers and a great hollywood stunt driver show. There are rides for young kids but they're limited as are the number of non-scary rides for other age groups.
647 locals recommend
Warner Bros. Movie World
Pacific MotorwayWith plenty of high-paced scary rides for thrill seekers and a great hollywood stunt driver show. There are rides for young kids but they're limited as are the number of non-scary rides for other age groups.
Amazing place to see incredible sea life, fun shows for all ages and rides suitable for everyone.
29 locals recommend
Sea World station
Amazing place to see incredible sea life, fun shows for all ages and rides suitable for everyone.
Locals Secret. A short walk in amazing nature followed by a natural pool to cool off, relax and have fun. This is definitely a beautiful place to see.
259 locals recommend
Currumbin Rock Pools
Currumbin Creek RoadLocals Secret. A short walk in amazing nature followed by a natural pool to cool off, relax and have fun. This is definitely a beautiful place to see.
On the tallest building in Australia you can enjoy the view at SkyPoint Observation Tower after a delicious breakfast with the best views around.
18 locals recommend
Q1
On the tallest building in Australia you can enjoy the view at SkyPoint Observation Tower after a delicious breakfast with the best views around.
Amazing arts can be seen here. Best way to see it all is to start at the top and work your way down.
396 locals recommend
HOTA, Home of the Arts
135 Bundall RdAmazing arts can be seen here. Best way to see it all is to start at the top and work your way down.
Great shows of Aussie sheep shearing, horse riding, sheep herding and whip skills. You can even meet Shaun the Sheep at this fun location. Not only that but kids eat free Sat & Sun from 7am for Breakfast Buffet.
93 locals recommend
Paradise Country
Production DriveGreat shows of Aussie sheep shearing, horse riding, sheep herding and whip skills. You can even meet Shaun the Sheep at this fun location. Not only that but kids eat free Sat & Sun from 7am for Breakfast Buffet.
Delicious 3-course meal whilst watching o show on the history of the Australian Outback. With some of the best horse riders in Australia this is a show you won't regret.
235 locals recommend
Australian Outback Spectacular
Entertainment RoadDelicious 3-course meal whilst watching o show on the history of the Australian Outback. With some of the best horse riders in Australia this is a show you won't regret.
This amazing beach includes shallow lagoons for safe swimming with great views of Cooke Island.
90 locals recommend
Kingscliff Beach Bowls Club
131 Marine ParadeThis amazing beach includes shallow lagoons for safe swimming with great views of Cooke Island.
Clear crystal water for relaxing swims with great views. This is a great place for a family swim with all ages.
47 locals recommend
Cudgen Creek
Clear crystal water for relaxing swims with great views. This is a great place for a family swim with all ages.
Want to explore the beautiful oceans in Tweed? Give these guys a call. Surfing, Stand-up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling, all great fun.
57 locals recommend
Watersports Guru
Sutherland StreetWant to explore the beautiful oceans in Tweed? Give these guys a call. Surfing, Stand-up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling, all great fun.
Fantastic Views on a beautiful rainforest walk. Pack a water bottle and insect repellent and you're in for a wonderful day.
10 locals recommend
Springbrook National Park
Springbrook National ParkFantastic Views on a beautiful rainforest walk. Pack a water bottle and insect repellent and you're in for a wonderful day.
This place is a great day out for the whole family. With incredible animal exhibits, animal shows, aboriginal dances, great playgrounds, tree adventures and getting to feed the kangaroos this place is tons of fun.
786 locals recommend
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
28 Tomewin StThis place is a great day out for the whole family. With incredible animal exhibits, animal shows, aboriginal dances, great playgrounds, tree adventures and getting to feed the kangaroos this place is tons of fun.
Take a guided walk and hear Dreaming stories passed down through generations.
39 locals recommend
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
1711 Gold Coast HwyTake a guided walk and hear Dreaming stories passed down through generations.
Meet the Aboriginal elders and mobs of this great Southern Queensland region as you embark on an incredible cultural journey like no other – where the true stories and vibrant spirit of Aboriginal Australia unfold before your eyes. Boomerang painting, Dreamtime stories, bush tucker tasting, didgeridoo music and more this is a great place to visit for historically curious travellers.
Spirits of the Red Sand
205 Main StreetMeet the Aboriginal elders and mobs of this great Southern Queensland region as you embark on an incredible cultural journey like no other – where the true stories and vibrant spirit of Aboriginal Australia unfold before your eyes. Boomerang painting, Dreamtime stories, bush tucker tasting, didgeridoo music and more this is a great place to visit for historically curious travellers.
Beautiful Views & Amazing walks. Check the weather before you go and chose the track best suited for you.
Lamington National Park Road
Lamington National Park RoadBeautiful Views & Amazing walks. Check the weather before you go and chose the track best suited for you.
Madura Tea Estates
753 Clothiers Creek RdGuided tours around fields and tea factory are a big hit.
Captain Cook Memorial
Amazing views
Wild Thyme Dining
4 Wharf StBest brekkie in Murwillumbah
Murwillumbah Golf Club
233 Byangum RdAmazing course, fantastic views and great food.
Beautiful walk. Take water, snacks, insect repellent & hiking shoes and prepare for a spectacular day.
10 locals recommend
Mebbin National Park
Beautiful walk. Take water, snacks, insect repellent & hiking shoes and prepare for a spectacular day.
Makers & Finders Market Murwillumbah
104 Wollumbin StGreat place to see & get souvenirs.
For a chance to forage your own food, join Yugambeh Aboriginal Tribe Member Luther Cora as he retraces the footsteps of his ancestral people through the Terranora Lakes mangrove system in search of mud crab. Try your hand at bamboo spears then enjoy cooking the morning catch over a fire whilst learning about aboriginal stories and listening to didgeridoo music.
21 locals recommend
Tweed Eco Cruises
2 River TerraceFor a chance to forage your own food, join Yugambeh Aboriginal Tribe Member Luther Cora as he retraces the footsteps of his ancestral people through the Terranora Lakes mangrove system in search of mud crab. Try your hand at bamboo spears then enjoy cooking the morning catch over a fire whilst learning about aboriginal stories and listening to didgeridoo music.
There are so many amazing places to shop on the Gold Coast, but most people would feel they have missed out if they didn’t visit Pacific Fair, located in the heart of Broadbeach. This used to be known as one of the biggest shopping centres in the Southern Hemisphere and it is still mightily impressive. There are many high-end brands at Pacific Fair, such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton.
1254 locals recommend
Pacific Fair Shopping Centre
32 Hooker BlvdThere are so many amazing places to shop on the Gold Coast, but most people would feel they have missed out if they didn’t visit Pacific Fair, located in the heart of Broadbeach. This used to be known as one of the biggest shopping centres in the Southern Hemisphere and it is still mightily impressive. There are many high-end brands at Pacific Fair, such as Chanel and Louis Vuitton.
Guaranteed landing on beautiful Kirra Beaches. Great choice for thrill-seekers.
18 locals recommend
Gold Coast Skydive
18 Coyne StGuaranteed landing on beautiful Kirra Beaches. Great choice for thrill-seekers.
If you're wanting to take advantage of some of the best surf waves in the world and need to brush up on your surfing or need to completely learn, this is your first stop. For all ages and all abilities.
20 locals recommend
Currumbin Alley Surf School
Pacific ParadeIf you're wanting to take advantage of some of the best surf waves in the world and need to brush up on your surfing or need to completely learn, this is your first stop. For all ages and all abilities.
Food scene
This is a delicious vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free restaurant located in Murwillumbah. If you have food restrictions, this place is definitely a must visit for delicious healthy food. The staff are a bit of a mixed ball, some of them are super nice some not so much.
6 locals recommend
New Leaf Cafe
49 Murwillumbah StThis is a delicious vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free restaurant located in Murwillumbah. If you have food restrictions, this place is definitely a must visit for delicious healthy food. The staff are a bit of a mixed ball, some of them are super nice some not so much.
Grocery store for when you certainly get hungry and need to cook in the kitchen/
9 locals recommend
Coles Murwillumbah
56 Wollumbin StGrocery store for when you certainly get hungry and need to cook in the kitchen/
Grocery store that's impressively focused on catering for healthy foods. Wide selection of gluten/dairy/nut free, vegan foods.
6 locals recommend
IGA Tweed Valley
232 Tweed Valley WayGrocery store that's impressively focused on catering for healthy foods. Wide selection of gluten/dairy/nut free, vegan foods.
The relaxed atmosphere at Surfers Paradise Life Saving Club is perfect for families, and parents can sit back, relax with a beverage, and enjoy the view while the kids enjoy their kid’s meal that even comes with a free paddle pop ice cream.
15 locals recommend
Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club
EsplanadeThe relaxed atmosphere at Surfers Paradise Life Saving Club is perfect for families, and parents can sit back, relax with a beverage, and enjoy the view while the kids enjoy their kid’s meal that even comes with a free paddle pop ice cream.
Live bands with great food. Amazing atmosphere and arriving early will help you miss the queues.
394 locals recommend
Miami Marketta
23 Hillcrest ParadeLive bands with great food. Amazing atmosphere and arriving early will help you miss the queues.
Laid back vibes with amazing food for vegetarian and vegans.
13 locals recommend
The Milkman’s Daughter
43 Alfred StLaid back vibes with amazing food for vegetarian and vegans.
Good Day Coffee
476 Gold Coast HwyBest Avo Toast on the Gold Coast.
Set up by five of the Gold Coast’s most iconic pro surfers, including three-time world champ, Mick Fanning, and his best mate, world champ Joel Parkinson, Balter Brewing is about the “enjoyment of a task without any particular skill for it”. This is a brewery where taste is the number one priority. Balter themselves note, “A neat can and cool place to hang out are great, but if our brews don’t tickle your tongue and put a grin on your head, then we haven’t done our job.”
Located in the cruisy beach town of Currumbin, there are few places on the Gold Coast you’ll want to spend a Sunday afternoon more than Balter. Be sure to sneak in one of their award-winning pale-ales while grooving along with the taphouse DJ as you play a round of ‘World Tinnie Hurling’ – a game they invented just for the occasion of sunny Gold Coast afternoons.
55 locals recommend
Balter Brewing Company
14 Traders WaySet up by five of the Gold Coast’s most iconic pro surfers, including three-time world champ, Mick Fanning, and his best mate, world champ Joel Parkinson, Balter Brewing is about the “enjoyment of a task without any particular skill for it”. This is a brewery where taste is the number one priority. Balter themselves note, “A neat can and cool place to hang out are great, but if our brews don’t tickle your tongue and put a grin on your head, then we haven’t done our job.”
Located in the cruisy beach town of Currumbin, there are few places on the Gold Coast you’ll want to spend a Sunday afternoon more than Balter. Be sure to sneak in one of their award-winning pale-ales while grooving along with the taphouse DJ as you play a round of ‘World Tinnie Hurling’ – a game they invented just for the occasion of sunny Gold Coast afternoons.
Cubby Bakehouse
162 Chinderah Bay DrAmazing pastries.
The Balcony Restaurant
66 Murwillumbah StDelicious
If you’re into places that are more about keeping it real than being ‘trendy’, this is the brewery for you. Black Hops Brewing is the story of three Gold Coast mates (Dan, Eddie and Michael) making craft beer and sharing everything they learn along the way. In the setting of a very cool yet unassuming beach shack bar, you’ll be drinking from one of eight taps among stacks of kegs, fermenters and malt sacks. But that’s what’s so great about Black Hops: they’re understated all round.
34 locals recommend
Black Hops Brewery
15 Gardenia GroveIf you’re into places that are more about keeping it real than being ‘trendy’, this is the brewery for you. Black Hops Brewing is the story of three Gold Coast mates (Dan, Eddie and Michael) making craft beer and sharing everything they learn along the way. In the setting of a very cool yet unassuming beach shack bar, you’ll be drinking from one of eight taps among stacks of kegs, fermenters and malt sacks. But that’s what’s so great about Black Hops: they’re understated all round.
Established in 2006 by Peta and Brennan Fielding, Burleigh Brewing Company is said to be the one that began the Gold Coast’s love affair with craft beer 15 years ago. Unsurprisingly, they’ve won a slew of national and international awards, including World Beer Award Gold Medals, not to mention they beat out the Germans themselves for Best German Beer at the 2012 World Beer Cup – an impressive feat. Head into their brewery and taphouse for some live music, delicious food truck eats and good times.
48 locals recommend
Burleigh Brewing Company
2 Ern Harley DrEstablished in 2006 by Peta and Brennan Fielding, Burleigh Brewing Company is said to be the one that began the Gold Coast’s love affair with craft beer 15 years ago. Unsurprisingly, they’ve won a slew of national and international awards, including World Beer Award Gold Medals, not to mention they beat out the Germans themselves for Best German Beer at the 2012 World Beer Cup – an impressive feat. Head into their brewery and taphouse for some live music, delicious food truck eats and good times.
They are passionate about using local, fresh, in season and where possible organic produce and ingredients. It's yummy.
21 locals recommend
Pasture & Co
6 Village WayThey are passionate about using local, fresh, in season and where possible organic produce and ingredients. It's yummy.
For a fun and lively night out fuelled by cocktails as delicious as they are beautiful, Jimmy Wah's will not disappoint. The menu is modern Vietnamese, dishes are designed to share and there are plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions. The seven-course "Feed Me" menu is a bargain, and a relief for those who agree that every dish on the menu deserves to be tasted.
54 locals recommend
Jimmy Wah's
1724 Gold Coast HwyFor a fun and lively night out fuelled by cocktails as delicious as they are beautiful, Jimmy Wah's will not disappoint. The menu is modern Vietnamese, dishes are designed to share and there are plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions. The seven-course "Feed Me" menu is a bargain, and a relief for those who agree that every dish on the menu deserves to be tasted.
Located right on Burleigh Beach with floor-to-ceiling windows, Rick Shores takes full advantage of its proximity to the ocean. Seafood is the focus here, with a colourful pan-Asian influence. The Moreton Bay bug (like lobster) roll with Sriracha, mayonnaise and lettuce, is easily the restaurant's most famous dish, but that will just whet your appetite. The menu changes regularly (including its award-winning drinks list), giving you a great reason to rediscover this slice of heaven again and again.
176 locals recommend
Rick Shores
43 Goodwin TerraceLocated right on Burleigh Beach with floor-to-ceiling windows, Rick Shores takes full advantage of its proximity to the ocean. Seafood is the focus here, with a colourful pan-Asian influence. The Moreton Bay bug (like lobster) roll with Sriracha, mayonnaise and lettuce, is easily the restaurant's most famous dish, but that will just whet your appetite. The menu changes regularly (including its award-winning drinks list), giving you a great reason to rediscover this slice of heaven again and again.
Venture a few blocks back from the beach and feel like you've been transported to Paris as you step foot into Labart. The understated decor is chic, yet casual. And the open kitchen lets you glimpse the magic that comes from mixing Australian, European and Japanese cooking techniques. With a set menu highlighting the best seasonal local produce, the offering changes regularly to reflect what's on offer from their suppliers.
24 locals recommend
Restaurant Labart
8 West StVenture a few blocks back from the beach and feel like you've been transported to Paris as you step foot into Labart. The understated decor is chic, yet casual. And the open kitchen lets you glimpse the magic that comes from mixing Australian, European and Japanese cooking techniques. With a set menu highlighting the best seasonal local produce, the offering changes regularly to reflect what's on offer from their suppliers.
Social Eating House in Broadbeach’s Oracle precinct is a recently awarded Australian Good Food Guide two-hatted restaurant. As the name suggests “Social” is all about sharing. Expect tapas-style entrées like local prawns, melt in the mouth scallops, oysters, a wide range of charcuterie from Australia, Italy and Spain, freshly baked baguette and house-made butters. Their signature main sharing dish is lamb shoulder, slow-cooked for 12 hours in yoghurt. Other standouts include a melt in the mouth, twice-cooked pork belly, wagyu striploin 9+, chargrilled chicken or one of the daily specials. Their bespoke cocktails, local and international wines and spirits only serve to elevate the experience.
61 locals recommend
Social Eating House + Bar
3 Oracle BvdSocial Eating House in Broadbeach’s Oracle precinct is a recently awarded Australian Good Food Guide two-hatted restaurant. As the name suggests “Social” is all about sharing. Expect tapas-style entrées like local prawns, melt in the mouth scallops, oysters, a wide range of charcuterie from Australia, Italy and Spain, freshly baked baguette and house-made butters. Their signature main sharing dish is lamb shoulder, slow-cooked for 12 hours in yoghurt. Other standouts include a melt in the mouth, twice-cooked pork belly, wagyu striploin 9+, chargrilled chicken or one of the daily specials. Their bespoke cocktails, local and international wines and spirits only serve to elevate the experience.
With executive chef Chase Kojima at the helm, it’s no wonder Kiyomi attracts a lot of buzz. Like Kojima's Sydney enterprise – the highly regarded Sokyo – this Japanese eatery is also tucked away in a casino (The Star Gold Coast at Broadbeach). Given Kojima's appetite for artful presentation, it's a sure bet diners will be astounded as one gorgeous dish after another emerges from the kitchen. The binchotan (white charcoal) and grill menu features lamb chops with plum wine and eggplant, while the small plate menu matches grilled octopus with green sauce and watermelon.
18 locals recommend
Kiyomi Japanese Restaurant
1 Casino DrWith executive chef Chase Kojima at the helm, it’s no wonder Kiyomi attracts a lot of buzz. Like Kojima's Sydney enterprise – the highly regarded Sokyo – this Japanese eatery is also tucked away in a casino (The Star Gold Coast at Broadbeach). Given Kojima's appetite for artful presentation, it's a sure bet diners will be astounded as one gorgeous dish after another emerges from the kitchen. The binchotan (white charcoal) and grill menu features lamb chops with plum wine and eggplant, while the small plate menu matches grilled octopus with green sauce and watermelon.
At Guilty Café, you’ll find muffins, smashed avocado and eggs, but the real stars are the famous ‘crazy shakes’. A decadent glass of milkshake topped with everything from fairy floss to ice cream cones, crazy shakes are true crowd-pleasers. Stop here for an afternoon pick-me-up after visiting nearby Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Guilty Cafe
174 Galleon WayAt Guilty Café, you’ll find muffins, smashed avocado and eggs, but the real stars are the famous ‘crazy shakes’. A decadent glass of milkshake topped with everything from fairy floss to ice cream cones, crazy shakes are true crowd-pleasers. Stop here for an afternoon pick-me-up after visiting nearby Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
City/town information
Super popular tourist destination, it's bohemian in a town. There's great fish and ice cream shops, beaches and decorating and clothing stores. A personal favourite with kids is the Rainbow Shop.
113 locals recommend
Byron Bay
Super popular tourist destination, it's bohemian in a town. There's great fish and ice cream shops, beaches and decorating and clothing stores. A personal favourite with kids is the Rainbow Shop.
If you're looking for a bigger place than Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads is the closest this side of the border. It's got shopping centres with lots of big brands, and great tourist locations you should check out if interested.
They have Progressive Tweed Temptations (a 6hr Tweed food tour of all local specialties) and Shop with a Drop Tour (a 6hr Tweed shopping tour of all local shopping stores) so there's everything for everyone.
20 locals recommend
Tweed Heads
If you're looking for a bigger place than Murwillumbah, Tweed Heads is the closest this side of the border. It's got shopping centres with lots of big brands, and great tourist locations you should check out if interested.
They have Progressive Tweed Temptations (a 6hr Tweed food tour of all local specialties) and Shop with a Drop Tour (a 6hr Tweed shopping tour of all local shopping stores) so there's everything for everyone.
The most preserved marine and beach environments you will find whilst still being publically accessible. If you wish to go to the beach, definitely recommend this one first. If you're interested in marine biology also a must see since there's a great place here for that as well. Very popular with school groups.
65 locals recommend
Hastings Point
The most preserved marine and beach environments you will find whilst still being publically accessible. If you wish to go to the beach, definitely recommend this one first. If you're interested in marine biology also a must see since there's a great place here for that as well. Very popular with school groups.
Neighbouring towns with Murwillumbah and has great attractions, from Husk Farm to Rous River Canoe Trail, it is definitely worth taking a look.
17 locals recommend
Tumbulgum
Neighbouring towns with Murwillumbah and has great attractions, from Husk Farm to Rous River Canoe Trail, it is definitely worth taking a look.
Gold Coast's most known & popular tourist area, with resorts, shops and beautiful beaches.
49 locals recommend
Surfers Paradise
Gold Coast's most known & popular tourist area, with resorts, shops and beautiful beaches.
More relaxed vibe at this amazing beach whilst still being in city centre.
311 locals recommend
Broadbeach
More relaxed vibe at this amazing beach whilst still being in city centre.
Home to stunning national parks and famous surf break. This beach is also only 40min (borders open) from Return to Eden Mountain Sanctuary. For establishments with character, you can’t go past Burleigh Heads, and in particular, James Street. The selection ranges from wonderful poké bowls and sushi to fish and chips, vegetarian and our favourite coffee spot, Social Brew. From James Street, it is a two-minute walk to Burleigh Beach to watch world-renowned surfers riding world-class waves.
54 locals recommend
Burleigh Heads
Home to stunning national parks and famous surf break. This beach is also only 40min (borders open) from Return to Eden Mountain Sanctuary. For establishments with character, you can’t go past Burleigh Heads, and in particular, James Street. The selection ranges from wonderful poké bowls and sushi to fish and chips, vegetarian and our favourite coffee spot, Social Brew. From James Street, it is a two-minute walk to Burleigh Beach to watch world-renowned surfers riding world-class waves.
Nimbin is our little town's Hippie community. If you don't want to travel to Bryon Bay this is a closer, smaller alternative.
22 locals recommend
Nimbin
Nimbin is our little town's Hippie community. If you don't want to travel to Bryon Bay this is a closer, smaller alternative.
Beautiful area with some of the best walks located all together. Waterfalls, Swimming pools and valley views from cliffs. These are amazing bush hikes.
84 locals recommend
Springbrook
Beautiful area with some of the best walks located all together. Waterfalls, Swimming pools and valley views from cliffs. These are amazing bush hikes.
The small suburb of Palm Beach, at the southern end of the Gold Coast, has a lot to offer – an amazing beach, a cool café strip and a boutique shopping precinct – yet most people drive straight past on their way to the better-known Currumbin or Coolangatta regions. The beach alone is worth the visit; with a slight bend to face north-east, it’s protected from summer southerly winds. There are wonderful little sand banks here, and when you finish your surf or swim you can walk off the beach straight into a beautiful café. For a meal with a view, visit the Tallebudgera or Palm Beach surf clubs.
42 locals recommend
Palm Beach
The small suburb of Palm Beach, at the southern end of the Gold Coast, has a lot to offer – an amazing beach, a cool café strip and a boutique shopping precinct – yet most people drive straight past on their way to the better-known Currumbin or Coolangatta regions. The beach alone is worth the visit; with a slight bend to face north-east, it’s protected from summer southerly winds. There are wonderful little sand banks here, and when you finish your surf or swim you can walk off the beach straight into a beautiful café. For a meal with a view, visit the Tallebudgera or Palm Beach surf clubs.
General
Kmart
54 Kirkwood RoadClosest Kmart
BIG W Tweed Heads
54 Minjungbal HighwayClosest BigW
Closest town to Tomewin. Fuel, food, clothes, you'll get it all here.
43 locals recommend
Murwillumbah
Closest town to Tomewin. Fuel, food, clothes, you'll get it all here.
Close Chemist. Open 8:30am-6pm weekdays, 8:30am-3pm Saturday and 9:30am-1:30pm Sundays
Sunnyside Soul Pattinson Chemist
Close Chemist. Open 8:30am-6pm weekdays, 8:30am-3pm Saturday and 9:30am-1:30pm Sundays
Indulge
at Greenhouse The Bathhouse, it’s all about the serenity. Book into a day of relaxation in the magnesium plunge pool, hydrotherapy spa and traditional red cedar sauna, or soak up the fresh air on the sundeck. The perfect dose of self-care on your holiday.
12 locals recommend
Greenhouse the Bathhouse
268 Tallebudgera Creek Rdat Greenhouse The Bathhouse, it’s all about the serenity. Book into a day of relaxation in the magnesium plunge pool, hydrotherapy spa and traditional red cedar sauna, or soak up the fresh air on the sundeck. The perfect dose of self-care on your holiday.
Activities
Great experience for the kids and a trip back in time. CHildren and adult movies showing.
29 locals recommend
Yatala Drive-In
100 Stapylton Jacobs Well RdGreat experience for the kids and a trip back in time. CHildren and adult movies showing.
It’s just five minutes from the town of Mudgeeraba, but you’re hidden away at Boomerang Farm in 20 hectares of rainforest, fringed by the Mudgeeraba Creek. You’ll be playing amongst historic farming barns and shearing sheds – with just kangaroos for company. There’s only nine holes, but tees are set at different points to make 18 holes an option. Green fees are just $35 for 18, or $12 for unlimited golf between 2.30 and 5.30.
11 locals recommend
Boomerang Farm Golf Course
55 Johns RdIt’s just five minutes from the town of Mudgeeraba, but you’re hidden away at Boomerang Farm in 20 hectares of rainforest, fringed by the Mudgeeraba Creek. You’ll be playing amongst historic farming barns and shearing sheds – with just kangaroos for company. There’s only nine holes, but tees are set at different points to make 18 holes an option. Green fees are just $35 for 18, or $12 for unlimited golf between 2.30 and 5.30.
With several activities on offer, Thunderbird Park is a place where the fun never ends. The property stretches over 112 hectares (276 acres) on Tamborine Mountain, so there's plenty of space for horse trail riding, gemstone fossicking, mini golf, bird feeding, TreeTop Challenges and more.
73 locals recommend
Thunderbird Park
With several activities on offer, Thunderbird Park is a place where the fun never ends. The property stretches over 112 hectares (276 acres) on Tamborine Mountain, so there's plenty of space for horse trail riding, gemstone fossicking, mini golf, bird feeding, TreeTop Challenges and more.
City advice
Getting around
Daylight savings
NSW has daylight savings from 3rd October 2021 to 3rd April 2022 1 hour behind EST.
Getting around
Transport to Tomewin
There are no buses that go up Tomewin Mountain, so best transport is your car or a rental car in country towns.
Don't miss
Mt Warning
When you're driving through Murwillumbah to Tomewin you'll see a mountain taller than the rest that's rather crooked at the tip. If you look closely you'll see that Mr. Warning actually resembles a face, with the tip being a crooked nose and the flatter areas face contours from the eyes, mouth and chin.
Book before you go
Sightseeing
Due to Covid restrictions, many tours or sightseeing attractions now require bookings to ensure acceptable occupancy. Even if you're going to the museum, it's probably safer to check the night before if booking is required.
Getting around
Helensvale to Beach Tram
If you're using public transport on the Gold Coast and heading to the beach, the best way is to catch the train from Varsity Lakes Train Station to Helensvale Train Station and get on the Tram to the beach.
Getting around
Family bike rides along the beach are beautiful
The Gold Coast is one of the best spots in Australia for a family bike ride thanks to the nearly 800 kilometres (500 miles) of cycling paths that have been integrated into the city’s town planning. This means you can grab a bike way map and a bicycle from Beach Bikes, and visit the canals, suburbs and hinterland. For smaller children, check out Green Cabs in Surfers Paradise. The famously fun pedicabs let kids zip along the beachfront promenade without the need to pedal.
Don't miss
Gold Coast Watersports
The Gold Coast is a destination for all ages, and Gold Coast Watersports has an experience suited to every family. Children aged six and up can ride as a passenger on a jet ski tour, and teens aged sixteen and up can drive it themselves. Parasailing is sure to get your adrenaline pumping, and for the ultimate thrill, give a Fly board experience a try (ages 12 and up). You'll find yourself flying like a bird and diving like a dolphin.