Heartwood Espresso now open.
Heartwood Espresso now open.
It’s been a minute since we’ve found ourselves reporting out of Kirra but here we are in what some might say is the prettiest suburb on the Gold Coast. Anyway. We come with news of a new opening and it’s certainly been worth the wait.
Heartwood Espresso is the spot we’re here to discuss opening last week right across the road from the beach, bringing quality coffee and salty sea vibes to the local folks.
The interior is an intimate space decked out in dark wood, leather couches and a high bench-style table running down the middle.
There’s little pops of interesting art and some pretty greenery throughout and a stunning photograph of the ocean running the length of one wall.
For some of you, the pièce de résistance is the Kiddy Korner, tucked away and filled with toys and books to keep the little ones entertained.
Of course, you can also pull up a seat outside in the sunshine and take in those beautiful beach views.
The newbie is the work of Luke Hart and Matt, Michelle and Richard Woods who are all lifelong locals and are undertaking their very first venture.
To eat, there’s yummy things like SPAGHETTI JAFFLES which was one of the best things about childhood honestly. There’s also Baked Beans, Banana and Nutella, Braised Steak, and Mexican flavours too. All excellent.
There are toasties and Acai bowls including a fun thing called Coconut Dream, which is a coconut flavoured iced thing similar to Acai and the two can be mixed together which we obviously highly recommend.
If you like sweet things (same), there are custard tarts and housemade delights like White Chocolate Oreo fudge and caramel slice. Yep.
Sunday Collab coffee is pouring and it’s a very good drop imported from Italy plus milkshakes and teas and the like.
In keeping with the Kiddy Korner, there’s also a full kids menu to make sure they’re having as good a time as you are.
Keep your eyes peeled for afternoon sessions featuring wine and beer and all the perfect sips for a seaside space.
Heartwood is the very best spot for morning catch ups with the crew and we recommend you get in there very soon to try it for yourself.
LOCATION: 2/74 Musgrave Street, Kirra
HOURS: 6am until 2pm daily
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
Nestled between Bilinga and Coolangatta, Kirra may be small but she is also mighty.
Best known for a pumping, world-renowned surf break and ever-present chill vibes, there’s so much more to Kirra than just waves and a pristine stretch of sand (although that’s motivation enough for us).
Here are 14 reasons Kirra locals ain’t budging for love nor money, and why the wider GC community can’t get enough of this thriving yet mellow footwear-optional ‘burb.
Billy Chow
When news spread that Kirra was scoring the new sister to Nobby Beach cult fave Ally Chow, involuntary salivation immediately ensued. One of the more recent additions to the eats scene of this beach-blessed suburb, Billy Chow is already beloved and absolutely no one is surprised by this development. Serving up share style all-day feasts, it’s one of those spots that’s got everything going for it – incredible pan-Asian eats, stellar sips, a swoon-worthy fit out and a ripper beachfront vantage. All of which make it an especially swell long (looong) lunch spot, if you ask us.
Where: 76 Musgrave Street, Kirra
Kirra Beach House
Making waves for all the right reasons – the hotly-anticipated arrival of Marine Parade’s sprawling new dining addition, Kirra Beach House, redefined the southern eats and sips game. The handiwork of local hospo gun, Dave Galvin, which speaks to the caliber in and of itself – but just wait till we get to the three seperate bars, insta-worthy interiors, cabana-studded wraparound terrace, and panoramic ocean views from all angles! We’d be remiss not to also mention the Mediterranean-style grazing and crafted cocktails. Perfect 10’s all round.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
MADE
No longer coasting by on the merits of its stellar beaches alone, Kirra’s really been stepping things up on the foodie front of late. Just one of the hip new haunts we can thank KTQ Group’s multi-million dollar beachfront transformation for, Made is the second endeavour for Tugun’s MADE Barber & Barista founders Josh Blair & Britt Westcott. A slick, industrial style space bringing gourmet toasties, cafe treats and tight trims to Kirra’s esplanade, beach trips just got a little more productive and whole lot tastier.
Where: Corner of Musgrave & Miles St, Kirra
Kirra Beach Hotel
Back and looking better than ever after a hefty zhuzh up, a fresh look for Marine Parade’s stalwart watering hole is yet another slam dunk we owe to the mammoth Kirra Point Project development. Still the same no-fuss favourite at heart, now nestled one level beneath the slightly posher Kirra Beach House. If you’re in the mood for casual chews and brews, this place will happily hook you up with a cheeky pint and parmi – and some pretty spectacular views, of course.
Where: 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Cotton Living
Who doesn’t love a luxurious homewares store that’s also a patisserie café, and the answer is a unanimous NOBODY. In its beautiful new location, Cotton Living showcases stunning handmade furniture and timeless accessories to make every room in your abode sing. Everything is Insta-worthy with a focus on natural colours and textures, plus you can grab a croissant with your cushion and #WhatsNotToLove. This luxurious space right by the beach is family-owned and the obvs choice for your next coffee date with the gals.
Where: 1 Lord Street, Coolangatta
Native State
A boutique gym and European-style bathhouse, Kirra’s self care prospects have never looked better since Native State swanned into town back in 2023. An all-in-one wellness destination, whether you’re craving an invigorating ice bath, or a sweat-sesh in the state-of-the-art studio or infrared sauna; you can choose your own adventure with casual sessions, classes and memberships available. No matter what your dream workout looks like, reward your efforts with a bliss out with soak in the bathhouse to finish… be warned though, you might never want to leave.
Where: 3/2 Creek Street, Coolangatta
Siblings
Another of Kirra’s panoramically blessed haunts (anybody sensing a theme here?) Siblings revived the heritage listed beachside Kirra Pavilion which was once but a humble Pizza Hut. And lbh, it’s hard to feel sad about farewelling our childhood icon when the replacement comes bearing gifts this good. Founded by local restaurateur royalty Jarrod Kyle and TJ Cianci, Siblings is a modern Australian brunch and dinner showstopper, dripping with 1950’s Miami beach vibes goodness. The menu is infused with fresh seafood and share-plates a-plenty and don’t even get us started on the cocktails, because this place takes their sips seriously! You haven’t lived till you’ve been.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
Kirra Beach Pavilion
While driving around the headland, you may have noticed the cute little shelter overlooking the ocean. It’s a great place to hide from the scorching sun, and has certainly seen a lot over its lifetime – more than a century to be precise. Early photos of Kirra Beach show the shelter in place by around 1916 and we love ourselves some GC history. The Kirra Shelter Shed makes for a great viewing platform and is the perfect spot to watch whales frolic out in the big blue.
Kirra Surf
Speaking of institutions, Kirra Surf is a must-visit when cruising into this salt-kissed suburb. Whether you’re in the market for some new threads, a new board or you’re a total surfing rookie just looking to get started, these guys will hook you up. Their range of surfing apparel, products and know-how is unrivalled, the staff are super friendly, and there’s always at least (twenty)two things you’ll want to take home with you. 10/10 beach rats agree, this place is one of the best.
Where: 6/8 Creek Street, Kirra
Agave Rosa
A taqueria that does mexi eats, but not as you might expect, Agave Rosa is Kirra’s casa of modern Mexican fusion. The only thing more vibrant than the telltale hot pink interior is fresh and zesty eats this place is churning out on the reg. From the brilliant mind that brought us Project Tokyo, imagine a menu where your favourite Mexi flavours are melded with bold Japanese influences. The result is inventive and tantalising creations like Chipotle Hibachi Chicken Tacos and pico de gallo drizzled Tuna Tataki – just add in a round of Classic margaritas (because sometimes you can’t improve perfection) and you’ve got yourself a tastebud party.
Where: 74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta
Kirra Beach Bakery
One of the best barometers of a town is its local bakery – and no visit is complete without a trip to Kirra Beach Bakery. Serving quintessential Aussie bakery fare at its finest – if it’s been a while between cheeky nostalgic treats (think Jam and cream donuts and Custard slice) this place will have you reevaluating your priorities. Whether you’re in need (need being the operative word, here) of a post-surf pie, sausage roll, quiche or pastie, a healthy salad sando or sweet treat (don’t judge) for the road, Kirra Beach Bakery is the place. Get down there early in the morning for fresh-out-of-the-oven bread and enjoy a slice or two with the local ‘gulls while watching the sunrise. Good stuff.
Where: 11/48 Musgrave St, Kirra
HiPoke
A dish originating in Hawaii, the poke bowl phenomenon is here to stay. Made of colourful salad and protein combinations artfully arranged in bowls almost too pretty to eat (almost). For our pick of the signature bowls, the Salmon Sashimi always slaps – as does the Karaage Chicken made with edamame, carrot, corn, sweet chilli mayo and lotus root chips. Satisfying and healthy, the entire menu is preservative free and all seafood is sustainably sourced. It’d be rude not to try them all.
Where: 18/48 Musgrave Street, Kirra
Kirra Surf Life Saving Club
We can always count on surf clubs to bring great vibes and an even better location, and this is one of the best (shh, don’t tell the others). Just footsteps from the sand, this old boy has been around longer than you (est. 1916) and is a firm fave amongst all Gold Coasters. It’s the perfect family-friendly spot for dinner with your brood, or a sundowner or two overlooking the ocean. Perch up on the deck and let that balmy sea breeze take you to your happiest place.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
Kirra Hill Lookout
If by this stage you’re suitably fed and watered (read: bursting at the seams) the only thing left to do is drink in the world-famous Kirra beach in all its glory! Trek to the top of the headland and prepare to be wowed by views from Main Beach to Snapper Rocks and everywhere in between. If you wanna make a day of it, pack a picnic or fire up the barbie (you’ve earned it after that walk) – and thank your lucky stars you get to live in the best place on Earth. No bias, just #facts.
Where: It’s on the big hill, you won’t miss it!
Words by Bianca Trathen & Kellie Leader
