We know all the places to make your Mama Bear feel spesh.
We know all the places to make your Mama Bear feel spesh.
Gold Coasters, do we detect the slightest notes of aromatherapy oils, artisan tea blends and fresh-baked scones filling the air? Yep, that’s right – Mother’s Day is just around the corner!
But fret not if you’re yet to line up anything plush in honour of Mama dearest. All across the Coast, our most fanciful eats, fun and self-care purveyors are putting the finishing touches on myriad ways to spoil the OG lady in our lives.
Here are a bunch of ideas that go some way towards expressing our eternal gratitude this Mother’s Day. Hint: you can defo skip the servo flowers.
The Star Gold Coast
Mum’s officially the word at The Star Gold Coast and as usual they’ve come up with the biggest and best ways to treat your leading lady right – it’s time for her to have her Main Character moment. Whether it’s a sumptuous meal at one of their signature restaurants or a pampering session at Azure Spa & Fitness, The Star has curated the ultimate experiences to make this Mother’s Day unforgettable. Treat her to the luxury and care she deserves on her special day. Get the lowdown on all The Star’s Mother’s Day offerings here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
JW Marriott Gold Coast
JW Marriott is serving up several ways to spoil Mum in style this Sunday, May 12… and hey, if you just so happen to surreptitiously include yourself in the celebrations, well, that’s just good sense. If a self-care date sounds like just the ticket, treat mum to two heavenly hours of facial and massage infused relaxation with the Mother’s Day Bliss Package at Spa by JW.
If you’re really going for max spoilage, back it up with the tea party to end all tea parties at Chapter and Verse. Designed to honour Mum like the royal-tea she is, the specialty spread includes delights such as JW lavender honey and white chocolate chip scones using ingredients harvested fresh from the grounds’ own garden.
Or if you’re looking to assemble the whole fam, why not make it a foodie affair with a legendary long lunch at Citrique Restaurant’s award-winning seafood buffet? Think Pacific oysters, Mooloolaba tiger prawns, Moreton Bay bugs and more, with a complimentary Half lobster for each guest – the ultimate sea to table experience should go some way’s to expressing our eternal gratitude, no?
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Mesi Studio
The Mums & Margs workshops hosted at Mesi Studio will easel-y the craftiest fun to be found this Mother’s Day weekend. Try your hand at textured art while you partake in bottomless margi’s thanks to the Margarita Margarita crew, whilst creating one-of-a-kind aesthetic keepsake for your abode. Whether your mother dearest is a crafty-type who prefers cocktails over chamomile any day of the week (hey, we had to get it from somewhere!) – or you’re just looking to have a little fun with your snack-toting Mum squad; assemble your faves and create some crafty, cocktail-fuelled core mems at one of eight sessions across the weekend. What a time.
Where: 90 Kortum Dr, Burleigh Heads
Elements Of Byron
Is Mum a fan of the finer things, but you know it’s quali-tea time that really fills her (tea)cup? Why not embark on an unforgettable epicurean adventure, with an elegant High Tea experience at Elements Of Byron. Enjoy live entertainment as your savour house-baked pastries and cakes like Burnt Vanilla Bean Gateaux and Pear and Almond Frangipane Tarts, with a glass of Louis Roederer champagne on arrival. Imagine Mum’s delight as you point that GPS to paradise (bonus points for custom playlist with all her favourite bygone bops!) – and set off on a scenic, cross-border pilgrimage for the pint-sized array of artisan sweets and sips, culminating in the enchanting surrounds of Azure Terrace… it’s okay, we’ll let you claim the credit on this expertly-crafted plan.
Where: Elements of Byron, 144 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay
The Langham, Gold Coast
From the 9th May, the already famously decadent and designer afternoon tea experience will be served with a sartorial twist at The Langham, Gold Coast. In partnership with international fashion and beauty house, Carolina Herrera, the two luxury icons converge to deliver a pint-sized culinary showcase.
Don the designer duds as you tuck into pink-tinged delights like Raspberry & elderflower tart and the Bay lobster and salmon roe roll, brushed with metallic pink dust, in honour of the Houses’ newest fragrance, Good Girl Blush Elixir. Delicacies have been meticulously crafted to encapsulate the essence of the Houses’ most loved feminine elixir with notes of vanilla, Tonka bean, almond and cocoa.
Whether the head of your fam is a bit of a fancy-pants or a full-blown fashionista, this stylish spread will slay.
Where: The Langham, Gold Coast, 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach
Elevate your gift game beyond the usual with a sophisticated dining experience at Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach. Offer a taste of Europe with a two-course set menu on Sunday, May 12th. The meal starts with a complimentary glass of Chandon for Mum in the elegant Bistro On3. Choices for the main course include the seafood Bouillabaisse or a Miso Mushroom Risotto, ensuring a culinary treat for all preferences. Not just for adults, there’s also a kids’ buffet for $25 per child under 12. Priced at $60 per person, this event promises to make Mother’s Day memorable. Spaces are limited, so early booking at Sofitel is advised.
Where: Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach, 81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences
One for the foodie Mums. Get the best of both worlds this Sunday 12th with the ultimate high tea x buffet hybrid at the Hilton Surfers Paradise. Featuring a curation of the most beloved tea party classics served alongside an assortment buffet style dishes to ensure maximum, button-popping satisfaction for your entire party. Feast ’til heart’s content on melt-in-your-mouth morsels such as mini quiches, butter chicken empanadas, pumpkin arancini, and more; complete with high tea stalwarts such as fanciful smoked salmon finger sandwiches, macarons and fresh scones served right to your table. Plus, a complimentary glass of Mumm Malborough Rosé on arrival for all adults. Here’s to you, Ma!
Where: Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences, 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Voco
Racking your brain thinking of the best way to win Mum’s heart this year? Make your way directly to Voco’s Mother’s Day Brunch at Waves Buffet and consider it sorted! What better way to toast your beloved matriarch than rounding up the fam-bam for a leisurely brunch banquet filled with all the favourites. Made-to-order omelettes, crispy bacon and mouthwatering pastries galore, and let’s not forget bottomless mimosas – seriously, you can’t go wrong!
Where: 31 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort
Give Mum the royal treatment she rightfully deserves, with a Mother’s Day High Tea extravaganza hosted in the lush surrounds of Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. Pearls Bar is rolling out the red carpet for an indulgent afternoon of pinky popping, poolside decadence; kicking off with a welcome Mirage Spritz Cocktail or Mrs. Edelyne mocktail on arrival. Serenaded by the dulcet tones of live entertainment for the duration, sip freshly brewed coffee and a delightful selection of teas, whilst you partake in hand-crafted sweet and savoury high tea delights and famous lobster sliders hot off the live station. A high socie-tea soirée fit for our familial queen!
Where: 71 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
Oasis Shopping Centre
The Oasis Shopping Centre is really raising a glass to all our matriarchal rocks, role models and one-in-a-millions; rolling out a stack of freebies and special deals for the occasion. To pamper your mama’s mind body and soul, pick from cute outings like the free Mother’s Day class at Studio Pilates, or give mum the works treatment with the ultimate, multi-boutique Indulgence Package, including an Infrared Sauna, Magnesium Float, Wash & Blow-dry and Professional Manicure – a steal at only $195 (valued at $260).
Plus, Mum isn’t about to go thirsty on her special day – with a range of complimentary beverages on offer across a selection of Oasis’ eateries this Sunday 12th, such as a free vino at Madison’s Café, or a marg on the house California Tacos. Cheers, Mumsy!
Read about all of the Oasis Shopping Centre’s offerings here.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove
Now, we’re not calling anyone posh per se, but if the lady of your manor could sniff out Tasmanian smoked salmon and spanner crab from a mile away, Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove does high tea with pizazz at Cove Café. Sip ’til heart’s content with your choice of Vittoria Coffee or the crème de la crème of cuppas, Tea Forté, plus a glas of Sparkling Rosé on arrival. Then savour the selection of gastronomic small bites such as Goat’s labneh with oyster mushroom, Spanner Crab with saffron mayonnaise, and hand-crafted sweets like Salted Caramel Choux and Coffee Chocolate Opera Cake with hazelnut cream. And who could forget classic and cranberry scones with all the trimmings?
Where: Cove Café, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island
Driftwood Social
Celebrate Mother’s Day in style at Driftwood Social, where riverside dining is elevated to new heights! Treat mum to an unforgettable experience with their special Mother’s Day menu. Choose from a delightful 2-course meal at $59 per adult, which includes a refreshing beverage, or indulge in a 3-course feast for an additional $10. Kids aren’t left out either; they can enjoy a 2-course meal for just $25, including a beverage.
Where: 42 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
Aviary Rooftop Bar
The thought of your typical high tea spread not really steeping your tea bag this Mother’s Day? Make a date with Mumma Bear at Aviary Rooftop Bar for a decadent French-inspired afternoon tea served with a whole lot of flair. Pack your appetite and prepare your tastebuds for a mouth watering Parisian affair, as you nibble your way through French macarons, sumptuous eclairs and flaky, petit pastries. Available in two packages, the fanciest of which includes both a French Champagne and a French Martini for $85 pp (+ BF). Oui oui, a rooftop soiree designed to transport us to the streets of Paris is definitely our cup of tea, darjeeling!
Where: Corner Olsen and, Musgrave Ave, Southport
Paradise Country
Paradise Country’s annual Mother’s Day Festival on the Farm returns with a stacked day of family fun – live music, delicious food trucks, pony rides, character meet and greets and more! You can also opt to upgrade your outing from fun to feast, and soak in the gorgeous farm views from the Farmhouse Restaurant while treating Mum to a buffet breakfast – or lunch (because, #sundaysleepin).
Entry to the festival is $39 for kids or $49 adults, or dining options starting from $45 for little ones (entry included)
Where: Paradise Country, Production Drive, Oxenford
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
High Tea is cute, but High Tea surrounded by koalas is cuter. Spend some koala-ty time with Mum with the un-bear-ably (okay we know they’re not technically bears, you know we can’t resist the opportunity for a good pun) adorable Mother’s Day High Tea being hosted at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary this year.
Tickets from $129 include a professional photo of Mum with a koala and admission from 12pm, meaning you can visit the rest of the adorable animals on offer while you’re there. You can even upgrade to an animal encounter and give Mum the chance to up close with her favourite animal – choose from Lemurs, Echidnas, Capybaras and even a Possum encounter! Imma Lemur you finish, but if Mum’s an animal lover, Currumbin has one of the best Mother’s Day experiences of all time.
Where: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
Words by Kellie Leader
Without a doubt one of life’s greatest pleasures is sitting down in front of a multi-tiered tray, delicately filled with morish bite-size eats and paired with a cuppa. Or bubbles. Okay both.
In all honest-tea, here are 13 of the best high tea haunts here on the Coast. Bake a leg and get bready to tick them off your must-visit list, one by one. And go!
Cove Cafe
Following a multi-million dollar refurb, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is looking better than ever – as is the the ever-elegant High Tea menu, hosted in Cove Cafe from 1–4pm every Saturday and Sunday. Elevate your weekend with decadent morsels such as Spanner Crab with saffron mayonnaise, and Salted Caramel Choux with orchid vanilla tea cream and caramel sauce.
Plus, since they also have the bragging rights as the first hotel to feature globally renowned Tea Forté teas, so you can rest assured you’ll be treated like royal-tea – starting with a welcome of Tea Forté infused towel and palate-cleansing iced tea piccolo from your host. You can also upgrade to bottomless rosé or the signature ‘Pear-tea-ni’ cocktail – either of which sounds pear-fect to us (and bonus, we can finally swing by and suss out that lush, spruced up lagoon pool in the process). Prices start at $57 per person.
Where: Cove Cafe, Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
Pearls Bar
This eclectic fave with warm mood lighting for days is known for its rotating seasonal high teas. Starting March 1 they invite us all to celebrate the heart of autumn with their Falling for Flavours: Autumn High Tea. Infused with luxurious flavours inspired by the new season, we’re drooling in anticipation. From Roasted Hazelnut Nutella Slice to Spiced Pumpkin Cake, you certainly won’t leave underwhelmed…or hungry. Complemented by the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and tropical palms, it looks as decadent as it tastes. $76 per adult, which includes a glass of Sparking Wine as well as unlimited tea and coffee.
Where: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Le Jardin
The Imperial Hotel, Seaworld Drive’s HQ of luxury might be sporting a fresh new name – but thankfully they’re serving up that same fabulous Couture High Tea experience we know and love. Bringing a fashionable culinary experience to the perennial classic – you’ll be feeling very high socie-tea indeed sipping bubbles surrounded by the sparkling crystal chandelier and grand vaulted ceilings. There are two high tea options to choose from (fancy and fancier) – depending on how bougee you’re feeling – starting from $89.90 per person. Or for a slightly less extravagant experience (that doesn’t skimp on the delish factor), there are also four curated mini-spreads to pick from (think Devonshire tea) for around $30 per person.
Where: Imperial Hotel, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Chapter and Verse
Located in the luxurious JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, high tea at Chapter & Verse is an unmissable resort tradition created by their esteemed culinary team. Using local ingredients, this team take their high tea business seriously – sharing that each homemade morsel is inspired by the echo of birds in the resort’s peaceful and tranquil surrounds. So excuse us as we channel our inner seagull and duke it out over the likes of of Honey Lavender Scones and Salted Caramel Chocolate Tartlet… we kid, of course – only our best etiquette for a classy establishment like the Marriott. There’s also a cute mini-me version for the little ones, Teeny Tiny Tea for $39 per child. Prices start from $79 per adult.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Bumbles
Tucked peacefully a stone’s throw from the Budds Beach waterfront, Surfers stalwart Bumbles has long been a beloved spot to meet for coffee and some grazing action (and now cocktails – thanks to neighbouring big sis sip spot, Blue House #squee).
Inside the most charming little cafe in 4217 (and perhaps, the entire coast) there’s a mix of themed private rooms that branch off the main space – so it figures that it also makes a particularly spesh spot for a fanciful high tea soiree. Acquaint yourself with the divinely appointed Library (or luxurious Hamptons room, perhaps) and tuck into a spread of smoked salmon blinis, pint-sized quiches, fruit tarts and tea sandwiches. Bookings for the “regular” high tea (a misnomer if ever we’ve heard one) come in at $50 per person, with dietary and bubbles options also available. La-de-dah indeed.
Where: 19 River Drive, Surfers Paradise
QT Gold Coast
This is no ordinary high tea! … well okay, technically speaking they do offer an ‘Ordinary’ High Tea option, but since you know QT Gold Coast is all about infusing the unexpected into everything they do – trust us when we say it’s anything but. The variety of pinky-popping menus also include a champas-studded Extraordinary High Tea experience, a Man Tea for a more savoury take and a mini spread for your little Q’Ties for $39 per child.
Here, the typical savoury tea fare has been treated to a tapas-style twist, such as Spiced Tempura Cauliflower and Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Poppers to excite the tastebuds – so, move over cucumber sandwich, you culinary snooze-fest you (there, we said it). And don’t get us started on the Choux Pastries and Brownie-macarons. Prices start at $64 per adult with a variety of boozy upgrade options, such as jugs of Aperol Spritz really enhance to your experience.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Ms Margot’s
A pretty little gem nestled just inside the lobby of Hilton Surfers Paradise, Ms Margot’s certainly knows a thing or two about being boujee. Along with serving up superb sips and all-day bites, the signature High Tea spread is available from 11:30–3:00 daily for whenever the urge for a lavish light lunch hits. Gather your gal and/or guy pals for a glam #SATC style rendezvous, and spill the tea over soft-shell crab bao, pumpkin arancini, and halloumi with pickled fig. The Signature and champagne upgrade Par-Tea option come in at a very Carrie approved $42 and $67 respectively – bc, y’know – more to splash on shoes. OTT outfits optional.
Where: Hilton Surfers Paradise, 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Palette
Every Sunday, locals and visitors alike flock to HOTA not just for their arty fix or a spot of market browsing, but to tuck into a delightful High Tea. Served in the critically acclaimed and ever-popular Palette restaurant, superstar Executive Chef Dayan Hartill-Law has curated the ultimate high tea experience. A couple of highlights are the Prawn Toast with yuzu mayo and sesame and for the sweet tooths, Davidson Plum and Marshmallow Pinwheel. Yum! Prices start at $70 per adult.
Where: HOTA Gallery, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Greendays
With its pavilion backdrop, lush gardens, and tranquil setting, this centrally located secluded oasis is the home of high tea. To set the scene on the type of sumptuous snack spread they put on – we’re talking mouth-watering morsels like Pork and Chestnut Gyoza, Pandan Swiss Roll and Dragonfruit Pannacotta. Throw in a glass of French bubbles for an extra $12… just because, or go the whole hog and upgrade to bottomless bubbles for an extra $45 pp. There’s also a separate vegan high tea and junior high tea so no one misses out. High Tea from $65 per adult.
Where: 8/6 Ashmore Road, Bundall
The Langham
Okay so technically this one is officially called an Afternoon Tea, but when it comes to sumptuously snacking our way through bite-sized helpings of Miniature coconut + mango pavlovas, Hot smoked salmon rillettes and Lemon curd scones, we’re not about to get caught up in the semantics now are we (a ‘Rosé’ by any other name and all that).
In a British nod to its namesake at The Langham, London where traditional English afternoon tea was served over 150 years ago, the stunning Palm Court restaurant inside the hotel pays tribute to its heritage. Serving a bespoke offering of the traditional Afternoon Tea crafted by culinary experts, it’s time to start practicing your tea drinking etiquette (no pinky!). Prices start from $109 per person Monday to Friday and $119 per person Saturday & Sunday.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Videre
Local fave Videre does a high tea with panache… with the added perk of some some pretty stellar views, to boot. From Moreton Bay Bug Fritters and Barramundi Summer rolls with bush tomato relish, to a selection of sweets whipped up by the in-house Chef de Patisserie’s – the quali-tea here is unparalleled. And quite frankly, the assortment of freshly baked scone flavours served with all the trimmings (hellooo Sun-dried mango scone and just-churned butter!) alone is enough to get us swooning. Don’t forget the unlimited French press coffee and ‘Tea Drop’ tea and breathtaking panoramic views from the 21st floor whilst the golf folk slug it out below. We know what we’d rather be doing. Prices start at $68 per person including a glass of Mumm Tasmania Brut Prestige or a speciality mocktail, delish!
Where: RACV Royal Pines, Ross Street, Benowa
Mecca Bah
Have you tried a Middle Eastern high tea yet and if you’re shaking your noggin, we’re about to open up a whole new world of d-lish. Boasting exotic sweet and savoury bites a-plenty, it will become your new normal to meet your mates here. Tuck in to three tiers brimming with treats such as Orange Blossom Cheesecake and Halloumi and Eggplant Skewers, with unlimited barista made coffee and tea, and a sparking wine or mocktail on arrival. $69 pp, minimum of four people.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach & 18/10 Santa Barbara Road, Hope Island
Bon Appetea Teahouse
Nestled in leafy Mudgeeraba, the stunningly decorated and truly breathtaking Bon Appetea Teahouse exudes French charm and traditional elegance. Popular for bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays and basically any event you can think of, their Luxe High Tea is the definition of decadence. Think scones with homemade jam and cream and a selection of petite patisseries, organic sandwiches and savoury bites. Oh and if you’re on the hunt for a truly beautiful, quaint, spot to tie the knot, this one’s a keeper. $55 per adult.
Where: 7 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba
Words by Kellie Leader.
There are few greater pleasures in life than a pamper sesh. Whether it’s a massage, a facial, an exfoliation or any other sort of treatment, heck you get to sit/lie down and zone out and just sign us up already!
There are plenty of beautiful day spas scattered around the GC and thank goodness for that because nothing gives the mind, body and soul a little pick me up quite like a visit to one of these godsends.
We’re here to save you the Google search and download our intel on our region’s finest spots for some much-deserved self-care. From the north, south, east and west….
The Bathhouse at Ground Currumbin
Set amongst remnant rainforest in front of a lovingly restored 100-year-old farmhouse, enjoy hot tubs, spas, plunge pools and saunas in a lush outdoor setting under the canopy of a majestic fig tree. Combine your bathhouse experience with a wellness treatment from the highly skilled massage and beauty practitioners for the best of all worlds.
Our pick: The Ultimate Relaxation, including hot tub, sauna, essential oil massage and bespoke organic facial
Where: 2 Village Way, Currumbin Valley
eforea spa at Hilton
I mean, it’s at the Hilton and do we really need to say anymore? The signature of eforea spa are their Journey Enhancements, which are powerful mini treatments that can be added to your existing services or enjoyed by themselves. Specially designed for eforea, they introduce guests to special, commonly unexperienced techniques from the most fabled spa cultures around the world. Count. Us. In.
Our pick: The Vichy Shower Experience to increase circulation throughout the body
Where: 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
RE/WIND
With luxurious accents from pillar to post, this Currumbin gem is one of the GC’s most loved wellness centres. Equipped with a salt therapy room, yoga and pilates classes, meditation and sound healing, along with two registered nurses to undertake anything from scar revision, to PDO threads, iv vitamin infusions and cosmetic injections, it’s the ultimate A-Z of self-nurturing.
Our pick: Salt Therapy – it’s a wonder treatment
Where: 31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin
Endota Spa
Endota is basically another word for day spa – that’s how established the brand is here in Oz. In fact it’s our largest spa group and if you’ve visited one, you know why. From the moment you walk in til the moment you float out, it’s pure bliss. If you’re channelling a group spa date or organising a hen’s ‘do, Endota is the perfect choice for some pampering with your posse.
Our pick: Intense Radiance Facial to promote collagen and elastin activation
Where: Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, Robina, Coolangatta
One Spa at RACV Royal Pines Resort
Exquisitely appointed with all details considered, One Spa offers locally inspired rituals, unique water therapies, spacious treatment rooms, private change room facilities and a relaxation area that overlooks the peaceful green landscape. A wide range of rejuvenating spa treatments await, including a geisha bath, lusar and Vichy showers, and a four-seater spa.
Our pick: The Knowing Touch massage. This unique Akwaterra facial and body massage incorporates both warmed and chilled ceramics to relax the mind and ease discomfort from tight, sore muscles.
Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa
On Eagle Wings
Nourishing relaxation awaits at this stunning Gold Coast hinterland spa. Inhale the fresh mountain air as you lounge by the heated 25m infinity lap pool, taking in the peaceful sounds of waterfalls and nature. The impressive treatments menu includes the ‘who’s who’ of pampering, with facials, massage, body treatments, pedicures or manicures. Bliss!
Our pick: Pure Chocolate Indulgence Spa Package, including all things pamper plus a complimentary cheese platter, sweet fruit chocolate box and bubbly
Where: 59 Lowry Court, Mudgeeraba
Chuan Spa
This slice of heaven was as hotly anticipated as the latest reinvention of the Dior Saddle Bag and we’re pleased as punch to announce that it surpasses all expectations! Chuan Spa at The Langham, Gold Coast, delivers luxury wellness in spades, with a holistic approach unique to the prestigious global hotel group. Offering a range of treatments to both in-house guests and non-hotel guests, expect to leave this serene sanctuary relaxed, reconnected, and revitalised.
Our pick: the signature Chuan Harmony Massage designed to stimulate meridian harmony. This unique mind, body and soul experience combines the therapeutic elements of acupressure with various relaxation massage techniques to induce a deep sense of calm.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Lost World Spa
Located within the stunning O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, is there a better place for a day spa? We think not. With million-dollar hinterland views, a trip to O’Reilly’s isn’t complete without a stint here. Indulge in one of the relaxing massages, facials, hot stone therapies, spa or steam room treatments, and enjoy some restorative time alone…or with that someone special.
Our pick: The Lost World Ritual. It’s a splurge…but it includes the lot and will change your life
Where: The end of Lamington National Park Road, Canungra
Greenhouse The Bathhouse
This modern-styled Australian boutique bathhouse and communal rejuvenation space is pure ecstasy. Offering access to two hydrotherapy spas, a custom-built wet steam room, a traditional red cedar sauna, a magnesium plunge pool, sundeck and lounge area, don’t think, just book. A shared experience for up to 10 people at a time, it’s everything you’d expect from the Greenhouse Canteen girls, and then some.
Our pick: Signature Massage + Luxe Soak Package, with full body massage, soak, plant-based lunch and bubbles or kombucha
Where: 7/37 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads
Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat
This is a complete wellness destination designed to help you truly rest and focus on your health, which sounds pretty darn perf to us. Set among over 200 hectares of beautiful native bushland, there’s everything from soothing spa therapies to wellness consultations, plus stress management, emotional wellbeing and movement sessions tailored to your needs. This is your time to stop, rest and relax.
Our pick: Hawaiian Bodywork Massage, ideal for shifting tension from the physical, energetic or emotional bodies
Where: 192 Syndicate Road, Tallebudgera Valley
Soak Bathhouse
Hit the reset button at this retreat…reimagined! Based on four ‘pillars of wellness’ (recovery, nutrition, movement and connection), this modern Australian bathhouse and spa is a holistic wonderland. With a truly beautiful environment where guests feel inspired to linger, relax and socialise rather than zip-off straight after a treatment, Soak experiences are high quality, affordable and accessible. To quote Nike, just do it.
Our pick: A Soak membership with bathhouse sessions, beauty and recovery services, and massage discounts
Where: Pacific Square, 2532 – 2540 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
SpaQ at QT
If you’re all about customisation, this is the spa for you. There’s no need to select a treatment – just make a booking and decide once you’re there! For those who allow time for a 1+hour treatment, enjoy complimentary access to the Hammam-inspired steam room to ease your body and mind into spa nirvana. All treatments include time for a personal consultation and post-treatment recommendations.
Our pick: The Plush Princess therapeutic salt scrub, massage and facial massage
Where: 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Azure Spa & Fitness
At Azure, they request that guests rest, relax and recharge…and we oblige! Located at The Star Gold Coast, this chillaxation powerhouse offers a wide range of decadent treatments, using leading skincare brand BABOR. There are six treatment rooms, including a dual treatment space and an exclusive outdoor cabana to hire, and you had us at private cabana. Go on, live your best life and level up that ‘you time’ with a stay-cay for maximum R&R.
Our pick: Deep Sea Body Indulgence with a salt exfoliation, body wrap and full body massage
Where: Pool Level, The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
The Banya
Ok, so this is not technically on the Gold Coast, but like Russell Crowe and Nicole Kidman, we’re happy to claim it! Set in the heart of the ‘biggest little town in Australia’, The Banya is a total #mood. The Bathhouse features a tiled lap and three large hot mineral pools hugged by lush foliage and cobblestone pathing. There’s also a wood-fired sauna, a steam room, a cold plunge, five massage treatment rooms, and a rooftop sundeck for post-treatment relaxation. Namaste!
Where: 35-37 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby
Words by Bianca Trathen.
