Com-mum-erate Mum with an epic #MUMFEST at the Strand at Coolangatta
Com-mum-erate Mum with an epic #MUMFEST at the Strand at Coolangatta
Let’s be real, one measly day doesn’t really cut the Vegemite and cheese sammich when it comes to celebrating Mum and everything she does for us. After all, being a Mum is equivalent to 2.5 full time jobs – or so the studies say (some weeks we’re sure it’s closer to 3!). That’s why the legends over at Cooly’s fave retail destination The Strand at Coolangatta have dreamt up #MumFest – a whole entire month to celebrate Mum. Honestly, it’s about time we say! And when it comes to nailing a mum-orable Mother’s Day, what could be easier than a literal one stop shop.
First up in the mum-umental line up of #MUMFEST(ivities), is the dead-set easiest way to upgrade your Mum’s day spoils to epic status this year – the sweet deal that is The Strand’s spend to get tickets event. While you’re shopping up a storm to spoil Mum this month, your in-store purchases of $30 or more will also bag you a ticket to one of two premium Mother’s Day experiences that are guaranteed to knock her socks – or slippers – off (excludes Woolies). It’s a #winwin, right?!
Now just what exactly does the hottest little ticket in 4225 get the holder, you ask? Choose from an exclusive movie screening at the brand new Cinebar, or unleash your inner Picasso at the exclusive Sip & Paint event where you can sip on delicious drinks and nibble on scrumptious bites all while creating a keepsake masterpiece. But be quick to secure your spot, because as you can imagine with an offer this fab, spots will be more coveted than a beachside carpark on a Saturday morning.
Once you’ve got Mum’s gift sorted – head on over to the free card making station while you’re there. Or if you’re the Mum perhaps you could just gently nudge the kids in it’s direction, because you’ll get yourself a moments peace and quiet while they create a heartfelt keepsake just for you. The card making station is just one of five totally free activities to pick from during #MumFest – The Strand has really delivered when they proclaimed it to be the Month of Mum!
There’s also the chance to frolic at one of the fabulous flower crown workshops by Bloom Blessings – obviously to make the Mum’s those crowns they so rightfully deserve #yasqueen (bookings required though! #yousnoozeyouloose).
For the active Mama’s, perhaps the challenge of the free pilates class will be just the ticket, because who doesn’t love starting the day feeling strong? (bookings also required). There’s also pamper station which is bound to be a hit for any Mum — complete with a hand massage, a lick of fresh polish in her fave colour and a special mocktail on the house. And last, but not def-gin-ately least – if you’re heading out for #girlsday with a side of retail therapy, be sure to treat Mum to a little shopping intermission at the Gin tasting pop up – a gin-termission! #cheerstoyouMum
And the part-ay doesn’t stop there, because all month long The Strand at Coolangatta is channeling their inner Oprah and giving away prizes galore, hop on over and give their socials a good old fashioned stalk coz #yougottabeinittowinit. Mum’s the word on what’s up for grabs, but with everything else that’s on offer this month you know it’s bound to be something pretty Mum-azing.
MUMFEST is sponsored by Studio Pilates Coolangatta, Lincraft, Endota Spa, Cooly Liquor, Cinebar and Little Cooly.
Where: The Strand at Coolangatta, Coolangatta
When: All month long, check their socials or website for deets.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STRAND AT COOLANGATTA
Words by Kellie Leader
Southern GC folk, if you like movies and the finer things in life and duh, who doesn’t, do we have a public service announcement for you. As of April, say hoo-roo to meh popcorn, brain-freeze frozen cokes, and bung tailbones from sitting in a claustrophobic chair for 1.5+ hours, coz the ultimate fancy-pants cinema experience is coming to 4225!
Brisbane’s much loved Cinebar Licensed Cinemas is bringing its premium, full-service feels to The Strand at Coolangatta and LBR, Channing Tatum looks even dreamier from a luxe leather lounger with a bougie cocktail in hand.
Think all-the-things like an on-fleek boutique bar, multiplex screens, state-of-the-art digital projection and sound, and restaurant quality meals from a seasonal menu. Even better, both the a-la-carte nosh and your beverage/s of choice (boozy or non-alcoholic) are delivered directly to your uber comfy recliner by experienced waiters. This means you won’t miss a millisecond of the latest blockbuster, or feel those pesky mid-movie hunger pangs.
And while we’re talking recliners, there will be precisely 374 here which is the most in Queensland #BiggerIsBetter. Whether it’s date night, girl’s night, or just night (excuse entirely optional), we’ll use any reason…or lack thereof…to experience the flashy factor of Cinebar. Delivering an affordable yet swanky destination for movie-goers to kick back, relax and soak up some VIP treatment, it has more style and swagger than you can poke an 80s vibing choc top at.
But wait there’s more and no, they’re not throwing in a free bag of Jaffas coz #Naf, but in addition to the seasonal menu, Cinebar also creates special themed menus! Think carefully curated drinks, meals and desserts exclusive to major film releases, and this is so cool it makes those frozen cokes we mentioned seem luke warm at best.
And just when we thought this place couldn’t possibly be anymore ‘Status Level: Oscar-worthy’, it proves us wrong…for all the right reasons! Cinebar is, and always has been, family owned and operated by Queenslanders and who doesn’t love to #supportlocal. Opening eighteen years ago, the the brand has gone from strength to strength and is now synonymous with the ultimate BrisVegas date-night experience.
So if you want to ‘Step Up’ your movie game and somebody fan us – we’re thinking about Channing again, plus soak up premium personalised food and beverages, Cinebar at The Strand at Coolangatta will be the place to do it.
Where: The Strand at Coolangatta, Coolangatta
When: Opening in early April
For more info, jump on The Strand at Coolangatta and Cinebar’s socials or on Cinebar’s website:
FB: @strandcoolangatta & @cinebar.coolangatta
Insta: @strandcoolangatta & @cinebar.coolangatta
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STRAND AT COOLANGATTA
Coolangatta is our southernmost suburb and it’s almost like stepping back in time for a taste of the good old Gold Coast, a little slower and sleepier (the way we like it) but with a sprinkle of some seriously epic eats for good measure – dreamy.
If you’re a fan of chill coastal vibes and pumping surf, where you can soak up the sunshine all-day long and hop from beach to bar as your heart desires then Cooly’s got your name written all over it. The laidback lifestyle is just one of the reasons why locals love this little beachside suburb, but we’ve found another 16 for when you want to go exploring.
Franc Jr’s
I’ts called the famous pizzeria for a reason, Franc Jr’s have gotten a rep for dishing up the best pizzas on the Gold Coast – maybe even Queensland. Big call, I know but IYKYK. Home of their signature Sicilian square pizza, pop down for takeaway or dine in with a bottle of pinot to wash down your pizza. Our pick is the red strip with a pickled grape salad on the side (sounds weird but trust the process) and a frozen marg if you fancy a tipple.
Where: 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Pipi’s Restaurant
Cooly brought in the big guns with Brisbane hospitality mavens, the Gambaro Group bringing Pipi’s to life and it’s something Southern Gold Coasters have been waiting for. Pipi’s is the newest seaside sensation to call Cooly home and you best believe our tastebuds can’t get enough of it. Nothing to be crabby about with a Mediterranean-inspired menu – Chargrilled Mooloolaba King Prawns and Freemantle Octopus Carpaccio just a couple of the stars of the show. If you’re feeling boujee then treat yourself to a Kaviari Caviar Bump – served with a shot of Belvedere or glass of Tattinger.
Special mention to the cafe-style sequel to this suave new seafood nosher, Awaken Cafe. Situated underneath Pipi’s Awaken thos caffeine-slinging counterpart is giving girl-next-door (but, y’know, downstairs) in the very best way.
Where: Level 1/275 Boundary Street, Coolangatta
Kefi
Kefi popped up on the café scene in late 2023 and their suitably summer vibe has been gracing our social channels here, there and everywhere. With coffee and food as delicious as the interiors are gorg it’s the kind of spot we could just spend all morning long at. With a Mediterranean twist on your classic brekky favourites, fuel up with a feed or pop in for the viral strawberry matcha and take a stroll on the beach because, wholesome.
Where: Corner of Griffith & McDonald Street, 2/110 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Cooly Breeze
There’s something about being beach side and on a rooftop that just hits different, throw some fine dining into the mix and that’s our kind of trifecta. Executive chef Marcondes Almeida Neto has combined gastronomy with the flavours of the Medierranean Coast for bold flavours you’ve never tasted before. A feast for your eyes and your tum, the dishes are almost too pretty to eat… almost.
Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Coolangatta Pie Shop
This iconic Gold Coast pie shop has been around for more than 50 years, so it’s no wonder they’re serving up some of the tastiest pies around. We’re partial to a baked good and fortunately, the Coolangatta Pie Shop have them aplenty – perfect for that post surf carb load.
Where: 50 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Maverick Hair & Art Studio
If you’ve been looking for a place to tame that mane then say less, because Maverick Hair & Art Studio’s got your back. Or hair, I guess. The award-winning salon and of course, their stylists, know their way around the locks and can we just say – they do one of the best blondes we’ve seen on the GC, and that’s no easy feat. The refined industrial feel is a pretty little paradise to sit back and relax while you’re pampered, which is exactly what you want when you’re investing hours in those tresses – t’s the crown you never take off, after all. No bad hair days here
Where: First Floor, 1/17 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Bar Evelyn
This place has been a hotspot for locals and visitors ever since it popped up on Marine Parade a couple of years ago. Cooly’s home of antipasto and pasta, you best believe we want a pizza that. Our picks? If you’re a seafood lover like us then the bug bucatini and pickled mussels with bottarga mayo, cucumber and dill are a must try. Sweeten the deal with their house-made tiramisu – do as the Italians do, we say – and one of their season sours.
Where: Shop 20/58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Clay Cantina
One thing about us is that we are always down for a Mexican moment. Now let’s taco-bout the margs, specifically the Laneway Marg – just trust us when we say their signature agave inspired bev is everything you’ve been looking for in a marg and more. Taste the flavours of all your fave Mexican fare, or if you’d rather a hands on approach to your dining experience, get the crew together for their signature cooking classes where you’ll get up close and personal with their most-loved recipes. Gracias!
Where: 2/16 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Greenmount Beach Surf Club
With unsurpassed views in a northerly direction, you can take in everything overlooking the spectacular Greenmount Beach right up to the skyline of Surfers Paradise and, on some days, beyond. If the surf’s up, watched the surfers below shred waves or wipe out with an ice cold schooner in hand.
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Cinebar
Forget that there was a ripper cinema in Cooly? How could you! It’s time you get acquainted with Cinebar, a restaurant-style movie experience where you can get the full dinner, drinks and show vibe without having to lift a finger – or leg for that matter. Because we’re all about efficiency, kick back and catch up on the freshest flicks while you’re wined and dined for the ultimate date night with your special someone or your gal pals.
Where: The Strand at Coolangatta
4 Pines
On the brew-tiful beach front you’ll find one of the vibiest beachside breweries we know, the ultimate for whether you’re escaping the surf or just looking for a spot to kick back with live tunes and a beer in hand. You’ll find all your 4 Pines favourites, like the classic Pacific Ale for a fresh and fruity finish or the Pale Ale for a more crisp and citrusy taste, on tap and calling your name. Well, what are you waiting for – hop to it!
Where: The Strand, 28/72 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Ottimo
If you want the inside scoop then here it is – if you want to be served up gelato the Italian way, Ottimo know that sticking to tradition is anything but boring. Having studied at the Gelato University of Carpigiani (yes, that’s a thing), owner Davide let’s his Italian heritage swirl through each delicious morsel whether it’s Ferrero Rocher or passionfruit flavoured. We give it an High Distinction!
Where: 18/52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Timezone
Nothing like a bit of healthy competition to get the heart rate up, blitz your bestie with more than 200 classic arcae games to choose from. With full-sized bowling lanes, dodgem cars and laser skirmish there’s something for all ages – including the big kids at heart.
Where: Level 1, 72-80 Marine Parade, The Strand, Coolangatta
The Pink Hotel
Not a Cooly local? No problem, because one of our most aesthetic hotels just happens to call Coolangatta home! It’s impossible to miss the iconic pink glow of the Palm Springs inspired Pink Hotel, if it weren’t for the fact that you can spot the GC’s glorious skyline from it, we’d forgive you for thinking you were in the California desert. Originally a motel, the legends behind The Pink Hotel lovingly restored it to its current glory so now we gorg destination for the ultimate staycation – love that for us.
Where: 171 Griffith St, Coolangatta
Eddie’s Grub House
Rock ‘n roll meets fried chicken, burgers and whiskey: does it get any better than that? Get a mouthful of naughty but nice American classics in this soul food dive bar. They regularly have live music and karaoke nights if you’re feeling brave, it’s long been a Cooly institution for good grub and good vibes – for good reason!
Where: 171 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Cooly Rocks On
It’s got to be one of the most colourful creations that Cooly has brought us, each and every year we love seeing Cooly transform into the home of motors and music with a dedicated festival to celebrate the lifestyle of yesteryear. Think Hot Rods, Elvis Tribute Artists, Swing Dancing, Pin Up Pageants and so much more,
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
