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.

Winter is rough – said every Gold Coaster EVER. The aches ache more, the sore spots are sorer, and the floppier bits feel, well, floppier coz whilst fun to create, winter bods are not a vibe. So, imagine our delight when we discovered that One Spa RACV Royal Pines (also known as the luxe spa to end all luxe spas) is now open Monday to Sunday! This means we can get pampered Every.Single.Day and this is so totally our kinda 9-to-5…quite literally, with treatments running all day long. Life made!

Business at One Spa has been booming since the beginning of the year and absolutely nobody is surprised to hear this. The upside for all of us is that to keep up with demand, they’ve now enlisted a full team of specialised therapists and a new manager (NOT KAREN) to even further elevate the VIP-feels.

For those who are yet to experience One Spa, it’s a place of pure luxury nestled in the heart of the lush peaceful greenery at RACV Royal Pines Resort. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be wowed by the beautiful space, teasing your senses with a hint of what’s to come. The super friendly and accommodating staff never miss a beat, making sure your visit is as comfortable as it is luxurious.

Which treatments would we recommend to spoil yo-self? So glad you asked, because we could spruik One Spa greatness from dusk till dawn. First up, if a warm, inviting winter spa experience is on your wish-list, take a number and get in line coz no-one does winter wellness quite like this. In fact, there’s a treatment named precisely that (‘Winter Wellness’) and if that alone doesn’t scream “pick me”, then read on. For a full hour, relax, unwind, and let those stressful moments melt away (don’t mind if we do) with a full body exfoliation and firming wrap, complete with an indulgent 30-minute back massage. Available Tuesday to Thursday for $109 (RACV or Auto Club member price) or $119 for non-members, it’s the perfect way to revive and restore balance. Feeling zen just thinking about it!

Or, if you really want to really step up the self-indulgence game, your go-to will be the Winter Bliss treatment 90 minutes of complete revitalisation. Including a soothing 60-minute hot stone back massage and a 30-minute full body exfoliation with a warm oil scalp massage. (We just slipped into a pamper-induced coma.) Available Tuesday to Sunday, this slice of heaven is $180 (for RACV or Auto Club members) or $200 for non-members.

Stuck for gift inspo for that guy or gal who legit has everything but the kitchen sink (no wait, they have one of those too)! Call off the search, because a gift voucher for a One Spa gift card is the ultimate fail-safe people-pleaser present. Psssst. Significant other/mum/dad/sis/bro/bestie if you’re reading this….hint hint nudge nudge.

So, folks the takeaway is this; if you’re channelling a highly sought-after warm and welcoming place of luxurious relaxation, it’s an absolute no-brainer. Two words…One Spa.

Bookings are essential. To reserve your treatment, phone 07 5597 8700 or email [email protected]. For more information and a full treatment brochure, click here.

Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa
When: 9am – 5pm, Monday – Sunday

Words by Bianca Trathen.

STORY SPONSORED BY RACV ROYAL PINES RESORT.

We’re currently experiencing our very own version of winter here on the Gold Coast; slightly chilly temps, jackets for the first hour of the day and all of the snuggling under the doona for as long as possible.

It only lasts a little while but we’re all about making the most of it. While the beach time is on a hiatus we’ve compiled a list of fun things to do in winter on the Gold Coast.

We’re currently experiencing our very own version of winter here on the Gold Coast; slightly chilly temps, jackets for the first hour of the day and all of the snuggling under the doona for as long as possible.

It only lasts a little while but we’re all about making the most of it. While the beach time is on a hiatus we’ve compiled a list of fun things to do in winter on the Gold Coast.

Smack some golf balls
We love TopGolf all year round but the fact it’s indoors and comes with heaters (should you need them) plus a bar for inner warmth is a winter bonus. There are also actual golf courses if you’re brave enough to get out in the weather. We can’t go past Putt Putt Mermaid Beach’s new neon glow balls for a bright addition to our night time putting! Whacking balls makes you warm. As do bulk beers afterwards.

Create something cute
There are so many little creative nooks popping up all over the Gold Coast of late, meaning many options for making things and keeping your hands warm at the same time. Hands-on workshops are where it’s at friends. From pottery making to paint and sip classes, knit your own winter woollies and macramé, all of the things are on offer. The Craft Parlour has a vast array of workshops to satisfy all your creative desires.

Treat yourself to some pampering
Getting all cosy on a massage table sounds like the perfect way to warm up. We are spoilt for choice when it comes to day spas, the most recent of which is Chuan Spa at The Langham, Gold Coast, which delivers luxury wellness in spades. Personally, we can never resist a good Vichy Shower experience, offered at eforea spa and One Spa. Soak Bathhouse is offering a Soak and Sound night every Wednesday night through winter. Inspired by ‘Après Ski’ outdoor hot springs in the snow, Soak will feature calming live music from local musicians and serve up hot drinks from 5pm – 8pm. Treat yo’self for warmth and also pampering purposes.

Eat and drink things
It goes without saying that the Gold Coast is top-notch foodie destination with stellar new venues popping up every single week. Recently we’ve had a new Italian, coffee shop, rooftop bar, hidden laneway bar, a vegetarian sandwich shop and a tapas house. You name it, it has opened on the Gold Coast this year. when it comes to eating nothing screams winter like a Sunday Roast, and The Island has you covered on that front with their new Sunday Roast Revival launching in early July. Eating and drinking can certainly be indoor activities so you’ll be warm and full of goodness. Win, win.

See a show
Not just a foodie destination, we’re also chokkas full of culture. And yes, that is a reference to The Castle. Pops Masters may be over but the HOTA Gallery is worth a visit any day of the week and Archie 100, an exhibition celebrating 100 years of Archibald Prize is opening in mid-July. Award winning musical Once is hitting HOTA this weekend and Billy Elliot is set to hit The Star in early July. Check out our What’s On page to keep up to date with everything going on.

Release your inner child
Perhaps the very best way to warm up is to forget you’re an adult with responsibilities and a reputation to uphold (boring) and just let loose doing kid-type things. There is a whole lot going on in Surfers Paradise including locking yourself in rooms and attempting to escape, dancing amongst holograms, bowling, air hockey, jungle gyms, you name it. Check out some favourites here. If you’re raging about the colder weather (or just life in general) you can release that pent up frustration at Rage Cage Southport. Work up a sweat while armed with a sledgehammer!

Escape
Look in all honesty, leaving the Coast probably won’t make you warmer but it will give you something to do to take your mind off the chilliness. We’re so very lucky to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world and even luckier that there are more beautiful places right on our doorstep. Mt Tamborine has some beautiful wineries, breweries, a top notch bakery, rainforests, day hikes, anything and everything you could possibly want. It’s all good.

Happy wintering.

Words by Belinda Symons.