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It’s time for a Festive Fiesta at Cabana Bar & Lounge

Taste their new menu while you’re at it.

We love the festive season, all of the eating and drinking with zero guilt, time spent with your favourite folks, sunshiny days on the beach, all of the very best things.

If you haven’t already, it’s high time you booked in a few soirees with all those groups of friends we know you have, not to mention colleagues and people you only speak to once a year but any excuse for a session hey?

And guess what, we’ve found the perfect spot to indulge in as much eating and drinking as you please with an array of tasty goodies and all in a fun, semi-outdoor space up north at Southport Sharks.

It’s Cabana Bar & Lounge and yes, there are cabanas aplenty for your partying pleasure – they’re really quite festive in themselves aren’t they – and they are ripe for the Christmas party picking.

Choose from two packages; the first is $35 per person and includes a selection of tapas plates, Christmas bon bons, hats and decorations and the second is $45 per person and comes with all of the above plus a champagne cocktail on arrival.

You’ll have a private cabana and you may also hire the entire space including the bar if you wish. This years’ Christmas cocktail is the Jack Frost and that sounds delightful if you ask us.

So what’s to eat?

Cabana Bar & Lounge launched a new menu not too long ago and it includes many a tasty treat.

We love everything on it to be honest but in particular the Tandoori Spice Cauliflower Wings, Karaage Chicken Poppers, Portuguese Crispy Squid and Coconut and Lemon Myrtle Prawns are real winners.

There are also sliders of the Honey Dipped BBQ Pulled Pork and Signature Beef and American Cheese varieties and flatbread pizzas in flavours like Pork & Bourbon Bacon and Fig and Goat’s Cheese.

YES PLEASE.

You can get loaded platters too including mixes of the entire tapas menu and that’s probably the go if you enjoy eating as much as we do.

Drinks-wise you may indulge in all your favourite cocktails but the jugs are the real MVPs.

The Cucumber and Apple Gintail is our favourite with Ink Gin, apple schnapps, cucumber, mint, apple juice, simple syrup, cranberry juice and soda and it’s the perfect sweet, refreshing summer sip.

There are also a few signature cocktails you’ll want to sample. We love the Sweet-toothed Old Fashioned with Wild Turkey American Honey Bourbon, Courvoisier Cognac, simple syrup and bitters.

So you see, all the best things are on offer at Cabana Bar & Lounge this festive season (and always). Book yourself a good time now.

LOCATION: Cnr Musgrave and Olsen Ave, Southport
HOURS: Thursday to Saturday from 4pm until late and Sunday from 12pm until 5pm

STORY SPONSORED BY SOUTHPORT SHARKS

Words by Kirra Smith

3 wellness events to prep you for the New Year

We’re just a wee three seconds away from 2020, or so it seems with the rapid rate the year has progressed of late. The next couple of months will no doubt pass in a whirlwind of balmy beach days, bikinis and BBQs on the beach in bikinis.

Which is why November is the perfect time to get ourselves prepped and ready for the New Year, new us scenario we’re about to encounter.

Enter Southport Sharks Health + Fitness who have very kindly dubbed November Wellness Month and created some super exciting events for us all to get started on said prepping.

There’ll be workshops, classes and tasting sessions dedicated to yoga, Pilates, mindfulness, meditation and nutrition.

Here’s a few favourites we think you should absolutely sign up for

The Nourish Workshop
Friday 8th November from 6.45pm (1.5 hours)
How can we nourish ourselves? In this workshop, you’ll discuss areas of life that are important to nourish, so you can be the best version of yourself. Keeping the approach simple, find out how you can improve your energy, sleep, digestion and vitality. It’s free for members and $20 for non-members.

Bush Flower Circle Workshop
Thursday 21st November from 5.45pm (2 hours)
Bush flowers are powerful remedies that have been used across our beautiful land for centuries. They work on an energetic and vibrational level to support the underlying emotional causes of disease and illness, thus providing a subtle transformation from the inside out. Whether you need support for repeated patterns in your life, with recent or upcoming changes, Australian Bush Flowers are for everyone. Join the circle and create a personalised remedy to take home. It’s $35 for members and $45 for non-members.

Yoga Retreat
Saturday 16th November from 8.30am (3 hours)
A whole morning of yoga is very good for the soul; movement, breathing, stillness, all of the nourishing things. The day will begin with yang and hatha yoga at 8.30am blending the benefits of passively holding yoga poses with more dynamic sequences and standing postures. That’s followed by a 30 minute massage tutorial including styles of massages, self-massage trigger points, basic stretching and foam roller techniques. Then it’s time for yin yoga and meditation; a meditative practice with deep and long held postures that will revitalise your entire body and balance your meridian system. The day is free for members and $20 for non-members. Sounds good to us.

Bookings for all are essential and they will book out. Contact Sharks Health + Fitness to reserve your spot.

So Gold Coasters, if you’re in the market for some rest and relaxation, a little mindfulness and some tools to ease you into the New Year, Wellness Month is for you.

And we KNOW you’re in the market for all of those things.

LOCATION: Southport Sharks Health + Fitness, Corner Olsen & Musgrave Avenues, Southport

Words by Kirra Smith

13 bueno Gold Coast Mexican spots

Goodness Gracias (image supplied)
Goodness Gracias (image supplied)

It’s one of life’s greatest pleasures; eating Mexican and drinking margis so when Cinco De Mayo rolls around each year, we rejoice because we have an excuse to do just that (like we needed one).

For those who flunked history or have just wiped out too many braincells with said margaritas over the years, Cinco De Mayo commemorates the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 aaaand….we’ve lost you. Anyway, back to the margis (hello again), we have compiled a list of some of the Coast’s best Mexican restaurants that we love a whole enchiLOTa.

Goodness Gracias
A little (somewhat hidden) gem on the Gold Coast Highway is Goodness Gracias serving up plant-based Mexican eats that are some of the tastiest around. With some incredible menu items, you’ll be hard-pressed to choose just one dish. But if you ask us, regardless of which you choose you’ll be sure to have your sombrero knocked off, even if you aren’t vegan!
Where: 1A 1114 – 1116 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

El Camino Cantina (image supplied)
El Camino Cantina (image supplied)

El Camino Cantina
With shops across the country, we’re lucky to have ourselves one of these spicy little dens of Mexican magic here on the Goldy. Slip in and slip on a sombrero and let the endless fantastic food and de-lish cocktails flow. Positioned on the promenade waterfront dining precinct at Robina Town Centre you have the perfect place to enjoy al fresco dining with your gang. Their Carne Nachos deserve a special shout-out. Because, if you know, you know.
Where: 1009/1010 Level 1, 19-33 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

Beach Burrito Company
The southern belle can be found overlooking the ocean in Coolangatta, usually packed with people and with all of the good vibes on offer. There are what feels like endless burritos on offer, and why not go all boujee and get the ‘Cali upgrade’, which means the beans and rice are replaced with hot chips! Yes my friends, you read that correctly, and yes, our mouths are watering!
Where: The Strand,Shop 25/26 72-80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Montezumas Burleigh
After relocating from the beachside arcade to just off James Street, this family-friendly Mexican purveyor of good times sure can serve up the goods. The menu is quite extensive, so shall we suggest the Combination Plate? Because why not have a little bit of everything and give ’em all a go. Plus through in a Margarita for good measure! Because it wouldn’t be a Mexican fiesta without one!
Where: 1/19 Park Avenue In the Alleyway From James Street to Park Avenue, Burleigh Heads

Hibachi Chicken Achiote & De Lechon (Pork) taco's, Agave Rosa (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Hibachi Chicken Achiote & De Lechon (Pork) taco's, Agave Rosa (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Agave Rosa
Fresh, delish dishes with dashes of distinct oriental flavour (say that after a few tequilas), served Mexican style is what you’ll get in spades at Agave Rosa. It’s funky, bright and welcoming feels are perfectly complimented by their phenom menu mixing our two fave cuisines with finesse. And like any Mexican establishment worth its salt, their cocktails and margaritas slay!
Where: Shop 2/74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta

Clay Cantina
With its cool, casual laneway dining outside and inviting, home-style dining inside (open kitchens are life!), this feisty Latina dishes up the best Mexican outside of the Motherland. And we’re not actually joking. Plus, you can transform into a Mexican Masterchef yourself with super fun classes using authentic ingredients and tools. This sage and terracotta-hued heavyweight can do no wrong.
Where: 2/16 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

La Diosa Mexicana
If you’ve got cheap but cheerful Mexi goodness on your mind (same) this one’s for you! Taco Tuesdays offer delish $4 tacos or if you’re down for an all-you-can-eat taco fiesta (SAME!), you can go gangbusters on these Mexican bad boys. Serving up all your traditional faves, it’s great for groups as the fit-out and vibe are a’pumpin.
Where: Circle on Cavil, Shop 11/3184 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Tacos, La Diosa Mexicana (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)
Tacos, La Diosa Mexicana (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)

Hail Mary
Boasting a fit out and décor to die for and a delish menu to match, Hail Mary is a standout. Serving up the freshest, flavoursome Mexican nosh, it’s a no-brainer. With specials like two tacos and a beer/wine or soft drink for $20 on weekends, what are you even waiting for? Ohhh and don’t miss their Burrito Wednesdays!
Where: 6/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Bonita Bonita
Eats institution Bonita Bonita (and little sister Bon Bon pouring mezcals and tequilas for pre or post-dinner party starters) is a long-standing fave. Its dimly lit, moody and ornate interior design never ceases to impress and create an intimate vibe. Enjoy the mouth-watering eats (the grilled corn…OMG) and don’t even get us started on the cocktails.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Mexicali
Always busy, the Cali meets Mexico feels of Mexicali have us coming back again and again. You can’t go wrong with a banquette if you’re in a group, and you even have the option of adding a bottomless drinks package (sold!). Sunset cocktails on the balcony never get old, and a snap under the ever-changing lightbox message above the stairs is mandatory!
Where: Level 1, 2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach

Mexicali (image supplied)
Mexicali (image supplied)

Frida Sol
Sibling to Bonita Bonita and Bon Bon, this texture-rich stunner pays homage to the almighty Frida Kahlo and oozes a delectably sultry vibe. With live DJs on Sundays from 1pm – 4pm and a divine modern Mexican menu, it’s a Mexi lovers home away from home. One of our FAVES.
Where: 1176 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Holy Jala
This fun-infused Cooly local serves up a juxtaposition of Mexican, Spanish and other Mediterranean flavours and the result is mexcellent! Offering a free food banquet on Saturday when you buy a drink (yes, you read that right), why wouldn’t you give it a whirl. It also has a food truck so if you’re looking for catering, you know who to call!
Where: 140 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

The Aztec
Kicking around since 1995, The Aztec Broadbeach…along with The Aztec Coolangatta…is a hit with the whole fam, boasting a fun-loving mixture of cosy booths, ultra-modern furnishings and an epic fluro bar. A colourful and upbeat venue, you’re spoilt for choice with all the Mexican goodies you’d hope to find. Insider tip; wear your oversized tee and order the loaded nachos.
Where: The Aria Building, Shop 11/17 Albert Avenue, Broadbeach & 152 Griffith Street (Twin Towns end), Coolangatta

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Hail Mary (image supplied)
Hail Mary (image supplied)

14 reasons locals love Southport

Mr PP's Deli & Rooftop Bar (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)
Mr PP's Deli & Rooftop Bar (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)

It may be home to the Gold Coast’s bustling business district but Southport can also boast a huge array of incredible eateries, culture and general good times.

We’ve rounded up 15 things locals love about the place and we reckon you might enjoy them too.

In no particular order, enjoy.

Southport Sharks
There is many a good time to be had at Southport Sharks including dining at one of the delicious dish-packed restaurants, drinking at Aviary Rooftop Bar overlooking the city, joining in on one of their classes at the Health + Fitness Centre or getting involved in one of their many good time events. The possibilities are endless. It’s the perfect spot for a family event or take the crew for a Sunday afternoon session. Happy days no matter what.
Where: Olsen Avenue and Musgrave Avenue, Southport

Southport Yacht Club
Waterfront dining is the name of the game at Southport Yacht Club with two venues to choose from and stunning scenes from whichever you choose. You’re also welcome to just sit back and kick up your heels with a cold beverage or two while gazing lovingly at one of the many beautiful yachts in the marina. It’s one of the Coast’s best locations and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
Where: 1 MacArthur Parade, Main Beach

Zero Latency
Zero Latency is a free-roam, virtual reality experience like no other. With up to eight players per game, you’ll have the BEST time fighting zombies, exploring mystical places and challenging your friends on space stations. All you need to do is put on the VR headset, strap into the backpack and pickup the controller. Get 10% off here. It really is so good.
Where: 34 Smith Street, Southport

Panezski Distillery
The Coast’s first vodka distillery opened in Southport a few short months ago and what a treat. The family-owned business are whipping up three types of vodka, two types of gin and even a couple of beers on the premises and you can pop in to grab a bottle to go, or you can sit down and enjoy a cocktail and a charcuterie board and spend a bit of time. Very cool. 
Where: Unit 7/55 Bailey Crescent, Southport

Vinnies Dive
Who doesn’t love a good dive bar. Particularly one that doubles as a live music venue and has a huge range of your favourite beers on offer (and some you may not have heard of). Head in there to discover some new music from both local and interstate bands and if you’re in the mood for a party, which we know you are, you can hire the space out for your next one.
Where: 44A Nerang Street, Southport 

Boudoir Lounge interior (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar 
On the ground floor of the building you’ll find the deli section of the establishment, with an array of delicious meats and cheeses that will be brought together in platter form for your feasting pleasure. Upstairs, the rooftop bar boasts tasty cocktails, even more delicious eats and views across the city. It’s a real good time.
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport

Randy Wallhole
To put it bluntly, you haven’t lived until you’ve tasted a Randy Wallhole bagel. There are eight flavours to choose from which means you have multiple per day if you so choose. Go for the Pulled Bas first up, it’s got Smokey BBQ pulled beef, peri mayo and apple slaw. Wash it down with some of the best coffee on the Coast and be on your merry way.
Where: 4/21 Nind Street, Southport 

Boudoir Lounge
A newbie amongst the Southport bunch, Boudoir Lounge is the very best spot for a tasty brunch with the girls or simply a few cocktails after work. Found on Como Crescent, it quickly became the go to spot for those looking for some delicious eats, in a sweet setting and with unique sips of course. Inside there’s also a hair and beauty bar so you can get fabulous before you head out on the town. Perfect.
Where: 410/1 Como Crescent, Southport

Broadwater Parklands
Whether you’re four or 40, theres tons of fun to be had at Broadwater Parklands. For starters, you can sit and stare out at the yachts you’ll never set foot on. Then, there’s the bouncy pillow (maybe don’t go on there without a child), a kiddies train, a water playground and weekly events from theatre shows to foodie markets. See, fun.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport

D Point Ten
Oh donuts, how we love you. D Point Ten can be found on Stevens Street and, in keeping with the general donut vibe, is a little hole in the wall space pumping out the freshest of donuts we may have ever excitedly shoved into our greedy mouths. In all the best flavours no less. Go the Ferrero Rocher for sure.
Where: 6/1 Stevens Street, Southport

Cardamon Pod
The delightful folk at Cardamon Pod are serving up delightful dishes with a focus on clean eating but of the prettiest variety. They offer vegan and gluten free options for breakfast and lunch with a side of organic coffee and vegan desserts. All very delicious and it’s very hard to stop at just one thing or not to post on your Instagram.
Where: Brickworks Centre, 3/3 Brolga Avenue, Southport

Panezski Artisan Distillery (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Gold Coast Aquatic Centre
Southport’s centre of swimming is something for all of us to be proud of. It’s as pretty as a collection of swimming pools can be and, as it was home to all the Commonwealth Games water activities, it’s world class. The architecture is sleek and there’s a training room featuring pits filled with foam for the divers to practice in.
Where: Marine Parade, Southport 

Escape Hunt
Imagine being wrongly accused of murder, chained to a wall and having to rely on your friends’ detective skills to free you. Who you gonna call? Welcome to Escape Hunt, Southport’s brain bending game guaranteed to test your problem solving skills like they’ve never been tested before. There’s a few scenarios you might be faced with, all of which involve solving a mystery with a set of intricate clues. It’s the most fun you can have inside a locked room. Make sure to take your smart friends. Grab 10% off here.
Where: 2/162 Scarborough Street, Southport

Brickworks Centre
Where to start. There are SO many excellent places to peruse at the Brickworks starting with Ferry Rd Market where you can nab yourself everything from beautiful flowers to the freshest breads, seafood and fruit and veggies galore. God it’s good. Within the Centre, there’s also stunning homewares, fashion and design stores and health and beauty services. Oh, there’s also always some really cool events.
Where: Ferry Road, Southport 

Words by Kirra Smith

Gold Coast Aquatic Centre
Gold Coast Aquatic Centre (Image supplied by Destination Gold Coast)
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