The adults-only playground is set to open sooner than you think.
The adults-only playground is set to open sooner than you think.
We know we’re guilty of banging on about it — but seriously how good is our climate for being outside socialising with drinks in hand and living your best life? When you look at the rest of the world, we have it pretty darn good year-round: 300+ days of sunshine and not one snowflake in sight!
So when we hear of impending venues opening that will fully utilise our terrific climate, we get a bit excited. When we see that they will be next level and something the Coast hasn’t ever seen before, our heart skips a beat. And when legendary Gold Coast operators Artesian Hospitality announces they’re opening a mega lifestyle and entertainment rooftop precinct in Surfers Paradise — we swoon hard!
It’s been a long time in the making, but we can now reveal Cali Beach will open to the public from Friday 24th September from 5pm! Yipeee!
Matthew Keegan is the Managing Partner of the group behind this fabulous new venue and excitedly tells us, “Cali Beach marks the start of something special for hospitality and entertainment offerings in Queensland, and Australia in general. But, at Artesian, our mantra is to lead, not follow. Given its scale, Cali Beach was a significant investment for our group, with development taking just under twelve months and costing almost $10 million. it’s a landmark venue for all of Australia that epitomises our commitment to creating unique experiences which exceeded all expectations!”
So what can you expect?
Featuring luxe poolside daybeds, incredible dining and bars, multiple glimmering pools, an outdoor cinema, and even a beach volleyball court for some sun-drenched sweaty action — Cali Beach is going to take daytime socialising on the Gold Coast to an entirely new level.
Stretching over 5000 sq. metres and situated on the corner of Surfers Paradise Blvd and Elkhorn Avenue — four stories above street level — the precinct enjoys a spectacular prospect over Surfers Paradise beach and unparalleled views of the Surfers Paradise skyline. Be it Day or night; it is simply breathtaking!
Prior to opening, Cali Beach will also unveil the roster of the national and international resident DJ’s and artists lined up to perform at the venue. You can expect to see some big names — our lips are sealed, though. If spending a day in one of their poolside cabanas sounds like your idea of heaven (ours too), bookings for these their booths and daybeds are available soon. Well, noon Friday 10th September to be exact. Set a reminder, people!
This fantastic addition to our hospitality scene on the Gold Coast has even attracted the attention of the leading man himself, Mayor Tom Tate. He gleamed, “This is exactly what Surfers Paradise and our city needs. I applaud the team behind this development as it will be a beacon for locals and visitors. I look forward to seeing the evolution of Cali Beach into one of those must-visit destinations year-round.’’
The luxurious and sophisticated precinct will open to the public at 5pm Friday 24th September 2021 before the official grand opening event on Saturday 25th September.
Cali Beach is sure to become Australia’s most prominent open-air destination — it’s official: we are spoilt and we can’t get enough!
> Check out our Facebook & Instagram for more photos! Or have a look around with a video here!
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
Fan of a good old-fashioned surprise? We certainly are, so the news that highly anticipated Surfers Pavilion was due to open ahead of the Anzac Day long weekend, indeed sent us into a spin. Be prepared to get acquainted with the all-new Surfers Pavilion!
If you aren’t already aware, the chic new Surfers Paradise venue — on Ferny Avenue — has uninterrupted waterfront views and even boasts a substantial mooring site of 400sq metres, which although not quite complete, will be ready in the coming weeks. Meaning if you want to arrive by boat or jet ski, Bond-style — so be it!
If you aren’t captured by this open and airy space accompanied by dappled light from overhead shutters, then perhaps the classic-looking red brick feature walls and all of the plants might be your thing? Either way, this venue is going to give you ample opportunity to nail those perfect Instagram shots, drink in hand, of course.
The sprawling menu of fresh and locally sourced seafood is testament to the traditional take on ‘pavilion’ dining. The harbinger though, has to be the most impressive oyster and Champagne station you’re likely to have ever laid eyes on — where guests can intermingle with chefs and get the lowdown on all things edible. Keen to know what part of the South Coast your oysters came from? Ask away!
If this isn’t already enough, a wholly dedicated frosé bar is aptly positioned on the extensive outside deck area. Perfect for those who like to keep themselves amply hydrated whilst enjoying our beautiful Queensland sunshine and aquatic views. Everyone, right?
Once fully open, you’ll have the chance to arrive in style, enjoy a beautiful space with fresh food prepared by on-hand chefs, all whilst sipping Champagne, cocktails or perhaps frosé. And right in the heart of Surfers Paradise, no less. It almost sounds too good to be true!
To revel in the early opening of such a fabulous venue, Surfers Pavilion kicked off their very first Sunset Sunday (25 April 2021) featuring internationally acclaimed (but locally grown) DJs and producers, The Stafford Brothers. Yes, you read that correctly. What a way to start.
But don’t fret if you weren’t there for the opening weekend, from here on in you will be able to enjoy your weekend sessions with various DJs on the decks while the warm Autumn sunset bounces on the water beside you. This Sunday (2 May 2021) Stace Cadet will take to the decks to bring his house and electronic beats.
Head honcho Matthew Keegan, the Managing Partner at Artesian Hospitality, who operate the new venue, looks forward to welcoming you all down to Surfers Pavilion, “We cannot wait for our locals to come down and see the brand-new Surfers Pavilion… Get ready for one hell of a party”.
Where: 30/34 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: Every Thursday – Monday 11am-late
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
Happy days have arrived in Surfers Paradise and they come in the form of a sleek new, double-storey corner space that’s bringing all your Jumanji dreams to life. Except pretty and not at all terrifying.
White Rhino is complete and will open its’ doors to us, the food and beverage loving people of the Gold Coast, late next week and Surfers is set for a little shakeup friends.
There’s a lot to unpack here so buckle up and let’s get into it. As mentioned, White Rhino is an expansive corner space on Cavill Ave and it’s all open and airy and filled with quirky little delights.
Let’s begin with the bar, because, obviously. Lit from behind with a digital ocean montage, it’s quite the mesmerizing sight. Above, a rock formation complete with its’ very own waterfall sets the scene.
Drawing your eyes around the room, you’ll notice a tree, smack bang in the middle of the venue, a stunning wrought iron staircase winding it’s way to the top floor (as staircases tend to do) and, tucked in behind it, are the stars of the show; the white rhino and her (could be his) baby. The pair are meticulously crafted really quite ah, realistic. Love them.
A step up above the casual bar section you’ll find a slightly more formal dining area artfully decorated with velvet and high gloss wood plus, our favourite, two booth-style arrangements with leafy green backdrops and bulk people watching opportunities.
Upstairs, on the mezzanine level, there are three stunning velvet booths overlooking the rest of the venue and out into the street, perfect for gathering the crew and enjoying a slightly more private style of party.
The entire venue has been crafted with an outdoor feel in mind and indeed, no matter where you are, the open space and seamless transition to the actual outdoor section gives a balmy, can-it-be-summer-already vibe.
Now to the food. It comes courtesy of someone you know and love, Adam Dundas-Taylor of Firecue, London’s Nobu and many other fine establishments, obviously.
The menu offers both a fine and casual style of dining and it is all of exceptional quality and even better taste, as you would expect.
The Spiced Pumpkin Salad is a colour-filled treat with chilli and fennel roasted pumpkin tossed in baby spinach leaves with cous cous, pomegranate seeds mint and hummus. It’s both beautiful and delicious.
The Chilli Bug Linguini is also a must-try with chilli and garlic Moreton Bay bugs with sweet cherry tomatoes tossed in brandy and seafood stock reduction and served with fresh linguini. Oh yes please.
Let us not go past the Slow Cooked Beef Ragu (12 hours slow cooked no less) stirred through a rich tomato sauce, tossed with fettuccine and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese (love you always Parmesan).
There are also epic pizzas and options from the grill like Crispy Skin New Zealand King Ora Salmon and Peppercorn Cut Eye Fillet. YUM.
The cocktails are to die for (but don’t die, because there are many to be sampled) including an extremely tasty Espresso Martini made with beans from our faves Locale Espresso.
An exceptional breakfast menu will also roll out from Saturday the 3rd of November.
The unique venue is certain to take Surfers Paradise to a whole new level and, with a few more exciting additions on the way, you might want to rearrange your life to include a little more time there.
White Rhino officially opens on Friday November 2nd and prepare for a summer of fun friends.
LOCATION: 55 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
HOURS: 11.30pm until late
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
