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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mercure Resort
Step away from the foot spas, slippers, cookbooks, et al – for a gift that Mum will actually reckon is swell, treat your special lady to a spot of R&R with a staycay at Mercure Gold Coast Resort. Hey, even the ones wired to love us unconditionally could use some time away to recharge once in a while (no offence). Grab a gift voucher so Mum can dine or unwind at her leisure, with sweet perks like complimentary car parking, late check out* and a delicious buffet breakfast served daily from 6:30am all part of the deal.
Where: Mercure Resort, 64 Palm Meadows Drive, Carrara

She gave you the gift of life so that qualifies her for deserving the gift of everything, and with Mum’s big day just around the corner we’ve found some of the best ways to spoil that special lady in your life.

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.

Cucina Vivo
If she’s a foodie you’ve come to the right place. Treat mama bear to an indulgent 3-course shared Italian lunch and if this doesn’t secure ‘kid of the year’ status, the glass of Chandon on arrival will. For just $95 per person, let’s unpack the spread. There’s Warmed Ciabatta Bread with olive oil and aged balsamic plus irresistible Fresh Figs with aged balsamic, toasted pistachios and honey. But we’re not done yet coz you can also devour Stracciatella with pumpkin seed pesto and lemon olive oil and (drumroll ploise), the ever-faithful house made Arancini with mushroom, dill and aioli.

Then it’s time for the main event, Stockyard Scotch Fillet with lemon and garlic potatoes, broccolini and Primitivo wine sauce and Market Fish with Vin Bianco cream and soft herb salad. These are paired with some srsly good salad action, in this case the Italian Chop Salad. Top it all off with a taste of Italy sweets edition, aka Tiramisu. Bellissima!

Garden Kitchen & Bar
With the change of season comes that glorious Autumn sun, so why not soak it up while Mum sips on a spicy marg at Garden Kitchen & Bar. The perfect spot for the whole fam with space aplenty for your little rascals to burn some energy before you tuck into their a la carte menu or indulge yourselves with a signature seafood platter and enjoy a complimentary glass of Domaine Chandon.

Kiyomi and Uncle Su
Got a craving for some of the best Asian cuisine on the Coast? Lucky for you The Star has two, Kiyomi and Uncle Su. Think indulgent and authentic Japanese and Chinese fare with flavours that are out of this world. Enjoy both of their traditional a la carte or banquet menus, plus a complimentary glass of Chandon on arrival for mum – we can sense a theme happening here and we’re all for it.

Harvest Buffet
Sometimes more really is more, and the chefs at the Harvest Buffet know that all too well. Let mum eat until her heart’s content with their signature all-you-can-eat buffet, tuck into a feast of prawns and oysters at lunch or if you’re wanting the full seafood buffet experience, stay for dinner. PSA: You’ll want to wear stretchy pants – trust us. Of course, mum will be treated to a glass of bubbles with her meal here too and we’ll cheers to that!

Nineteen at The Star
If Mum is on the boujee side then there’s no place like Nineteen At The Star for her special day. Pop in for lunch or dinner and soak up the glorious view from one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic rooftops. Enjoy all your favourites a la carte. The best of seasonal produce and fresh seafood, paired with one of their signature drops – sounds like a win-win for yours and mum’s tum.

Azure Spa & Fitness
She’s more of an R&R kind of gal we hear you say? Azure Spa & Fitness is the home of indulgence so why not get Mum something that will let her zen out and forget she’s a parent for a moment. Raising you was no joke – she deserves it. Get your hands on a signature spa treatment for $215 and let the Mother’s Day treatment keep going because she can use this bad boy throughout the month of May and be treated like the Queen that she is.

For a one-stop (Mother’s Day fun) shop, it’s all about The Star. For more information on any of The Star Gold Coast’s Mother’s Day activations, go here.

Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Mother’s Day, Sunday 12th May. Azure Spa & Fitness treatment available throughout the month of May

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski

STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST

The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be aged 18 years or over to enter the casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT.

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