Listen up bridesmaids and bridesmen – we’re here to dish the deets on the places you need to know about to plan the hen’s celebration your bestie will never forget! Well, depending on how many Fish Bowls she sinks, the ‘never forget’ part may not be entirely accurate, but whatevs, we digress…..

Not everyone wants to hit da clubs in a sash with an inflatable male appendage, so we thought we’d present some other options to help make your party planning a breeze on the Gold Coast.

Live Entertainment
Nothing says I’m getting married like some cabaret, burlesque, comedy, acrobatics and drag! Choose from five world-class shows at The Pink Flamingo, one of which is simply titled ‘Ripped’ at Pink Flamingo in Broadbeach. This is not an accident, and you can pretty much surmise that every performer is Channing Tatum. Or, go all out and book the Boujee Birdcage (available for the ‘Suave’ Vegas Cabaret show only) which includes your own private bar, plush pink lounges and exclusive bartenders. The hen will also of course score a bridal headpiece for the duration of the performance, plus for groups of 8 or more they’ll throw in a free ticket. Sweet! But if you are looking for more live entertainment options, check them out here.
Where: The Pink Flamingo, Corner of 88 Surf Parade &, Victoria Ave, Broadbeach

Get Creative
One thing springs to mind when we say ‘creative.’ And that is a Paint & Sip session of some sort. I mean, who doesn’t want to get tipsy and paint right? With special Hen’s Night packages for $65 per head or the option to organise your own private do, Pinot & Picasso is a no-brainer. Popular sessions like ‘Paint the Bride’ are the perfect way to farewell the single life, with lots of other artwork themes to choose from and the option to throw in a topless waiter (cue giggling). It’s BYO, so there’ll be plenty left in the kitty for any after-party shenanigans and if organising catering seems too-hard-basket, they’ll sort you out with a *chefs kiss* grazing platter. Thinking of arts and crafts of another variety? Here are some more ideas to get creative.
Where: Pinot & Picasso – Broadbeach, Palm Beach, Southport

Relax & Unwind
Find me a bride who wouldn’t appreciate a pamper sesh. Endota Spa will bring a touch of bliss to your hen’s and trust me, you’ll be the most popular bridesmaid, like, ever for proposing (he he – “proposing”…) something like this. Specialising in group bookings, your tribe are invited to enjoy beautifully choreographed signature combinations of massage and facials. The therapists here are like angels sent down from above to replenish your mind, body and senses and oh, can someone in our fold please get married so we have an excuse to go book this! Other options to float and soak are here too!
Where: Endota Spa – Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Coolangatta

Hit up a Bottomless Brunch
Is it really a hen’s without a boozy brunch of some sort? Yes, you may need to fit into the dress, but we think this celebration calls for a little bit of a relaxed take on the diet. Because you only get married once, right?! Whether it’s sea-side or sky high, here is the list of the best in town to gather the girls and eat and drink to your heart’s content!
Where: Various locations on the Gold Coast

Sing your heart out at a Karaoke Bar
Ladies, take this opportunity to leave all inhibitions behind and belt out some of your favourite songs at a Karaoke Bar. Need we remind you that there’s a reason “The Wedding Singer” movie exists? Take a look at the best banger locations to get those vocal cords going here.
Where: Various locations on the Gold Coast

Get fancy with a High Tea
Yes, the ring finger may be the centre of attention at this time, but we think the pinkies should be the one that gets the most action during your hen’s. Where you raise them at a gorgeous High Tea of all things dainty and sweet. You can’t go past our list of the best High Teas on the Coast here!
Where: Various locations on the Gold Coast

Stay in a luxe Airbnb
Making an occasion out of the typical ‘hens weekend’ can be a bit of a feat to coordinate where you are staying that’s central to all activities that have been planned. That aside, getting accommodation that has enough space for your whole tribe is the next hurdle. Look no further ladies, we are here to serve you up (on a silver platter – because you’re worth it) a list of swoon-worthy Airbnb’s that will easily play host as your home base for your hen’s festivities. The bonus is, these places are right across the Coast, so wherever you want to stay, you’re covered. Aaand, you’re welcome!
Where: Various locations on the Gold Coast

Feast on an epic charcuterie board
Arming yourself with top-shelf cheese and biccies for all celebrations should be a no-brainer. Because let us remind you, sweet dreams are made of brie! We have done a roundup of the creme-de-la-creme of deli’s on the Coast so your bride tribe can hit these places up with baskets in hand to get all your favourite grazing food. Check out the list here!
Where: Various locations on the Gold Coast

Hit up some grape wineries on a tour
Planning a full day of activities that everyone in the bride’s tribe will enjoy can sometimes be a little hard. (And not of the good kind – winky face). So, take the pressure off and let someone else pick up the slack and do the planning of the day with a winery tour organised by Pineapple Tours. Specialising in tours across Gold Coast, Mount Tamborine & Brisbane, whichever location you and the tribe wish to take, they’ll be prepared. But for some inspo of local wineries, we suggest you start here.
Where: Various locations on the Gold Coast

Words by Bianca Trathen.

If you’re planning on getting hitched in the future, the Gold Coast is certainly a good place to do so. With many a delightful location on offer, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to your big day.

From the beach to the hinterland, or the hinterland with views of the beach, the Coast is your oyster.

Here’s a few we think might tickle your fancy, probably get in quite early though because they seem to tickle everyone’s fancy.

The Bower Estate
The newest of the bunch, The Bower Estate is set upon 120 acres of stunning land in the Gold Coast hinterland. Surrounded by national parks, the full-service wedding venue offers onsite catering, event coordination and accommodation and as a family-owned business, you can expect the utmost care to go into your big day. It’s a mind-blowing venue and one that would be absolutely perfect for any style of wedding.
Where: 3165 Nerang Murwillumbah Road, Natural Bridge

*Mavis’s Kitchen
There aren’t enough words in the world to describe the magic of Mavis’s Kitchen. Technically it’s in Northern NSW but that’s never stopped us before. There are mountain views for days, from the hinterland to Mt Warning and food direct from the organic garden and the perfect spot to marry your love. It’s an intimate space but if stunning outdoor scenery is your thing, this one is a must-see.
Where: 64 Mount Warning Road, Uki

Heritage Wines
Another hinterland gem, Heritage Wines is, you guessed it a wedding venue at a winery and those are the perfect combination if you ask us. The rustic style venue boasts some absolutely magical views and there’s a separate little section for the actual getting married part. Guests can mingle on the greenest lawn in the world whilst enjoying wines from their cellar door. The food is a delight there too.
Where: Bartle Road, Tamborine Mountain 

*Summergrove Estate
Greenery abounds at Summergrove Estate, making it the perfect place for a spectacular wedding day no one will ever forget. Having won many awards in the past few years, it’s no wonder this place is much-loved by everyone who has ever laid eyes on it. Found in the hinterland, they boast a little weatherboard chapel, and the option of a reception either indoors or outside under the stars.
Where: 363 Carool Road, Carool

Ancora
Found riverside in Tweed Heads, Ancora is an absolutely stunning venue offering garden ceremonies and a perfect reception space with 180 degree water views plus a balcony boasting salty breezes and the perfect viewing platform for one of the those magical Gold Coast sunsets. We’ve been to many a ceremony here and each has been more beautiful than the last. Good vibes too. Make sure you check Ancora out.
Where: 118 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads

Cowbell Creek
With three ceremony areas, Cowbell Creek will have you spoilt for choice on your big day. There’s a retracting roof pergola, giant hilltop fig tree and an creekside verandah and each offers magical views of the surrounding property including 200 acres of rolling hills, creeks, lookouts and fields along with Clydesdales, friendly dairy cows, Alpacas and cheeky chooks. How good. It’s just 15 minutes from Robina Town Centre so practically on your doorstep.
Where: 390 Austinville Road, Austinville

Boomerang Farm
Getting hitched in a 100 year old barn seems like a good time. Even better when it’s surrounded by lush green lawns, big old trees and an actual rainforest chapel. You’ll no doubt spy a local wallaby or two and with the babbling Mudgeeraba Creek running through the property, what’s not to love. We highly recommend including lawn games on the agenda and a wheelbarrow full of beverages to set the mood. Plus, its just 10 minutes from Robina Town Centre.
Where: 55 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba 

Crystal Blue Yacht Cruises
If an intimate wedding on the water is more your style, why not gather the gang and go all out on a Crystal Blue yacht. It’s quite the romantic experience to be cruising along with the sun setting in the distance, a glass of champagne in hand having just wed your beloved (or so we hear). And imagine the incredible photos you’ll get! Definitely get on board with this idea for something quite unique but also very lovely.
Where: Marina Mirage, 74 Sea World Drive, Main Beach

Words by Kirra Smith

Is there anything more romantic than spending a weekend tucked away with your nearest and dearest? Picture the scene: you’re both mountainside snuggled up in front of a crackling fire, glass of red wine in hand and soft jazz caressing your ears. Sounds almost too good to be true? It’s all yours for the taking though, come the impending — albeit short — winter ahead! So it’s time to pull out that roll neck jumper (that, let’s face it, hasn’t been used much) and get planning! To help you along the way, we’ve found the six most romantic cabins and mountain lodges for you, right at our doorstep in the Hinterland.

Cedar Creek Lodges
A mere 40-minute drive from Surfers Paradise, but once you arrive you will feel like you’ve entered an entirely whole new world. Welcome to stunning Tamborine Mountain! Cedar Creek Lodges provide you with a full range of options. The 2, 3 or 4 bedroom self-contatined lodges are situated on your own private section of the gurgling and beautiful Cedar Creek — the perfect romantic getaway to immerse yourself in nature! But if glamping is more your style, look no further than their brand new Lotus Tents taking glamping to the next level with an ensuite allowing you to shower under the stars. The adjacent Thunderbird Park also offers horseback riding for the more adventurous romantics among you. We’re confident when it comes time to check out; you won’t want to leave.

Binna Burra Mountain Lodges
You may recognise the name, as in the 2019 bushfires, most of the property was sadly lost to fires. But where there is a will, there is a way. Rising like a phoenix from the ashes, the newly rebuilt and renovated Binna Burra is an authentic heritage-listed lodge offering one of a few genuine Australian experiences in nature. Just imagine, the lodge has been welcoming guests since the early 1930s and still retains its original charm and character. They’ve also been listed in the top 10 eco-lodges and green hotels globally with their unique isolation. If you’re after the perfect escape from everyday life and a chance to get back to basics, leave your phone at home and look no further.

Witches Falls Cottages
Total privacy is the maxim at Witches Falls Cottages. Sip on a glass of wine (from nearby Witches Falls Winery, of course) in your private courtyard garden, relax in front of your cosy fireplace with a book, or just soak away in your own double sized spa bath and reconnect with that special someone. A traditional style breakfast is even part of your stay and delivered to the door — including fresh homemade bread — so you won’t have to leave your room if you don’t fancy it.

Edges Lodge
Another romantic Tamborine Mountain retreat is Edges Lodge, the faultless suggestion for a well-deserved getaway with your lover. Sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and our Gold Coast skyline will have you captivated from the moment you arrive. The lodge itself is shared between three deluxe suites, but fear not, the large, sophisticated communal areas are more than enough for you to escape to and feel tranquil — or feel free to socialise if you want to. There is a long list of extras for you to enjoy, but our suggestion is you arrange a massage in the privacy of your room! Sign us up!

The Polish Place Cottages
Your romantic stay on Tamborine Mountain starts at these charming European-style chalets only an hour from the beach and surrounded by a myriad of walking trails, waterfalls, and wineries: a hidden gem — within an hour of arriving, you will feel any stress disappear as you take in the spectacular view overlooking the Scenic Rim! How does a cosy woodfire fireplace within a loft-style chalet with private balcony, double sized spa (in your lounge room no less) and full breakfast basket provided daily sound like to you? Idyllic, no? Well don’t forget that at The Polish Place, wildlife, lorikeets and birds come to say hi on your balcony. Add to this the amazing onsite restaurant serving up all your favourite Polish winter warmer dishes like their famous Roast Duck for two with cherries (trust us, order it!) accompanied by a couple of Polish beer or vodkas, you’ll be glad checkout isn’t till 12pm!

O’Reilly’s Safari Tents
If staying at the base of a world heritage listed rainforest is at the top of your list, you’ll be happy to know, you can do that only an hour from the surf. A the end of 2020, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat launched 17 safari tents within their new campground found at the Green Mountains Camping Area in Lamington National Park. The new world class ecotourism attraction is set amongst the rainforest of World Heritage Lamington National Park meaning you get to soak up the mountain magic in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Being right at the doorstep of O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat certainly has it’s advantages, you’ll have access to all the same experiences and adventures you love about O’Reilly’s including hikes, romantic rainforest picnics, visiting O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards for a tipple or two (where you can also now have a picnic with the alpacas!) or just kick back together and breathe in the fresh air.

Words by Alex Mitcheson.