There are few pleasures in life greater than a pamper sesh. Whether it’s a massage, facial, soak sesh or… heck, if it involves sitting/lying down and zoning out, just us sign up!

Fun Fact: Did you know Australia has just been ranked as the most desirable wellness tourism destination by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) 2025 Wellness Survey?! We’re not surprised, given the number of fine-ass day spas on the Gold Coast alone!

Speaking of, here’s a list of some of the most beautiful day spas scattered around the GC, for when your body, mind and soul need a little reset.

The Bathhouse at Ground Currumbin

Set amongst remnant rainforest in front of a lovingly restored 100-year-old farmhouse, enjoy magnesium hot tubs, spas, plunge pools and saunas in a lush outdoor setting, canopied by a majestic fig tree. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. Combine your bathhouse experience with a wellness treatment from highly skilled massage and beauty practitioners for the best of both 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

It’s at the Hilton- do we really need to say more? Their speciality is their unique Journey Enchancements, which are mini treatments that can be added to your existing services or enjoyed on their own. Specially designed for eforea, they introduce guests to unique, commonly unexperienced techniques from the most fabled spa cultures around the world. Count. Us. In.
Our pick: Renewing Vichy Shower Experience, which increases circulation throughout the body, reducing stress and toxins (it’s their signature treatment for good reason)
Where: 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

One Spa at RACV Royal Pines Resort

Exquisitely appointed with every detail considered, One Spa offers locally inspired rituals and unique water, body, facial, and massage therapies. If you’re unfamiliar with water therapies, think Vichy showers, steam, and jacuzzi soaks —highly recommend any and all. The spa overlooks the peaceful green landscape, making every treatment a complete mind, body and soul experience.
Our pick: Driftaway (because, obviously). It’s 3.5 hours of melting your worries and cares away.
Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa

On Eagle Wings Mountain Retreat & Spa

High above the Gold Coast, yet just a short scenic drive from the beaches, this hinterland haven is where luxury, calm, and total reset vibes converge. Nestled in panoramic valleys, the Wellness Spa features a hydrotherapy mineral pool, infrared saunas, and a heated infinity lap pool, while a menu of organic facials, body treatments, massages, and more ensures every visit is tailored to bliss.
Our pick: Getaway Spa Package. Enjoy a Himalayan salt back scrub with hot stones, full body relaxing therapeutic massage and 2hrs full use of spa facilities.
Where: 59 Lowry Ct, Mudgeeraba

Spa by JW

Spa by JW is the Gold Coast’s ultimate five-star unwind. Housed inside the luxe JW Marriott, this sanctuary of calm is all about soothing, restoring, and spoiling yourself silly. Think six dreamy treatment rooms, a couple’s suite with twin showers and a stone bath, and tranquil pods made for post-massage bliss.
Our pick: Awaken Your Glow: A full-body massage with Aromatherapy Associates oils, Ultraceuticals facial, copper foot bath ritual, acupressure scalp massage, plus sauna and steam access.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise

Chuan Spa

Welcome to Earth’s version of heaven. 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. Not sure what treatment to choose? They’ve got a quiz for that.
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

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, a sundeck, and a lounge area —don’t think, just book. You can even hire this place privately for up to 25 people. Sorry, but does that sound like the perfect gal’s day out or what?
Our pick: Massage + Lunch. One hour stay + A 55 min full body holistic massage followed by a two-course plant-based lunch catered by Greenhouse Canteen and Bar, with a complimentary glass of bubbles, mimosa, spritz or kombucha.
Where: 268 Tallebudgera Creek Rd, Tallebudgera Valley

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

If you think you’ve experienced all the wellness therapies out there, think again. This place is not messing around, with a unique treatment for just about anything. Of course, they have your indulgent massages and facials (excellent), but have you ever heard of sqEEG Brain Mapping? What about Grounded Movement & Gait Analysis, where a functional sports podiatrist, mindset and breathwork coach, will address the impacts of modern living (eg, excessive screen time and prolonged sitting). Then there’s tarot reading, private meditations, Ayurvedic body scrubs, equine therapy, and that’s just the beginning.
Our pick: Restorative Lymphatics. Discover the numerous benefits of this restorative and harmonising therapy.
Where: 192 Syndicate Road, Tallebudgera Valley

Ocean Day Spa

Spa day goals, right here. Sitting pretty on Level 4 of Mantra on View, just steps from Surfers Paradise Beach, Ocean Day Spa is where pure bliss meets beachside luxury. Expect award-winning massages, facials, and body treatments using premium European skincare brand Afrodita Cosmetics. Relax, refresh, repeat.
Our pick: Indulgence Signature Facial, a rejuvenating facial with an AHA peel, neck and shoulder massage, plus a hand and foot treatment to top it off.
Where: Level 4, Mantra on View, 22 View Ave, Surfers Paradise

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

Ciel Spa

CIEL Spa blends high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury, perched on level two of the glossy new Mondrian in Burleigh. So, yeah, prepare for Lux AF. It’s the city’s first bio-wellness spa, meaning it’s not your average spa situation, and may be the answer to everything that’s ever made you feel meh. They fuse science-backed treatments with holistic rituals in a space that feels like a warm hug, offering facial, body, and couple rituals, as well as cosmetic treatments.
Our pick: perhaps for a very special occasion- The Augustinus Bader Method Collection. The Method Body 90 Minute Massage, The Method 90 Minute Facial, The Method Head Spa, Superfood Lunch.
Where: Level 2, 3 First Avenue, Burleigh Heads

Kenz Beauty Spa and Moroccan Hammam

For those who have dreamed of a rich Moroccan escape, this spa’s for you. Experience Moroccan-inspired luxury right on the Gold Coast, with this traditional Moroccan hammam spa. For those unfamiliar, the hammam spa involves a shower or bath steam, followed by a deep exfoliation with a mitt made with a unique woven fabric. As a result, the body and skin are cleansed of toxins, blood circulation increases, and the immune system is stimulated, thereby better supporting the physical and mental systems.
Our pick: Rejuvenating Royal Dream Hammam. Whole-body exfoliation, rose clay wrap, sea salt foot scrub, and hair oiling.
Where: Shop 1 / 71 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Lost World Spa

Name a better place for a day spa than within the stunning O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. We’ll wait….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: 3582 Lamington National Park Rd, O’Reilly

SOL Elements

Say hello to the brand-new, luxurious, elemental bathhouse, SOL Elements. Hidden in the depths of Mt Tamborine, SOL is a transformative sanctuary where ancient elemental healing meets modern-day wellness rituals. From the outside, it’s a sculptural, ring-like facility surrounded by nature. Inside, it’s a transformative sanctuary where ancient elemental healing meets modern-day wellness rituals. It’s a complete sensory experience with communal bathing rituals to private retreats and transcendent spa experiences.
Our pick: The Unwind Ritual: Float + Spa Treatment. Floatation Cave 55 mins + Spa Treatment (of your choice) 60 to 125 mins.
Where: Tamborine Mountain Rd & Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain Rd, Tamborine Mountain

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!
Our pick: Bathhouse and Deep Tissue Massage. 90min bathhouse + 60min massage.
Where: 35-37 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

Raise your hand if you need some serious R & R. Well, buckle up (or rather, unbuckle!) because the GC has just welcomed Vikasati Bathhouse, a stellar new wellness sanctuary for the mind, body and soul. You may have had 99 problems, but you can soak 98 of them away in their hot magnesium baths. 

If the words unwind, recover, and rejuvenate stir something deep inside, rest assured, that feeling finds its blissful resolution at Vikasati Bathhouse. Co-founded by leading wellness entrepreneurs and ice bath experts Will Stodulka and Ben Murphy, this spot was made to dial your stress down to zero and your health to a hundred. In a nutshell, it’s an all-encompassing recovery experience for the mind and body. However, simply calling it a ‘recovery centre’ is like calling Pink just a ‘singer’—a massive understatement.

The modern wellbeing sanctuary feels like a mini escape within the busy Southport surroundings. Dedicated to those who appreciate fresh air and sunshine, the outdoor bathhouse is decked out with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. It’s as flawless as it is functional. With the OG well established in Red Hill, Brisbane, Vikasati is hoping to replicate its resounding success at its second Southport location.

If you’ve had the pleasure of visiting Vikasati’s Brisbane location, you would know their hot and cold plunge pools and  ice baths are legit. However, they’re bringing even more to Southport. Drum roll, please! Vikasati Southport is home to one of Australia’s largest saunas! They’re committed to providing the ideal space for recovery and community connection on the Gold Coast. Alongside the sauna you’ll find stand-up ice baths (set to 5 degrees), a Finnish rock sauna (you’ll know where to find us) and hot and cold magnesium baths. If you’re going to get your health gains, you should do it in style.

Speaking of health gains, Vikasati’s holistic approach is centred around what is known as thermal contrast therapies, where you alternate between hot and cold temperatures. The benefits are physical and mental and include reduced stress, inflammation and muscle/joint discomfort. It also improves thermoregulation, circulation, immunity, control over your nervous system and detoxification. Sign us up immediately.

Don’t let the ‘fancy-pants’ facilities fool you, Vikasati offers visitors a judgement-free and welcoming environment. In fact, every element within the bathhouse was designed to not only enhance physical recovery but also encourages connection and conversation.. However, don’t stress introverts, there is ample space and opportunity for those seeking a mental pause. Vikasati’s layout is also super relaxed. You’re free to move around the bathhouse without restriction, choosing your own wellness adventure. Or you can access expert guidance from the staff.

In an aim to share their passion and success using ice baths and saunas for the past ten years, Will and Ben have created a structure that allows members and the local community to make the practices a part of their weekly routine without breaking the bank. So, what do you say—ready to dive in?

Where: 15/10 Pinter Drive, Southport
When: Monday – Sunday 6am-9pm
Website: Vikasati.com.au
Instagram: @vikasati_

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

STORY SPONSORED BY VIKASATI BATHHOUSE

Feeling a little ho-hum over your usual sweat sesh rotation? Or maybe your rickety rig has been feeling less like a temple and more like a ‘fixer upper’ of late?

Whether you revel in any reason to get the ole’ bod moving, or the thought of exercise bores you to your very core – having some exciting new options to throw in your trusty repertoire can never be a bad thing. So without further ado, here are 10 unique exercise experiences on the GC to try your hand at. Because, y’know, variety is the spice of life, and all that.

Aqua Sculpt
Pilates, but make it float. Aqua Sculpt has officially landed on the Gold Coast, bringing you a full-body workout like no other – on water! Set on JW Marriott’s iconic Saltwater Lagoon Pool, these 45-minute sessions fuse Pilates, balance and strength training on a floating platform.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Retro Fit
Dust off those cowboy boots and bootscoot your way through a morning of country-inspired grooves, with a few cheeky pop throwbacks thrown in for good measure. Whether you’re a two-left-feet newbie or a seasoned grapevine pro, their friendly instructor will have you stepping in sync in no time.

Classes are held at The Junction in Burleigh Heads, with an onsite café for your pre- or post-class coffee fix. Expect plenty of laughs, moves you didn’t know you had in you, and a guaranteed good time. No partner, no prior experience, just bring your dancing shoes – Retro Fit will take care of the rest.
Where: 14 Junction Rd, Burleigh Heads

Lights Out and Dance
For the rhythmically challenged among us; if the chance get your groove on under the cover of pitch black darkness sounds a dream, get on down to Lights Out and Dance and ‘dance like nobody’s watching’ (literally). Get those endorphins flowing while you lose yourself to some sweet dance beats in what is basically the most unintimidating group setting you can get. The intuitive-style sessions are held in a dark room so you can work up a sweat shaking what your mama gave you without a care in the world; and have stacks of fun in the process. Post-workout glow, incoming!
Where: Broadbeach Cultural Centre, Hooker Blvd &, Sunshine Blvd, Broadbeach Waters and Runaway Bay Youth Centre, 379 Oxley Drive, Runaway Bay

Yoga Paws
No, we haven’t gone barking mad – Puppy Yoga is very much a thing… and yes, it’s exactly as amazing as it sounds. Stretch, reset, and snuggle some seriously cute pups at Yoga Paws’ fortnightly Puppy Yoga sessions in Miami. It’s all about moving through beginner-friendly poses while playful puppies roam, cuddle, and generally steal the show.

Bonus: it’s good for them too! These sessions help socialise the puppies in a calm, fun setting, building their confidence for future adventures. Breeds are kept a surprise, but one thing’s guaranteed: maximum cuteness.
Where: House of Motion: 1924 Gold Coast Hwy, Miami

Run Clubs
If your typical cardio rotation consists only of running away from your problems and jumping to conclusions, the various iterations of social run clubs that call the GC home will make a runner out of you yet. If you’re looking for a supportive environment where you can slide on in at snail’s pace without so much as a second glance, Parkrun is a perennial fave. With community events held weekly from Coomera through to Kirra, participants are welcome to walk, jog, run, or simply spectate. Or for a little extra incentive we’d recommend checking out clubs that strategically plan their routes around our fine assortment of local watering holes, such as Unfit Run Club.
Where: Assorted clubs/locations across the Gold Coast

Aerial yoga
If you’ve seen one tree pose, you’ve seen them all, right? Well, not necessarily… If you’re looking to shake up your usual stretch-and-breath sesh, Aerial yoga is where its at! Experience yoga from a whole new perspective, with an invigorating workout that involves performing poses gracefully suspended from a mix of hammock, silk and ring style contraptions. And the best part? You don’t even need to be a card-carrying yogi to get in on the fun! A variety of beginners classes mean people of all ages and abilities can learn the moves ‘on the fly’. Go on, why not give it a whirl!?
Where: Hapy Studio, 9/5 Traders Way, Currumbin

Therapy Fitness
When it comes to changing up the same ol’ workout grind, spin is hardly a revolutionary (geddit, heh) concept – but hear us out, because what we’re proposing is anything but your typical cycle class. At Therapy, Mermaid’s multi sensory fitness studio, the immersive ‘therapy’ sessions are all about boosting mental as well as physical wellbeing… and who doesn’t love a to-do list two-fer?! Combining music and movement, each of the fully integrated studio spaces have been optimised to get both the mind and the bod feeling fab. You’ll be glowing from the inside out in no time.
Where: Cnr Markeri St &, Southport Burleigh Rd Q Super Centre, Shop D2/D3, Mermaid Waters

POUND Fitness
Alright so remove any expectations you might have about what this entails and get excited for an extra fun time… because this workout ROCKS. Get ready to bliss out with ‘ya sticks out – fluro green drumsticks – that is, with the exhilarating full-body cardio jam session known simply as POUND. A rockstar-worthy workout that combines sweet beats with pilates inspired strength training and the sweat-dripping fun of drumming. What a time. Now this is the kind of exercise we could really ‘drum up’ some enthusiasm for! *ba dum tiss*.
Where: Various locations across the GC

She’s Spicy
If your idea of a good time involves spicy glutes, sunrise stretches and a post-sweat latte, She’s Spicy has you covered. Every Friday, their events are focussed on the pilates, coffee & connection. Free 5:30am beachside Pilates sessions at Mermaid Beach (right opposite Rafiki). Expect good vibes, easygoing moves for all levels, and a solid excuse to grab a coffee or go for a swim after class. BYO mat, bring your besties, and join the crew for your weekly dose of movement and mateship.
Where: Mermaid Beach, opposite Rafiki

Pole dancing
Does the thought of yet another yoga or pilates sesh low-key have you yawning? Why not step it up a notch and have a pole lot of fun challenging and contorting your core in ways you never even knew possible! Even if you’re not typically the flexy type; the pros behind some of our local studios promise there’s no previous experience or even coordination pre-requisites to give it a go! So really, we’ve got nothing to lose, and a whole lot of flexibility, and strength to gain. Sounds pretty badass to us.
Where: GCPOLEFIT, 87 Griffith St, Coolangatta and Rokh Fit Studio, Unit 2/19 Township Dr, Burleigh Heads

Words by Belinda Symons