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12 reasons locals love Hope Island

This suburb is much more than just an optimistic name.

Locals of Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)
Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)

Hope Island might be famous for its canal-front living and a name that screams positivity, but there’s more to this northern gem than just golf courses and good vibes. Nestled far enough from the hustle of the CBD to feel like a retreat, yet close enough to dip back into the action, it delivers a lifestyle that’s totally 4220.

And honestly, it makes sense – when a chunk of your neighbourhood is an actual resort, that vibe is bound to stick.

The locals here? Absolutely smitten with their slice of paradise and trust us, they’re not going anywhere. Here are twelve reasons why Hope Island folks are locked in for the long haul.

Retail therapy at Sanctuary Cove (image supplied)
Retail therapy at Sanctuary Cove (image supplied)

Sanctuary Cove
I mean, this place needs no introduction. Bursting with top-notch dining, drinking, a world-class marina, primo people-watching opportunities and don’t even get us started on the shopping, it’s no wonder this vibrant spot holds a special place in our hearts. With a lineup of eats and sips venues (keep reading for more deets) and boutiques like Soho Girl and Theo & Joe, there’s no shortage of places to do your dough.
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island

Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove
If you’re after a quadruple threat, welcome. Between the Lagoon Beach Club, epic pool, beautiful accommodation and of course, the wood-fire wizardry that is The Fireplace restaurant, it’s the ultimate stay-cay destination. Plus, if you’re in the market to get hitched, there’s a reason this place has remained on bride and groom’s to-be ceremony and reception list for decades.
Where: Manor Circuit, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island

Lagoon Beach Club, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort (image supplied)
Lagoon Beach Club, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort (image supplied)

Rise
The French know how to wow, and Rise Bakery is no exception. With divine pastries, fresh baguettes, heavenly macarons, and a champagne bar, it’s a slice of Parisian perfection. Add a peek-a-boo kitchen and luxe interiors and you’ve got trés chic indulgence. Pop in for croissants, sip bubbly, and embrace all the bready, sugary goodness – because calories don’t count when it’s French.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island

Pablitos
When it comes to tacos and tequila, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria in Sanctuary Cove is a spec-taco-lar must-try. With a fresh, plant-based-forward menu, fancy margaritas, and over 50 sipping tequilas, it’s a fiesta for your taste buds. The chic Mexican-Caribbean vibes, terracotta tables, and divine dishes make this spot muy auténtico. Vamos, amigos!
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island

Hope Island Tavern, Hope Island (image supplied)
Hope Island Tavern, Hope Island (image supplied)

Hope Island Tavern
Say hello to the revamped Hope Island Tav, where sunshine, good vibes, and laid-back living collide in the best way possible. Smack dab in the heart of Hope Island, stretch out in the expansive beer garden and let the good times roll. The little ones will stay busy in the awesome playground while you devour drool-worthy wood-fired pizzas and fresh-as-can-be seafood.
Where: 93 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island

Doughed
Doughed is a bona fide foodie haven, serving epic coffee, matcha, NYC-style cookies, and drool-worthy doughnuts. Their all-day Early Riser Focaccia Sandwich and other sanga options hit every craving, while sweet tooths will go gaga for their array of sugary treats. Don’t miss the signature Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte – it’s qualiTEA perfection!
Where: 99-103 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island

Doughed, Hope Island (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Doughed, Hope Island (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Rosé Gelateria
This pastel paradise serves artisan gelato, pastries, and coffee fit for a foodie’s dream. Indulge in unique flavours like Fig and Mascarpone or Passionfruit Pavlova, sip affogatos, or snack on a macaron…or ten. Pair your treats with a shake or your fave coffee and take a stroll around the magnificent marina. Yes ploise.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Ahoy, boat lovers! The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is back for its 38th year and ready to make waves from 22 – 25 May. The most glamorous, immersive, unmissable boating lifestyle event in the Southern Hemisphere, it showcases the latest-and-greatest boating tech and equipment, exclusive waterside VIP experiences and over 43,000+ visitors, 330+ exhibitors, and 760+ boats. It’s a shore thing.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island

Lagoon Beach Club VIP Experience, Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (image supplied)
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show (image supplied)

Mecca Bah
If you love Mecca Bah Broady, get ready to fall for its chic sibling at Hope Island. Indulge in fresh, locally-sourced Middle Eastern and Mediterranean delights in a setting that’s as aesthetic as it is authentic. With live tunes on Thursdays from 5pm and dazzling belly dancers every Saturday evening from 7:30pm, prepare to be mezze-merised. Your taste buds will thank you!
Where: 18/10 Santa Barbara Road, Hope Island

Native Harvest
Native Harvest is the northern GC’s worst-kept secret, serving up a fresh take on Australian fusion cuisine and celebrating native ingredients. From Native Australian Chilli Scramble to a Fresh, Tangy Prawn Tartare, the menu is a winner winner bush dinner. Pro tip; pair your nosh with their Native Plum Spritz for peak indulgence. Doggo-friendly and oozing charm, “I’ll (definitely) allow it”.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island

Native Harvest, Sanctuary Cove (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Native Harvest, Sanctuary Cove (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Hope Island Links Golf Club & Sanctuary Cove Country Club
Hope Island’s heart beats to the swing of a golf club, with world-class courses stealing the spotlight. The Links, crafted by British Open champ Peter Thomson, has aced Australia’s top ten resort courses since 1993. Whether you’re teeing off or tying the knot, this iconic venue isn’t just for golfers – it’s the go-to for unforgettable functions and events.
Where: Springfield Drive and Gleneagles Drive, Hope Island

Destino
Craving a Mediterranean escape sans the airfare? Destino at Sanctuary Cove delivers delish tapas, refreshing cocktails, and top-shelf wine in a chic, sunlit setting. Kick back on the deck or spend your Friday and Saturday nights vibing to a live DJ from 7pm. With its Euro vibes, low tables, and outdoor seating, one drink will likely become three. Take it from us, Destino is your passport to indulgence – no packing required!

Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island

Destino, Sanctuary Cove (image supplied)
Destino, Sanctuary Cove (image supplied)

13 reasons locals love Paradise Point

Alvins Wine Bar, Paradise Point (image supplied)
Alvins Wine Bar, Paradise Point (image supplied)

The northern end of the GC is a tight-knit crew, fiercely proud of their patch and ready to prove they’re just as cool as any other part of town. Paradise Point, in particular, is jam-packed with options whether you’re after a fun family day, a caffeine fix, a date night dining experience, or a cheeky liquid lunch (or a regular lunch, but let’s be real, we know which one we’d choose).

Here’s why locals can’t get enough of The Point!

Alvin’s Wine Bar
Bringing a touch of refined elegance to The Point is Alvin’s. Famous for its epic vino selection, cheese plate and delish tapas, it has everything you could ever want from your neighbourhood wine and snack bar. Note to self; order the Burrata with freshly sliced Jamon, house pesto, ripe tomato and Italian EVVO served with Burleigh Baker sourdoughs, topped off with a stunning glass of French Piot Blach. Oh and BYO pooch!
Where: 12 Falkinder Ave, Paradise Point

Tommy’s Bar and Grill, Paradise Point (image supplied)
Tommy’s Bar and Grill, Paradise Point (image supplied)

Tommy’s Bar and Grill
Nestled on the waterfront at the northern end of Paradise Point, Tommy’s Bar and Grill was a VERY welcome addition to the northern GC. Surrounded by beautiful boats and breathtaking sunsets, this relaxed venue serves up a delicious array of food alongside live music, trivia, and music bingo nights. With over 40 fine wines, 55 cocktails, and 14 beers on tap, there’s a perfect sip for everyone to enjoy while marinating in the uber vibrant atmosphere.
Where: 4 Marina Promenade, Salacia Waters, Paradise Point

Bridges
Promising the best night in town, the gang at Bridges never disappoints. This funky little pizza and tapas bar is always packed with bums on seats and is the first port of call for locals craving a cocktail and hand-made pizza. You simply can’t pop in for a quiet beverage because if you’re a northerner, you can betcha bottom dollar you’ll run into at least five people you know. Open for lunch and dinner, it’s basically a rite of passage for locals.
Where: 36 The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Paradise Point, Ephraim Island and Sovereign Island (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)
Paradise Point, Ephraim Island and Sovereign Island (image courtesy of Destination Gold Coast)

Paradise Point Parklands
Undeniably one of the GC’s most breathtaking park areas, it’s an absolute must-see. Overlooking the beautiful Broadwater, pack a picnic, throw a snag on the barbie and let the kids entertain themselves for hours in the large playground areas. There are open grassed spaces perfect for a game of cricket, and the walking trail will get your heart-rate up while you take in the multi-million-dollar views.
Where: The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Burleigh Baker
Craving freshly baked perfection? Paradise Point’s answer to the OG Burleigh Bakery in, you guessed it, Burleigh, is just as drool-worthy as its sibling. Bringing all the buttery, flaky goodness you could dream of, cure those carb cravings with everything from golden croissants to artisanal sourdough. Grab a coffee, snag a pastry (or two), and enjoy a slice of heaven right by the water. It’s an institution amongst the Paradise Point set.
Where: Shop 7/46 The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Burleigh Baker, Paradise Point (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)
Burleigh Baker, Paradise Point (Image: © 2020 Inside Gold Coast)

Serengeti Café
With a vibe as warm as its African inspired dishes, this joint takes dining to the next level. Starting as a little coffee shop and only serving caffeine, cakes and sangas, these days Serengeti whips up breakfast lunch and dinner, serving both Aussie classics and exotic fare. The friendly staff treat you like family, ensuring every meal is a safari for your taste buds. So, grab a drink, unwind in the outdoor space, and soak up the vibing African atmosphere.
Where: 14 Bruce Avenue, Paradise Point

Paradise Point Bowls Club
I mean, who doesn’t love a spot of barefoot bowls! You’ll get all the trimmings you’d expect from a bowls club here; live entertainment, hearty eats, and wallet-friendly drinks (don’t even get us started on their frozen daiquiris and frozen margaritas). Step up your weekend game with their famous Sunday Sessions on the first and third Sunday of every month. For just $10, you get 2 hours of barefoot bowls and a green-side host to assist with your brews and bites orders.
Where: 22 Thrush Ave, Paradise Point

Paradise Point Bowls Club (image supplied)
Paradise Point Bowls Club (image supplied)

Paradise Point Sushi and Robata Bar
Another one right on the beautiful Esplanade, Paradise Point Sushi and Robata Bar is where Japanese dining meets Broadwater vibes. Serving up a mouth-watering selection of share-worthy dishes, this spot offers a fresh, seasonal menu that’s always evolving. From sushi rolls that are on point to sizzling robata skewers, every bite is a taste of Japan’s finest. It’s hands down some of the best Japanese fare you’ll find on the Coast!
Where: 32 The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Jonez on Ephraim
If you’re after a waterfront dining experience with a serious flair, look no further than Jonez on Ephraim.  This spot dishes up delicious modern Australian cuisine with a French twist—perfect for those who love to indulge in a bit of the finer things (without being too fancy). Whether you’re dropping in for a relaxed lunch or treating yourself to a romantic dinner, the views are stunning, the seafood is fresh, and the service? Absolutely top-notch.
Where: 2 Ephraim Island Bridge, Paradise Point

Sweet Bambino Interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Sweet Bambino Interior (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Sweet Bambino
This hole-in-the-wall coffee, breakfast and brunch spot is a cult fave on the northern GC. With a fit-out that screams modern chic (think polished concrete floors, rustic grey walls, foliage for a pop of greenery and moody lighting for days), her it-girl vibes are only rivalled by the off-the-charts coffee and delish counter food selection.
Where: 1/46 The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Mano’s Italian
A long-standing local haunt along The Esplanade, Mano’s is eternally a sure thing. Think fresh, hearty Italian fare that’s *chef’s kiss all the way, with top-notch service and a warm, welcoming vibe to match. Menu highlights include the impressive range of pastas, steak and seafood dishes, not to mention their delish specials. They’re fully licenced because what even is pasta without wine?
Where: 40 The Esplanade, Paradise Point

Buoy Oh Buoy, Paradise Point (image supplied)
Buoy Oh Buoy, Paradise Point (image supplied)

Buoy oh Buoy
This nautical-themed northern gem is equal parts cute and cool, with super smiley service to boot. We’re ordering a Scram-Bowl every day of the week with scrambled eggs, charred cherry tomatoes, avocado, rocket, pesto dressing and sourdough. And adding haloumi coz, haloumi! To finish, are you treating yo-self to a freshly baked pastry for the road? Oh Buoy you are!
Where: Shop 8/27 Falkinder Ave, Paradise Point

Jabiru Island Park
Everything you need is right here including stunning water views, electric barbecues, sheltered picnic tables, large shade trees, fishing platform, sheltered swimming closure, boat ramp and toilet facilities. Take the walkway under the bridge to Phil Hill Environmental Park, or stroll along the boardwalks for a look at the natural habitat from stunning viewing vantage points. Yes please!
Where: Jabiru Island Park, Oxley Dr, Paradise Point

Words by Bianca Trathen

Rise Bakery is baking this world a better place

Rise Bakery, front entry (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Rise Bakery, front entry (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

The French know how to do, well, everything with finesse and style. Think Chanel, Bollinger, Moulin Rouge, Bridget Bardot and French Fries (jokes…but geez they’re good). Speaking of food, let’s not forget the obvious, because duh, French cuisine is L.I.F.E, and everyone loves it unless they’re prepping for a wedding or an event by which case, R.U.N.

And when we think of French food we think of French bakeries and all their bready, sugary, pastry-laden scrumptiousness that resides within. Sanctuary Cove, also synonymous with finesse and style, has just won the French bakery lottery with newcomer Rise Bakery. Opening just in a nick of time to woo the Boat Show crowds from Thursday 19th May through until Sunday 22nd May, both food and fit-out are nothing short of magnifique.

Combining high-end French bakery and salon de thés vibes with a (well-stocked) champagne bar, there is something for everyone here and much to love. After visiting Sanctuary Cove with its marina, resort and promenade, owners and Head Chefs Adrien Marcinowski and Maxime Bournazel were overcome with all the Southern France feels, and decided it was THE perfect spot for Rise.

Fruit Tart and Chocolate Eclair, Rise Bakery (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Fruit Tart and Chocolate Eclair, Rise Bakery (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Boasting plenty of Provence-style outdoor seating and plush leather benches inside, there’s no better setting for coffee sipping and croissant munching. The highlight for us would have to be the peeping-Tom-friendly kitchen, allowing patrons and passers-by to watch these master bakers in action through stunning arched windows. Clui Design and Lowry Group nailed the interiors and build with high-quality finishes and a simplistic elegance, with a few statement touches to deliver the wow. A never-fail colour palette of whites, pale pinks, creams and gold was used, with lots of curved edges for on-trend femininity. The lengthy cabinet displaying all the freshly baked goodies is truly stunning, as is the feature lighting and gold tombstone arch frames displaying custom-drawn illustrations of their in-house pastries.

Another talking point is the unique feature wall next to the champagne bar, with gold poles of glass feature discs that represent bubbles from the bottles of, well, bubbles! Designed and created in Poland and shipped here specifically, it’s not something you’d find in your average bakery and adds to the sophistication and class of this beautiful space.

Rise Bakery, interior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Rise Bakery, interior (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Trying to choose a sweet or savoury treat here will really test the indecisive and delight the bakery enthusiasts. Whilst you can’t go wrong because it’s all so right, may we draw your attention specifically to the Macarons. These little bundles of heaven are just the right size to give you that decadent hit of sugary (but not too sugary) goodness. They look as amazing as they taste and go on, just order them all because lots of small treats are wayyyyy better for you than one big treat right?

And what type of French Bakery would it be if you didn’t get the chance to ogle a serious selection of freshly made pastries like Croissants, Pain Au Chocolat, Fruit Tarts and Chocolate Eclairs to name a few front runners. So, we are here to reassure you, that you’ll be hard-pressed to pick just one treat to indulge in when you are confronted with the decadent display. Also if you’re a sucker for freshly baked bread (samesies), Rise Bakery has you covered with Sourdoughs and Baguettes. But no dawdling please, because blink and you miss it – it sells like hotcakes, umm, we mean bread.

Champagne bar, Rise Bakery (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Champagne bar, Rise Bakery (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Oh and heads up on a simply irresistible menu addition coming soon which we’ve been told is the Balenciaga of bakery beverages; specialty Cake Shakes. We feel no further info is required because Cake. And. Shakes.

So watch this space folks because a liquor license is imminent which means you can take full advantage of Rise’s swanky champagne bar, which we reckon will be the fancy fruit on the flavour-packed flan.

Where: Shop C/ 4 Masthead Way, The Marine Village, Sanctuary Cove
When: 7am – 4pm Tuesday – Sunday. Closed Monday.

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Almond Croissant & Pain Au Chocolat, Rise Bakery (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Almond Croissant & Pain Au Chocolat, Rise Bakery (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Escape to the sanctuary that’s Pablito’s Mexican

Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria, Sanctuary Cove (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria, Sanctuary Cove (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

When a new venue specialising in quality, authentic Mexican cuisine and tequila launches, we drop everything. Especially when it opens on the Northern GC because halleluiah, this end of the Coast is finally getting its quota of fresh, modern and very ‘now’ eats spots. This particular establishment, the spec-taco-lar Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria, calls the luxe (yet casually cool) Sanctuary Cove home, and is the new frontrunner on your ‘restaurants to try stat’ list.

With an emphasis on fresh produce presented simply, Pablito’s serves up a very on-trend predominantly plant-based and gluten free menu, with just enough non-planty goodness to keep the meat eaters happy. Offering indoor outdoor dining with capacity to seat 45 inside and 50 outside, it looks the part of the quintessential Modern Mexican cantina. But, it also has a slight Caribbean influence and holy guacamole, is this not the union of the two coolest vibes ever and we are already obsessed.

King Prawn Lettuce Taco, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
King Prawn Lettuce Taco, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Speaking of obsessed, there’s a cactus at every turn which really speaks to our unrelenting fascination with these prickly must-haves. Our terracotta fetish is also well and truly nurtured, with gorgeous terracotta tables set against venetian walls and exposed concrete. The Virgin Mary herself resides within, in the form of several statues lit up with soft, flickering mood lighting creating a warm, authentic Mexican ambience. Clui Design and Northcoast Building and Maintenance certainly understood the assignment by creating a space that feels intimate and fun and best of all, like you’ve just swapped continents and stepped into Mexico City itself.

Owners Peter Baumgart and Paul Hodgkinson have outdone themselves on the big sister to their first-born Mexican restaurant, Caracara in Tugun. Looking to cut their teeth on something bigger and swisher, they patiently waited for the perfect location to present itself for a premium dining experience. Naturally when a spot at Sanctuary Cove became available, they were all over it like jalapeños on a taco.

Cocktails from Pablito's Mexican (image supplied)
Cocktails from Pablito's Mexican (image supplied)

Head chef Luke Corvin cooks up a show-stopping variety of delectable plates, designed both to share or hog all to yourself. Using only the highest quality produce and suppliers, sink your pearly whites into his signature Red Snapper Ceviche, enjoyed most when washed down with one (or more) of the many margaritas on offer. Our infatuation with this iconic Mexican cocktail is well documented, so any chance we have to knock back a few of these bad boys, we’re there before you can say muchos margis grazias. We’re ordering both the coconut margarita and the watermelon margarita because we can’t choose and why should we? The house tequila is made with wild agave and they only use organic, freshly squeezed lime in all their cocktails. Or, if you’re into sipping tequilas and mezcals (or shotting, like us circa the early naughties), there are over 50 on the menu and we dare you try them all. Actually, maybe don’t do that… because it really won’t end well for anyone involved.

Dessert Nachos, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Dessert Nachos, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

We’re also fans of the Crispy Mushroom Tacos with cashew cream, charred white cabbage and hibiscus onion, and the King Prawn Lettuce Tacos with Persian feta, sauerkraut, egg, peas, hibiscus onions, and Yarra Valley salmon caviar (fancy!). And let’s not forget the Chicken Burrito Bowl with Mexican rice, house beans, salsa verde and roasted red capsicum sauce and slaw. Top it all off with the Dessert Nachos with salted caramel bananas, coconut yoghurt and peanut brittle and you’ve officially died and gone to foody heaven.

So if you’re keen to escape the mass produced, sour cream laden tex-mex style of chow and experience authentic and genuine Me-hi-co, Pablito’s is the real deal.

Where: Shop 39D Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
When: 5.30pm – midnight Monday – Wednesday, 11.30am – midnight Thursday, & 6.30am – midnight Friday – Sunday.

Words by Bianca Trathen.

Internal booth, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Internal booth, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
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