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Game, set, snack!

Paradise Centre is the MVP for family fun.

Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

If your idea of a perfect family outing is somewhere between “I want to sip a margarita in peace” and “please, someone tire these kids out before 3pm,” then Paradise Centre in Surfers Paradise is your golden ticket. Sitting pretty just metres from the beach, this place has mastered the art of family fun – with a side of epic eats, get-your-dopamine-hit gaming, and maybe even a cheeky axe throw. And that’s just the beginning….

La Playa, Paradise Centre (image supplied)
La Playa, Paradise Centre (image supplied)

Let’s kick things off like all good family adventures: with food. Brekky or brunch, specifically, with insta-worthy beach views that’ll make your feed light up like a Taylor Swift ticket drop. Head to Crepe Addict or beachside to La Playa for eggs your way, smoothies that somehow vanish in two sips, or even channel your inner Joe Jonas for some trusty cake by the ocean.

Timezone at Paradise Centre (image supplied)
Timezone at Paradise Centre (image supplied)

Now, if your kids are allergic to boredom, Paradise Centre has the ultimate antidote: the world’s largest Timezone. They’ll froth over the new Colour Grid – a glowing digital playground that’s Queensland’s first. Choose your adventure from the touch screen, then step, jump, and race your way through a shifting grid of pressure-responsive colour tiles on the floor and walls.

And of course, there’s all the arcade classics from your youth to bring back the mems. Nothing like watching your child school you at air hockey to keep your ego in check.

Mother's Day, Paradise Centre (image supplied)
Family fun at Zone Bowling, Paradise Centre (image supplied)

Once you’ve racked up enough tickets to redeem something large, loud, and destined to be broken within 24 hours, it’s time to get competitive at Zone Bowling. All ages, all skill levels welcome – and no judgement when you break out the bumpers (we’re looking at you parents!).

MANIAX Axe Throwing at Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
MANIAX Axe Throwing at Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Got tweens or teens who think they’re too cool for school (or family fun days)? Challenge accepted. Let them channel their inner Viking at MANIAX Axe Throwing (ages 11+, axes optional for parents who prefer spectating). It’s a safe, supervised way to throw sharp objects and a perfect outlet for your angsty adolescents.

Need to cool things down? Hit the surf (literally) with a beginner-friendly lesson at Go Ride A Wave. It’s fun, safe, and gives you serious “I’m a Cool Mum” (or Dad) points. No TikTok reel can compete with the thrill of standing up on your first wave – even if it’s only for 0.7 seconds.

TGI Fridays (image supplied)
TGI Fridays (image supplied)

With all that action, the fam’s bound to be hangry. Refuel at The Sporting Globe (sports on screen, share plates on table, happiness in belly), or indulge in burger royalty at Wahlburgers or Grill’d – where even mini hands get max satisfaction. And if your child doesn’t end up wearing at least 20% of their meal on their face, did it even happen?

When it’s time for a breather (and maybe a sneaky shop), the retail therapy here is kid-approved and parent-pleasing. From surf and street staples like Surf Dive N Ski, Vans, Platypus and Factorie, to toy treasure troves like Mr Brix and Kiki Koala, which doubles as a cafe, you’ll find everything from cool kicks to toys, games, books, and the cutest Aussie animal merch you ever did see.

Kiki Koala, Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Kiki Koala, Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

As the sun sets, don’t pack up just yet – grab a cocktail at Surfers Paradise Beer Garden while the kids can go head-to-head in an oversized battle of Jenga or Connect Four. (Fair warning: the competitive spirit is contagious).

Ready to wrap things up? TGI Fridays has your back – especially Monday through Thursday, when kids eat free with any adult meal. Extreme unicorn milkshake? Yes. Sugar crash? Also yes. Worth it? Absolutely. And if their sweet tooth is still not satisfied, grab a delicious dessert from Gelato Messina or a legendary Frosty® from Australia’s first Wendy’s.

Wendy's, Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Wendy's, Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Of course, no family day should end with traffic tantrums and sand in the car, so why not stay the night at Novotel Surfers Paradise?  It’s just steps from all the action, and you can wake up ready to do it all again (after coffee – and make it a double shot – at one of the many beachside watering holes).

Novotel Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Novotel Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

So, pack the sunscreen, gather the troops, and head to Paradise Centre, where the only meltdown you’ll experience is from a soft-serve cone.

To learn more, go here.

Where: 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
When: Hours vary depending on venue. Check website for more details.

Words by Bianca Trathen

STORY SPONSORED BY PARADISE CENTRE

Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

7 reasons locals love Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise Beach - Photo by Will O (Image from Unsplash)
Surfers Paradise Beach - Photo by Will O (Image from Unsplash)

Once upon a time we left holidaymakers to their own devices in arguably the GC’s most famous beachside suburb, but off the beaten path – well to be fair, some are still very much on it – locals have been keeping these gems all to themselves for a little too long if you ask us. That’s right, Surfers Paradise is more than a postcard-perfect destination, it’s a lifestyle locals love to embrace, because why should we leave all the fun to the tourists! So now we’re here to spill the beans on all the reasons locals can’t get enough of Surfers Paradise.

Outdoor Dining at Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Outdoor Dining at Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

For all-in-one spots
Surfers Paradise does convenience like a pro with destinations where you can shop, eat, and play all in one spot. Paradise Centre is a beachside fave with a mix of fashion, food, and fun, right at your fingertips in the heart of Cavill Mall. Just a short stroll away you’ll find Soul Boardwalk where laidback vibes met beachside dining and retail therapy aplenty – because what better way to get the food digesting than with a shopping moment.

If an urban escape is more up your alley then pop on over to Chevron Renaissance for all your boutique shopping needs, whether it’s a bite to eat, to grab groceries for the week, a new fit for that special event or a pedicure pamper moment your wish is their command. The two hour free parking is also a big drawcard!

Soul Sundays Brunch at Bazaar with Malfy Gin (image supplied)
Soul Sundays Brunch at Bazaar with Malfy Gin (image supplied)

All-you-can eats
If you’re in the market for a buffet that’ll bowl you over then you’ve come to the right place because at this point buffet should be Surfers Paradise’s middle name.

Locals know that they’ve got the buffet game locked down so if you’re up for eating so much seafood you’ll need to unbutton your pants to fit in another plate then Citrique at the JW Marriott has your name all over it.

Just down the highway you’ll find a bustling international market that dreams (and hungry bellies) are made of with QT Gold Coast’s iconic Bazaar Marketplace experience.

Edging on the cusp of neighbouring Broady, Horizon Sky Dining might have pretty much everything on the menu but what about revolving panoramic views of the Gold Coast? They’ve got those two and we’ll take a plate of both thank you very much.

The Blue House, Budds Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)
Bumbles and The Blue House, Budds Beach (Image: © 2023 Inside Gold Coast)

For your morning sips
If you’re anything like us, the day doesn’t start until coffee has been sipped. Kickstart your day with the perfect brew at ESPL Coffee. This beachside gem is great for delicious bites with a friendly vibe.

If you’re seeking people who are serious about coffee, Paradox Coffee Roasters is the destination you seek. They are committed to producing the highest quality coffee there is — just ask the locals!

Like your morning sip with a side of epic treats? Janus Bakehouse is for you… don’t mind us drooling just thinking about it.

To escape the hustle & bustle head to Bumbles. Budds Beach has long been a local secret but there’s good reason why Gold Coasters have been flocking to this hot spot for 10+ years. Get your coffee fix, some snacks and set up on the edge of Budds Beach for the ultimate start to the day.

Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Lulu Rooftop & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

For you harder sips
Fancy a cocktail (or five)? Well you’ve come to the right place because Surfers is a cocktail connoisseur’s dream come true. After sunset – okay maybe before too – Surfers turns into a cocktail connoisseur’s playground.

Lulu Rooftop is the newest addition to the scene, serving up a funky art deco aesthetic alongside sophisticated sips.

Sports fan? Hit up The Sporting Globe to get all the sporting action live and loud or get ready to yeehaw and let loose at Cowboys, with a bucking bull taking pride of place the Americana vibes are vibing.

Cowboys, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Cowboys, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Okay party people, we hear you asking where to go get Gold Coast vibes going and it’s obviously got to be Cali Beach Club – it’s giving European inspired beach party so you’re guaranteed a good time. If it ain’t broke don’t fix it we say, so it’s no wonder locals keep going back for more at The Island Rooftop, an institution for good reason you can’t beat the open air and the huge beverage list never fails us.

Coast Beach Bar Terrace, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Coast Beach Bar Terrace, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

For drinks with a view Surfers Pavilion has nailed casual waterfront meets ‘I don’t want to leave yet’ as it overlooks the canal so you can watch the boats drift by. Hinterland your preferred view? Well, The Exhibitionist Bar’s got them aplenty, actually they’ve got panoramic sight of the whole GC so take your pick. Back over on the beachside Coast Beach Bar are home to some of the best marg’s on the GC and even better views of the suburb’s namesake beach.

Sura Thai, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Sura Thai, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

For casual eats
Sometimes you just want to keep it low-key and you know what, that doesn’t have to mean that the flavours are low-key too. You go-to for authentic Thai flavours has got to be Sura Thai, dine in to make the most of the cosy and authentic feel or grab your favourites to-go. Shiraz Persian Restaurant has become known as the Coast’s best Middle Eastern bites with aromatic Persian dishes like tender kebabs gracing the menu.

Velaa Cafe, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Velaa Cafe, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Don’t sleep on Velaa’s Asian fusion fare from classic poke bowls and new flavours like their signature Thai Milk Tea Parfait (uh, YUM) just waiting for you to discover.

We like big burgers and we cannot lie so Wahlburgers is a must-try for us, plus you might even sneak a peek at Mark Wahlburg when he’s in town next if you’re lucky!

Wahlburgers Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Wahlburgers Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Alright, this one is definitely loved by more than just locals, HOTA’s Markets are the ultimate hangout to ring in Sunday Funday, pick up all the local farm fresh produce and flowers your heard desires and then grab a bite (we’re looking at you, Mio Wraps) and a sweet treat for the road and thank us later.

Palette, HOTA (image supplied)
Palette, HOTA (image supplied)

For something a little bit fancy
Now’s the time to bust out your best fancy fit because Surfers has some pretty boujee spots up their sleeves.

Nestled beneath the HOTA Gallery, Palette proves that fine dining is back, baby! Treat yourself to the degustation for the full experience, with dishes and cocktails inspired by the each gallery exhibition you need to see it – or taste it – to believe it.

Citrique, JW Marriott Gold Coast (image supplied)
Citrique, JW Marriott Gold Coast (image supplied)

The buffet is always a winner at Citrique, but have you tried their a la carte? Take this as your sign to snag a seat and let the food come to you while you spoil yourself with the Chef’s Signature Bay Bug Dumplings (life-changing) or some chargrilled Australian Wagyu.

Elevated Thai is the word at Nahm Talay Thai, all your regular favourites but even better and cocktails that are just begging to be instagrammed – bonus point for the beach front views.

Sunset at the Skypoint Observation Deck (image supplied)
Sunset at the Skypoint Observation Deck (image supplied)

Let the good times roll
Surfers Paradise isn’t short on adrenaline or intrigue and it doesn’t matter if it’s your first or 50th time visiting, they still pack the same punch in our humble opinion.

Scale SkyPoint for unbeatable views atop the Q1, chill out (literally) at the IceBar and get a moment to reflect at the Mirror Bar – see what we did there.

Mirror Bar, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Mirror Bar, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

If you’d rather enter another dimension for a little while then Infinity is begging for you to explore their mysterious maze or drop into Other World HQ and escape the ordinary with mind-bending interactive games and escape rooms. Test your team work (and maybe patience) at Eclipse Escape Rooms and Fox in a Box, go on – put that big ol’ brain to work.

We’re partial to a trip down nostalgia lane so we’re always down to battle it out at Timezone, and when there’s fun for all ages on the menu how could you not! Feeling flighty? Take a literal leap of faith at iFly and get a taste of indoor skydiving before you brave the great outdoors.

Timezone Surfers Paradise, Paradise Centre (image supplied)
Timezone Surfers Paradise, Paradise Centre (image supplied)

Gosh all that exploring calls with some pampering to finish the day, but not without its quirks! Barefoot Fish have tanks full of fish – yep, real live fish – just waiting for you to dip in for a soak so they can get rid of any dry or dead skin and leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski

January 2025: your guide to the hottest Gold Coast openings

Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

2025 has seen some exciting new venues open, adding an extra dose of deliciousness to the Gold Coast dining scene. Whether you’re after a laid-back brunch, a fiery Latin feast or a sweet treat to satisfy your summer cravings, this month’s hot new spots are guaranteed to impress. Here’s a round-up of the top venue openings that are already making waves.

A couple of these venues opened late last year, but we covered them in January, so we’ve included them in our round-up.

Bobby Bang's, The Oxley (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Bobby Bang's, The Oxley (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Bobby Bang’s

Bang on delicious— Bobby Bang’s is shaking up the cafe scene at The Oxley with its vibrant, Asian-inspired brekkie menu. The team from Lucky Bao have crafted a menu that has something for everyone – from breakfast ramen with crispy bacon to shokupan French toast topped with whipped cream, strawberries and hojicha caramel. The ceremonial matcha drinks and signature cocktails complement the bold flavours and zen vibes.
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach

Tallebudgera Surf Club, Palm Beach (image by Jade Quinlivan Photography)
Tallebudgera Surf Club, Palm Beach (image by Jade Quinlivan Photography)
Tallebudgera Surf Club

Talle Creek Park’s $12 million upgrade has transformed it into a must-visit hotspot for locals and tourists alike, and now Tallebudgera Surf Club has matched that with a glow up itself. Offering a range of new experiences, the club features the Bean Surfing Beach Café, perfect for a post-surf breakfast, and a lively Sports Bar for cheering on your team. Enjoy ocean views with fresh dishes like Lobster Tacos and the Seafood Platter for Two. With an extensive drinks menu, gelato bar and classic surf club meals, every visit supports the lifesavers keeping the beaches safe.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin, Currumbin (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Burly Gin

Burly Gin is shaking up the Gold Coast’s bar scene with its bold and refreshing flavours in Currumbin. Located in The Warehouses, this sleek venue offers a sophisticated blend of New York-inspired design and tropical charm. Burly Gin’s trio of gins – cucumber, citrus and berry – are the stars of the cocktail menu, with standout drinks like the Garden Smash and Sunset Negroni. Pair your sips with modern Australian dishes such as Anchovies with Egg Butter and Kingfish Ceviche. Burly Gin is the perfect spot for gin lovers and newcomers alike.
Where: 60 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin

Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Sonder, Broadbeach (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Sonder

Discover something special at Sonder, the Broadbeach cafe that’s all about meaningful connections and great coffee. With a stunning mid-century modern vibe, this spot invites you to relax, enjoy your meal and connect with others. The menu features creative eats like the truffle cheese toastie and breakfast bagels, plus a range of delicious coffee options, including the specialty Mont Blanc. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a leisurely catch-up, Sonder has you covered.
Where: 1/12 Philip Avenue, Broadbeach

Morning Mushrooms, Harvest Foodhouse, Robina (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Morning Mushrooms, Harvest Foodhouse, Robina (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Harvest Foodhouse

Sprouting up in Robina is Harvest Foodhouse, offering a delightful culinary escape. The creation of Anja and Jonathan Ede, this vibrant spot blends exceptional Australian flavours with a relaxed, garden-inspired atmosphere. Anja, a fifth-generation baker, brings her legacy to every dish, while Head Chef Kristie Flower’s menu delivers a fusion of cafe classics with modern twists. With its outdoor seating area, stunning murals, and inviting ambiance, Harvest Foodhouse promises a tranquil retreat where food, friends and good vibes flourish.
Where: Shop 16, 361 Robina Parkway, Robina

Norte, Mermaid Beach (image by Mathilde Bouby Photography)
Food at Norte, Mermaid Beach (image by Mathilde Bouby Photography)
Norte and Sueño

Bringing vibrant Latin flair to Nobby Beach, the Rick Shores team is serving up a festive culinary experience at their new venues Norte and Sueño. Inspired by Mexico City and Latin American culture, Norte offers a chic, sultry atmosphere with flame-kissed dishes like 72-hour short rib and Fremantle octopus, while the sun-drenched rooftop at Sueño serves ceviches, tacos, and skewers. With a 150-bottle wine list and cocktails that sing, these venues promise to deliver a fiesta for both the taste buds and the soul. Grab your friends, sip tequila and savour the flavours!
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach

Gelato Gemelli (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Gelato Gemelli (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Gelato Gemelli

Gelato Gemelli brings authentic Italian gelato to Nobby Beach, offering a sweet escape with every scoop. Created by the Carney brothers, known for their popular Gemelli Group Restaurants, this cosy gelato haven features creamy creations made from scratch using imported equipment from Bologna. Signature flavours like Pisellino (pistachio cream and white chocolate) and seasonal options like Amafli Limone transport you to Italy. Whether in a cone, cup or brioche gelato sandwich, Gelato Gemelli promises a taste of Italy’s dolce vita.
Where: The Oxley Atrium, 17 Lavarack Road, Mermaid Beach

Butter Bodega, Labrador (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Butter Bodega, Labrador (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Butter Bodega

Butter Bodega, a New York-style bodega in Labrador, is bringing Big Apple flavour to the Gold Coast. Created by husband-and-wife duo Ivan and Monique, this chic convenience store serves up mouthwatering sandwiches like Black Truffle Squid Ink Salami and Spiced Beef Pastrami on New York Rye, alongside specialty coffee and unique drinks like Biscoff Lattes and Pumpkin Spice Matcha. With its stylish interior and family-friendly vibe, Butter Bodega is the perfect spot to grab a bite or shop for gourmet treats.
Where: Shop 15, 300 Marine Pde, Labrador

Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte, Miami (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Bar Monte

The Light Years team is raising the bar on Italian dining, with their new Bar Monte in Miami offering a menu that’s simply pasta-tively divine! From oozy Burrata to a decadent Chicken Liver Eclair, its dishes have Gold Coasters saying “mamma mia!” Seafood lovers will see just how good Linguine di Mare al Cartoccio can be, while meat enthusiasts can savour a Bistecca steak lovingly coated in a Porcini Rub. Paired with divine wines and signature cocktails, it’s clear – Bar Monte is your passport to Italy– no boarding pass required.
Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami

Australia's first Wendy's is opening at Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Australia's first Wendy's is opening at Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Wendy’s

Wendy’s is bringing the sizzle to our fast-food scene with its first-ever Australian location in Surfers Paradise! Square away your hunger with their iconic fresh beef square patties and crispy chicken tenders, specifically made for Aussie taste buds. Whether you’re biting into the Classic Double or the Baconmator, it’s no wonder this chain is famous for its flavours. Don’t forget to dip into signature sauces and for the sweet finish, the Frosty is sure to have you melting with joy! It’s just the beginning of Wendy’s big expansion across the country!
Where: Paradise Centre, Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

Pokkoi, Coolangatta (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Twice Cooked Pork Belly, Pokkoi, Coolangatta (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Pokkoi

Pokkoi is wok-ing its magic in Coolangatta, serving up a sizzling fusion of Asian flavours that will have you soy excited! Owner Rachael Nguyen has brought her expertise and enthusiasm across the ditch for her first Australian venture, and we welcome it with open mouths. From the zesty Hiramasa Kingfish to the indulgent Beef Rendang Donut, every bite is an explosion of umami goodness. For the ultimate Asian fusion dish, the Whole Burrata served with heirloom tomato, chilli oil, Viet mint and roti is sure to make your taste buds dance. Wash it down with a Thai Tea Cocktail and you’ve got yourself a flavour-packed feast!
Where: 52-58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Yo My Goodness (YOMG), Pacific Fair (image by Mathilde Bouby Photo)
Interior of Yo My Goodness (YOMG), Pacific Fair (image by Mathilde Bouby Photo)
YOMG

Yo, my goodness, YOMG has officially dished out a new spot at Pacific Fair! Flipping the script on burgers and froyo, YOMG is serving up stacked, snackable goodness. Their hand-pressed, locally sourced beef patties are the real MVP, while the froyo bar is a swirl of endless possibilities. From loaded fries to crispy wings, every bite is a taste bud touchdown. Whether you’re in the mood to feast with friends or treat yo’self, YOMG is the ultimate pit stop for flavour-packed bites.
Where: Pacific Fair (opposite Sephora), Broadbeach

Roca, Byron Bay (image supplied)
Tuna Nikkei Tiradito, Roca, Byron Bay (image supplied)
Roca

Roca is nacho average Latin eatery in Byron Bay. From the fresh Watermelon Ceviche to the zingy Arroz Chaufa, every dish will have you taco-ing about it long after the meal. The Rocatina Burger, with its tuna, avocado, and fried sweet potato, is post-beach bliss, while the Mixed Fried Empanadas pack a punch of flavour. For an unforgettable dinner party, the Eat Like Papi experience fires up at 5pm with chefs grilling meats and preparing fresh ceviche before your eyes. You’ll be roca–ing and rolling with every bite and sip!
Where: 14 Lawson Street, Byron Bay

Food and drinks at Commitment Issues, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Food and drinks at Commitment Issues, Nobby Beach (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Commitment Issues

Hello, is it waffles you’re looking for? Commitment Issues in Nobby Beach will hook you up! Whether you’re swooning over the crispy Fried Chicken ‘N’ Waffle Stack or going crazy about the CI-style burger, there’s more options to choose from than matches on a dating app! The coffee slushies are a cool companion to your meal, and with self-ordering kiosks, you can easily commit to a fresh, seasonal feast. No strings attached, just pure brunch bliss – you’ll fall in love with every bite!
Where: Shop 5/28 Chairlift Avenue, Mermaid Beach

Words by Lisette Drew

9 of Surfers Paradise’s best breakfast spots

Horizon Sky Dining, Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise (image by Markus Ravik)
Horizon Sky Dining, Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise (image by Markus Ravik)

Let’s face the facts – we Gold Coasters are morning people. Whether we’re hitting the run clubs, catching waves or strolling with our furry friends, we’ve turned ‘Carpe Diem’ into an art form. So, it’s no surprise our breakfast spots are serving up next-level eats to match our early bird energy.

When the sun hits that glitter strip, there’s no better place to start your day than in Surfers Paradise. From drool-worthy dishes to coffee that’ll have you buzzing, we’ve hit the streets by the beach to bring you the best breakfasts in the heart of the Coast.

Tropicana Kitchen & Bar, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)
Big Brekky, Tropicana Kitchen & Bar, Surfers Paradise (Image: © 2025 Inside Gold Coast)

Tropicana
Escape the daily grind at Tropicana Kitchen & Bar! This sunny Surfers spot has just had a glow up from Irish pub to island paradise. Whether you’re taco-ing into Loco Tacos or diving into the dreamy Blueberry French Toast, every bite is a tropical getaway. Wash it down with a Campos coffee or bottomless mimosas or for the ultimate morning pick-me-up. So butter up your brunch crew and sip back – because a breakfast oasis awaits!
Where: Paradise Centre, 25/2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

La Playa
Wake up and smell the ocean breeze – La Playa is flipping breakfast on its head with dishes that’ll have you coming back for more. Spice up your morning with the chorizo-loaded shawarma wrap, because let’s be real – boring breakfasts are nacho thing. Avo cravings? The Baltic avo smash is guac-ing amazing. And if you like it sweet, the blueberry ricotta hotcake is a stack-tacular dream. Pair it all with a fresh smoothie, or a signature cocktail for something a little stronger, and you’ve got a beachside brekkie that’s a party in your mouth!
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Janus Deli, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Janus Deli, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Janus Deli
Bringing big flavours and retro diner vibes to Hanlan Street, Janus Deli is your go-to for next-level sandos, sweet treats, and seriously good sips. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into the JFC (soy garlic fried chicken with apple slaw on a potato bun) or tackling the Moo-licious (corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Janus sauce on fresh sourdough), every bite is a deli-lover’s dream. Got a sweet tooth? Their freshly baked donuts, including the cult-fave Dough-kie (a cookie-donut hybrid), will have you in dessert heaven. Pair it all with a pistachio latte or iced biscoff, and you’ve got a breakfast worth waking up for.
Where: 12 Hanlan Street, Surfers Paradise

Hyde Paradiso
Hyde Paradiso has poached one of the top spots for breakfast in Surfers, serving up Mediterranean magic on level two of Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise. Soak in the ocean view while feasting on Eggs Benny Hash dripping in Truffle Honey Hollandaise, Shakshuka eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, or Fluffy Pancakes with lemon curd and macadamia butter. For the ultimate weekend catch-up, gather the crew for Hyde Paradiso’s famous bottomless brunch, available 12pm – 2pm Friday to Sunday.
Where: Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise, Level 2, 8 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Hyde Paradiso interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)
Hyde Paradiso interior (Image: © 2019 Inside Gold Coast)

Bumbles
If you haven’t been to Bumbles, it’s time to buzz over to Budds Beach! This gem has been flipping out top-notch breakfasts for over a decade, and locals know it’s no yolking matter. Indulge in dreamy French Toast with cinnamon brioche, bacon and berry compote, or tuck into Savoury Mince with poached eggs and chorizo. Feeling fancy? Book in for a High Tea experience, with an array of sweet and savoury treats to devour. Pinkies up, darling!
Where: 19 River Drive, Surfers Paradise

BARITALIA
Pizza for breakfast? Mama mia, yes please! BARITALIA serves up a slice of morning heaven with an Italian twist that’ll have you dough-eyed in delight. Swap that sad cold pizza in the fridge for a pizza-oven toasted croissant or breakfast bruschetta stacked with zucchini, Meredith goat’s cheese, and mint. The smashed avo is a real knockout, and if you’re feeling extra, the panini lineup – think eggplant, chicken or prosciutto — will have you saying “Bellissimo” at the first bite of house-made dough. Italian-made coffee hits differently, and their barista is ready to serve you Allpress Espresso from 6.30am.
Where: Chevron Renaissance Centre, Elkhorn Ave &, Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

BARITALIA, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
BARITALIA, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Ohana’s
A fruity, Hawaiian-inspired bar and eatery was exactly what Surfers Paradise needed and exactly what Surfers Paradise got in the form of Ohana’s. Surfers Paradise’s tropical gem, serves up island vibes and seriously good morning feeds. Think Fritter Stacks, Waffles, Açai Bowls, and Smashed Avo, all washed down with an East Coast Roast coffee, fresh juice, or a smoothie. Turn that leisurely breakfast into brunch with a cheeky morning cocktail – because why not? Ohana’s is the ultimate spot to fuel up before a sun-soaked day.
Where: 64 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Sandbar
With a prime location overlooking Surfers Paradise beach, Sandbar is the toast of the coast—serving up fresh ocean breezes, epic people-watching, and a brekkie menu that truly egg-ceeds expectations. From smoothie bowls that scream summer to a pulled pork Benny worth waking up for, every dish is packed with coastal flavours. Feeling hungry? The Beachside Big Breakfast will have you rolling from your seat to laying on the beach.
Where: 52 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Elston Restaurant & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Elston Restaurant & Bar, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Elston Restaurant & Bar
If it’s breakfast classics you’re after, look no further than Elston Restaurant and Bar. This casual dining spot will keep the whole tribe happy with açaí bowls, egg and bacon rolls, smashed avo and waffles as the waves crash nearby. If your appetite calls for something hearty, the Elston Feast is no mean feat to finish, with eggs, bacon, mushrooms, sauteed greens, tomatoes, chorizo, sourdough, pickled onions and chilli relish. Just make sure you leave some room for a Locale Coffee Roasters sip of choice.
Where: Soul Boardwalk, Shop T1/04 / 4 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

Paradox Coffee Roasters
Rise and grind, Gold Coast coffee lovers! Paradox Coffee Roasters know their beans, and they’re not just waffle-ing on about quality. Your brew-tiful coffee journey starts with ethically sourced beans, roasted to perfection by a team with over 15 years of experience. And let’s toast to their epic breakfast game. The Cinnamon Donut with Peaches, Coconut Caramel Sauce, Fresh Fruits & Tim Tam Crumble is as doughlicious as the Chilli Scramble with house-made chilli oil is hot. Paradox Coffee Roasters is the ultimate combo of coffee and cravings, all in one perfect spot.
Where: The 4217, 10 Beach Road,
Surfers Paradise

Hotcakes at Paradox Coffee Roasters, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)
Hotcakes at Paradox Coffee Roasters, Surfers Paradise (image supplied)

Breakfast Buffets
If you’re anything like us, making decisions – especially about breakfast – is a struggle. Why choose when you can have it all? A buffet is the ultimate foodie free-for-all – no judgment, just endless plates of pure joy. The Gold Coast is serving up some seriously drool-worthy all-you-can-eat experiences, and we’re here for it. Indulge in the luxe spreads at Bazaar Marketplace, Citrique, Akoya and Waves Buffet Restaurant, or take your appetite to new heights at Horizon Sky Dining. This is just a taste of what’s on offer, with buffets on the Gold Coast deserving of a list of their own. Slide into your stretchy pants and check out our round-up of the best buffets on the Gold Coast.

Words by Lisette Drew

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