There are few greater pleasures in life than a pamper sesh. Whether it’s a massage, a facial, an exfoliation or any other sort of treatment, heck you get to sit/lie down and zone out and just sign us up already!

There are plenty of beautiful day spas scattered around the GC and thank goodness for that because nothing gives the mind, body and soul a little pick me up quite like a visit to one of these godsends.

We’re here to save you the Google search and download our intel on our region’s finest spots for some much-deserved self-care. From the north, south, east and west….

The Bathhouse at Ground Currumbin
Set amongst remnant rainforest in front of a lovingly restored 100-year-old farmhouse, enjoy hot tubs, spas, plunge pools and saunas in a lush outdoor setting under the canopy of a majestic fig tree. Combine your bathhouse experience with a wellness treatment from the highly skilled massage and beauty practitioners for the best of all 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
I mean, it’s at the Hilton and do we really need to say anymore? The signature of eforea spa are their Journey Enhancements, which are powerful mini treatments that can be added to your existing services or enjoyed by themselves. Specially designed for eforea, they introduce guests to special, commonly unexperienced techniques from the most fabled spa cultures around the world. Count. Us. In.
Our pick: The Vichy Shower Experience to increase circulation throughout the body
Where: 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

RE/WIND
With luxurious accents from pillar to post, this Currumbin gem is one of the GC’s most loved wellness centres. Equipped with a salt therapy room, yoga and pilates classes, meditation and sound healing, along with two registered nurses to undertake anything from scar revision, to PDO threads, iv vitamin infusions and cosmetic injections, it’s the ultimate A-Z of self-nurturing.
Our pick: Salt Therapy – it’s a wonder treatment
Where: 31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin

Endota Spa
Endota is basically another word for day spa – that’s how established the brand is here in Oz. In fact it’s our largest spa group and if you’ve visited one, you know why. From the moment you walk in til the moment you float out, it’s pure bliss. If you’re channelling a group spa date or organising a hen’s ‘do, Endota is the perfect choice for some pampering with your posse.
Our pick: Intense Radiance Facial to promote collagen and elastin activation
Where: Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, Robina, Coolangatta

One Spa at RACV Royal Pines Resort
Exquisitely appointed with all details considered, One Spa offers locally inspired rituals, unique water therapies, spacious treatment rooms, private change room facilities and a relaxation area that overlooks the peaceful green landscape. A wide range of rejuvenating spa treatments await, including a geisha bath, lusar and Vichy showers, and a four-seater spa.
Our pick: The Knowing Touch massage. This unique Akwaterra facial and body massage incorporates both warmed and chilled ceramics to relax the mind and ease discomfort from tight, sore muscles.
Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa 

On Eagle Wings
Nourishing relaxation awaits at this stunning Gold Coast hinterland spa. Inhale the fresh mountain air as you lounge by the heated 25m infinity lap pool, taking in the peaceful sounds of waterfalls and nature. The impressive treatments menu includes the ‘who’s who’ of pampering, with facials, massage, body treatments, pedicures or manicures. Bliss!
Our pick: Pure Chocolate Indulgence Spa Package, including all things pamper plus a complimentary cheese platter, sweet fruit chocolate box and bubbly
Where: 59 Lowry Court, Mudgeeraba  

Chuan Spa
This slice of heaven was as hotly anticipated as the latest reinvention of the Dior Saddle Bag and we’re pleased as punch to announce that it surpasses all expectations! 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.
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

Lost World Spa
Located within the stunning O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, is there a better place for a day spa? We think not. 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: The end of Lamington National Park Road, Canungra

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, sundeck and lounge area, don’t think, just book. A shared experience for up to 10 people at a time, it’s everything you’d expect from the Greenhouse Canteen girls, and then some.
Our pick: Signature Massage + Luxe Soak Package, with full body massage, soak, plant-based lunch and bubbles or kombucha
Where: 7/37 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Burleigh Heads

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat
This is a complete wellness destination designed to help you truly rest and focus on your health, which sounds pretty darn perf to us. Set among over 200 hectares of beautiful native bushland, there’s everything from soothing spa therapies to wellness consultations, plus stress management, emotional wellbeing and movement sessions tailored to your needs. This is your time to stop, rest and relax.
Our pick: Hawaiian Bodywork Massage, ideal for shifting tension from the physical, energetic or emotional bodies
Where: 192 Syndicate Road, Tallebudgera Valley

Soak Bathhouse
Hit the reset button at this retreat…reimagined! Based on four ‘pillars of wellness’ (recovery, nutrition, movement and connection), this modern Australian bathhouse and spa is a holistic wonderland. With a truly beautiful environment where guests feel inspired to linger, relax and socialise rather than zip-off straight after a treatment, Soak experiences are high quality, affordable and accessible. To quote Nike, just do it.
Our pick: A Soak membership with bathhouse sessions, beauty and recovery services, and massage discounts
Where: Pacific Square, 2532 – 2540 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

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

Azure Spa & Fitness
At Azure, they request that guests rest, relax and recharge…and we oblige! Located at The Star Gold Coast, this chillaxation powerhouse offers a wide range of decadent treatments, using leading skincare brand BABOR. There are six treatment rooms, including a dual treatment space and an exclusive outdoor cabana to hire, and you had us at private cabana. Go on, live your best life and level up that ‘you time’ with a stay-cay for maximum R&R.
Our pick: Deep Sea Body Indulgence with a salt exfoliation, body wrap and full body massage
Where: Pool Level, The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

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!
Where: 35-37 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby

Words by Bianca Trathen.

The history of buffet style eating is a mixed affair. Its origins could be said to hark back to a mixture of cultures — from Asia to Europe. The ‘smorgasbord’ became internationally known as such at the 1939 New York World’s Fair exhibition, because the Swedes had to invent a new way of showcasing the best of Swedish food to large numbers of visitors. And the rest, as they say, is history…

Whoever can claim to have been responsible, we’re not fussed! The point is buffets — and smorgasbords — are amazing ways to reach newfound eating goals, and we’ve got quite a few exceptional ones right here on the Gold Coast. Happy binge eating, folks!

Terraces Restaurant
It’s the seafood buffet extravaganza in Main Beach that locals keep returning to time and time again, and as one of those locals, we can tell you it’s got all of the very best things you’ll love. Yes, fresh seafood galore but also a whole charcuterie section, an excellent Asian dish section, and so many delicious desserts to choose from. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Where: Level 1, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, 71 Sea World Drive, Main Beach

Harvest Buffet
Not only does Harvest Buffet treat their diners to top-notch eats, but they also allow patrons to feast on glistening poolside views as well. The stunning indoor and outdoor spaces are seriously as enticing as the food, and the private dining room screams “have your birthday/celebration here” and ok, if you insist…Open for breakfast and dinner daily, as well as lunch every Saturday and Sunday so you can get stuck into their famed prawn and oyster buffet, you’ll be sure to leave this place bursting at the seams. We must make special mention of their dinner offering which includes the freshest seafood like oysters, prawns, sushi, roasts from the carvery as well as crowd-pleasers like pizza, pasta, curries, soups and salads. Should we also mention they have a decadent dessert bar? Yep, complete with a chocolate fountain! It’s our buffet dreams answered!
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach

Horizon Sky Dining
Buffet in the sky? No probs. Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise is where you’re find this gem, nestled above the city skyline so you can (literally) take your dining experience to new heights. Think breathtaking views of the city skyline from ocean to hinterland and of course, the most incredible seafood feast curated by award-winning chefs. They’ve also got vegetarians covered with a huge range of options to make sure every leaves well and truly full. All that buffet-ing is thirsty work of course, so why not treat yourself to an expertly crafted cocktail (or mocktail) to seal the deal. Open for lunch and dinner from Thursday through Sunday.
Where: Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise, 2807 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise

Il Barocco
It’s a quality over quantity affair at Il Barocco, it’s long been a favourite dining spot for buffet lovers for obvious reasons. After all, this is a 5-star luxury property we’re talking about! The team uses only the very best, locally sourced seafood and the aim of the game is to create a fresh, diverse-looking buffet — which they nail. Besides exceptional seafood, there are hot and cold meats, vegetarian dishes and the prettiest dessert section. Treat yourself to the most luxe buffet setting on the Coast. Open for breakfast and dinner daily.
Where: Imperial Hotel Gold Coast, 94 Sea World Drive, Main Beach

Frenzy’s Food Court
Catering to the entire family, Frenzy’s at Southport Sharks is open for dinner and offers an extensive buffet selection featuring dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world. The all-you-can-eat buffet offers a tasty range of meats, salads, international dishes and desserts, all available between 5.30pm and 8.30pm, 7 nights a week. Yep, we don’t know about you but we have our plates ready!
Plus, Frenzy’s is now serving up a mouth-watering, heart-warming all-you-can-eat breakfast feast every Sunday! The scrumptious selection includes all your brekkie favourites (as well as cheese and charcuterie, yes please) AND includes bottomless Bun coffee – they’ve really got everything covered.
Where: Southport Sharks, Olsen Ave & Musgrave Ave, Southport

Skypoint Breakfast Buffet
Not a morning person? Well breakfast up in the clouds might be the closest you’ll get to staying snug in that cosy bed of yours and to be honest, I’d say this brekky is worth the wake up. With all the classics you know and love on offer to build your own big breakfast, seasonal fruits (because, summer) and even cereal if your inner child is begging for coco pops – we won’t judge. You can indulge in the food and then indulge in the view of the GC because it always looks a little prettier from up above.
Where: Q1, Level 77 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise

Shoreline Restaurant
Many things may have changed over the years, but the yum factor of Shoreline Restaurant’s famous buffet isn’t one of them #phew. Located in the Sea World Resort, treat yourself to a balanced and plentiful breaky smorgasbord from 6.30am to 10am daily, or all-you-eat-dinner from 5pm to 8pm every Friday and Saturday (no judgement if you do both). Special dinner shout-outs go to the Queensland prawns, wide array of international dishes, juicy Chef carved meats, and delectable desserts. And let’s not forget the coastal ambience and live entertainment, satisfying all the senses.
Where: Sea World Resort, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Cove Cafe
Wake up with an expansive selection of season-inspired breakfast classics at Cove Café’s buffet.  Recently reimagined with a tropic-inspired aesthetic reflecting the natural beauty of Sanctuary Cove, it’s the perfect place to start your day. Hit the live omelette station for eggs cooked your way, seasonal fruit, international dishes and naughty but oh-so-nice delicate pastries. Wash your ten outta ten breakfast down with fresh juices and Vittoria Coffee, then saunter around the glorious Sanctuary Cove shops to burn off your brekky. At least that’s our excuse…. Open seven days a week from 6.30am until 10.30am.
Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove

Akoya
There are buffets and there are buffets and this my friends is the latter. A boujee buffet if you like (yes, we like!), Akoya is located inside The Langham Gold Coast, our go-to for luxury stays and plays. Serving up beautiful coastline views and some of Australia’s finest meat, fish, and poultry, this is a buffet connoisseur’s dream. Offering a buffet feast every Friday and Saturday night from 5.30pm to 10pm, or their signature breakfast buffet daily from 6.30am, it’s a must for any local or visitor. The only thing more delicious and high rent than the fare is the strikingly contemporary interiors, and bespoke open kitchen. Swoon!
Where: The Langham Gold Coast, 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise

Waves Buffet Restaurant
Described as THE place for people who love buffets, it simply had to make the list! Enjoy eggs cooked the way you like them (#AllTheWaysThanks), seafood-a-plenty (our pick: whole prawns and rock oysters on the shell), plus platters overflowing with tropical fruit. Plus there are Asian, Indian and Mediterranean dishes, seasonal options, and holy happy kids Batman, a dessert bar. Combining fresh eats for a mix of healthy and hearty, it’s perfect for a special occasion or just because. Available between 6.30am and 10am seven days a week, and every Friday and Saturday if you’re down for a seafood buffet dinner, in the words of Nike – just do it.
Where: voco Gold Coast, 3032 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Citrique
One of the most beautifully presented buffets around is Citrique at the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. Recently renovated, they are renowned for a next-level, seasonal seafood selection, and folks; it is the goods. Every dish you could possibly want is available at Citrique, including yum cha, sushi, curries, antipasto, European dishes, and speciality plates you’ll fall for in a big way. If the delish food offer wasn’t enough, the view of their iconic pool is the ultimate for giving holiday vibes while you fill up on the fare. It’s open for buffet breakfast daily, with Friday and Saturday buffet sittings in the evenings and lunches Sunday.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Bazaar
We would like to boldly state that QT Gold Coast’s Bazaar is exceptional, and if you have not been, no excuse will suffice! Feel like a steak cooked perfectly medium-rare? Not a problem. Their helpful chefs can create made to order dishes right in front of your eyes, bake pizzas, and dish up fresh and cooked seafood, slow-roasted meats, epic salads, an Asian food section and easily the most delectable dessert offering on the Coast. It’s an absolute must-try and is open for breakfast and dinner daily. For extra indulgence, we highly recommend their Sunday Brunch.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

Words by Bianca Trathen and Jacqueline Bojanowski.

If the ol’ faithful, barely-qualifies-as-self-care routine of on a slapping mask, raiding the secret chocolate stash and watching Seinfeld is no longer sparking joy, it’s time to pull out the big guns.

While the perks of living in this glorious city of ours are infinite, the problem for us locals is sometimes, we get so caught up in the daily grind we forget to slow down and smell the sea spray right in our own backyards. And if you’re a little, or a lot overdue for a spot of R&R, get ready to soak up the zen because there’s an underrated gem that needs to make its way onto your radar, stat.

Throw that phone on DND, turn on the ‘out of office’ reply because we’re about to dive into the ultimate relaxation haven – Relaxation Corporation. Tucked away within a location that needs no introduction, the iconic Sea World Resort, we need not only turn to this tropical oasis destination when we’re seeking thrills and spills. Relaxation Corporation is equally as placed to supply tranquils and chills #seewhatwedidthere.

The Relaxation Corporation space was treated to a well-deserved rejuvenation of its own last year after valiantly serving the GC and surrounds for the last 20 odd years. Because we all know a trip to the day spa is all about that ambiance, upon arrival you’ll be greeted with softly lit, rich, chocolate tones to soothe the senses, before stepping into your own personal cocoon aka treatment room. You’ll receive the star treatment in more ways than one, with the show-stopping twinkle lights fitted throughout to really help you relax and glow with the flow.

Of course, the only thing that will be glowing more than the ceilings is your skin once you’ve treated yourself to one of the signature treatments on offer, of which there are many. There are all the lush day spa faves you’d expect, from rejuvenating facials through to couples massages and luxury packages for a truly indulgent pamper experience to have you feeling as good as gold (no, really, there’s a Kardashian-worthy treatment that includes actual gold #fancy).

The Luxury Time treatment is certainly knot your average massage, you’ll be on cloud shine as your expert therapist lathers you in pure, 24-carat gold infused rosehip oil for 90 minutes of uninterrupted bliss. Rich with anti-ageing ingredients, this invigorating face and body massage really is a gift that just keeps on giving. Finally, the royal treatment we deserve.

And just when we thought we couldn’t love chocolate any more, it turns out our favourite emotional support food holds magical properties for the whole body too. Book yourself in for some Sweet Time, and not only do you get a deeply nourishing and moisturising treatment, but thanks to the addition of Cocoa you also get to harness the production and secretion of endorphins in the brain, while combatting anxiety and stress. Included in this 120 minute package is also a 15 min foot massage and 15 min head massage, so it sounds like a pretty sweet deal to us.

So go on, treat yourself to something spa-cial and bliss out for a few hours at Relaxation Corporation. With extended trading hours, there’s really no excuse not to send ‘me time’ straight to the top of the priority list.

Where: Sea World Resort, Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
When: Daily 9am – 7pm
Website: www.relaxationcorporation.com
Instagram: @relaxationcorporationseaworld

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Belinda Symons.

STORY SPONSORED BY RELAXATION CORPORATION.