We all see it, the surge of sleek apartment buildings and towering high-rises staking their claim on Gold Coast’s coveted coastline. While we’re all for fresh faces and new places in our beloved beach town, we can’t help but hold a special place in our hearts for Gold Coast’s gems with character.

Each of these boutique accommodations offers a distinct blend of retro flair and modern comfort, perfect for those looking to soak up the classic cool vibes of this iconic destination.

But don’t just take our word for it – experience the magic for yourself! There’s a nostalgic getaway waiting for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready to relive the past while enjoying the comforts of today!

The Cheshire Cat Motel
Catch just a sight of this boutique hotel; it will be enough to broaden your grin and make your tale quiver. What was old is once again new at this boutique hotel, refurbished for our delight. The six-room motel is like a mid-century memento, a nostalgic transport back in time, even just for a night. With a careful curation of genuine era furnishings and colour tones- tangerine oranges, teal blues and pistachio greens- this place feels more like a cosy museum than a hotel. Choose between the impressive Queen Room or Bungalow- visit either you like: they’re both mad! You can find the motel perched on the energised Palm Beach strip, yet hidden in plain sight. Not to worry! Look out for the tall neon sign and cacti-studded wall, and you will be on your way. Grab your Walkman, ladies; we’re headed to the pool deck. We’ll hit The Collective later.
Where: 1005 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

The Pink Hotel
You wouldn’t guess it, but this hotel is pink. Yep! Completely pink (with some white for contrast). We’re not exaggerating (at all) when we say it’s your childhood Barbie Dreamhouse- life-size edition. By all means eccentric, this hotel intrigues and excites. It’s fun, funky, and, surprisingly, a rich piece of Gold Coast history. Simply put, it’s impossible not to have a good time at this hotel. Between the rooftop bar (also the perfect place to watch the spectacular sunset), epic rooms, onsite food delivery (hello, burgers from Eddie’s Grub House) and endless surrounding activities, you will be entertained for your entire stay, and some. Just because we can never resist the siren call, we’ll be scoffing pizza at Franc Jrs.
Where: 171 Griffith St, Coolangatta

The Mysa Motel
Welcome to Palm Springs, California. Oops! Sorry, we meant The Mysa Motel. Gosh! Don’t they look alike? It’s no wonder we got confused. The Mysa Motel is a sustainable luxury motel in Palm Beach. Their modern-retro twist is a perfect blend of pastel palette and of-decade decor that conjures a feeling that could only be comparable to being gumball first into a Bubble O’ Bill while rollerblading. Whatever worries you had are long gone now- at the bottom of their outdoor magnesium pool, in fact. Their rooms are a delight, with options for each of your seven personalities. To flaunt a few, we have “Sky Blue’, she’s breezy. With two comfortable king-size beds and sky-blue walls, you’re in for a cool, calm and collected time. ‘The Merillo’- she loves to host. The two-bedroom double-story unit is lush but altogether paired back, to focus on simplicity and the sacred element of ‘space’. For nosh, Well Bread & Pastry is high on our list of recommendations, along with Balboa Italian– it’s buono.
Where: 1100 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Blue Heron Motel
Welcome to Blue Heron Motel; a stunning family-owned boutique hotel in Mermaid Beach’s heart. This understated stay provides a calm and quiet haven to escape the buzzing Gold Coast activity. With a recent spruce, the motel’s design reminds us of the golden days of the Gold Coast. Ahh, what a time! Overall, their bases are covered as both a sanctuary and a centre for activity and exploration. Take a plunge in their picturesque pool, or hire a bike to explore the famous Gold Coast oceanway. After all, you’re only a pedal away from local favourites and attractions, including Pacific Fair and Holliday Coffee.
Where: 2323 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

La Costa Motel
La Costa Motel is a slice of 60’s inspired paradise. A vintage-style vacation set in the southern Gold Coast suburb of Bilinga. Picture this; you’ve just pulled up in your Dodge Coronet Wagon, hard case luggage in the boot and polka dot togs in hand- ready for your family vacation. The exterior replicates the classic beach-side shack, with each ‘studio’ accommodating its own white picket fence. Behind it sits two vibrant patio chairs, a petite round table and a mini floral garden- the cutest garden we ever did see. Greet your neighbour’s next door before jumping on your cruiser bike en route to breaky! Delicious options await at Halycon Coffee House. As your day draws to a close, head back to your home away from home, pull up a deck chair and watch the sunset from your very own front yard. Well, it’s yours for a little while, anyway.
Where: 127 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga

Gold Coast Tree Houses
Retro might not be the right word for this remarkable bed and breakfast style accommodation, but it’s definitely unique. With self-contained cabins nestled amongst the trees…How about tree-ific? Choose from six unique and individually styled treehouses, and enjoy off-grid living at its finest. The luxurious eco-accommodation is surrounded by lush bushlands, providing the perfect setting for seeking solitude and connection alike. Stay in Treehouse One or Two to marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views from your bathtub! Suppose you can muster enough willpower to leave your new hideaway. In that case, we recommend trying Panchos Mexican, for a late lunch or dinner!
Where: Lot 1,123 Mount Nimmel Rd, Austinville

qtQT
Take things up a notch with the lavish boutique accommodation at qtQt. Designed for discerning creatures of comfort, their contemporary-style cabins are cosy by definition, hidden amongst a garden oasis. With luxurious local amenities and the option of curated experiences, it’s clear, qtQT doesn’t need lessons in laidback luxury.  Unplug and unwind in a distraction-free zone. Whether you’re enjoying solo serenity or sharing space with a loved one, the options are endless. Enjoy barefoot indulgence in an outdoor oasis, free from the distraction of television. It’s all about comfort and connection. You’re in the centre of Surfers, steps away from the QT Gold Coast’s incredible restaurants and yet you feel a million miles away. It’s safe to say this hotel isn’t playing for a bronze medal.
Where: 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

Over the past few years, Miami has transformed from a small industrial suburb nestled beside bold and bustling Burleigh, into its own thriving cultural hub buzzing with culinary gems and creativity. Now, its food scene has hit a new high with the arrival of an exceptional Italian dining spot. It’s called Bar Monte, and it’s already making its mark in Miami.

Bar Monte is the brainchild of hospitality legends Lorenzo Toscani, Kim Stephen and James Sutherland. Kim and James, are the dynamic duo behind popular ventures such as Light Years, The Smoking Camel, Pixie Food & Wine and Moonlight Hibachi & Wine Bar, bringing a wealth of business savvy to the table.

Lorenzo, with over a decade of experience managing top-tier spots like Caffe’ e Cucina in Melbourne and Pixie Italian in Byron Bay, is no stranger to creating memorable dining experiences. Together, they’ve created a space that strikes a perfect balance between high-end sophistication and relaxed coastal charm.

The design of Bar Monte, led by Will Rathgeber of Studio Plenty, mirrors the restaurant’s thoughtful approach to dining. The space is stylish yet inviting, with wine bottles surrounding the dining space, transporting you to a trattoria in Italy, with a modern twist.

Head chef Nicolo’ Meani is the culinary force behind Bar Monte, and his impressive resume speaks for itself. From his early days training at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Monza to his time with the iconic Nobu in Ibiza, Meani’s journey has taken him across the globe. Now, with his focus on Italian cuisine at Bar Monte, he’s blending international influences with fresh, local ingredients, delivering a menu that’s as bold as it is delizioso.

Speaking of the menu, Bar Monte isn’t your average Italian eatery. While many Italian restaurants lean towards expansive menus, Bar Monte keeps things sleek and sophisticated.

Start your culinary journey with a fresh and oozy Burrata complemented with Spicy Nduja And Cashew Pesto, Basil Oil and Grilled Bread. Or indulge your taste buds in a decadent Eclair filled with Chicken Liver Parfait And Cherry. 

Pasta lovers will swoon over Rigatoni, Vodka Sauce, Nduja and Stracciatella, while seafood aficionados can dive into Linguine di Mare al Cartoccio brimming with Clams, Mussels, King Prawn and Calamari.

Expertly crafted dishes like Bistecca steak lovingly coated in Porcini Rub, Onion and Marrow Butter will have the whole table giving it a chef’s kiss.

Pair your meal with one of the signature cocktails – perhaps a vodka concoction with salted passionfruit, peach and fresh lemon juice – and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven. Salute to that!

With the wine list curated by world-renowned sommelier Andrea Martinisi, it’s no surprise that Bar Monte is quickly becoming a go-to for wine lovers. No need to wine about your options here – it’s all vino perfection!

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one spot you’ll want to pasta by and stay awhile.

Where: No.3 Mountain View Ave, Miami
When: Wednesday – Thursday 4:30pm–10pm. Friday, Saturday 12pm–10pm, Sunday 12pm–9pm

Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby

If you ask anyone what their numero uno ‘must have’ is when looking at staycays here in our beautiful city, chances an insta-worthy (or family-friendly) pool experience would take pole position. Okay, so a cosy spa is WAY more appealing right about now but let’s be real, winter lasts for a millisecond on the Gold Coast and before we know it, we’re back to sweating bullets and channelling poolside hangs.

So our point remains – a pool maketh the staycay, and we’re here to give the low-down on the best pools in town coz girls (and guys) just wanna have sun…and swims…and preferably with a cocktail in hand.

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
Awarded Australia’s Best Hotel Pool 2021, take a dip alongside tropical fish in the famous saltwater lagoon and sorry, it doesn’t get much cooler (literally) than this. Enjoy white sandy beaches, waterfalls, and a swim-up grotto. And, for small peeps, the freshwater pool with an epic waterslide will keep them entertained for hours while you chillax in a jacuzzi or poolside cabana #VIP.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
Swim in the crystal blue water of the one-acre saltwater lagoon, float around on colourful beanbags, or relax on a sun lounger sipping on an InterContinental coconut! There’s also a 15-metre-long terrace swimming pool and spa, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, reclining sun loungers and plenty of space for family activities. Just like Adele, you’ll be rolling in the deep (end).
Where: Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circuit, Hope Island

The Star Gold Coast
The Star houses an all ages-friendly, glisteningly gorg pool side area decked out with cabanas, a relaxing water feature, spas, and plenty of sun lounges and seating. Or, if you’re really hamming it up at The Darling, it’s a case of “to infinity (pool) and beyond”! Situated on the nineteenth floor with breathtaking GC views, this elegant infinity pool is a showstopper.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Dorsett Gold Coast
Dorsett (located within The Star) doesn’t just have a pool, but its own super on-fleek Isoletto Pool Club #TooPoolForSchool! Experience the 12-metre-long viewing wall overlooking Broadbeach, delish light eats and drinks, comfy cabanas around the pool deck, as well as our fave ‘wet lounges’ built into the pool itself! They’ll even deliver your spritzers and cocktails straight to your cabana. Suns out, buns out we say!
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach

The Langham Gold Coast
Whether you love a luxurious indoor pool, or prefer a five-star outdoor pool experience, The Langham has you covered. The 20-metre-long indoor pool is perfect for those channelling a (multi) million-dollar Pacific Ocean view with their workout. Meanwhile outside, another 20-metre-long outdoor pool awaits, with a highbrow swim-up pool bar, a sandy lagoon-style entrance, and plenty of swanky pool lounge chairs. Fancy feels for days!
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise

Sea World Resort
Another one with its own water park, find us a kid who won’t go bonkers for this place! Whilst the pool and spa area may be closed until the 16^th of August for remedial works, the ever-popular SpongeBob Splash Pads and Aqua Play will remain open. Once the maintenance and ‘shoosh-up’ are finished, create everlasting family memories with a 50-metre lagoon, complete with waterfall and soothing 12-seater spa. Bliss!
Where: Sea World Drive, Main Beach

Paradise Resort
Voted Australia’s Best Family Resort for the 11th year in a row, you just know this place gives a good pool! Heaven for kids and paradise for parents, it even has its own water park with a giant water playground, lagoon pool, large, heated spa and two enormous aqua play attractions. And, for mum and dad, stay tuned for the new Parents Retreat unveiled, featuring an adults-only (eee!) swimming pool and lounge bar #KidsWhatKids?
Where: 122 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast
Experience beachfront bliss and soak up ‘dem luxurious feels as you take in the vast pool surrounds –  6,727 square feet of them to be exact! Plus, there’s just something about a pool that’s a hop, skip and a jump away from the ocean! Oh and remember, it’s a rite of passage to treat yo’self to a cocktail or five (daily) at the swim-up bar… no judgement.
Where: 71 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach

Mantra Sun City
Aquaholics listen up coz good times and tan lines await at Mantra Sun City. With three swimming pools and a sauna, you can cool off and warm up on repeat or in the words of Dory, “just keep swimming just keep swimming”. The whipper snappers are well catered for here too, with several waterslides making their staycay an adventure they’ll always remember!
Where: 3400 Gold Coast Hwy, Surfers Paradise

Mantra Crown Towers
Relax poolside and get your zen on as you laze by the lush tropical lagoon pool at Mantra Crown Towers. There’s no “I’m bored mum” here, as the kids are too busy living their best life in the splashtastic children’s pool. With its own sandy beach, waterslide and pirate ship, they won’t want to leave – and neither will you!
Where: 19 Palm Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Imperial Hotel
We reckon we’ve seen at least 1 million poolside selfies here last year alone. An exotic poolside oasis, the Imperial Hotel showcases an award-winning 63-metre pool with its very own white sandy beach and Australia’s first-ever Water Salon. The exclusive cabanas add a whole new dimension of luxe, with breezy sheers for more private poolside luxury.
Where: 94 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Mantra Towers of Chevron
So much water, so little time! It’s an eternal case of pool hair, don’t care when you’re swimming in Mantra Towers of Chevron’s 600m2 lagoon style pool ‘Beaches in the Sky’. Proving that life looks better from a lounge chair, it’s pure #poolgoalz. For those keen to mix things up, there’s also an indoor pool to frolic in, because variety is the spice of life, no?
Where: 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Words by Bianca Trathen