December is already looking very good Gold Coasters, summer is here, it’s almost Christmas, 2021 isn’t far away and we get to frolic in our sparkly city, sipping frosty beers and exploring all the epic things going on here.

The latest of which, happily, is the opening of a brand new Miami brewery combining both said drinking of frosty beers AND exploring epic things.

It’s called Precinct Brewing Co. and it’s the work of The Imlach Group who, as you know, are the creators of SO MANY impressive local venues including Bine Beer Bar, Mr Hizola’s, Hideaway Kitchen & Bar, Nightjar, Nightcap and The Backyard Cafe.

They’re a busy lot but no rest for the wicked as they say and that absolutely works for us.

Precinct Brewing Co. can be found on Christine Avenue and if you’ve ventured down there lately, you’ll have seen the colourful, graffiti-covered entrance promising a world of good times within. As is the norm with anywhere that has the names Simone Tunbridge, Scott Imlach and Michael Craighead on it.

Not to mention Head Brewer Jeremy James, who has more experience brewing a tasty drop than any of us have drinking it – which is a lot because we all Gold Coasters.

But back to the venue. Once you’ve stepped through the doors you’ll be welcomed into a sleek, all white space with greenery dripping from up high, their signature art adorning one wall and an absolute slew of tanks brewing up some tasty treats.

Precinct features 12 taps and four direct-pour tanks behind the bar meaning there’ll be sixteen brews to taste and Jeremy has quite the penchant for unique tastes. Mango-flavoured Kettle Sour anyone? Yep.

For opening week, there’ll be four new beers and a few from local brewers to get things started PLUS all of the Mr Consistent cocktails, a range of local, sustainable vegan wines, Hard FIZZ Seltzer and local spirits. It’s pretty much the best selection of sips around and we are absolutely pumped.

Of course, there’s food to go with all those drinks and it’s delicious, as you’d expect.

There’s starters like Precinct Fried Chicken, Fried Crispy Zucchini and Wagyu Beef Bao. But we’ve tried and tested the gourmet pizzas, so share a Parma, Italian Pork Sausage or Capricciosa variety.

What more could you want? Nothing is what.

Precinct Brewing Co. opens Friday 4th December and you should definitely get down there.

LOCATION: 17 Christine Avenue, Miami
HOURS: 11am until 10pm Monday to Thursday, 11am until midnight Friday, 12pm unil midnight Saturday and 12pm until 10pm Sunday

Words and photos by Kirra Smith

If it’s romance you want, it’s romance you’ll get here on the GC this Valentine’s Day. Hubba Hubba!

We’ve compiled a list of what’s on and where so that you can dial up the love-o-meter and treat yourself and your partner to a Valentine’s Day (or night) experience to remember.

*Please note that unless indicated otherwise, all Valentine’s Day specials mentioned take place on Friday 14th of February.

InterContinental Sanctuary Cove
Enjoy an evening of culinary enhancement with your loved one with an exquisite and flavour-filled showcase at The Fireplace. Celebrate the day of romance with a glass of Mumm Champagne on arrival, followed by an elegant five-course degustation menu designed by expert Chef Randy Tablan to captivate all senses and leave a lasting impression.

$179 per person, with prepayment and reservations required. For an extra touch of luxury, opt for wine pairings for an additional $85 and make your evening even more extraordinary.
Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island

Gold Coast Gondolas
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in unforgettable style with Gold Coast Gondolas, offering private, luxury cruises through the stunning Gold Coast canals. Whether you’re starting the day with a romantic breakfast, indulging in a gourmet dinner, or toasting to love with wine and cheese, each experience is designed for pure romance. Glide through the water in a beautifully appointed gondola, complete with red carpet arrival, a Red Rose Bear, and your choice of premium dining options. With packages ranging from a charming breakfast cruise to the ultimate fine dining experience, Gold Coast Gondolas provides the perfect setting to impress your special someone and create lasting memories.
Where: Mariners Cove, 60 – 70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
If you want to go beyond the usual and create truly magical moments, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa is here to help. Think of them as your personal Cupid hotline, ready to make Valentine’s Day unforgettable. This year, they have all bases covered, with all-inclusive romantic getaways, restorative spa packages, decadent dining for two, and special-edition high teas. You can find all the delicious details here.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Baba Joon
Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with a romantic dinner at Baba Joon, where every bite is a journey of flavour and tradition. Picture this: you and your special someone, cosied up over a beautifully plated grill platter, sharing tender lamb cutlets, succulent prawns and marinated chicken, all served with fragrant saffron rice.  And to end the night on a sweet note? A delightful scoop of saffron ice cream or a bite of flaky, honey-drenched Baklava, paired with a cup of aromatic Persian tea. Whether it’s your first Valentine’s together or one of many, Baba Joon sets the perfect scene for an unforgettable evening.
Where: 3106 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

QT Gold Coast
QT Gold Coast has something for everyone, from a cosy candlelit dinner to a starlit feast. Enjoy the Lovers Feast at Bazaar Marketplace with fresh seafood, slow-roasted meats, and a decadent chocolate fondue fountain or book a private Twilight Feast Under the Stars in a poolside cabana with Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial Champagne. For a unique twist, grab your BFF and join the Sip and Stain Workshop. Want more love-filled details? Check them out here.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise

voco
Craving some relaxed romance with your honey, this Valentine’s? Make a (dinner) date with Clifford’s Grill and Lounge, because love is in the air, baby! Opt to leave the choice in expert hands of Clifford’s cupid crew – cooking up an unforgettable, three-course feast, plus a complimentary glass of wine on arrival for just $89pp. Or, see where your cravings take you (straight to the dessert menu, LBH) with la carte menu also available on the night. For extra cute-points, finish it off with a moonlit saunter by the Surfer’s beachfront.. but hey, take our love advice at your peril.
Where: 31 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise

The Langham, Gold Coast
Spoil your Valentine with five-star luxury at The Langham, Gold Coast. Stay the night with the Celebrate The Everyday package, complete with champagne, chocolates, and a dreamy buffet breakfast at Akoya. Unwind at Chuan Spa with indulgent couples’ treatments, from gold stone massages to foot soaks, all topped off with bubbles and chocolate-dipped strawberries. For an extra touch of romance, book a decadent Valentine’s Day Afternoon Tea at Palm Court. And when it’s time to dine, Akoya’s exclusive six-course degustation is the perfect way to share the love.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise

Dracula’s
Fancy a date night where biting is encouraged, vanilla isn’t served, and mood lighting is a fixture? We’ve got the perfect place. Dracula’s Valentine’s Day affair is a not-to-miss for couples and frouples, looking for some spicy fun this 14th of Feb. With a three-course menu designed to tease and please, cocktails concocted to tempt, jaw-dropping aerial performances and a killer band to tie it all together (gently), your promised an evening not easily forgotten.
Where: 1 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach

The Star Gold Coast
The Star Gold Coast is making February the month of love, with indulgent dining, dreamy escapes, and even a glamorous singles party. From romantic rooftop dinners at Nineteen at The Star to Italian feasts at Cucina Vivo and flirty cocktails at Garden Kitchen & Bar, love is definitely on the menu. Want to impress? The Penthouse Private Dining Package is pure luxury, featuring a candlelit dinner, a champagne breakfast and a VIP stay. Or, say “I do” to The Darling Valentine’s Package for a dreamy overnight escape.

Flying solo? The Gold & White Singles Party on Saturday February 22 is bringing the romance with roaming canapés and a grazing station, live entertainment, and a 4.5-hour beverage package. And if self-love is your vibe, Azure Spa’s indulgent treatments will leave you glowing. Whether you’re all loved up or single and ready to mingle, The Star Gold Coast is making February extra special. Get all the delicious here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Soak Bath House
This Valentine’s Day, whether it’s for new love, besties, or self-care, Soak Bath House has you covered with these fabulous offers:

Beats & Bubbles
Vibe with a DJ set by ‘The David’ while soaking in pools, spas, and saunas, 4-8 pm on Feb 14. Complimentary with Soak, Soak & Sip, and Soak Essentials Sessions.

Galentine’s Glow-Up
Treat your bestie to 2-for-1 LED facials and Infrared Sauna sessions all month long.

Soak Gift Cards
The gift of relaxation! Start from just $35, delivered straight to their inbox.
Where: Shop 20, 2532/2540 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Homestead at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Enjoy a love and nature-filled evening at Currumbin’s hidden sanctuary, The Homestead. Your night starts with a scenic Twilight Train Ride through the Sanctuary and a tranquil stroll through the Roo Paddock. Back at The Homestead, you’ll be met with sparkling wine and craft beer, a romantic 4-course Valentine’s dinner inspired by local flavours (and made for romance), live music and a backdrop of kangaroos roaming at sunset. Book your all-inclusive Valentine’s Day evening here for $165 pp.
Where: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin

Kefi Cafe
If food is your love language, Kefi Café has you covered with two charming Valentine’s Day experiences.

For a romantic alfresco date, grab their Valentine’s Picnic for 2 ($150), a pre-packed spread featuring charcuterie, fresh seafood pasta, panna cotta and a bottle of Witches Falls wine. Plus, you get to keep the picnic basket—cute! Picnic is available for pick up at Kefi on Friday 14th February (pre-order only).

Or, if you’re feeling artsy, book the Valentine’s Paint A Pot workshop ($160 for two) at 5pm. Sip wine, graze on a mezze platter and paint a ceramic piece with guidance from a local artist. Your masterpiece will be fired, glazed, and ready to take home as a keepsake.
Where: 110 Marine Pde, Coolangatta

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

So we hear you’re sans a significant other. Don’t worry, we got you – and haven’t you heard, single is the new relationship! Or maybe it’s just us saying that. Who cares, because what’s more of a vibe than knocking back an entire pack of Tim Tams for dinner while you binge watch MAFS like no one’s watching? Because no one is watching.

Soak up that glorious singledom and being responsible for no one but me, myself and I (and my dog) because it turns out there are loads of things you could be doing to fill up your cup as the Gold Coast’s most eligible Bachelor or Bachelorette.

Try all the foods
One of the best things about being single is being able to eat whatever you crave without compromise. Feel like gelato for dinner? You got it! Cooking not on the menu? Uber Eats from your favourite Thai it is. Craving Jimmy Wah’s but got no one to go with? Who cares! There’s something we love about a solo dinner date. No eating something you don’t want because the person you’re eating with is fussy/boring/not vibing the same menu as you. Our favourite spots for solo dinner dates? Try Rosella’s, Local or Cantina in Mermaid Beach for epic eats and people watching.

Get crafty
Let your inner Picasso run wild at one of the multitude of adult craft workshops on offer around the GC. Mesi Studio is one of the Coast’s newest craft, paint and sip venues, with textured art classes taking centre stage #yippee. The Craft Parlour, offers everything from floral embroidery to bead & sips and kokedama workshops. Or if you like to get your hands dirty, why not try a clay and sip experience at Stone Studio & Co in Currumbin?  Come alone or come with a crew, either way you’re guaranteed a good time.

Shop ‘til You Drop
If you’re anything like us, there’s a good chance your retail therapy will cost more than your actual therapy #yolo. We’ve got some of the country’s best shopping centre’s in our backyard, so it’d be rude not to shop up a storm at Pacific Fair if you ask us. If you’re being budget-concious (or just love a good bargain) head north to Harbour Town Outlet Shopping Centre. They’ve got all your favourite brands for loads less with a spiffy eats and sips precinct to boot.

Self Care’s The Word
Spa days are the ultimate single gal good time. There are plenty of places to indulge on the Coast from escape-for-a-week retreats like Gwinganna to the luxe and spa-kling new embodiment of bliss, the Spa By JW. Nothing says ‘self care’ like a soak session at Soak Bathhouse. Go solo or grab your girl gang and cycle through the warm magnesium baths and cold plunge pools. If you’re wanting more – add on a luxe massage or solo infrared sauna session, listen to an audiobook while you sweat it out and we promise you’ll feel a million bucks for it. Smooth skin and super chill vibes await.

Let’s Get Physical
Hit the pavement and get your heart rate up at one of the many run clubs calling the GC home. Our personal fave? Unfit Run Club, because who doesn’t want to finish a jog with a jug of beer! A way to get fit AND meet new peeps? Sign us up.
If you’re more about the great outdoors then explore one of our incredible Hinterland hiking trails. If you’re lucky and the weather gods have been good to you, you’ll even get a solid waterfall spotting – perfect spot for a refreshing dip.

Movie Date
It might feel cliché but there’s just something so liberating about taking a solo movie date. Because when was the last time you went to the cinemas, be honest? Book yourself some tix to that rom-com you’ve been dying to see (Gold Class, because you deserve it) and treat yourself to your favourite sweetie treaties. No compromising and being forced to watch the 456^th Equalizer movie. Hot tip, DENDY at Queen Street Village, often screens previews and opening night specials including a glass of sparkling wine with your ticket purchase #fancy.

Get Your Mermaid On
‘Oh naurrrr Cleo’ we hear you say, but we know deep down you’ve been dying to have your mermaid moment and there’s no better place than Currumbin Rock Pools. The ultimate sanctuary for singles, pack a bag with a book and a baguette and you’ll be set for at least a couple of hours to soak up the tranquil vibes. If saltwater is your preference, perch up at Talle Creek or one of our other incredible beachside spots and ground yourself while you become one with the ocean. Bliss.

Bingo’s Not Just for Old Ducks
Get the girls (and guys if they must) together for a night of ugly laughing with Miami Marketta’s iconic Drag Queen Bingo. Thing big costumes and even bigger personalities, it’s a fixture on the GC events calendar for a reason. There’s a DJ spinning your favourite camp tunes and bringing the vibes all night long. The best bit? You can book in tables of two, four or six so grab a bestie or five and get ready for the night of your lives.

Get Your Exhibitionist On
Not like that, you weirdo. We mean to get better acquainted with the Arts at HOTA, one of Queensland’s most impressive Galleries and a very welcome addition to the Coast’s art and culture scene. The exhibits change every few months so there’s always something fresh to look at. Finish it off with a bite or beverage at HOTA’s rooftop bar, The Exhibitionist. Sounds like a pretty perfect day.

Learn to Surf
It’s pretty much a rite of passage if you’re a Gold Coaster, so if you can’t surf then what have you been doing?! Currumbin Alley is renowned for being one of the most beginner friendly spots to catch a wave, so book a spot at one of ripper surf schools and let your inner grom out. Currumbin Alley Surf School even have a 6 week surfing challenge so you can find some mates (or a mate) and put those new skills to work.

Chill out
If there’s ever been a time or a reason to focus on me, myself and I, it’s when you’re single. So what better way to dig deep and honour yourself than with the legends at Cool 2 Be Conscious. They’ve brought community breathwork, meditation and ocean dips to the masses and there’s a reason why hundreds – yes, hundreds – rock up rain, hail or shine for their sessions each and every week. As Australia’s largest breathwork movement, it’s the perfect spot to dip your toes into the concept of breathwork (pun intended). Sounds wholesome, because it is.

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.