10 years ago was the last time I went to the Gold Coast. I was 13, and went with my family to visit the theme parks. Although I’ll admit I had little desire to return since then, thinking I’d seen it all, I now can’t wait to head back.
A few weeks ago, I headed on a quick mid-week trip to the Gold Coast with the aim of opening the curtain to a whole new world, beyond the theme parks.
Little did I know there were elements of quiet luxury all around, with food and activities you wouldn’t believe are just an hour-and-a-half flight away.
On my trip, I was based in Broadbeach at Dorsett Gold Coast – a four-star hotel connected to The Star, meaning you’re able to access some of the area’s best bars, restaurants and entertainment right on your doorstep.
To say this hotel is beautiful is an understatement. In addition to the stunning rooms and reception area, the Isoletto Pool Club was on another level, complete with sweeping views of the Gold Coast skyline, a huge pool with cabanas and wet lounges, and a restaurant and bar for all your needs – if those needs are cocktails.
Staying in an Executive Suite meant that I also had access to the Executive Lounge. Located on Level 19 of the hotel, it offers an exclusive space for guests to relax throughout the day, as well as providing both a buffet breakfast in the morning, and drinks and canapes between 5pm and 6.30pm each night.
But, as far as food goes, this was just the beginning, with a host of fabulous restaurants nearby.
Within walking distance of Dorsett Gold Coast, you’ll find Blowfish Ocean Grill + Bar – a brand-new restaurant known for its seafood dishes and world-class wines.
Whilst I will say the food here was delicious, what stood out most for me was the hospitality of the staff, who were absolutely lovely.
If seafood is what you’re looking for, I would also highly recommend La Luna Dining. Located at the Marina Mirage, this restaurant offers delicious modern Mediterranean cuisine. It’s also right next to La Luna Beach Club, which I would highly recommend visiting if you have time!
Heading a little bit closer to the airport, we have The Tropic Restaurant in Burleigh Heads, situated inside The Burleigh Pavilion alongside the iconic Beach Bar. This place is the best of the best when it comes to views, whether you’re seated inside or outside, and the food is unmatched – the puffed spiced bread in particular is truly to die for.
But, my favourite meal of the trip came from Siblings Kirra. Despite being housed right on the beach for uninterrupted ocean views, this restaurant is slightly more reasonably priced than the rest, but really packs a punch when it comes to flavour.
The small plates here are definitely a win, with my favourites being the Baja fish tacos and the fried chicken.
However, if you’re looking for more of an experience with your meal, you can’t beat Palette. Located inside HOTA, Surfers Paradise’s Home of the Arts, the two Chef-hatted restaurant serves up unique fine dining experiences inspired by the exhibition at the gallery.
When I went, this was the Italian Renaissance Alive exhibition – a stunning digital multisensory gallery featuring masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli to the tune of an operatic score. Therefore, Palette’s eight-course menu featured recipes dating back hundreds of years, ranging from unique seafood creations to delicious pastas. You can purchase a package which allows you to experience both the exhibition and the dinner, as well as a cocktail hour at The Exhibitionist Bar upstairs.
Of course, there is much more to experience on the Gold Coast than food if you’re after a luxurious getaway.
On my trip, I went on a scenic helicopter flight with Gold Coast Helitours. Having never been on a helicopter before, I’ll admit I was a little bit nervous going into it. However, the staff were extremely helpful and reassuring, and provided a premium experience, pointing out everything from theme parks and landmarks to the endless number of golf courses.
Plus, you can’t travel to the Gold Coast without stopping in at Pacific Fair, Queensland’s second-largest shopping centre and the fifth-largest nationally. If luxury is what you’re looking for, they have an entire wing dedicated to it, with every high-end brand you can think of.
If you’re looking for a domestic getaway, the Gold Coast is the perfect place to go.
The writer travelled as a guest of Experience Gold Coast.
Cassidy Pearce
Cassidy Pearce is a news and entertainment journalist with The Western Weekender. A graduate of the University of Technology Sydney, she has previously worked with Good Morning Macarthur and joined the Weekender in 2022.