12 of the most unique things to do in Broadbeach

Based smack-bang in the middle of the city, the best things to do in Broadbeach encapsulate the very essence of the Gold Coast.

Instagram-famous comfort food. Australia’s longest-running dinner theatre. The only Zara and UNIQLO on the Gold Coast. Broadbeach’s intoxicating hum mightn’t carry the laidback swagger of the southern beaches, but it’s the undisputed beating heart of this glittering city. No longer a bridesmaid to headline-hogging Surfers Paradise, the central Gold Coast superstar towers with a sophisticated blend of fine dining, hipster cafes, world-class shopping, picture-perfect beach time and iconic activities. Here, we let you in on the best things to do in Broadbeach, unlocking the secrets to this relentlessly impressive locale.

1. Sample Instagram’s hottest dishes

Fricken burgers, Broadbeach — The beloved Fricken burgers from Canberra is now making waves in Broadbeach.

Lead the charge via your belly (who can’t relate?) and head straight to the suburb’s cult culinary heroes. Canberra’s favourite family-run fried chicken eatery, Fricken , opened its first store outside the country’s roundabout capital in Broadbeach in May 2025, rolling out its famed burgers and boxes to snap-happy Queenslanders. We can confirm: the chicken tenders are succulent, delicately deep fried to retain their juice and drizzled in never-enough signature sauce. You’d be foolish to overlook the Cauli Nuggs, too, battered to pillowy soft perfection and generously lashed with Sriracha mayo.

In July 2025, Broadbeach will also welcomeBrooki Bakehouse , much to the delight of sweet tooths in search of a Gold Coast sugar fix. Brisbane-based owner Brooke Bellamy will paint the town signature pink inside Pacific Fair Shopping Centre (more on that retail heaven below) where her chunky cookies and brownies will attract the lengthy queues they’re renowned for.

2. Be awed by the country’s longest-running dinner theatre

a woman singing on stage at Dracula's Cabaret and Burlesque Show, Gold Coast — Dracula’s Cabaret and Burlesque Show is a night to remember.

Surfers Paradise isn’t the only after-dark hot spot on the Gold Coast. Dracula’s , located on the western side of the highway, was first established in Melbourne and its 1985 northern outpost has grown into one of the city’s star attractions, delivering horror-themed cabaret alongside a three-course meal. Tuck into a honey ricotta, tomato and feta tart before picking your poison from the main course menu (think medallion of beef, BBQ chicken or maple salmon) and a salted caramel mousse “coffin", filled with caramel and liquor-infused mousse, for dessert. As for what’s on stage, an all-new production titled Lucid celebrates Dracula’s 40^th year on the Gold Coast and features live musical performances, comedy acts, aerial acrobatics and spooky, all-too-realistic blacklight puppetry. A night out like no other, guaranteed.

3. Indulge in Australia’s best pizza

hands grabbing pizza slices at Ciccio’s Pizza and Gelato on Surf Parade — Indulge in delicious, contemporary-style pizzas. (Image: Ciccio’s Pizza and Gelato)

It’s official. May 2025’s Food & Hospitality Week, staged in Melbourne, crowned Broadbeach chef Emanuele Malara, who spearheads Ciccio’s Pizza and Gelato on Surf Parade just across from Fricken, Pizza Chef of the Year. Additionally, the Sicilian-born legend took out the award for Best Classic Pizza, cementing your Broadbeach itinerary pit-stop. He dazzled judges with a creative take on the Marinara, fermenting dough at room temperature and throwing in super-sugary datterino tomatoes, pecorino cheese and black pepper. You’ll be faced with a choice of more than 40 pizzas that each strive to recreate authentic Italian flavours.

4. Shop ‘til you drop at multiple retail standouts

the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Broadbeach — Peruse the big brands at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Fancy treating yourself? Browse iconic global brands (hello, Zara and UNIQLO) and leading Australian retailers at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre , across the road from Dracula’s. Partially sprawled across a water-featured open-air mecca of lounge chairs (husbands are regularly sighted snoozing upon them) and grassy mounds, perfect for entertaining kids as your partner ducks into the ground-level MECCA, Seed Heritage, BOSS, Country Road and more, the centre is home to more than 400 stores and Event Cinemas.

The Oasis is a much smaller-scale option located closer to the sand and surf, with its own Woolworths, barbers, nail salons, pharmacies and the like. But venture out to its al fresco dining area as delightful eateries including Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar and cult brunch favourite Bagel O ’s second Broadbeach location, provide epic mid-spree fuel.

5. Picnic at the undiscovered Cascade Gardens

Looking for a quiet family-friendly picnic or BBQ? Head to Cascade Gardens where not only are there beautiful views over the Nerang River, but a serene rainforest walk speckled with Aboriginal culture. Crowds haven’t quite cottoned onto how jam-packed this chilled-out spot is, as The Queensland Korean War Memorial is also found, plus a sensory garden next to a sandy playground. Let your little ones hop between a musical gong and a flying fox before snatching treats from your spread as you kick back in an underrated corner of the Gold Coast.

6. Cool off at Kurrawa Beach

What’s a trip to a beach town without experiencing its bread and butter? You won’t have trouble finding a spot on the sand at Kurrawa Beach , a patrolled stretch of golden sand that’s ideal for swimming and lazing. If you fancy a cold one, Kurrawa Surf Club is right there, featuring a downstairs cafe for takeaway and easy snacks while the upstairs bistro tempts via a mammoth beach-fronting deck, completed in 2024, that offers pub-style dining and multi-million dollar views.

7. Browse a quality arts and crafts market

a crowd of people at an outdoor market in Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets — Find quirky arts and crafts at the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets. (Image: Supplied)

Searching for the perfect souvenir to take home? The Gold Coast Art and Craft Sunday Market is found right by the sand in Broadbeach, staged on the first and third Sunday of every month. Held in Pratten Park opposite The Oasis, there are more than 150 vendors to explore, spanning local fashion, jewellery, homewares, produce and hot food. If you can’t get enough of market life, check out our comprehensive rundown of the hottest Gold Coast markets to hit up while you’re in town.

8. Dine at seriously epic restaurants

the whitewashed interior of Kost Bar and Grill, Broadbeach — Check out the contemporary Kost Bar and Grill for its weekend breakfast offering.

While the food scene is pretty great up and down the Glitter Strip, Broadbeach boasts acclaimed big guns. This includes Kiyomi at The Star Gold Coast, renowned for its ocean-fresh sashimi and sushi plus further Japanese-inspired delicacies, Kost Bar and Grill , applauded for fire-roasted local cuts and catches and now its weekend breakfast offering, Kost Corner, launched in May 2025, and Social Eating House + Bar , nailing tapas plates alongside international wines, beer and spirits. If you’re a sucker for newness, check out Cora in The Beach Hotel, which opened in November 2024. Dishing up lavish Mediterranean-inspired dishes, the vibe is refined yet homely and the fit out is all-class, mixing timbers, golds and greenery.

9. Live your best hotel life overlooking the surf

a couple arriving at The Star Grand at The Star Gold Coast — Check into The Star Grand for a refined stay. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Broadbeach accommodation is sophisticated, globally renowned and conveniently positioned within walking distance to the beach, so it ticks all the boxes. Go full luxe at The Star’s various offerings including Dorsett Gold Coast and its glamorous Isoletto Pool Club, The Star Grand and its opulent suites and penthouses, and The Darling , which technically crosses the border into Surfers Paradise but can’t be ignored thanks to its boutique approach to unadulterated luxury. Across the highway, you’ll also find Peppers Broadbeach’s five-star rooms and Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach, which embraces French flair throughout.

10. Find accessibility friendly fun for kids

While it’s a huge hit with all kids, the All Abilities Playground located in Pratten Park is an absolute must-experience for children with access needs because the activities are endless. From a harnessed flying fox and pedal-powered monorail to a huge multi-slide hill and accessible swings, the Broadbeach hot spot is the perfect spot to help them run off their sillies all while that unmistakable ocean breeze firmly connects you to your beachfront locale.

11. Line your stomach with world-famous pastries

a strawberry tart at Bam Bam Bakehouse, Broadbeach — Bam Bam’s signature dessert topped with fresh strawberries. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Again, the Gold Coast dessert scene excels, but one of its most famed players is located just outside Broadbeach, a short walk along the highway. Sitting in the neighbouring Mermaid Beach, Bam Bam Bakehouse is a cafe of dreams offering all-day brunch, sweet treats, and house-baked bread so good that Margot Robbie (a proud Queenslander) even chose to do an artisan baking course here for her hen’s party. Overwhelmed by the options? Look to the almond croissants, twice-baked and oozing with ridiculously delicious custard, or the cinnamon cruffin topped with cream cheese icing. A word of warning: if you’re headed there on a weekend, expect to queue for a table as breakfast and brunch attract heavy crowds, even if it’s raining (arguably better pastry weather, if you ask these crowds).

12. Explore the Gold Coast’s canals aboard a crazy boat

Gliding conspicuously throughout the Gold Coast’s canals (the perfect vantage point into luxe, million-dollar mansion spotting) are Amore Tours ’ limited-edition Fiat 500 vessels, taking visitors on a scenic tour of the waterways. Departing from Pacific Fair, the turquoise green and ruby red designs are reason enough to check these guys out, skimming like miniature cars across the surface. The team own two of just 500 vessels found on the planet so expect to rub shoulders with boaties and car enthusiasts alike.

Originally written by Jemma Fletcher with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

Discover the best things to do in the Gold Coast

City buzz, gourmet trails, surf breaks and art scenes are all at your fingertips.

When it comes to planning a trip, picking a holiday destination is the easy part. The real dilemma is where to set yourself up for the night. Do you go coastal, city, or countryside? Somewhere remote and rugged, or right in the action? Luckily, the Sunshine Coast, and huge number of amazing Sunshine Coast day trips, have kindly made the choice for you.

Ditch the hotel-hopping and suitcase-lugging. Instead, base yourself at Novotel Sunshine Coast or Mantra Mooloolaba , where big-city culture, vine-covered valleys, and theme parks are all within a two-hour drive.

1. Sunshine Coast to Brisbane

Drive time: 1 hour 20 minutes (105km)

Shake off the sand from your sandals and swap the beach for the throb of the Queensland capital. Ease in gently with a bougainvillea-filled stroll through South Bank, iced latte in hand, before cooling off at Streets Beach lagoon – Brisbane’s answer to the coast (but without the waves).

Once firmly in big-city mode, hit up the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) , home to Australia’s largest collection of modern and contemporary artworks. Dive into the past at the Queensland Museum, where prehistoric fossils of Australian dinosaurs and megafauna collide with First Nations cultural collections and interactive science exhibits.

All this learning got you hungry? Howard Smith Wharves calls. Here, riverside dining delivers breweries with meat-forward menus, Japanese fine dining and overwater bars. If you’ve got room for more, Fortitude Valley’s shopping boutiques await you and your wallet.

woman walking around Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) — Wander the Gallery of Modern Art. (Image: TEQ)

2. Sunshine Coast to the Scenic Rim

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (170km)

Make your way inland to the Scenic Rim for the state’s best vineyards and age-old volcanic slopes. Start your day early (like, sparrow’s breakfast early) at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in Lamington National Park . Here, take a treetop walk through the canopy and hand-feed the wild birds who flock here.

Next, it’s your turn to eat. Here, the food scene operates where locally sourced produce is an expectation, not an exception. Order a picnic basket crammed with regional wine and cheese to devour next to the creek at Canungra Valley Vineyards . Or perhaps a grazing platter of vegan and non-vegan cheeses at Witches Falls Winery .

Feeling bold? Tackle the Twin Falls circuit in Springbrook National Park. Or keep the gourmet life going with a Scenic Rim Brewery tasting paddle, best enjoyed while taking in the rise of the Great Dividing Range.

woman with cheese and wine at Witches Falls Winery — Enjoy a cheese platter at Witches Falls Winery. (Image: TEQ)

3. Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast

Drive time: 2 hours (180km)

Surf, sand and sparkling skylines might be the Gold Coast’s MO, but there’s more to Surfers Paradise and beyond. Kick things off with a beachfront coffee at Burleigh Heads, then hike through Burleigh Head National Park to look over the ocean and whale sightings (dependent on the season, of course).

Cool off in the calm waters of Tallebudgera Creek before chowing down on the famously buttery Moreton Bay bug rolls at Rick Shores . Travelling with the kids? Then you can’t miss Australia’s theme park capital, with Dreamworld ’s big rides and Warner Bros. Movie World ’s Hollywood treatment at hand to keep the family entertained.

aerial view of Tallebudgera Creek — Dive into Tallebudgera Creek. (Image: TEQ)

4. Sunshine Coast to Tweed Heads

Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes (200km)

Dare to cross enemy lines? Then welcome to New South Wales. Tweed Heads blends the laid-back attitude of the Northern Rivers with high-quality dining, experimental art, and farm-fresh indulgence – a combo worth the drive.

Start strong with a long, lazy brunch at Tweed River House , then swing by Tropical Fruit World for exotic finds like red dragon fruit, handfuls of lychees and black sapote. Next, hit M|Arts Precinct – an art deco hub of micro galleries, artist workshops and one-off boutiques.

Round off the day with sunset drinks at Husk Distillers among the glowing cane fields, and order one with their famous Ink Gin. You’ll thank us later.

exterior of Husk Distillers — Taste the famous Ink Gin at Husk Distillers. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Drive time: 1 hour (70km)

Strap on those hiking boots and make tracks inland, where volcanic peaks, misty rainforest and hinterland townships beckon. Ease in with the Glass House Mountains Lookout Walk, or, if you have energy to burn, tackle the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk for a 360-degree sight of the surrounding summits.

Next: Montville. This township delivers European-style architecture and old-world appeal. Nearby, settle in at Flame Hill Vineyard, where a large pour of estate-grown wine comes with encompassing views of the countryside.

Not ready to leave the hinterland villages just yet? Of course not. Meander past art galleries and indie shops at Maleny. Nab some fudge from Sweets on Maple for a sweet fix. Or go salty at Maleny Dairies with a farm tour and a chunky wedge of their deliciously creamy cheese.

End the day among the eucalypts and rainforests of Kondalilla National Park. Here, the Kondalilla Falls Circuit winds down through trees humming with life to a rock pool beneath a waterfall – as if designed for soaking tired feet before heading back to the coast.

view of Mount Ngungun on the scenic rim queensland — Take on the Mount Ngungun Summit Walk (Image: TEQ)

Start planning your Sunshine home base at all.com.