travel

'I'm convinced this beachside town is actually the perfect destination for a winter holiday.'

When I picture a shoulder-season weekend on the Gold Coast, I picture sunshine, bikinis, beach walks — and maybe an overpriced coconut margarita by 3pm.

What we got instead? Rain. For three straight days.

As someone with family up north, all I usually hear is, "It's 26 degrees in the middle of July!"  and "Oh, is it raining down there again?". So, of course, the one weekend I fly up for a girls trip, the Sydney weather follows me.

Watch: While we're on the topic of travel — here's what the Mamamia team had to say about modern travel etiquette (yes, we're looking at you, armrest hoggers). Post continues below.


Still, the trip was far from a write-off. With a borrowed car and my best friend riding shotgun, we turned a soggy weekend into something we'll be talking about for years.

Here's your guide on how to make the most of a weekend in the Gold Coast, sun or no sun…

If you eat with your phone first.

An essential part of any girls' weekend (or any weekend at that) is the food. As a certified Sydney food snob, I'm happy to report that one Mermaid Beach restaurant has officially topped my phone notes' restaurant picks: Etsu Izakaya.

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Hidden behind a bold red wooden door, Etsu is a moody, intimate Japanese spot that delivers on every level. We had Wagyu beef sliders with fluffy steamed buns, creamy miso corn with parmesan, agedashi tofu and plates on plates of sashimi, yakitori, gyoza, and more. If you can only eat at one restaurant in the Gold Coast, make it this one.

A split image of sushi platters at Etsu and a small cottage. The food at Etsu Izakaya and Paddock Bakery. Image: supplied.

Another standout was Paddock Bakery — yep, it's all over Instagram, but it's also genuinely delicious. Tucked inside a cute converted house, the sprinkling rain only added to the charm. The must try: crème brûlée donuts.  

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We mostly avoided Broadbeach (too many schoolies flashbacks, IYKYK) but we did make a late-night pilgrimage for one specific dish: the viral steamed chicken with curry sauce from Noodle. If your screen time is as high as mine, you've probably seen it on TikTok — and I can confirm, it lives up to the hype. No frills, no fuss, no notes.

If you like unexpected gems.

Head to Tropical Fruit World. Not to be mistaken for any of the Gold Coast's theme parks or "worlds" — Tropical Fruit World is a working fruit farm, and a little slice of magic on a rainy day.

Located under an hour's drive away in Duranbah, think lush green surrounds, farm tours, and, you guessed it — tropical fruits. I'm talking custard apples, ambarella (which tastes like mango!), persimmons, and feijoas. 

The onsite shop is also a market lover's dream — with local produce like organic honey, artisanal chocolate and avocado oil — We left with a car full of goods and zero regrets.

Colourful assortment of fruits at Tropical Fruit World.Image: supplied.

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If you're not shy of a cocktail on a cold night.

Much to our surprise, Gold Coast locals do not hibernate. Despite the chilly nights, the bars were buzzing — in the best way. 

One of our first stops was Malibu Racquet Club. In the daytime it looks straight out of a postcard from and at night, just as vibrant. This effortlessly cool bar had good vibes and an even better cocktail list. 

Thanks to an inviting 25 per cent off EatClub offer (because we love saving even while we're spending), we headed to Juju Restautant & Rooftop Bar for sunset drinks. With a giant tree growing through the centre of the rooftop, moody lighting and a house DJ setting the tone, we sipped Smoked Maple Margaritas for hours. It had a lively atmosphere, without being overcrowded — but don't be fooled, when we strolled past again at 10pm the line was out the door. 

We ended our last night with a quiet beachside nightcap at Burleigh Pavilion, a cliché spot, but it's good for a reason. Even in the cold, watching the sun set over the Gold Coast skyline never misses. 

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If you pack hiking boots "just in case".

I know not everyone's idea of a good time involves rain jackets and muddy trails, but for me and my friend Emilie, hiking is one of our love languages. And even if you're not trying to rack up the kilometres, there are plenty of low-effort walks and lookouts with high-reward views.

With our rain jackets in tow, we headed up to Springbrook National Park (about 45 minutes drive from the Gold Coast). We did the Twin Falls Circuit, a 1.5-hour loop through lush greenery. The best part? More rain = better waterfalls!

The waterfalls were pumping, and the thick foliage kind of acted like nature's raincoat, not to mention the looming afternoon fog made me feel like I was on the set of Twilight. 

The view from the Twin Falls circuit.Image: supplied.

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The next day we also hit up Tamborine Mountain National Park (about a 45 minute drive) and hiked Witches Falls, Curtis Falls and Lower Creek Circuit. These peaceful trails through the rainforest had some of the most beautiful and tallest palm trees I've ever seen. Just a heads up: if you're the type to get jumpy, be on the look out for bush turkeys (they got me, twice).

Once you've got your nature fix, you can head to the quaint town of Tamborine Mountain. Long Road is lined with everything from homemade fudge shops to cuckoo clock stores. Don't miss Aine & Co for candles, crystals, salts, and dreamy matchboxes — perfect for gift shopping or just shopping. 

Split image of the Tamborine Mountain National Park and a girl hiking.Image: supplied.

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The verdict?

Would I recommend the Gold Coast for a winter girls weekend? Absolutely. 

We wandered the beach one morning and had the whole stretch to ourselves (a rarity for someone used to Bondi crowds). We even braved a quick swim, despite the grey sky. As my dad (falsely) claims, "The ocean's always the same temp, year-round!" but in the GC kind of… true?

In the end, we got to experience so many more corners of the Gold Coast than we ever have in summer. And honestly? I wouldn't be mad about another rainy weekend.

Chasing cosy vibes or a winter-friendly escape? Here are three more weekend trip guides from the Mamamia team to inspire your next getaway.

Feature: Supplied.

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