Insider Guide: Gold Coast

Want to step away from the Surfers Paradise strip and discover the secrets of the Gold Coast’s style set? Marissa Bowden from The Village Markets reveals her favourite spots to eat, party, shop and relax on the Gold Coast.

Favourite dinner spot
Justin Lane is a pizzeria and wine bar located in a small alleyway off the Gold Coast Highway, at Burleigh Heads. The pizzas are delicious and the atmosphere is great. It reminds me of something you would find in the heart of Melbourne. And, Itoshin at Mermaid Beach. I love Japanese food, so this restaurant has always been a favorite of mine. Their sashimi plate is the best!

Best place to party
I am all for making the most of our amazing weather here on the coast, so my idea of a party is a BBQ by the beach! I love gathering all of our mates and heading to Burleigh Headland for an afternoon of sunshine, amazing coastal views, champers, cheese and good company.

Must-do activity
A morning walk from Miami to Burleigh Esplanade followed by a coffee at Piccolo in Miami. The girls who work there are so lovely, the coffee is great and you can pop over for a quick dip in the ocean afterwards.

Can’t-beat-it breakfast
The bircher muesli at Elephant Rock Café in Currumbin is absolutely delicious! I fancy myself as a bit of a bircher connoisseur and I am yet to find one that beats theirs.

Favourite weekend activity
Shopping at The Village Markets of course! The best Sunday atmosphere, fantastic emerging designer and vintage fashion, live local music all amongst the trees at Burleigh Heads State School on the first and third Sunday of each month.

Best family outing
We love heading south to Kirra for the most delicious burgers on the coast at Burger Lounge. Their Kekovich burger is amazing and there is an authentic Italian gelati bar next door. Rainbow Bay beach is also a good day out for the family. I grew up surfing and swimming there with my family every summer.

Most romantic spot
Burleigh Headland holds a special place in my heart. My husband proposed to me there during a picnic date and we also had our wedding there on the hill. I also like Oskars at Burleigh for special dates with my husband. You can’t beat the location.