As a Melbournian who relocated to the Goldie a few years back, I am always blown away at how many of our holiday guests are commenting that there is so much more to the Gold Coast than theme parks, surf, sun and high rises and those infamous meter maids. Underneath it all is an ever evolving foodie culture, an array of healthy activities and a community of locals who are so truly genuine and accommodating, everyone is always welcome. The Gold Coast makes for the perfect place for Honeymooners wanting a little bit of everything! Here are my insider tips and perfect itinerary for Honeymooning like a local on the GC!

Stop 1 – Coolangatta
Once you lovers have landed at the airport, don’t be in a rush to get out of Coolie! There is much more down there than meets the eye. A favourite beach is Froggie’s, a secluded inlet with a steep climbing pathway leading down to rock pools and the feeling that you could be anywhere in the world. A visit to the beach is not complete without Café DBah for brunch. Known for its epic views across Point Danger, the menu is plentiful and service is outstanding. They also have a boutique filled with local artisan treasures including, clothing, jewellery and artwork. The perfect place for your first marital gift to one another perhaps?

Stop 2 – Burleigh Heads
The Burleigh Headland ocean view walk is always a magic start to the morning, especially when you are basking in your newlywed glow. The track skirts around the majestic coastline leading around the rocky headland from the southern end of Burleigh township down to Tallebudgera creek.
You can enjoy a well-earned coffee afterward at one of the many hipster cafes that match Burleigh’s chilled out vibe. Our personal favourite is Canteen Coffee – make sure try their dukkah avo.
If you’re looking for a special and romantic lunch spot to dine and enjoy a drink together it has to be Rick Shores. Located right on the beach you can be enjoying their renowned Asian infused menu whilst being so close to the waves you can almost touch them. So romantic!

Dining at Rick Shores 

Stop 3 – Currumbin
One of the GC’s best kept secrets is the Currumbin Rock pools located in the picturesque valley. It’s a stunning drive up through the winding roads and once you arrive you can see why its so popular with the locals. Swinging ropes and endless rock pools are available with cliff jumps for the more adventurous newlyweds.
Pasture and Co is the perfect spot for brunch afterwards located right in the heart of the valley with mountains surrounding and room to run around and enjoy their live music and delicious menu.

Stop 4 – Broadbeach
Everyone needs some retail therapy whilst on holidays especially the once in your lifetime honeymoon experience…..right? Make sure you start your day with some coffee and brekky at Elk Espresso in Broadbeach. This trendy spot is always a hit with coffee lovers and well, just lovers.
Pacific Fair is not just your average shopping centre, with both high end luxury and bargains galore their outdoor areas and dining are second to none. With so much space and natural light you don’t feel like you are in a shopping mall at all.
For an evening in Broadbeach together, make sure you try the amazing cocktails up on level 19 of newly opened Darling Hotel, followed by dinner at Etsu Izakaya, a Japanese restaurant/whisky bar that only the locals know. Insider tip!

Stop 5 – Main Beach/Budds BeachWhy not start your marriage off with doing something new and adventurous together?! With a Stand up Paddle Board lesson at Budds Beach followed by brunch at the dangerously delicious Bumbles Café. If luxury is more your honeymoon style we recommend Sailing in Paradise who offer personalised catamaran charters out to the stunning Stradbroke Island.
If you need some pampering to finish off your honeymoon and who doesn’t, make sure you book into Palazzo Versace Aurora Spa who offer relaxation massage right through 3 hour pamper packages. They have a couples package too!

Pic by Sailing In Paradise 

Ms Zebra Says:

Fee Guthrey is a Melbourne born, cocktail loving chatterbox who relocated to the Gold Coast in 2016 with her young family. After spending more than a decade working in senior management roles for some of the finest luxury hotels. Fee has found herself sharing her daily adventures and passion for all things Gold Coast via the Instagram alias @goldcoastinsider. In her role as host of her families “The Stanhill” waterfront townhouse located on Chevron Island she uncovers the best of the coasts foodie finds and events.  Think of her as your local concierge for all things GC.  Bookings can be made via Airbnb.