Sometimes the most romantic destinations are close to home. Since Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, it’s the perfect opportunity to escape – even for a night – and enjoy all that the Gold Coast has to offer.
The Island, Surfers Paradise
Formerly the Islander, The Island has been beautifully renovated and transformed into one of Surfers Paradise’s most enjoyable places to stay and linger. Start with crafted cocktails at the Island Rooftop, then spend the afternoon swimming and lounging on the pool deck before settling in for the night. Breakfast at Goldie’s is an easy win the next morning, while a session at Lan Bathhouse offers a genuinely calming escape amid the bustle. For dinner, you can keep it close with a beachfront table at Hyde Paradiso and stroll back under the stars.
The Langham, Broadbeach
No, it’s not Bali – it’s Broadbeach. The Langham is made for indulgent, slow stays where leaving is totally optional. Lounge on sunbeds overlooking the ocean, order room service to your deluxe suite or choose from the hotel’s impressive dining options, from refined Cantonese to afternoon tea or relaxed poolside drinks. If you do step out, dinner at Meltemi Mediterranea or barefoot bowls at Club Broadbeach make for perfect, low effort evening plans.
The Mondrian, Burleigh Heads
The talk of the town, and for good reason. With styling as beautiful as its oceanfront views, the Mondrian is the kind of hotel that tempts you to extend your stay before you’ve even unpacked. Spend time at the CIEL spa, take a dip in the pool and work your way through the on-site dining options, from relaxed poolside plates at Haven to elevated Italian at Lito. If you head into Burleigh proper, start with a glass of wine at Paloma Wine Bar before settling in for a romantic dinner at Limlay Thai.
The Cheshire Cat, Palm Beach
A true gem in the heart of Palm Beach, The Cheshire Cat is a lovingly restored nod to the Gold Coast’s golden age. Dip in the plunge pool, unwind in your suite or head out to explore one of the coast’s most walkable neighbourhoods. Dinner at Cadillac Supper Club or Pepe Italia keeps things classic, while recovery lovers can spend time at Rigs Recovery. For daytime plans, both Tallebudgera Creek and Currumbin Creek are close enough for an easy swim or paddle.
The Pink Hotel, Coolangatta
Charming, playful and unmistakably pink, The Pink Hotel sits right on Greenmount Beach and feels like a holiday from the moment you arrive. Enjoy your 60s inspired suite, wander Griffith Street’s cafes and vintage stores or spend the day surfing Snapper. For dinner, head north to Hanks Restaurant & Bar or south to Pipi’s Restaurant, then fall asleep to the sound of the ocean outside your window.
