People come from far and wide to visit the Gold Coast, and for good reason – we’ve got sun, surf and miles of pristine sandy coastline, all right on our doorstep. If you’re keen to see the city from a new perspective, have some fun on dry land or just get that fresh, salty air into your lungs, give one of these beachside bike rides a go.
Darren Smith Memorial Route
Declared one of Australia’s best coastal bike rides, this 48km route is not for the faint of heart. Named after the Olympic cyclist who was tragically killed when he was struck by a vehicle on a training ride, the Darren Smith Memorial Route runs from Paradise Point right down to the Captain Cook Memorial at Point Danger, near Coolangatta, giving you an unrivalled view of the GC coastline along the way. There are plenty of beachside stops en route, meaning you can break up the ride with a spot of sunbaking or body surfing.
Gold Coast Oceanway
If the Darren Smith Memorial Route sounds daunting, why not try its younger sibling, the Gold Coast Oceanway? Whether you’re a Gold Coast local or have visited the city a handful of times, you’ve probably strolled along the Oceanway without even knowing it. Starting at the Gold Coast Seaway at the end of the Southport Spit and finishing up at Point Danger, the Oceanway will track 36km of coastline once completed. For now, pick a portion of it or attempt the full ride from north to south (though expect a few stretches on footpaths and quiet streets where the gaps are yet to be filled). Just remember to reward yourself with a smoothie or coffee when you’re done.
Main Beach to The Spit
Starting at the Southport Lifesaving Club and tracking north through Hollindale and Philip parks, before joining Federation Walk, this route will take you right alongside the beach, under the sand pumping jetty and all the way up to the Spit wall, or the Gold Coast Seaway. Made up of both bike paths and an off-road bush track, this route is perfect for families wanting to try something a little different, or anyone wanting some fresh prawns purchased from the fishing trawlers for lunch.
Get on your bike
… or borrow someone else’s! We have great bike hire places along the Gold Coast, meaning it couldn’t be easier to go for a spontaneous bike ride on a sunny day.
Just note that Queensland law now requires a driver’s licence to ride an e-bike, so if you’re visiting without one, stick to pedal power.
Check out our picks below:
Beach Bikes, Main Beach (pre-book, offers delivery)
Beach Bikes have established themselves as a go-to for bike hire on the Gold Coast. You can hire bikes and e-bikes for adults and children of all ages, with seats, trailers and tagalong bikes also available. With free drop-off and pick-up and complimentary helmets and locks, Beach Bikes bring the bicycles to you.
Kool Bike Hire, Coolangatta (walk-in)
Starting your ride at the southern end? Kool Bike Hire on Coolangatta’s Marine Parade has cruisers, mountain bikes, e-bikes, trikes and kids’ bikes (from little balance bikes up), with helmets, locks and maps included. Pick up a cruiser and head north along the Oceanway, stopping for a swim at Kirra on the way.
Lime Bikes (grab and go)
Embarking on a spontaneous bike ride? Find a Lime! Download the app, find the nearest bike (they operate between Labrador and Coolangatta), buckle up your helmet and hit the road. Riders must be 18 or over.
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