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The scout six: Korean restaurants

If you thought their skincare and head spas were good, wait until you try Korean food. From bibimbap to barbeque, kimchi to bulgogi, Korean cuisine is distinct for its bold flavours, sizzling heat (temperature and spice alike) and filling portions – and there are plenty of places you can find great Korean food on the Gold Coast.

Atto Korean, Southport

A favourite for good reason, Atto Korean is all about big flavours and perfect portions, served in an upscale setting. Think braised pork belly, bubbling stews and comforting rice dishes – the kind of place you go when you want to celebrate (and leave very full).

www.attokoreancuisine.com

Itaewon Korean Restaurant, Southport

From their giant hotpot to snack-size gimbap, Itaewon has you covered whatever your appetite. With two locations – one in Southport central, the other at Australia Fair – it has fast become one of the Gold Coast’s most popular Korean restaurants (and claims to be its most authentic).

www.instagram.com

Hyo Kye, Southport

You don’t need to travel to the backstreets of Gangnam to find delicious Korean barbecue – Southport’s Hyo Kye serves up sizzling Korean fare (almost) all week long. Whatever you’re craving, their authentic barbecue experience serves up meats, noodles, rice bowls and more. They’ve even got Korean beer to quench your thirst.

www.instagram.com

Assah, Southport

Proving that Southport is the Gold Coast’s home for Korean food (and Asian cuisine in general), Assah is yet another must visit when you’re in the city’s north. If you’re looking for a super authentic Korean experience here on the Gold Coast – not just in terms of menu items, but the warm hospitality typical of a restaurant in Hongdae – look no further.

www.instagram.com

Seoul Garden Korean BBQ, Broadbeach

A familiar name for a reason, Seoul Garden delivers a reliably good Korean barbecue experience. Expect tabletop grills, generous meat platters and all the banchan (side dishes) you could want – best tackled with a group and a big appetite.

www.seoulgarden.com.au

The Moon Café, Benowa

A little further south, The Moon Café blends Korean flavours with a modern café-style twist. It’s a go-to for casual catch-ups, with a menu that spans everything from Korean-inspired brunch dishes to indulgent desserts – perfect if you’re easing into the cuisine or craving something a little different.

www.mooncafebenowa.com

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Historic towns that are worth the drive

Australia’s coastal capitals tend to get all the spotlight, but we’re making the case for places where things move a little… slower. Step back in time with a visit to one of Australia’s best historic towns.

What makes a town historic, you ask? Not just any old place (literally) can make the cut. The best historic towns are about age and atmosphere.

We’re talking towns, not cities – generally under 15,000 people – where heritage buildings aren’t just dotted around, but define the place. Think preserved streetscapes, pubs that have been pouring since the 1800s, and post offices, courthouses and churches from the earliest days of settlement.

Charleville, Queensland

If you’re looking for classic outback charm – wide streets, federation-era buildings and a strong railway history – look no further than Charleville. Explore its rich heritage at the historic railway station or the remnants of the top secret WWII base (operated by the US Air Force), stargaze at the Cosmos Centre, and extend your stay at one of the historic Hotel Corones or classic Warrego Motel.

Charters Towers, Queensland

Walking down the main streets of Charters Towers, it’s easy to believe it was once one of Australia’s richest gold rush towns. From the grand Stock Exchange Arcade (Charters Towers is home to one of the world’s first regional stock exchanges) and towering bank buildings to the old-school pubs with their classic verandah dining, Charters Towers may be just 90 minutes from Townsville – but it feels like a step back in time.

Braidwood, New South Wales

Many towns have a heritage-listed building or two, but few are heritage-listed in their entirety – that’s what makes Braidwood so special. Established in the mid-1800s, Braidwood has become a popular tourist destination – not only for its rich history, but its slightly bohemian feel, too. Browse the bakeries and boutiques, hunt for antiques, and soak up the charm of small-town life (and all just one hour from Canberra).

Morpeth, New South Wales

Established in the early 1800s, this historic river port has been beautifully preserved over time – even despite its decline with the arrival of the railway in the late 19th century. Now, a stroll through Morpeth isn’t complete without a visit to the old wharf precinct, a peak inside its sandstone buildings or a stop at the Historic Arnott Bakehouse.

Berrima, New South Wales

Boasting one of New South Wales’ most intact colonial streetscapes, and Australia’s oldest continually licensed pub (the Surveyor General Inn, established in 1834), Berrima is a must-visit if you’re exploring the picturesque Southern Highlands. Visit the historic courthouse and Berrima Gaol, shop for antiques and artisan goods, and find out why Berrima has been frozen in time since the late 1800s.

Beechworth, Victoria

What sets a gold rush town apart from the rest? Some Ned Kelly lore, that’s what. Beechworth was the site of Ned Kelly’s 1880 trial, meaning a visit to its historic courthouse and 30-plus National Trust-listed buildings is a must-do when you’re in town. Find out why they say that Beechworth’s paths were paved with gold, then explore its darker history with a ghost tour you won’t soon forget.

Port Fairy, Victoria

It doesn’t get much more charming than Port Fairy, Victoria’s heritage fishing village. Beginning as a whaling station in the 1830s, and becoming one of the country’s busiest ports two decades later, Port Fairy has retained more than 50 National Trust-classified buildings. Walk the wharf, admiring its whitewashed cottages, and take in the sea air at a waterside pub. The perfect end to a Great Ocean Road adventure.

Bright, Victoria

Once a thriving gold rush town, nowadays, Bright shines for a different reason – the vivid autumn leaves that line its quaint streets. Close to Mount Hotham, it’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for an alpine escape – especially one that includes cosy cafes, a strong brewery scene and rewarding rail trails.

Hahndorf, South Australia

Unique Hahndorf was established in the 1830s by German Lutherans, making it Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. Nestled near the Adelaide Hills wine region, its famous for its 19th century Prussian architecture and delicious German fare, meaning Aussies don’t need to travel to Hanover to indulge in authentic schnitzel or pretzels.

Richmond, Tasmania

Tasmania is rich in history, but the fittingly-named Richmond is one of its most famous villages – for good reason. Dating back to the 1820s, when it began as a convict-era garrison town (military outpost), Richmond’s streetscape hasn’t changed all that much since then. Pay a visit to Australia’s oldest stone bridge, one of the country’s oldest gaols, and the many cosy tearooms and shops in the town’s centre.

York, Western Australia

Western Australia’s oldest inland town – with one of the state’s best heritage main streets – York was a key stop en route to the 1890s goldfields boom. Set in the beautiful Avon Valley, about an hour and a half from Perth, it provides the perfect day trip destination: country pubs, wildflowers, and heritage stays if you can’t bear to leave just yet.

New Norcia, Western Australia

Founded in 1847 by Spanish Benedictine monks, New Norcia is Australia’s only monastic town. It was first developed as a mission, but has bloomed into a religious and cultural centre in the decades since. Quiet, contemplative and honestly surreal, its distinct European architecture and classic outback setting make it well worth the two-hour drive from Perth.

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Easter Sunday brunches on the Gold Coast

Think everything is closed on Easter Sunday? Think again. With no Monday morning alarm, it’s the perfect opportunity to really enjoy a Sunday brunch – and whatever comes after it. Here are five Easter brunches happening on the Gold Coast.

QT Gold Coast

As part of their Easter offering, QT Gold Coast is transforming into the Mushroom Kingdon – a pixelated wonderland of edible treasure. The limited-edition Ultimate Power-Up High Tea is available until May 8.

Book now

Le Jardin and Il Barocco at Imperial Hotel

Easter calls for a little indulgence, and The Imperial Hotel Gold Coast has you covered. Their Easter high tea is all about classic favourites with a seasonal twist – think delicate pastries, chocolate treats and plenty of reasons to linger a little longer with friends and family.

Book now

Easter Long Weekend at The Langham

If you’re leaning towards something a little more elevated, Easter Afternoon Tea at The Langham Gold Coast’s Palm Court delivers. Expect an elegant spread of sweet and savoury bites – from smoked Tasmanian crepes to chocolate opera cake – plus warm scones with cream, lemon curd and raspberry preserves.

Book now

Easter High Tea at Tarte Tea Garden

This is your last chance to indulge in Tarte’s must-try, super limited edition Easter high tea spread – before it hops away forever. Think crème brûlée custard eggs, hot cross bun scones with praline, savoury favourites and more.

Book now

Easter Sunday at Lulu Rooftop and Bar

If your Easter plans lean a little more playful, Lulu Rooftop & Bar is hosting a bunny-themed brunch worth rounding up the group for. Expect pastel styling, classic brunch favourites with a festive twist and plenty of chocolatey extras – all designed for easy, feel-good long weekend catch-ups.

Book now

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What we’ll be eating this Easter weekend

However you plan to spend this Easter long weekend, there’s no doubt that food should be a large part of it. From hot cross buns to eggs of all kinds, here are some of the best Easter treats on the Gold Coast.

Paddock Bakery, Burleigh Heads

A classic for treats year-round, but especially at Easter. Don’t miss their themed cruffin or their wood-fired hot cross buns (hello chocolate with dulce de leche mousse).

www.paddockbakery.com

Tarte Beach House, Currumbin

A free 1300-egg Easter hunt, a creekside high tea, custard crème brulee eggs, hot cross bun scones or strawberry speckled egg nest crullers – Tarte is the place to be this long weekend.

www.tarte.com.au/beachhouse

Bam Bam Bakehouse, Mermaid

Hot cross buns, the Bam Bam way (aka, delicious). Expect cult-favourite flavours like Biscoff alongside their signature Easter custard bombs.

www.bambambakehouse.com

Velvet Café & Lounge, Miami

Leaning all the way into chocolate season, Velvet is serving up chocolate hot cross buns and indulgent Mont Blancs to match.

www.velvetcafelounge.com.au

Bread Social, Currumbin Waters and Tweed Heads

Keep it classic with expertly baked hot cross buns – original or chocolate, both done exceptionally well.

www.breadsocial.com.au

‘94 Matcha, Palm Beach

A matcha lover’s Easter dream, with limited-edition hot cross bun-inspired matcha and latte specials that are almost too cute to drink.

www.ninetyfour.com.au

Public Supply, Tweed Heads

Putting a playful spin on tradition with hot cross cinni scrolls and a hot cross cold brew to wash it down.

www.publicsupply.com.au

Custard Canteen, Tallebudgera

Simple pleasures done right – think freshly baked cinnamon buns enjoyed creekside in the autumn sun.

www.custardcanteen.com

House of Halsa, Mermaid

For something a little different, Vanilla Fields is their Easter standout – a layered mix of vanilla matcha, spirulina cream and coconut clouds.

www.instagram.com/houseofhalsa

Fuel Bakehouse, Burleigh Heads

An Easter weekend exclusive: a Nutella iced latte topped with maple cold foam and mini eggs, available at Burleigh only.

www.fuelbakehouse.com.au

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Australia’s best beaches – officially?

If you needed an excuse to plan a beach day (as if), consider this it. Tourism Australia has released its official ranking of the country’s best beaches – and some are right on our doorstep.

The tourism body has tapped coastal expert Brad Farmer AM to curate its official list of Australia’s best beaches. Brad has spent decades traversing Australia’s beaches, and this year’s list proves it – it’s a considered edit that looks beyond popularity, factoring in everything from water quality and safety to accessibility, sustainability and overall experience.

While the top spot sits interstate, a couple of very familiar names have secured places just a short drive from the Gold Coast.

Australia’s number one beach for 2026

Taking out the top position this year is Bate Bay in southern Sydney – recognised for its clear water, consistent surf and easy access from the city. It’s a classic, all-rounder beach that delivers year-round, without feeling overworked. A well-earned first place, if we do say so ourselves.

The Northern Rivers beach that made the list

Closer to home, Byron Bay’s Tallow Beach secured a spot on the 2026 ranking – a win for the Northern Rivers and anyone who prefers their beach days a little more relaxed.

About an hour’s drive from the Southern Gold Coast, it’s worth the easy day trip. Expect long stretches of sand, warm water and sheltering rock formations that make the hustle and bustle feel worlds away. Here’s what to do while you’re in the area.

Beaches worth travelling for

Beyond the nearby favourites, the rest of the list spans the country – from Western Australia’s postcard-perfect shores to lesser-known gems in South Australia and Tasmania.

Western Australia and Queensland were the other big winners on the list, each getting two mentions – Pinky Beach and Hellfire Bay for Western Australia, and Inskip Point and Beachcomber Cove for Queensland. The Northern Territory, Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia all got one mention each: Ellery Creek Big Hole, Mount Martha, Godfreys Beach and Smoky Bay, respectively.

If you’re planning a trip this year, it’s worth mapping a few of these into your itinerary – especially if you’re chasing something a little different to your usual beach rotation.

The Gold Coast’s best-kept secrets

Living on the Gold Coast, we know a thing or two about great beaches – and while we’re sure some of our locals should have made the cut, we’re happy to keep them as well-kept secrets (for now). Here are the Gold Coast beaches we think should have made the cut…

  • Echo Beach, Tallebudgera Creek: Calm, glassy water, shady spots and the choice between sand and cement (if you’re lucky), the north side of Tally is where you go when you actually want to relax – not dodge waves or crowds.
  • Rainbow Bay, Coolangatta: One of the most consistently beautiful beaches on the coast. Gentle surf, a curved shoreline and views that make early starts (or late swims) totally worth it.
  • Kirra Beach, Coolangatta: Spacious, breezy and just that little bit more low-key, you’ll come for the clean waves and long walks, and stay because it never feels too busy.
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