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Fun ways to make new friends on the Gold Coast

Making friends as an adult is notoriously hard – everyone’s busy, routines are set, and it can be hard enough making time for your existing ones. The good news? The Gold Coast’s ever-shifting population of travelling workers, uni students and interstate newcomers means our social scene is built exactly for this. Here’s where to start.

Read with new friends

If you’ve been looking for an excuse to finally crack the spine on that book gathering dust on your shelf, this is it. Sydney-based book club Bookmarked by Frya has set her sights on the Gold Coast – and we’re not complaining. She’s hosting a cosy Book Club Dinner at Moustache in Mermaid on Thursday May 21 (6pm to 8pm), with pasta, dessert, a book swap, and a goodie bag included. Spots are limited, so grab your ticket.

Run with new friends

Whether it’s the mental slog or the endorphin rush, there’s something about hitting the pavement together that really fast-tracks a friendship. The Gold Coast has a brilliant run club scene with groups to suit all paces – from casual joggers to those chasing a PB. You’ll finish every session with a sense of accomplishment, a clear head and a solid reason to grab a coffee with someone new.

Start your day with a swim

Morning swims are so much more appealing when you’ve got a crew waiting for you at the water’s edge – especially as we head into winter. Sun and Sip Club combines the euphoria of an ocean dip with good company. It’s a wholesome, salt-in-your-hair ritual that turns strangers into friends fast. Consider it your new favourite way to begin the day (and the only valid reason to get out of bed when it’s dark).

Have dinner with strangers

Sound terrifying? That’s exactly why you should do it. Timeleft matches you with a table of strangers (hand-picked for compatibility) at a local restaurant. Since you only find out the venue 72 hours before, it’s spontaneous, surprisingly un-awkward, and has a track record of turning first-time diners into genuine friends. Trust the process! Read our chat with the Timeleft team here to find out more.

Walk and wine together

Good wine, great company, with Burleigh as your backdrop? Say less. The Urban Wine Walk is coming to the Gold Coast on Saturday May 16, guiding you through the best local venues, with glass in hand and plenty of opportunity to strike up a conversation. If you’ve been looking for friends who love a good time, chances are, you’ll find them here.

Beat the busyness

Life gets busy here on the Gold Coast, especially when you’re a business owner, and our social plans are usually first to go. Busy Girls Social Club gets it – it’s built for women who want connection, but need someone else to do the organising. Their regular low-key catch-ups mean you can show up, breathe out, and actually enjoy yourself – without the mental load of yet another ‘to do’ list.

Bond over hobbies

The quickest way to find your people? Connect with the ones who love what you love. Actually Social Gals brings women together around shared interests with a monthly subscription model. Like a built-in social circle, this club is all about trying new places, trying new things and meeting new people, whether it’s a morning movement session or after-work drink.

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Myth-busting peptides, the wellness industry’s most hyped trend

There are so many trends in the wellness industry, it can be hard to keep up. But when the same one comes up in conversation four times in a week, it’s probably time to pay attention.

Depending on who you ask, peptides are either a miracle – promising better skin, faster metabolisms, rapid muscle recovery – or a major concern.

They’re short chains of amino acids that naturally occur in the body, so their presence alone isn’t the problem – it’s how people are choosing to replenish them. Like many things in the human body, peptides deplete over time. So, by topping them up via injections, we can slow the effects of aging, inside and outside. Simple, right?

Not really. There is so much more to the conversation around peptides than glowing skin and weight loss, but the risks are getting lost in the sauce. To bust some of the common myths around peptides, we caught up with Nina Kearney, Registered Nurse at SSKIN in Robina.

MYTH: Since peptides are naturally occurring, injecting them is safe.

BUSTED: Natural does not equal safe, especially when it comes to sourcing.

“When you’re buying peptides online, there’s really no way to know what’s actually in there,” Nina says.

Even in-clinic treatments can carry some risk, so Nina couldn’t even venture a guess as to the risks of at-home treatments. “It’s super scary,” she adds.

The ‘naturally occurring’ argument also falls apart when you consider tanning peptides, which stimulate your melanocytes and could, in theory, increase the risk of developing melanoma. All in all, Nina says, it comes down to proven safeness – with newer treatments, we haven’t seen what they can do just yet.

MYTH: All peptides are the same – instead of paying to get them in clinic, it’s fine for me to buy them online and inject them myself.

BUSTED: While SSKIN doesn’t offer peptide treatments, they do offer NAD+, which helps to replenish the molecules responsible for cellular repair and aging. SSKIN sources its NAD+ from a compounding pharmacy that must comply with regulatory bodies.

“I know of someone who had a very adverse reaction to NAD+ sourced online, with fainting and dizziness that saw her end up in hospital,” Nina says. And while that may have been due to injecting herself, those risks could have been mitigated by receiving her treatment in clinic.

“The DIY routes are enticing, but at the end of the day you don’t know which other ingredients are in those injections, or how your body will react to them,” she adds. “If you’re trying to lose weight, work with your GP. If you’re looking for anti-aging, go to a compounding pharmacy and clinic. No amount of money is worth risking your health.”

MYTH: Peptides (specifically, semaglutides) are a long-term solution for weight loss.

BUSTED: By intervening with your metabolic processes, you’re not fixing an underlying issue – just managing it while you’re on the medication.

“Stop taking semaglutides and you’re back to square one,” Nina says. “We don’t have long-term research but, with peptides, you’re just replenishing the stores – if you stop taking them, and make no lifestyle changes, your body could just revert back.”

MYTH: The best way to get glowing skin is to inject peptides.

BUSTED: Nina actually pushes back on the injection-as-gold-standard idea here. She points out that the skin is a massive organ, and that for many peptides, topical application can be just as effective as injecting.

“There are also safer, well-established options that exist for specific concerns, like hair growth and skin repair. They have a longer track record, which means more time to prove their safety.”

MYTH: Everyone is using peptides, so they must be regulated.

BUSTED: Some are, but not all. Nina notes that Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is deliberately slower to approve things, which she frames positively as “an abundance of caution” – meaning just because something is widely used or talked about, it doesn’t mean it’s passed regulatory scrutiny here.

According to the TGA, unapproved peptide products have not been evaluated for safety, quality or effectiveness – and their growing popularity poses major regulatory and public health risks. What’s more, the online market operates entirely outside this system, with no way to verify what’s actually in a product. The “everyone’s doing it” logic just doesn’t hold up.

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Seven Gold Coast hikes (and where to eat afterwards)

The best part of a hike isn’t the view, or even the feeling when you get back to your car – it’s the ‘treat yourself’ meal you refuel with after. If you’ve been looking for your next hike – and the bite to eat you’ll grab afterwards – this is the guide for you.

Pages Pinnacle, Springbrook National Park | 6.1km, allow 3-4 hours

One of the Gold Coast hinterland’s most thrilling hikes, Pages Pinnacle winds through eucalypt forest before hitting a narrow razorback ridge and exposed rock scramble that’ll test even experienced hikers. Its Yugambeh name, kundohikulli, means “rock shaped boat” – and the summit views over Advancetown Lake and the Gold Coast skyline make the white-knuckle climb completely worth it. Bring solid grip shoes.

After you’re done: Boomerang Hills – it’s more than just a golf course. Open daily from 7.30am to 2.30pm, they serve up a delicious menu of breakfast and lunch favourites (and there’s always something fun happening).

www.alltrails.com

Hellfire Pass, Lower Beechmont Conservation Area | 7.9km, allow 3–3.5 hours

The name says it all. This punishing out-and-back climb through the McPherson Ranges is essentially one long steep fire trail to the top – but the forest is beautiful and well-shaded, and views of the Gold Coast skyline await at the summit. No wonder it’s a favourite training ground for Kokoda challengers. Extend the trip with a short detour to Freeman’s Lookout for even bigger views. Bring plenty of water.

After you’re done: Linger in the beauty of the hinterland a little longer at Historic Rivermill, an enchanting escape with an on-site café and animals aplenty.

www.alltrails.com

The Spit via Federation Trail, Federation Walk Coastal Reserve | 8.2km, allow 1.5–2 hours

A refreshing change of pace from the hinterland, this easy, mostly flat trail winds through one of the Gold Coast’s last remaining coastal sand dune systems. With native birdlife, wildflowers, and the sound of the ocean as company, it’s the perfect, peaceful Saturday morning walk. Dogs are welcome on a leash. Go early to beat the heat as shade is limited.

After you’re done: Head to Sparrow Coffee in Main Beach. Their specialty? Really good coffee, with a menu of café classics to keep you satisfied.

www.alltrails.com

Koala Track, Coombabah Lakelands Conservation Area | 4.8km, allow 1–1.5 hours

One of the Gold Coast’s best-kept wildlife secrets, this easy, flat trail winds through eucalyptus woodland and marshy wetland that’s teeming with kangaroos, waterbirds and, if you time it right, wild koalas. Arrive around 9am for the best wildlife activity. The track can get boggy after rain, so sturdy shoes and insect repellent are a good idea. A genuinely magical one for all ages.

After you’re done: Refuel at Pi and Pine, a funky café in Helensvale that’s a true hidden gem. You’ll love their unusual menu items and their signature drinks.

www.alltrails.com

Casuarina Grove Circuit via Pete’s and Exit Track, Nerang National Park | 5.8km, allow 1.5–2 hours

A pleasant loop through the bushland of Nerang National Park, not far from the hustle and bustle of the Gold Coast. The trail combines fire trails and dirt tracks with some rocky sections and gentle undulation. You’ll be sharing with mountain bikers, so keep an eye out and give way. Wallabies are regular trail companions, and the varied bush makes for a peaceful, enjoyable outing. Keep the map handy as a few turns are easy to miss.

After you’re done: Head to Cadence Café, a health hub in an oft-forgotten part of the Gold Coast. If it’s closer to lunchtime, hit the nearby the Commercial Hotel for a pub classic.

www.alltrails.com

Hinze Dam, Advancetown | 4.8km, allow 1–1.5 hours

A leisurely stroll across the crest of one of the Gold Coast hinterland’s most impressive structures, with sweeping panoramic views over Advancetown Lake and the Nerang River. The partially paved path is easy underfoot and suitable for all ages – there’s even a café and picnic facilities at the end. Very little shade, so go early on hot days and bring sunscreen.

After you’re done: Check out Yowie and the Goat in Lower Beechmont. The 14-minute drive back into the hinterland is worth it for the ambience.

www.alltrails.com

Witches Falls Circuit, Tamborine National Park | 3.4km, allow 1–1.5 hours

A short but magical loop through Queensland’s oldest national park, where open eucalypt forest gives way to lush sub-tropical rainforest gully filled with strangler figs, piccabeen palms, and the sounds of the bush. The seasonal waterfall is best after rain, and views out to the Great Dividing Range are a worthy reward. Watch for leeches after wet weather – long socks are your friend.

After you’re done: Treat yourself to a takeaway pastry from Franquette, or relax at a table in the tranquil (and aptly-named) Artizen Café.

www.alltrails.com

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After the dawn service: 2026 Anzac Day events

So, you’ve actually woken up to your 3.30am alarm and successfully attended your nearest dawn service – what now? The Anzac Day traditions don’t end with the Last Post. Whether you’re sipping rum and milk or flipping coins in a game of two-up, here’s where to get into the Anzac spirit.

Club Paradise

Join in on two-up from 2pm, watch the big game (you know the one) and stay on for the live entertainment from 6pm – no bookings required, no public holiday surcharge!

www.clubparadise.com.au

SOPO (Southport RSL)

Come along for a morning rum and milk, followed by two-up from 12pm and plenty of live entertainment (and nail-biting sports games). Also, no public holiday surcharge.

www.sopo.com.au

Robina Pavilion

From tasty food specials to two-up, plus a pop-up bar from Burleigh Brewing, Robina Pavilion is the place to be this Anzac Day.

www.robinapavilion.com.au

Burleigh Bears Leagues Club

Grab a feed, share some drinks and get in on the two-up action from 2pm.

www.burleighleagues.com.au

Currumbin RSL

Arguably the biggest Anzac Day event on the coast, you won’t want to miss the free entertainment and two-up (kicking off from 1pm).

www.currumbinrsl.com.au

Twin Towns

Don’t miss more than 10 hours of live entertainment, kicking off at 1pm. The best part? No public holiday surcharge!

www.twintowns.com.au

Don’t forget: the morning services (dawn or otherwise) are the most important part of Anzac Day. Here’s where to attend them on the Gold Coast.

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2026 Anzac Day services on the Gold Coast

This Saturday is Anzac Day – do you know how you’re going to commemorate it? We’ve done the research for you, rounding up the dawn services and gunfire breakfasts happening around town. So set your alarms and head to one of these 2026 Gold Coast Anzac Day services.

Upper Coomera

Day service from 10.30am to 11.30am at Upper Coomera Centre, 90 Reserve Road.

Runaway Bay

Dawn service from 5am to 6.15am at Anzac Park, Lae Drive.

Day service from 10am to 11am at Anzac Place Cenotaph, Lae Drive (march starts at 9.30am from Seagulls Rugby League Carpark).

Gunfire breakfast from 5.30am to 8am at Runaway Bay Junior Leagues Club.

Helensvale

Dawn service from 5am to 6am at Club Helensvale, 20 Discovery Drive, followed immediately by a gunfire breakfast.

Surfers Paradise

Dawn service from 5.30am to 6.30am at the Anzac Memorial, The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise (march starts at 4.45am outside Subway, Beach Road).

Gunfire breakfast following the dawn service at the Diggers and Sports Club (formerly Surfers Paradise RSL). Free for current RSL QLD card holders. Gold coin donation for non-members.

Afternoon service from 12pm to 2pm at the Cenotaph at Cavill Park, Cavill Ave, followed by two-up at the Diggers and Sports Club.

Southport

Dawn service from 5am to 6am at Anzac Park, Broadwater Parklands (march starts at 4.20am, 100m south of Nerang Street on the Gold Coast Highway).

Gunfire breakfast from 6am to 8am at the Southport Bowls Club, 2 Marine Parade.

Day service from 9am to 9.50am in Anzac Park, Broadwater Parklands (march starts at 8am from the Veterans Lawn, Southport).

Nerang

Dawn service from 4.45am to 6am at the Nerang RSL and Memorial Club, 69 Nerang Street. Gunfire breakfast following the dawn service from 6am to 8.30am.

Day service from 10am to 11am at the Nerang RSL and Memorial Club, 69 Nerang Street (march starts at 9.40am at Bischof Pioneer Park, Nerang).

Robina

Day service from 9am to 9.45am at Robina Town Centre, followed by a morning tea.

Mudgeeraba

Dawn service from 4.30am at Else Laver Memorial Park, 12 Railway Street.

Gunfire breakfast following the dawn service at the Mudgeeraba-Robina RSL Sub Branch, 62 Railway Street.

Sunset service from 4pm to 5pm at the Mudgeeraba-Robina RSL Sub Branch, 62 Railway Street (march starts from 3pm at the Village Green).

Burleigh Heads

Dawn service from 5.30am to 6am at the Memorial Park, corner Gold Coast Highway and Connor Street.

Gunfire breakfast from 6.30am to 7.30am at the Burleigh Bowls Club.

Day service from 10am to 11am at the Memorial Park, corner Gold Coast Highway and Connor Street (march starts at 9.40am).

Currumbin

Dawn service from 5am to 6am at Elephant Rock, 741 Pacific Parade (march from 4.40am at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Village Green, 28 Tomewin Street).

Mid-morning march and service from 10.30am to 11.30pm at Winders Park, Duringan Street.

Coolangatta/Tweed Heads

Dawn service from 5.45am to 6.30 at Chris Cunningham Park, Wharf Street, Tweed Heads.

Mid-morning service from 11am to 12.30pm at Chris Cunningham Park, Wharf Street, Tweed Heads (march starts at 10.30am adjacent to Coral Street, Boundary Street, Tweed Heads).

*Events are subject to change. Please make sure to refer to the official Queensland RSL event listing for the most accurate details.

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