Currumbin
Think Currumbin, and you instantly think of the alley and the creek beyond it. But there’s more to this sleepy suburb than surfers’ paradise – spend a day there and you’ll find charming cafes, cute boutiques and beachfront restaurants. Here are our favourite things to do in Currumbin.
Sights
Whether you live in the north, the south or beyond the Gold Coast, a trip to Currumbin is definitely worth the drive. First, there’s Elephant Rock – the mountainous boulder next to the surf club (more on that in a moment), that’s not to be mistaken for the triangular rock slightly further north, at the alley. Climb the stairs of Elephant Rock at any time of day and you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the entire coastline. It’s well worth the exercise, we promise.
For a fun day out, head to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. A Gold Coast institution, the sanctuary is home to some of Queensland’s cutest citizens – and some pretty scary ones too. Whether you spend a day in the sanctuary itself or half-an-hour feeding the rainbow lorikeets out the front, it’s certainly a day to remember.
Keen for more? Currumbin is also home to Superbee Honeyworld (offering you a tasty sneak peek into the secret life of bees) and the Surf World Gold Coast (a collection of memorabilia, photographs and surfboards has to be seen to be believed).
Bites
Currumbin’s beachfront restaurant strip may be small, but boy, do they pack a lot in. From the bright purple acai bowls of The Salt Mill to the stunning beachfront views (and delicious vodka pasta) at Tommy’s Italian, Currumbin’s food scene is nothing if not versatile. Head up the creek for a pastry from Tarte Beach House, or further into Currumbin Waters for a coffee from Fuel or Home or a locally made gin at the brand-new Burly Bar.
Shop
When it comes to shopping ‘small’, Currumbin is your go-to – from awesome farmers’ markets like the Currumbin Community Markets and the Sanctuary markets to great local boutiques. Some of our favourites are Will + Bear and Designs with Love, which can be found close together on Pacific Parade, or Studio Jo in Currumbin Waters.
A Swell time
We’d be remiss not to mention Currumbin’s event of the year: Swell Sculpture Festival. Every September, the beach comes alive with large-scale sculptures created by artists from near and far. There’s also a program of live performances, food trucks and community activities. A must attend.