There’s nothing better than curling up with a good book. Stuck for what to read next? Head to one of these Gold Coast book shops.
Big B Books, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads has changed a lot over the past few decades. One thing that hasn’t changed? Big B Books, the independent, new and used book exchange that has been operating out of the same little space since the 1970s. How cool is that? We love poking around their jam-packed bookshelves looking for our next great read. If you’re not sure where to start, their friendly team of proud bookworms will be happy to help.
BOOKFACE, Broadbeach
One of the Gold Coast’s leading independent bookstores, BOOKFACE has called Pacific Fair home since 2015. They carry an impressive range of books – science fiction, history, Australiana, music, film, food, travel, fantasy, crime, YA fiction… we could go on. They’ve even got a curated selection of rare books for sale. With an in-house café and a monthly book club, a visit to BOOKFACE is the perfect way to escape the busy shopping centre and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Bundle O’Books, Coolangatta
One of the Gold Coast’s last remaining second-hand bookshops, Bundle O’Books is a Coolangatta institution. Whether you’re looking to donate, sell or swap, the dedicated team is always happy to help avid readers and novice bookworms alike. Step inside and be inspired by the huge range of titles – you just might find a rare gem that has gone out of print.
Bookness, Mudgeeraba
This cute bookshop is a well-kept secret among Mudgeeraba’s close-knit community. Located in the Mudgeeraba Market Shopping Centre, Bookness offers more than just books – it’s a haven for book lovers and coffee drinkers alike. Order a warm beverage and pull up a chair as you get stuck into your next read, or spend a while browsing their collection. They’ve even got a cosy kids’ corner.
Under the Greenwood Tree, Tamborine Mountain
Lovers of books and art, unite! Under the Greenwood Tree is a small independent bookshop and art gallery up on the mountain. With new exhibitions opening regularly and an ever-changing supply of great reads, no two visits are alike. It’s also run by Tamborine local Janene Gardner, whose passion for books and art shines through in her carefully curated offering.
Publisher’s note: We’ve lost some of our best independent bookstores in the last few years. Love That Book closed in 2019, Nobby Beach Books in 2021, and Antique & Collectors Books in Southport closed on June 11, 2023. We hate to see it.
While the convenience and cheaper prices of big-name bookstores (and digital book providers that shan’t be named) can be appealing, remember the little guys when you’re looking for your next read. They’re truly a labour of love, and we’d really miss them if they were gone.