Coolangatta is such a relaxing and trendy spot that more and more tourists are visiting each year. This beautiful area has a lot to offer in terms of heart and warmth. However, some of the Coolangatta’s charms may get lost when visitors choose to hit only the tourist hotspots.
In order to get the most authentic and therefore better holiday experience, enjoying summer in Coolangatta like a local is the way to go. From strolling along the famous beaches to brewery hopping, enjoying Coolangatta will have you feeling at home in no time.
How to soak up summer fun in Coolangatta
Getting the best out of a trip to Coolangatta involves some research, good weather but mostly, your commitment to settling into this coastal town. By following the local’s lead, visitors can get a more authentic picture of Coolangatta, resulting in a summer holiday that cannot be beaten.
Get lost in a local market
The Gold Coast and Coolangatta, in particular, have a fresh and relaxed approach to markets. Each market offers a diverse selection of art and homewares, gifts, crafts and fashion. By taking the time to stroll through the beachfront or tucked away markets, you are bound to find something unique.
For all the foodies out there, look no further than the Sanctuary Markets. Incorporating a wide variety of international foods and fresh produce, this market is one a kind. Hosted on the Village Green of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, there aren’t many markets like this one.
Coolangatta Markets also offer a unique experience. Set against the backdrop of the famous Surfers Strip, this market encourages exploration and also an appreciation for the local artisans and street food.
Search for your favourite ice cream flavour
Gold Coast locals know that their hometown is famous for crazy creations and traditional ice cream flavours. Messina has over 40 different flavours to choose from – making it a one-stop-shop for road testing new flavours. But if you’re in the mood for something different, notable ice creameries include Cocowhip, My Gelato, Quench and Sweet Bliss Donuts, where you can satisfy your cravings with everything from a healthy soft-serve to an indulgent ice cream sandwich.
Jump on the Gold Coast beer bandwagon
A beer revolution is underway in the Gold Coast, so much so that it has recently been crowned ‘the craft beer capital of Australia’. This title is in part thanks to the rapid growth and unprecedented success of craft breweries, microbreweries and brew bars popping up all down the Coast.
Founded by Mick Fanning, the Balter Brewing Company is the place to be on the weekends. Feel like a local as you sip on award-winning craft beers and graze through the selection of food trucks. At Black Hops Brewery it’s even easier to feel like a local. Featuring quality craft beer that is understated, smooth and made for sunny days, Black Hops is the epitome of the Gold Coast.
Savour a summer menu at local pubs
No one does local food better than the Coolangatta Hotel. Offering a relaxed afternoon with live music, restaurants and a selection of bars, the Cooly Hotel is a firm favourite amongst locals. Well known for its seasonally changing menu, the Cooly’s Crave Restaurant features local favourites. From classic beef burgers to fish n chips, enjoy the best views of summer with great summer food.
Indulge in a lazy coastal morning stroll with a brekkie on-the-go
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and we all need to exercise at some point during the day. Why not kill two birds with one stone and grab a takeaway brekkie on the Gold Coast before walking along the water. The locals have done the legwork and voted popular haunts like Cafe 28 and Bellakai as providers of the best bacon and eggs rolls. Pick up a takeaway roll at a local cafe and you are only mere moments from a waterfront walk.
Pick a perfect place to watch the sunset (or sunrise)
Locals and tourists alike always like to take the time to stop and enjoy a sunset or sunrise. Instead of just heading down to the admittedly picturesque beaches to watch the sun, why not source the best places to gaze at mother nature? From the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens and The Wishing Tree Track to the Currumbin Valley Rock Pools, why not take a day trip and stay long enough to watch the sunset in new surroundings.
Soak up art and culture at a nearby gallery
Locals don’t just visit the main hotspots on the Gold Coast. They dig a little deeper to find hidden gems. With the Gold Coast’s local art scene growing exponentially over the last few years, finding a spot to enjoy art just got easier. Places like the Cafe dbar combines delicious food with exhibitions by local artists. While Dust Temple plays host to pieces by local, national and international artists. Wherever you choose to explore, you can be sure that the best local art will be on display.
Hit the Coolangatta surf
Coolangatta is all about the surf so in order to experience Coolangatta like a local, you have to try your hand at the local surfing scene. The best spots for catching a wave or two can be found at the northern corner of Coolangatta Beach and of course, the famous surf break of Duranbah or D’Bah as the locals call it!
Coolangatta Beach is also perfect for a relaxing swim. The best part is that there is a surf club located at each end of the beach so you can swim and eat to your heart’s desire.
Experience the local wildlife
Australia and the Gold Coast, in particular, is famous for its surf, fun and food. Part of what makes up the fun element is the local animal and wildlife culture. Nothing will make you feel more at home than getting up close and personal to native animals. The Gold Coast is home to both water and land animals. Lovers of polar bears and penguins can get their fix at Sea World while those looking to visit animals in their natural habitat can venture out to the David Fleay Wildlife Park.
Watch pro sporting competitions
From the Burleigh Pro Surf Event to the Corona Open Surf Event, the Gold Coast plays host to premiere sporting events all year round. Those looking to watch all the fun can cheer on world-famous surfers at the Quicksilver and Roxy Pro. While those wanting to take part in all the fun could even sign up for the Gold Coast Triathlon.
Summer Days in Coolangatta
Head to the Coolangatta Hotel to soak up the best summer has to offer – start in the bistro before dancing the night away at our iconic beach bar. A summer spent enjoying all that Coolangatta has to offer is a summer well spent.
