With an exciting dining and nightlife scene, a vibrant arts hub, and beautiful beaches, the Gold Coast makes an excellent destination for recreation or business. If you’re flying in for a business trip, you’ll want to make time for relaxation and rest before the next big meeting. Here we look at the best things to do during your downtime on a Gold Coast business trip.
Why make time to relax on business trips
Business trips don’t have to be all about work. Having downtime to recharge and get to know the local place could make you more productive and effective. Not only will you be well rested and better able to focus on the work at hand; you could show local knowledge and build a stronger relationship with the people you’re meeting. Additionally, getting out and exercising can mean you’re more alert and focused when it’s time to work.
Focusing on making time to relax could also motivate you to be more organised and use your time wisely. For example, you can plan to complete key tasks ahead of time so you have plenty of downtime during the business trip.
9 places for relaxation on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast has a perfect blend of excitement, buzz and a laid-back vibe. From beaches and cafes to spas and markets, you’ll have plenty of things to do for winding down and relaxing in style.
1. Broadbeach
If you’re looking for a one-stop beach destination to relax during your trip, try Broadbeach. Not only does it have sparkling blue waters and beautiful white sand, it’s surrounded by markets, parks, shops, dining options, and yoga classes. So take a dip in the water and relax with a book on the beach before heading over to check out the markets and eateries later in the day.
2. Tallebudgera Creek
For something different, visit Tallebudgera Creek, a popular local creek situated between Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach. Sought after for its scenic beauty and pristine waters, the creek is the perfect spot for a daytime dip in the water or for a relaxing few hours on the sand soaking up the spectacular scenery. If you fancy a surf, try the headland at Burleigh Beach and its point break. Other water activities to try include paddle boarding, boating, water skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding.
3. The Craft Parlour
If the idea of arts and crafts sounds relaxing to you, schedule time for visiting The Craft Parlour. This studio in Palm Beach is dedicated to helping your exercise your creative flair, with workshops (running throughout the day as well as night) like Hand Built Trinkleware, Sew a Slip Dress, and Loom Weaving.
4. Rick Shores
This acclaimed Burleigh Heads restaurant features pan-Asian flavours in a spectacular seafront-dining location. Menu favourites include the fried bug roll, crispy kale and smoked pickled onions, and spiced mackerel with white-radish kimchi. Rick Shores also has an extensive cocktail menu, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the floor-to-ceiling views, ideally from the front tables as you unwind with a delicious cocktail in hand. Rick Shores is open seven days from 12PM to late.
5. Springbrook National Park
Head out to the Gold Coast Hinterlands with a tour to Springbrook National Park, just 45 minutes from the coast. Try a hike on the Twin Falls Circuit (4 km) during the day or the Natural Bridge Circuit (1 km) if you’re going later. Explore the waterfalls, lookouts, walks, wildlife, rare plants, ancient forests, and beautiful birds, and if you get hungry, the park has four cafes or eateries to satiate your hunger. If you have time, consider visiting the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Mt Tamborine and Lamington National Park as well.
6. Gold Coast Food and Wine Tours
If you’re a serious foodie, you could sign up for something like the Gold Coast Food and Wine Tours to get a satisfying dose of delicious food and wine. These four-hour tours run on Fridays and Saturdays and give you the opportunity to discover the top eateries in places like Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and Burleigh Heads.
7. Earth & Skin
Have a professional pamper the stress away at Earth & Skin in Mudgeeraba (open Friday to Wednesday from 10PM to 5PM and Thursday by appointment). This day spa is located in a picturesque Queenslander-style cottage and specialises in luxury beauty treatments with organic products. Sign up for a massage, organic facial, or sugaring session. Alternatively, you could book yourself in for eyebrow shaping, eco spray tan, or a manicure and pedicure.
8. BSKT
Ready for some coffee and yoga with beach views? Then head over to BSKT (pronounced “biscuit”) on Nobby Beach for a gentle morning workout followed by a delicious, healthy (vegan) breakfast.
9. The Village Markets
If you’re looking for some fashion shopping, try the Village Markets at the Burleigh Head State School, held on the first and third Sunday of each month at 8.30AM to 1PM. The market is known for its strict application process, so you’ll encounter a high-quality range of fashion, arts and crafts, lifestyle, and food stalls. Other markets to explore include Miami Marketta (every second Friday at night) and the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets (Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday nights).
Relax between business
The Gold Coast is filled with great spots for relaxation. Whether you’re looking to be pampered at a day spa, wind down with a meal with stunning ocean views, or wander through markets, you’ll likely find the perfect spot to chill out and catch your breath. The Gold Coast is also home to some fantastic eateries. For a relaxed restaurant vibe, check out The Cooly Hotel’s Crave Restaurant.
