Keen to experience Broadbeach like the locals? It’s one of Airtrain’s key destinations, and even amongst all the sunny Gold Coast locations it stands out as a favourite with Gold Coasters and visitors alike. It’s scenic, exciting, interesting, relaxing – and loved by the locals.
Here are our top tips on how to experience the beautiful Broadbeach just like the locals.
About Broadbeach
Broadbeach is a Gold Coast suburb that features long stretches of white sand beach with seaside parklands to explore. Running along the beautiful beach are shopping precincts, delicious dining, brilliant bars, and plenty of places to stay.
The atmosphere is beachy, fun, and relaxed, but there are many 5 star options available as well! At the heart of Broadbeach is the Broadbeach Mall which is renowned for the roving street artists and alfresco dining outlets. Wake up early for the beach sunrise or stay up late for the vibrant nightlife – there are always things to see and do.
Directions from Broadbeach North Tram Station:
- Exit Broadbeach North Tram Station and you are right in the heart of Broadbeach.
- Turn right and walk 50m to Victoria Ave.
- At Victoria Ave turn left and follow Victoria Ave for 300m to Kurrawa Park.
- Kurrawa Park is directly in front of Broadbeach’s esplanade and beachfront.
Things to do
Hit the Beach
As the name and location suggests, the absolute top experience in Broadbeach is – the beach! Stroll the white sand, swim in the patrolled waters, catch some sun or find a tree to shelter under. It’s absolutely breathtaking and the ultimate in outdoor relaxation.
Level Up Arcade
Take the kids to something they’ll love at the Level Up Arcade. Located on level 1 of The Oasis, you’ll find three distinct themed spaces for the kids (and adults) to let their hair down and have some fun. Visit the Sideshow Alley, the classic arcade, and the adult games area and then redeem your tickets for some truly fantastic prizes.
Broadbeach Arts and Crafts Market
Held on the first and third Sunday of every month, the Broadbeach Arts and Crafts markets are a well-loved local institution. Browse the stalls of locally made artisan goods, with crafts, produce, and incredible food on offer.
Cascade Gardens
Head down to the Cascade Gardens where the locals love to be! Have a barbeque, grab a picnic spot, and send the kids to the playground. The setting is idyllic, with trees, animals, and the beautiful Nerang river to relax beside. You can discover relics of Indigenous culture, and visit the Kokoda Memorial Walk
The Oasis
The Oasis is a popular destination to shop, eat, and play on Broadbeach. There are a range of shops, medical facilities, and places to eat in a fantastic beach-side location.
The Pacific Fair Shopping Centre
The Pacific Fair Shopping Centre is one of Australia’s premiere shopping centres with over 400 retailers and some incredible options for retail therapy. Make sure you visit the Visitor Lounge to collect your free visitor privileges pass, giving you access to some great offers.
Broadbeach Surf School
If you really want to live like the locals, you’ll need to hit the surf. The Broadbeach Surf School can teach you how. Choose from private lessons or get into a small group to learn how to make the most of that incomparable beach.
Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) has year round functions, tradeshows, conventions, exhibitions, music, and more. Check out their page for upcoming events and get involved.
The Star
It’s mid transformation but it’s already unmissable. Visit The Star and check out the cutting edge cuisine and the brand new poolside experience.
Places to Eat
The Kurrawa Surf Club
Dining at the surf club is a favourite pastime of Gold Coast locals. The Kurrawa Surf Club has a fantastic location and a great menu.
The Bavarian
Head to an awesome bar with a Bavarian vibe. Order imported German beer and some culinary favourites from the region, as well as classic Aussie fare.
Maggie Choo
Maggie Choo brings the fun and flavour of Asian street food to a fantastic Broadbeach location.
Mecca Bah
For an incredible selection of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes, backed up by authentic hospitality and a chic interior – try Mecca Bah.
Sens Coffee Co
A quick coffee and a bite to eat? Check out Sens Coffee Co!
Nineteen at The Star
Head for the rooftop and indulge in the breathtaking views and exquisite food. Nineteen at The Star is a delight for the senses.
Kiyomi
Indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine with a fresh modern take at Kiyomi. It’s one of the Gold Coast’s favourite places to eat.
MLK Espresso Bar & Café
MLK Espresso Bar & Café offers modern Australian café food and some excellent coffee.
The Lucky Squire
Celebrating Australia’s first brewer, the Lucky Squire embraces all things Australian pub food, for a fun, delicious meal paired with a quality craft beer.
Gelato Shop
For the ultimate cold, creamy, sweet indulgence, head to the Gelato Shop!
Garden Kitchen and Bar
The Garden Bar, The Restaurant, The Deck, The Lawn – The Garden Kitchen and Bar is the perfect place to relax with friends and enjoy excellent food in beautiful surroundings.
Fat Freddy’s Beach Bar and Diner
Make the most of the ultimate modern take on the American diner experience without leaving Broadbeach! Fat Freddy’s is all about energy and fun, with sport, diner cocktails, a wide range of Australian and American drinks, and delicious food.
The Broadbeach Tavern
The Broadbeach Tavern offers modern Australian pub food and a laid-back place to grab a drink.
Dracula’s Cabaret
Dracula’s will keep you both entertained and well-fed, with one of the Gold Coast’s favourite performances. With comedy, rock, acrobatics, and more – it’s a night to remember!
Cowch
Cowch is a local favourite and with the quirky décor and delicious drinks, it’s not hard to see why! Come for dessert, cocktails, mocktails, and the awesome hospitality.
Aloha Bar & Dining
Find the hidden tiki bar and come enjoy cocktails and tapas in a fun setting at Aloha Bar & Dining.
Soho Place
You’ll feel like someone truly in the know as you visit the hidden speakeasy Soho Place. Look for the red door and push it open to reveal exquisite cocktails and a 1920s vibe that will have you time travelling.
The Roosevelt Lounge
The Roosevelt Lounge is a truly indulgent location that celebrates the best of the 1920s. Visit on Friday and Saturday night for a live DJ and sax.
Social Eating House + Bar
For a relaxed vibe with great food and drinks, head along to the Social Eating House + Bar.
Sofia’s
Embracing the heart of coastal European food and hospitality – Sofia’s is the ultimate in simple, delicious food that’s perfect for enjoying with loved ones.
The Loose Moose
Get down and dirty with Canadian food at the Loose Moose, with the major focus on being delicious. Deceptively simple ribs, wings, hot dogs, and burgers are elevated with locally sourced ingredients and a big emphasis on flavour.
The Lamb Shop
Combine authentic traditional ingredients with quality fresh ingredients, and you have The Lamb Shop. Try the carefully selected and lovingly cooked meat and produce for a taste experience.
Metro Coffee Broadbeach
Head to Metro Coffee for premium coffee, and a large selection of food including gluten-free and vegan options. A great place for coffee, a snack, and a catch-up.
No Name Lane
Specialty coffee, delicious food, and a great atmosphere at No Name Lane. You can dine in or takeaway, but as they don’t take reservations you’ll have to drop in to find out.
Getting Around as you Experience Broadbeach
Airtrain services travel between Brisbane Airport to the Gold Coast every 15 minutes during the peak (and 30 minutes during the off-peak), making Airtrain the frequent and easy airport transfer.
Travelling from Brisbane Airport to the Gold Coast, Airtrain stops at all Gold Coast stations; from Beenleigh to Varsity Lakes, including Ormeau, Coomera, Helensvale (connects with G:Link tram at Helensvale station*), Nerang, Robina and Varsity Lakes.
To get to Broadbeach, change to the G:Link tram at Helensvale station, which is included in the price of your Airtrain ticket for that trip to or from the airport. There are two Broadbeach stops – Broadbeach North and Broadbeach South.
Once you have arrived, you can use a smart card for travel, or you can purchase a paper ticket. Visitors should check out the go seeQ card. It allows you unlimited travel for 3 or 5 consecutive days on buses, trains, ferries, and trams. It also includes 2 Airtrain journeys to/from the Brisbane Airport. The go explore smartcard allows you travel in the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast for up to 8 days, but you don’t have to use them consecutively.
You can easily get around with a go card – just touch on at your station of departure and touch off when you arrive at your destination. The go card is accepted on all TransLink transport throughout Greater Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.
To purchase your smartcards or to find out more, head to the nearest Airtrain counter. You’ll be able to purchase tickets for travel, attractions, and events around South East Queensland. Alternatively, take advantage of our best ever offer by pre-booking online, and get your return journey FREE* as well as save with exclusive specials for advance purchasing.
Experience Broadbeach like the Locals
It’s beachy, it’s bustling, and it’s beautiful – Broadbeach is well worth the trip whether you live locally or are visiting from afar. Check out the adventure, dining, and accommodation options – for more suggestions on how to spend your time on the Gold Coast, check out our blog.
Airtrain are your connection between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and the rest of the world. Join us to travel efficiently, quickly, and comfortably – both to and from your adventures in Broadbeach.
