Currumbin isn’t just a postcard-perfect beach town – it’s a community with soul. Nestled between the surf and the hinterland, this laid-back pocket of the Gold Coast is where people go to slow down, soak up nature and savour seriously good food. Currumbin isn’t about flashy attractions – it’s about connection, community and the kind of beauty that invites you to linger. If you want to experience Currumbin like a local, skip the tourist trail and dive into these favourite spots and experiences.
Brunch at cafes with character
Currumbin is home to a vibrant café scene that blends laid-back coastal charm with creative menus and stunning locations. Locals and visitors alike flock to The Salt Mill, a tiny beachside spot serving up coffee, fresh juices and some of the best acai bowls on the Gold Coast. For a more substantial sit-down experience, head to Barefoot Barista which dishes out prawn taco bowls and loaded burgers in a breezy, sunlit space. You can even enjoy a touch of Parisian flair in Currumbin at Tarte Beach House, nestled gracefully on the banks of Currumbin Creek and serving up elegant pastries and brunch dishes.
Explore the watering holes
You can find some of the Gold Coast’s most beloved natural swimming spots in Currumbin. These Currumbin attractions are hidden gems tucked into the lush hinterland that locals have cherished for generations. The most iconic is the Currumbin Rock Pools, a freshwater haven with a series of rocky pools surrounded by grassy picnic areas, shaded spots and gentle rapids perfect for wading or floating. Locals love Currumbin Creek for paddleboarding, kayaking and lazy swims in calm waters. Just around the bend is Currumbin Alley, a beloved surf break ideal for beginners and longboards. You can grab a board or just sit back and watch the locals carve up the waves.
Shop small and local
Currumbin offers a local and creative shopping experience, perfect for those who love discovering unique finds, supporting small businesses and browsing in relaxed settings. Currumbin Community Market is a boutique farmers market held every Thursday morning, offering everything from organic produce and handmade ceramics to natural skincare and artisan chocolate. For shopping and street food on Friday nights, Sanctuary Markets are a lively mix of international cuisine, handmade goods and local crafts. For boutique fashion and homewares, So Jaded Boutique and Lighthouse Charity Op Shop are hidden gems adored by locals. For an added cultural touch to your shopping experience, art lovers can explore Norton & Norton Art Galleries, which showcases local artworks and creative pieces.
Relax in nature
Currumbin is a haven for nature lovers, offering a rich tapestry of landscapes that range from tranquil estuaries to lush rainforest trails. One of the most serene Currumbin attractions is Tarrabora Reserve Boardwalk, a gentle 1km wetland circuit between Palm Beach Parklands Currumbin Creek. The spot is a favourite among locals for slow walks, birdwatching, nature study and quiet reflection. For deeper immersion in nature and the ultimate wellness Currumbin experience, Ground The Bathhouse is a must-visit. Nestled in the rainforest and set beneath a huge fig tree, this eco-conscious retreat is perfect for a reset with cedar hot tubs, hydrotherapy spas and ice baths.
Dine at places with heart and history
Dining and drinking in Currumbin is a celebration of coastal charm, local flavour, and laid-back sophistication. Whether you’re perched beside the ocean or tucked into the lush hinterland, Currumbin offers a diverse mix of venues that locals love and visitors quickly fall for. Iconic dining spots include Tommy’s Italian for beachfront wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas, and Tommy’s Taco Bar for authentic Mexican street food along the creek. For something more relaxed, Currumbin Beach Vikings and Currumbin RSL serve up Aussie classics, pub favourites and fresh seafood.
Experience Currumbin with Airtrain
There are countless Currumbin experiences to enjoy, and Airtrain can help you get there. Airtrain services travel between Brisbane Airport to the Gold Coast every 15 minutes on-peak (and 30 minutes off-peak), making Airtrain the easy and reliable airport transfer option.
Airtrain has ticket options to suit all your travel needs. To get to your favourite Currumbin attractions, consider Airtrain & tram which takes you via the G:link tram to Southport, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.
Once you have arrived on the Gold Coast, it’s easy to get around. The Gold Coast is covered by an extensive network of trains, buses, and G:link trams. A travel like the locals with a go card – just touch on at your station of departure and touch off when you arrive at your destination. With Smart Ticketing available on trains and trams, you can also use your Visa, Mastercard or American Express contactless debit or credit card to pay.