Relaxation and Coastal Charm
Nestled between the bustling Broadbeach to the north and the laid-back Miami to the south, Mermaid Beach is one of the Gold Coast’s most treasured coastal spots. Offering a perfect blend of relaxed local vibes, pristine stretches of sand, and an inviting community atmosphere, Mermaid Beach is the ultimate destination for those seeking a quieter, more intimate beach experience without straying too far from the heart of the action. Building height restrictions in Mermaid Beach mean you’re not surrounded by skyscrapers and it feels more like the beachside holiday of the old days.
Quiet, Clean, and Picture-Perfect
The beach at Mermaid Beach is an idyllic escape from the busier, more tourist-heavy beaches nearby. It offers wide stretches of golden sand, clear blue waters, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to find at the Gold Coast’s more famous beaches.
Swimming and Surfing: Mermaid Beach is patrolled by lifeguards year-round, providing a safe environment for swimmers and families. The waves here are generally calm, making it a great spot for those who want to swim or enjoy the water without the intensity of larger surf breaks. For surfers, Mermaid Beach offers consistent, manageable waves ideal for beginners or those looking for a casual session.
Sunbathing and Beach Strolls: If sunbathing and beach walks are more your speed, you’re in luck—Mermaid Beach is perfect for long, peaceful strolls along the shore. The quieter nature of the beach means there’s plenty of space to spread out, soak up the sun, and enjoy the rhythmic sound of the waves. Early risers are treated to spectacular sunrises, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, while evenings offer serene sunsets with fewer crowds.
Beach Fishing: Fishing enthusiasts will love Mermaid Beach for its relaxed beach fishing opportunities. The beach’s southern end is less crowded, making it a prime spot to cast a line. Whether you’re hoping to catch bream, whiting, or tailor, Mermaid Beach is one of the best places on the Gold Coast for shore fishing.
Lifestyle: Relaxed and Family-Oriented
Mermaid Beach has long been a favourite with locals and visitors looking for a more relaxed and laid-back beach vibe. With fewer high-rises and a strong sense of community, the area feels like a slice of old-school coastal Australia, but with plenty of modern conveniences.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Mermaid Beach is a popular destination for families, thanks to its relaxed vibe, safe swimming conditions, and close-knit community feel. The beach is quieter and less chaotic than the busier spots further north, which makes it ideal for a day out with the kids. Mermaid Beach’s local parks, like Mermaid Park, (2511 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach) offer playgrounds and open spaces where children can run around and play, while nearby cafes and shops ensure that there’s always something to keep everyone entertained.
Picnics and BBQs: Mermaid Beach is well-equipped with picnic areas and BBQ facilities, making it a popular spot for family gatherings and casual hangouts. Whether you want to cook up a beachside BBQ or pack a picnic to enjoy on the sand, there are plenty of shady spots where you can relax with friends and family while enjoying the beautiful coastal views.
Local Living: The Mermaid Beach community is diverse, with a mix of young professionals, retirees, and families calling the area home. The lower density of high-rise developments compared to Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach means that Mermaid Beach has retained a more residential feel. If you’re considering a longer stay or even making Mermaid Beach your home, you’ll find a welcoming, tight-knit community and a more relaxed pace of life.
Coastal Cafes, Restaurants, and Local Markets
Mermaid Beach may have a quieter atmosphere than its neighbouring suburbs, but it doesn’t lack when it comes to fantastic dining and shopping options. The area is home to an eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, and boutique stores, making it a great spot to explore and indulge.
Nobby’s Beach Precinct: Just a short walk south from Mermaid Beach is the trendy Nobby’s Beach precinct, where you’ll find a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. With an array of cafes, bars, and restaurants lining the streets, Nobby’s Beach is the go-to spot for a relaxed meal or a night out. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, international cuisine, or a hearty breakfast, the options are endless.
Hedges Avenue: Known as “Millionaire’s Row,” Hedges Avenue is lined with some of the Gold Coast’s most luxurious homes, but it’s also a great spot for a leisurely walk and some window shopping. Alongside the impressive architecture, you’ll find a selection of boutique stores and small eateries perfect for grabbing a coffee or a snack.
Miami Marketta: Just a short drive south of Mermaid Beach is Miami Marketta (23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami) a local favourite for street food and live music. Open on selected nights, Miami Marketta brings together food stalls offering global cuisines, making it a fantastic place to enjoy a casual meal and soak in the lively atmosphere. The venue also hosts live music performances, making it a fun, family-friendly spot for an evening out.
Staying Active at Mermaid Beach
Mermaid Beach is an ideal destination for those looking to stay active and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. With plenty of outdoor spaces and fitness options, you can keep fit while soaking up the beautiful coastal surroundings.
Walking and Running: The beachside paths at Mermaid Beach are perfect for morning jogs or leisurely walks. Stretching along the coastline, these scenic pathways are popular with locals who enjoy an early workout or a sunset walk. You can take in the ocean views while getting your steps in—exercise doesn’t get much better than this.
Surf Life Saving: Mermaid Beach is home to the Mermaid Beach Surf Life Saving Club, (172 Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach : www.mermaidslsc.org.au) and Nobby’s Beach Surf Life Saving Club (25A Albatross Ave, Mermaid Beach : www.nobbysbeachslsc.com) which play an important role in the local community. Not only do the clubs patrol the beach and ensure the safety of swimmers and surfers, but they also offers surf life-saving courses, fitness training, and competitions for all ages. If you’re interested in getting involved with the local surf life-saving culture, Mermaid Beach is a great place to start.
Local Markets: The nearby Miami Organic Farmers Market (Merrimac State High School, 3 Dunlop Ct, Mermaid Waters) is held every Sunday and is a great place to grab fresh, locally-grown produce and eco-friendly products.
Accommodation – Stay and Unwind in Mermaid Beach
Mermaid Beach offers a wide range of accommodation options, from holiday apartments to luxury homes, making it a great destination for visitors looking for both short-term stays and long-term rentals.
Holiday Apartments: There are several beachfront apartments available for holiday rentals, providing stunning views of the ocean and easy access to the beach. These self-contained units are ideal for families or groups who want the convenience of home while enjoying their holiday on the Gold Coast.
Luxury Villas and Homes: For those looking for a more upscale experience, Mermaid Beach boasts a number of high-end holiday homes and villas. These properties often come with private pools, spacious living areas, and premium amenities, offering a luxurious retreat just steps from the beach.
Boutique Hotels: While Mermaid Beach doesn’t have as many large hotels as some of its neighbouring suburbs, there are a few boutique hotels and motels that offer charming and comfortable accommodation. These smaller establishments often provide a more personalised experience and are perfect for couples or solo travellers seeking a quiet escape.
Getting Around Mermaid Beach
Public Transport: The light rail doesn’t extend directly to Mermaid Beach, but nearby stops at Broadbeach offer easy access to the area. Additionally, several bus routes service Mermaid Beach, connecting it to other parts of the Gold Coast, including the airport.
Cycling and Walking: Mermaid Beach’s flat terrain and scenic paths make it a great spot for cycling and walking. You can easily walk or bike to nearby beaches like Nobby’s Beach or Miami, enjoying the coastal views along the way. Many locals opt to cycle to nearby cafes, shops, or even to Pacific Fair shopping centre for some retail therapy.