A Coastal Retreat of Relaxation, Natural Beauty, and Vibrant Community
Nestled at the southern end of the Gold Coast, Palm Beach is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of tranquil natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle, and vibrant community spirit. Known for its stunning beaches, lush parklands, and charming local amenities, Palm Beach has become a favourite destination for both locals and visitors seeking a more relaxed and authentic coastal experience.
A Stretch of Serenity and Surf
At the heart of Palm Beach is its stunning stretch of golden sand and clear blue waters, making it an ideal destination for beachgoers, surfers, and families alike.
Swimming and Surfing: Palm Beach is renowned for its beautiful, uncrowded beach, which offers excellent conditions for both swimming and surfing. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers of all ages. The surf here can vary from gentle waves perfect for beginners to more challenging breaks for experienced surfers. The southern end of Palm Beach is known for its reliable surf breaks, which attract surfers looking for less crowded waves compared to other Gold Coast hotspots.
For those who prefer a more sheltered swimming experience, the northern end of Palm Beach offers calmer waters, making it ideal for families with young children. The wide expanse of sand ensures there’s always plenty of space to lay down your towel, set up a sunshade, and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.
Beach Activities: Palm Beach is a great spot for various beach activities. In addition to swimming and surfing, you can enjoy beach volleyball, frisbee, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the shore. The beach is also popular for morning jogs and sunset walks, offering a serene environment and stunning coastal views. Early risers are rewarded with breathtaking sunrises over the ocean, while the evenings provide a picturesque setting for watching the sunset colours in the eastern sky over the Pacific Ocean (even though the sun sets behind the hinterland in the west, the evening colours often wash the eastern sky above the waterline to the east).
Fishing: Fishing enthusiasts will find Palm Beach to be a fantastic spot for beach fishing. The northern end of the beach is particularly popular for fishing, with opportunities to catch a variety of species including bream, whiting, and tailor. Whether you’re using a rod or just casting a line off the beach, the tranquil surroundings make for a relaxing fishing experience.
A Green Oasis of Recreation and Relaxation
Adjacent to Palm Beach is the expansive Palm Beach Parklands, a natural retreat that provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and family-friendly fun, including Pirate Park and also an off-leash dog park.
Picnicking and Barbecuing: The parklands feature extensive picnic areas and BBQ facilities, making it a popular spot for family gatherings, social events, and casual outings. The shaded areas, equipped with tables and barbecues, are perfect for cooking up a meal while enjoying the beautiful park setting. The parklands also have plenty of open space for kids to run around and play, making it an ideal location for a day out with the family.
Walking and Cycling Tracks: Palm Beach Parklands includes a network of walking and cycling tracks that weave through the park’s lush greenery and along the waterfront. The Palm Beach to Currumbin Coastal Pathway is a highlight, offering a scenic route that stretches for several kilometres and provides stunning views of the coastline. This pathway is perfect for a leisurely walk, an invigorating jog, or a bike ride, and is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Playgrounds and Fitness Equipment: The parklands are home to several playgrounds and fitness stations, making them a hub for outdoor activities. The playgrounds are designed with innovative equipment and offer a safe, engaging environment for children to enjoy. For those looking to stay fit, the parklands also feature outdoor fitness equipment and exercise stations, providing a great way to incorporate physical activity into your day while enjoying the fresh air.
A Culinary and Retail Haven
Palm Beach boasts a range of dining and shopping options that cater to every taste and preference. Whether you’re looking for a casual café, a fine dining experience, or unique local boutiques, Palm Beach has something for everyone.
Cafes and Breakfast Spots: Palm Beach is known for its vibrant café culture, with numerous spots offering delicious breakfast and brunch options. Tarte Bakery (2-4 Thrower Drive, Currumbin : www.tarte.com.au) is another local favourite, renowned for its pastries, cakes, and coffee, perfect for a leisurely breakfast or a sweet treat.
Restaurants: For dining, Palm Beach has a variety of restaurants that cater to different tastes and occasions. The Collective (1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach : www.thecollectivepalmbeach.com.au) is a popular choice, offering a diverse menu through five individually-themed kitchens, with options ranging from gourmet burgers to Asian and Italian.
Local Markets: The Palm Beach Farmers Market, (6.30am to 11.30am every Saturday at Currumbin High School, Thrower Dr, Palm Beach) is a popular event that showcases fresh produce, gourmet foods, and local crafts. It’s a great place to support local vendors, pick up fresh ingredients for your meals, or simply enjoy the vibrant market atmosphere. The market also features live music and entertainment, adding to the lively and friendly environment.
Embracing an Active Lifestyle
Palm Beach is a community that values health and wellness, with numerous facilities and activities designed to support an active and balanced lifestyle.
Yoga and Fitness Classes: Many local studios and fitness centres offer yoga and fitness classes that cater to all levels. The Gold Coast Yoga Centre (37/2 Eighth Ave, Palm Beach : Phone 07 5534 2883) provides yoga sessions that allow you to practice in a serene environment with the sound of the waves as your backdrop. The area also features several gyms and fitness centres that offer a range of classes, including pilates, strength training, and group fitness sessions.
Surf Life Saving Club: The Palm Beach Surf Life Saving Club (117 Jefferson Ln, Palm Beach) and Pacific Surf Club (1291 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach) are an integral part of the community, promoting beach safety and physical fitness. The clubs’ nippers program is popular with families, teaching children about surf safety and ocean skills in a fun and supportive environment. The club also offers training and fitness programs for adults, helping you stay active while participating in the important work of beach safety and rescue.
Palm Beach Accommodation – Comfortable Stays for Every Type of Traveller
Palm Beach offers a range of accommodation options to suit every type of traveller, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly stays.
Luxury Resorts: For those seeking a touch of luxury, Palm Beach has several high-end resorts that offer stunning ocean views and premium amenities. The Beach House (438 The Esplanade, Palm Beach : Phone 0419 672 510) and Sanctuary Lake Apartments (40 Teemangum St, Currumbin : Phone 07 5534 3344) are popular choices, providing spacious rooms, modern facilities, and easy access to the beach.
Holiday Apartments: Holiday apartments are a great option for families and groups, offering the convenience of self-contained accommodation with a home-like atmosphere. Many of these apartments are located within walking distance of the beach and local amenities, making it easy to enjoy all that Palm Beach has to offer.
Boutique Hotels: For a more intimate and personalised experience, Palm Beach has a selection of boutique hotels and motels that offer unique charm and comfort. Palm Beach Hotel (1118 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach : Phone 07 5534 2188) is just a stone’s throw away from the shoreline and amongst all business area of Palm Beach as well.
Getting around Palm Beach
Cycling and Walking: Palm Beach’s flat terrain and scenic pathways make it ideal for cycling and walking. The Palm Beach to Currumbin Coastal Pathway is a popular route that allows you to explore the coastline at your own pace, with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the views along the way.
Car Rental: If you prefer to explore the Gold Coast by car, there are several car rental options available near Palm Beach. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit nearby attractions, including national parks, theme parks, and other coastal towns.