Our Australian East Coast Road Trip: Chasing Waves & Coastal Calm on the Gold Coast

From Palm Cove to the Gold Coast

An early start saw us leave The Reef Retreat Palm Cove and head to Cairns Airport, dropping off the car and grabbing a much-needed coffee before our flight back down to Brisbane with Qantas. This trip definitely helped boost our frequent flyer points. Just over two hours later, we landed, collected our bags, and picked up yet another hire car—this time a GWM Haval SUV, which proved to be a comfortable and practical choice for exploring the Gold Coast.

Exploring the Gold Coast Without a Plan

This was one of those occasions, which wasn't unusual for us, where we hadn’t booked accommodation in advance. We weren’t quite sure what to expect from the Gold Coast, and neither of us are fans of overly busy destinations or towering high-rises. So, we decided to explore and see what felt right.

We made several stops along the way—The Spit Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, and Burleigh Heads—as the scenery gradually became less built up. A surfer friend from New Zealand had recommended Coolangatta for its relaxed vibe, and as we drove along the coast, we naturally found ourselves heading that way.

A Surprise Stop at Snapper Rocks

Arriving near Snapper Rocks, the atmosphere instantly shifted. The air had that unmistakable salty energy, and the sound of waves breaking over the point was constant. Lined along the headland were surfers, photographers, and spectators, all focused on the water. It didn’t take long to realise we’d stumbled across a major surf competition—and what a place for it.

Snapper Rocks is known for its world-class right-hand point break, and watching it in full flow was something else. Set after set rolled in, clean and powerful, with surfers carving effortlessly along impossibly long rides. There was a real buzz in the air—equal parts relaxed and electric—as people cheered from the rocks, cameras clicked, and boards cut through the water.

We found ourselves completely drawn in, standing there far longer than planned, just taking it all in. It was one of those moments that captures the essence of the Gold Coast surf culture—laid-back, outdoorsy, and deeply connected to the ocean.

Eventually, we made it back to the car—still glancing over our shoulders at the surf—before turning our attention to finding somewhere to stay, already feeling like we’d landed exactly where we were meant to be.

Where We Stayed: Coolangatta

Having just driven past, we decided to book two nights at Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites to see if the area suited us—and it didn’t take long to realise we’d made the right choice. Those two nights quickly turned into four.

There’s an ease about this place that fits perfectly with Coolangatta’s laid-back coastal vibe. Set right on the beachfront, it manages to feel central without being busy, making it an ideal base whether you want to explore or simply slow things down.

The Apartment Feel

Our room felt far more like a small apartment than a hotel stay, which is exactly what you want on a road trip. There was a full kitchen, and a generous living space that opened out onto a balcony overlooking the lagoon-style pool and out towards the ocean beyond. It’s the kind of view that naturally encourages you to sit down, slow your pace, and just take it all in.

The bedroom had its own balcony too, again with ocean views, which made mornings feel that little bit more special. The bathroom included a washer-dryer—something that always proves invaluable when your days revolve around the beach, fishing, and being outdoors.

Pool, Spa & Unwinding

One of the standout features is the lagoon-style pool, which winds its way through the centre of the complex. It never felt overcrowded during our stay—in fact, at one point I had it completely to myself, making it all the more relaxing.

We made full use of the hot tub and sauna as well, which quickly became part of our routine after long days out exploring. There’s something about ending the day that way—warm, relaxed, and unrushed—that really adds to the overall experience.

View from our room of the pool and through to the beach

Location & Overall Vibe

The location is hard to beat. Step outside and you’re right by the beach, with cafés, restaurants, and everything you need within easy walking distance. Despite that, it never felt hectic—just an easy, breezy coastal atmosphere that makes it very easy to settle in.

Overall, it’s the kind of place that doesn’t try too hard—it just works. Comfortable, well-located, and perfectly in tune with the relaxed rhythm of Coolangatta.

First Night in Coolangatta

After checking in, we headed out for food at Grill'd Coolangatta, where I knew there were good gluten-free options. Afterwards, we grabbed a few supplies and settled in for a relaxed evening.

Slowing Down in Coolangatta

Coastal Walks & Wildlife

The following morning started with an early swim (a habit I quickly embraced), followed by coffee and a walk that turned into a longer wander through Tweed Heads. Staying close to the water, we spotted eastern water dragons basking in the sun.

Later, we found a great fishing spot at Kerosene Inlet. On the way back, spotting a koala in a tree was a definite highlight.

Dinner at Choofas Smoke House

That evening, after another swim and some downtime, we headed to Choofas Smoke House & Seafood. The seafood and fish was excellent and completely Loren-friendly. A great spot if you’re looking for quality food and a relaxed atmosphere.

A Day Out on the Gold Coast

Sea World & Surfers Paradise

After another early swim and hot tub, I could definitely get used to this, we were off to Seaworld and explore Surfer’s Paradise for the day, once again starting with a coffee, we thought we would do as a bit of a day date even though we didn’t have the kids with us and a chance to see the marine life on offer. Plus I won’t pass up the opportunity to go on some rides, Craig not so much a fan.

The penguins  and polar bears displays are a must if you visit there.  I was interested to know more about the little blue penguins that we have seen a few times in NZ and learnt so much.  Of course, I was fascinated and spent ages, could of spent so much longer watching the rays and sharks.

We sat in the sun and watched the Thunder Lake Stunt show which was incredible and again I’d highly recommend and an opportunity to enjoy a drink in the sun.  I think I must of made Craig go back to the rays at Ray Reef, a couple of times before our visit there came to an end.

We also stopped at The Spit for a bit of fishing before heading into Surfers Paradise—photo with the iconic sign ticked off, a wander through surf shops, and a quick drink before returning to Coolangatta.

A Perfect Final Day

Beach Walks & Slow Moments

Our final full day was slower paced. After my now-routine early swim, Craig headed out fishing while I enjoyed a solo walk along to Kirra Beach and back. , Initially I had planned to get a surf lesson in but no availability in, ordinarily I wouldn’t book lessons but if on my own and not too sure of the area plus I’d of had to hire a board out there anyway.

I dipped in and out of surf shops like Kirra Surf and Board Riders and of course not forgetting the clothes shop Ghanda, and taking photos of the various ‘Animals with Attitude’ koala sculptures as I went. Before walking barefoot along the beach—one of those simple but memorable moments.

Stopping at the local surf club, to grab a coffee to go, impeccable timing of Craig to ring to say he was packing up and would be back soon, he must of known I was getting coffee and a nice warm (Loren friendly) muffin. 

Coffee and Muffin on Coolangatta Beach

As I still had a bit of time I went and sat down on the beach in front of our hotel, watching the sea birds and the few surfers that were out, sipping my chai coconut latte and enjoying the hot banana muffin that I don’t often get to have, practising mindfulness was easy here just taking in everything around me and at peace. A rare moment of peace and calmness.

Exploring Beyond Coolangatta

That afternoon, we drove towards Tallebudgera Creek and back through Burleigh Heads, stopping frequently to take in the views and spot wildlife. Returning to the hotel for one last swim and sauna felt like the perfect way to round off our stay.

Final Evening & Reflections

Dinner by Snapper Rocks

For our final evening meal, we headed near Snapper Rocks to Shells N Rocks Restaurant & Bar. I chose red snapper—an excellent decision and a great way to end the trip.

Wrapping Up Our East Coast Adventure

A gentle evening stroll rounded off our time in Coolangatta—a fitting end to our Australian East Coast adventure before beginning the journey back to Brisbane and onward to Melbourne.