Elebana Falls
CategoriesAustralia Gold Coast By Sam Barnes

Best Waterfalls on the Gold Coast

Most people do not realise the Gold Coast is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the country. From towering cascades to hidden gems, there is no shortage of stunning waterfalls to discover in the area. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these waterfalls are a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a day of adventure and natural beauty away from the crazy crowds on the beaches.

Waterfalls near the Gold Coast

Purling Brook Falls

Purling Brook Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Gold Coast, and for good reason. It is located in Springbrook National Park and is a 109-metre drop that is both picturesque and accessible. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation and are a great place for a picnic or a swim. The hike to the falls is a moderate one and takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace. Along the way, you will encounter stunning scenery, including subtropical rainforest and eucalyptus forest. The Purling Brook Falls is a must-visit for anyone looking for a breathtaking waterfall adventure on the Gold Coast.

Natural Bridge Springbrook

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Natural Bridge Springbrook National Park is a hidden gem that is tucked away in a lush rainforest. It is a unique waterfall that is formed by a cave and is illuminated by natural light. The waterfall is located in the Springbrook National Park and is accessible by a short hike. The hike is an easy one and takes about 20 minutes. The Natural Bridge Springbrook National Park is a great place for a picnic or a swim, and is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique waterfall experience in the Gold Coast.

Mudgeeraba Falls

Mudgeeraba Falls is located along the Mudgeeraba Creek, and is a hidden gem that is surrounded by tropical vegetation. It is a great place for a swim or a picnic and is accessible by a short hike. The hike is an easy one and takes about 20 minutes.

Tamborine Mountain Waterfall Circuit

Tamborine Mountain Waterfall Circuit is a popular walk for tourists and locals alike. The circuit features several waterfalls, including Curtis Falls, and is a great place for a hike. The hike is a moderate one and takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. The Tamborine Mountain Waterfall Circuit is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and is a must-visit for anyone looking for a waterfall adventure in the Gold Coast.

Waterfall Hikes

Springbrook National Park

Springbrook National Park is home to several waterfalls, including Purling Brook Falls, and is a popular destination for hikers. The park features several trails, including the Warrie Circuit, that are suitable for all levels of fitness. The trails range from easy to moderate, and take from 1 to 4 hours

There are several other good hikes around the Gold Coast to reach waterfalls, here are some of the popular ones:

  1. Canyon Falls: This hike is located in the Lamington National Park and takes you through the rainforest to reach Canyon Falls, a serene waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The hike is a moderate one and takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace.
  2. Elabana Falls: Elabana Falls is located in the Lamington National Park and is a picturesque waterfall hidden away in the . The hike to the falls is a moderate one and takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace.
  3. Tallebudgera Creek Circuit: This hike takes you through the Tallebudgera Valley and is a great place to see several waterfalls, including Tallebudgera Falls. The hike is an easy one and takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace.
  4. Twin Falls: Twin Falls is located in the Springbrook National Park and is a stunning waterfall that is surrounded by lush vegetation. The hike to the falls is a moderate one and takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace.
  5. Binna Burra Waterfall: Binna Burra Waterfall is located in the Binna Burra National Park and is a hidden gem that is surrounded by lush vegetation. The hike to the falls is a moderate one and takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace.

These are some of the popular hikes to reach waterfalls on the Gold Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, these trails offer breathtaking views and an escape into the natural beauty of the area.

In conclusion, the Gold Coast is a paradise for waterfall enthusiasts, and there is no shortage of stunning waterfalls to discover in the area. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these waterfalls are a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a day of adventure and natural beauty. So pack your hiking shoes, grab your camera, and head out to discover the best waterfalls on the Gold Coast.

Cali Beach Club
CategoriesAustralia Gold Coast By Sam Barnes

Cali Beach Club: The GC’s Best Attempt at a Vegas-Style Pool Party

If you’re looking for a Vegas-style pool party on the Gold Coast, look no further than Cali Beach Club. This rooftop oasis is located in the heart of Surfers Paradise and offers party-goers an experience like no other. With its crystal-clear pool, cabanas, and VIP areas, Cali Beach Club is the perfect spot to soak up the sun and let loose with friends.

Cali Beach Club can be credited for starting a trend of pool clubs on the Gold Coast. Recently, the ISOLETTO Pool Club opened at Star Casino in Broadbeach and La Luna Beach Club was built on a pontoon at Main Beach, both of which have taken inspiration from Cali Beach Club’s unique style and atmosphere. *It should be noted that Cali Beach Club clearly copied the exact style of Ocean Beach in Ibiza, but most party-goers would not know ..or care.

The owners of Cali Beach Club had clearly been to Ocean Beach Club in Ibiza for inspiration

Despite being a relatively new addition to the Gold Coast party scene, Cali Beach Club has quickly become a hot spot for locals and tourists alike. The club’s tropical vibes and lively atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a day party or a night out with friends.

How to get to Cali Beach Club

Cali Beach Club is located at 21a Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise. As most people will be using Google Maps, I should not need to explain how to get there. Some helpful information though: If you are coming from the south, the road system can be super slow (stupid one way roads because of the tram) It is usually faster to just get out on the beach road and walk down Elkhorn Ave (5 min walk) as apposed to do a full loop.

It’s clear that the Gold Coast is embracing a new emerging party culture and it’s important that Surfers Paradise stop being so strict with noise restrictions if it wants to reclaim its historic glory as a party destination. 

Cali Beach Club is leading the way in this new party culture and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of what Surfers Paradise has to offer. So add it to your holiday or Bucks/Stag/Hens/Bachelorette Party to-do list, just try not to lose the main man/woman!

Looking for other things to do on the Gold Coast? Read our Locals Guide.

Gold Coast Beach Umbrella
CategoriesAustralia Gold Coast By Sam Barnes

Beach Umbrella Hire Gold Coast: Enjoy a Sun-Smart Day with GVH!

 

Are you looking for some more relaxed things to do in Gold Coast? Couldn’t pack everything you need for a long day in the sun? Look no further than Good Vibe Hunters for beach umbrella hire. Our adventure lifestyle brand, located in Broadbeach can provide everything you need for a perfect day at the beach. Including a large umbrella, 2 X beach chairs, 2 X beach towels, a beach carry cart and optional toys for the kids.

 

Pre-Booked Beach Equipment

We understand that planning a beach holiday can be stressful, especially when it comes to packing or buying new gear. That’s why we make it easy for you to pre-book a beach kit with us, so you can enjoy your holiday without the added stress and expense. Our beach umbrella hire package can be dropped off at your hotel or the beach and picked up when you’re done, making it convenient for you to enjoy the beautiful Gold Coast beaches. (No more lugging equipment around for hours and then trying to find space for it all!)

Beach Equipment – Hire, Don’t Waste!

Not only do we make your holiday more enjoyable, but we also contribute to a more sustainable future. Recently, there has been a growing problem of cheap beach equipment being bought, used once, and then thrown in the rubbish. By renting from Good Vibe Hunters, you can enjoy a sun-smart day at the beach without contributing to this problem.

Our beach kits are well-maintained, ensuring that you have everything you need for a perfect day at the beach. We also offer different package options to suit different needs and budgets, from the basic beach umbrella hire package to the deluxe package that includes toys for the kids.

So, whether you’re looking for things to do in Broadbeach or Surfers Paradise, Good Vibe Hunters has you covered for beach umbrella hire on the Gold Coast. 

Click here to pre-book your beach kit and enjoy a stress-free, sun-smart, and sustainable beach holiday on the Gold Coast.

Looking for other things to do on the Gold Coast? Check out our Locals Guide – Best things to do on the Gold Coast

Other Gold Coast Things To do..

Don’t need our locals guide? See below for more things to book on the GC.

 

Mount Martha Beach
CategoriesAustralia By Sam Barnes

Mount Martha – A locals guide

Growing up in Mount Martha 15-20 years ago, Mount Martha was a quiet town that did not experience much tourism at all. Dromana, Safety Beach and Sorrento seemed to attract the summer tourism. As kids, we used to hang out on the beach with no more than 50 other people even on the busiest summer days. How things have changed! Now a summer tourism hot spot, it makes me realise how lucky I was to grow up in such a beautiful place. Now enough about me, here are a list of the best things to do around beautiful Mount Martha.

South Beach Mount Martha

Visit the Mount Martha Beach

Mount Martha Beach is around 2km long nestled between two steep cliff faces. The geography creates a calm and clear water that is awesome for a relaxing dip in the Port Phillip Bay. My friends and family always preferred South Beach (opposite the Mount Martha Tennis Courts) or directly opposite the shops. If you plan on coming during a super busy summer holiday, the car park out the back of the shops is probably your best bet. The sand at Mount Martha is a dark yellow and seems to get more scorching hot than other white sandy beaches, so make sure you keep your sandals on!

Go cliff Jumping at the Mount Martha Pillars

The pillars seem to be the biggest/most famous attraction these days. When I was growing up, we always knew the 5 or 10 others there. The jumps were called “Small”, “Big” and “Suicide” I doubt anyone attempts the suicide jump any more. I have not been to the pillars in years to be honest, but for those considering going, remember this area was never meant for such large crowds. They are located opposite Marguerita Ave on pretty much the most dangerous stretch of road on the Mornington Peninsula. Please don’t piss off the locals by parking on their driveway or worse, by leaving rubbish at the pillars. Stay safe and enjoy the natural rock jumps!

Get lost on the board walk

The board walk is a semi maze of timber walking tracks that follow the estuary (the estuary sometimes floods so the board walk is built above flood level) Even after 30+ years of walking the board walk, I sometimes get lost. Just know that if you keep walking from the city side of the shops, you will eventually end up at either the Mount Martha Football Club or the Briars entrance. This walk is perfect if you love nature. I had a Golden Retriever who used to absolutely love jumping off the board walk at the estuary lookout/rest stops. You can also bring a fishing rod and try your luck for some bream.

Play a round of golf at The Dunes

Not the worlds best Golf Course, but a pretty epic spot for a game of Golf Right on dusk. From memory, there is some holes that have a view over Mount Martha and the ocean, but don’t quote me on that!

Go shopping at the Mount Martha Village

As you should notice, this small stretch of shops was only ever designed and built to service the local community. I still remember when the hair dressers was a hardware store and the ice cream shop was the video rental/netflix of our childhood! There are some super nice gift stores now and my favourite cafe has got to be the old Mount Martha Milk Bar. They kept the name; Milkbar & Co. but they did not keep the lollie selection, Damn!

Visit the Mount Martha House

This historic mansion was built in the 1880s and has been maintained since. If you are an Australian history fanatic, I am sure you will enjoy the numerous plaques filled with interesting information on the uses of the building throughout the years.

Other things to do in Mount Martha

As mentioned earlier, most tourists come to Mount Martha to visit the beach. But there are a few other activities that may tickle your fancy. These activities include:

  • Play Tennis at the Mount Martha Tennis Courtas
  • Go mountain biking on the top of the mountain
  • Walk to Mornington along the Esplanade and clifftop trail
  • Join the Peninsula Pistol Club
  • Go for a Nature Walk at the Briars

Mount Martha Accomodation

There are no official hotels in Mount Martha. With the rising interest in Mount Martha Accomodation, there have been quite a few Bed and Breakfasts pop up on AirBnb and Booking.com My only suggestion would be to look for accomodation near the Mount Martha Shops off Bay Road.

Gold Coast
CategoriesAustralia Gold Coast By Sam Barnes

Locals Guide – Best things to do on the Gold Coast

Welcome to the Gold Coast! As a local, I’m excited to share some of my favorite spots and activities that don’t break the bank. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit to this beautiful part of Australia:

1. Hit the beach

The Gold Coast is known for its stunning beaches, and there’s no shortage of options to choose from. Whether you prefer to surf, swim, or just relax in the sun, you’ll find a spot that suits your style. Some popular beaches to check out include Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, and Snapper Rocks. Shameless plug: We offer beach equipment for hire. 

umbrella hire gold coast

2. Explore the hinterland

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and experience the natural beauty of the region, head inland to the Gold Coast hinterland. Here you’ll find lush rainforests, waterfalls, and scenic drives through the mountains. Some must-see destinations include Tamborine Mountain and Lamington National Park.

3. Shop and dine at the markets:

The Gold Coast is home to a vibrant food and arts scene, and the best place to experience this is at one of the many markets that pop up around the region. Some popular markets to check out include the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets (held weekly), the Village Markets in Burleigh Heads (held monthly), the Miami Marketta (held on Friday and Saturday evenings), the Gold Coast Turf Club Markets (held on the first and third Sunday of each month) and our new favorite; the Hota Markets. At these markets, you’ll find a wide variety of locally-made crafts, clothing, and food to enjoy.

5. Take a day trip to the Northern Rivers

The Gold Coast is located just a short drive from the Northern Rivers region, which is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, rainforests, and national parks in the country. If you have time to spare, consider taking a day trip to explore this amazing part of the state.

I hope this guide gives you a taste of what the Gold Coast has to offer. Whether you’re here for the surf, the sun, or the amazing food and culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this beautiful stretch of coast.

6. Hire a boat (Wakeboard boat!!)

Get the ultimate pro experience with a world-class Wakeboard boat and skilled captain. Hire the entire boat for your group and mix it up between wakeboarding and wake surfing. Pic below is the exact boat. Epic hey? Click here to learn more about the Wakeboard Boat Hire Gold Coast.

Wakesurfing Gold Coast

Jervis Bay sunset
CategoriesAustralia Surfing By Sam Barnes

Locals Guide – Best things to do in Jervis Bay

Heather from Salty Lotus was kind enough to answer a few questions on what she considers the best things to do in Jervis Bay. We are convinced, it is time for a trip to the South Coast of NSW!

Heather – A typical day for us would start with taking our dogs to Nelson Beach – off leash before 8am and after 4pm – for a frolic with their furry friends. We often see sea eagles, and If we are lucky, we see and sometimes even swim with dolphins! There is a strong sense of community, with the same people there every morning regardless of the weather. But it is also lovely to meet visiting dogs and make new friends, so everyone is welcomed.

Jervis Bay Beach Options

Cave Beach

If there is no wind, we head to Booderee National Park for a surf at Cave Beach. When there is no surf we sometimes go snorkelling at Murray’s Beach.

Collingwood Beach

On a windy afternoon, we go kiteboarding or ‘wing dinging’ at the north end of Collingwood Beach. Friends and family enjoy coming down to the rocky outcrop at Moona Moona to watch.

kiteboartding jervis bay

Greenfields Beach & Hyams Beach

When we have visitors staying with us, one of my favourite activities is to have a picnic at Greenfields Beach, then wander along the white sands walk and Scribbly gum track, all the way to Hyams Beach.

Other things to do in Jervis Bay

On a still afternoon, a sunset SUP yoga class will leave you floating. It will be be equally challenging, hilarious, and a blissfully relaxing. With the sun setting over the hills in the west and at the same time the moon rising in the east, it is magical experience. Only surpassed by a full moon SUP yoga class.  

Nearby Nowra is a sport climbing mecca, but Point Perpendicular, the north headland of Jervis Bay offers some of the best sea cliff climbing in Australia. My neighbour offers ‘cliffnics’ through his company Outdoor Raw. Enjoy local wine and produce while suspended from Shoalhavens most amazing cliffs – the best date ever!

Other notable mentions include Kraken Sourdough for a delicious late breakfast and grab some quality bread for lunch. If the weather is bad, grab some popcorn and catch a movie at Huski Pictures – a quaint theatre in a former community hall built in 1913. Or meet some friends at one of the local breweries for a catch up over a craft beer.

Tell us more about SUP Yoga

For experienced yogis, being immersed in nature adds a new dimension, and being on a floating SUP engages different muscles, increases your focus and challenges you in ways you can’t imagine.

But SUP yoga is for everyone, yogis and non-yogis alike, paddlers and non-paddlers. 

It is a playful, fun, full body work out that will have you laughing until your abs hurt, then feeling the deepest sense of peace as you end the class lying on your back in savasana, with your eyes closed and only the sound of the water lapping at your SUP, birds calling and a gentle breeze rustling the beach vegetation in the distance. Try it – even the staunchest sceptics are won over well before the end of a class.

SUP Yoga Jervis Bay

Thanks for your detailed locals guide Heather!

If anyone is in Jervis Bay, we highly recommend you reach out and book a SUP Yoga class with https://www.saltylotus.com.au/

CategoriesAustralia Surfing By Huw Williams

Manly Beach

Manly, Sydney

Manly is widely regarded as the birthplace of surfing in Australia and to this day is widely regarded as a hotbed of board riding talent. From hosting the inaugural World Surfing Championships in 1964 won by 19 year old Northern Beaches local Midget Farrelly, fast forward to the 2000s and Manly’s Layne Beachley dominated the Women’s professional surfing tour winning an unprecedented 7 World Championships. 

Manly has a very international vibe and is very popular with both students and visiting tourists falling in love with golden sandy beaches and the charming heritage architecture lining the Corso.

Paddle into the lineup at any of Manly’s surf breaks and you could be sharing waves with past, present and future world surfing champs, not to mention the great community of surfers from all walks of life! 

South Steyne Beach

South Steyne A great option in a howling South westerly storm, the protected south corner at South Steyne is a popular local hangout especially for the groms and longboarders. Often out of bounds during lifeguard patrol hours in the summer months as it’s a favoured spot for the red and yellow swim zone!

Manly Beach Sydney

North Steyne Beach

North Steyne One of Sydney’s most consistent high quality waves and home to everything from grass roots surfing with the annual Aloha Junior Boardriders all the way to the WQS/WSL Challenger Series Tour and World Longboard Tour.

Longboard Surf Manly

Hollow Waves ManlyQueenscliff Beach

Queenscliff Look North towards the cliffs and you’ll see the letters QBC painted in a big red heart. This stretch of sand at the mouth of the lagoon is Queenscliff-home to the Queenscliff Boardriders Club. This place is a great alternative on a crowded day. Keep an eye out the back for the Queenscliff Bombora- a big wave spot and also a great indicator to when the sets are rolling in!

Winki / Fairy Bower

Winki/Fairy Bower is a beautifully peeling righthand point on a small day, but once there’s a sniff of power in the swell Winki can turn into an epic hollow tubing slab which can connect all the way into Fairy Bower to give an unforgettable experience! To reach this spot you can either paddle out of the bay at Shelly Beach or for a more direct paddle out follow the path through the trees and scale the path down through the rocks.

fairy bowler point

Deadman’s Cliffs

Deadman’s Cliffs As the name suggests, this place is definitely NOT for the faint hearted. Congrats if you didn’t die whilst scaling down the cliff face and timing the rock-off into the lineup! Deadman’s or Deadies as the locals refer to it is a seriously gnarly right hand slab that only breaks a handful of times a year, usually during the East Coast Low pressure systems we experience during the winter months. On it’s day you’ll find only the bravest core lords taking on heaving walls of water just metres away from the cliffs to the hoots and screams of the crowds gathered on cliffs to watch!

Shelley Beach & Cabbage Tree Bay

Shelly Beach – Cabbage Tree Bay If the waves are flat or you’re simply surfed out then Manly has a secret for you. Grab a snorkel mask or even just a set of swimming goggles and say ‘hey Siri take me to Shelly Beach’ Just a short walk south along the beachfront is Shelly Beach, you’ll pass the fairy bower rock pool and there you’ll find the sandy little cove of Shelly- as beautiful under the water as it is above the water. On any given day you’re likely to see to turtles, shoals of fish, schools of dolphin and if you look hard enough maybe you’ll spot a Wobegong or even a Port Jackson Shark..

Noosa
CategoriesAustralia Surfing By Huw Williams

First Point Noosa – Worlds Longest Wave?

First Point, Noosa does not always produce the goods. But when it does work, you better come prepared, because this wave is a serious leg burner!

Huw Williams from Coastal Content was in the right place at the right time when Cyclone Seth bought some excellent surf to Noosa on the Sunshine Coast. Now before there is any backlash on the claim, the wave has not been submitted to the Guinness World Record book, but we think it is worth a mention!

best rock pools mornington peninsula
CategoriesAustralia By Sam Barnes

Best rock pools in Mornington Peninsula

Locals Guide to the best rock pools on the peninsula

Just don’t tell them we sent you! The Mornington Peninsula has many secret spots that have become super popular with tourist in the passed few years. One of the many reasons to visit the Mornington Peninsula is the rock pools of Sorrento, Portsea and many other cliff jumping spots like Mount Martha. Here is a list of the top spots/

  • Sorrento Beach
  • Portsea Beach
  • Mount Martha Cliff Jumps

Sorrento Beach