Okay friends, we need to talk.

There are very few sleeps until Christmas day and yes, our hearts started pounding too. Firstly because it’s legit our favourite time of the year and secondly coz crap, we need to get our rears into gear and sort presents stat.

If you’re like us and running way behind in this department (every.darn.year), here’s a roundup of inspo to help you get a wriggle on.

Being the proud Gold Coasters that we are, each of our suggestions is based in our ‘hood, coz #supportlocal will forever be our favourite hashtag (and we do love a good hashtag, in case you hadn’t noticed).

Here we go….

Spirits and Beer
Get in the spirit this Christmas – quite literally! Who doesn’t love a tipple so a pressie from one of these local booze-bosses, you’ll be the golden child/friend/niece/nephew/co-worker…you get the gist.

Starting with to the central power players, Granddad Jack’s in Miami will sort you out with a selection of extra special Christmas gift packs. Or hit up a rising fave which has been attracting attention for all the right reasons, Burleigh’s Familiar Spirits. We highly recommend their limited-edition Pudding Gin (you’re welcome).

For beer enthusiasts who want both the sips and the swag, the Coast has you sorted. Burleigh Brewing Co. (their Twisted Palm Tropical Pale Ale is basically summer in a can) and Balter are classics, while newcomers Roji Cat and Padre are quickly building a cult following. And if someone’s craving a proper Belgian-style brew, Ashmore’s Madlocke Beer Brewing Company is the go-to.

Coffee
For anyone who runs on caffeine (so, most of us), the Gold Coast has some seriously gift-worthy coffee options. Local roasters like Social Espresso in Burleigh, Willy’s Beans in Burleigh Heads, and Miami’s Whyld Coffee Roastery are serving up freshly roasted beans that make your morning brew feel like a celebration. Perfect for popping straight into a machine at home or gifting to a mate who appreciates a quality cuppa, these roasters combine passion, flavour, and a little bit of Gold Coast magic in every bag. Whether you’re gifting a single bag or a subscription, it’s a present that keeps the energy (and smiles) flowing.

Apparel
Like booze, we all love threads, so when in doubt, look to these local legends!

PJ’s are a go-to for a well-received Chrissie gift and Homebodii specialises in thoughtfully created, elegant sleepwear which, bonus, can be personalised.

Head for Rhythm in Burleigh or online to Olas Supply Co for the coastal surfy vibing missus or mister.

You can never have too much activewear, making it a quintessential GC gift. Local (and local-ish) favourites like KEEPTHATPUMP, Cleo Harper and LSKD have you covered, whether they’re hitting the gym or just rocking the athleisure look.

The lads at Alfred’s Apartment are providing our local men with an ever-growing range of curated fashion and accessories. And, on a totally unrelated note, you NEED to drop in and check out their coffee slushies stat. #thankuslater.

Take it from us, an oversized T from Sabbi is on every GC girl’s wish list!

For the ultimate #supportlocal nod, you cannot go past The Undercurrent. Stocking men’s and women’s unique, high quality tees, singlets and caps designed exclusively by Gold Coast artists who share a passion for our city’s culture, it’s the perfect stocking filler.

Uggs are the quintessential Aussie must-have and the genuine, original version are crafted right here on the GC at Ugg Since 1974. Our tip: personalise your Ugg for a truly unforgettable gift!

Homewares
We all love homewares (verified fact) and both Kira and Kira in Miami and Burleigh and St Barts in Burleigh and Southport stock the highest quality, timeless homewares, décor, artwork, and furniture.

For linen lovers (AKA e.v.e.r.y.o.n.e), I Love Linen has a long list of goodies for the bedroom, the kitchen, and beyond.

For the greenery enthusiast, pop into Greenfolk Botany Shop in Burleigh for plants, cacti, succulents, pots, home and garden wares.

Now these guys aren’t strictly Gold Coaster’s (hailing from just over the border) but we reckon Clubbies Prints Gold Coast surf series are so spesh they need to be included #soznotsoz.

Head to our list of Pinterest-worthy Gold Coast homewares stores for more inspo.

Vouchers & experiences
For the friend who already owns everything (including three air fryers and a suspicious number of beach umbrellas), experiences are where it’s at. Think memberships to the Gold Coast Suns for the footy fan who lives for game day, animal encounters at the theme parks for anyone who melts at the sight of a meerkat, or a voucher to check out the soon-to-open cliff park Happitat, because who doesn’t want bragging rights as “one of the first in”? These gifts don’t just unwrap well… they make you look like an absolute gifting genius.

Other Gifts
Annabel Trends is your go to for funky giftware and gorgeous home accessories! Every Gold Coaster appreciates a lush, premium quality beach or bath towel, just like those at Mayde Towels and no-one does environmentally-friendly natural skincare like Sabbia Co.

Give the gift of an instant bar with locally crafted The Bench Bar – a sleek bar that hooks over any railing. Perfect for summer gatherings, sunset drinks and easy entertaining.

Mermaid Beach-based STYLD. is always a great option for effortless gifting, and their Baby, Let’s Go Outside collection is a sunshine-soaked tribute to the Australian summer. With pieces that blur the line between indoor lounging and alfresco living, STYLD. nails that sweet spot where playful meets polished.

Small-batch, locally crafted jewellery from YCL Jewels is a great stocking filler, as is luxury hand-made artisan chocolate from Little Cocoa, who collaborate with esteemed local distilleries, artisans, and farmers to create bespoke chocolate experiences that reflect the essence of the Gold Coast.

And, last but not least, if you’ve yet to discover Good Neighbours, now’s the time! This Gold Coast gem curates the best selection of unique, Gold Coast goodies into beautifully packed boxes – handmade treats, boutique finds and thoughtful products that make the perfect stress-free Christmas gift while supporting local makers.

HAPPY SHOPPING!

Words by Bianca Trathen & Belinda Symons

You may be thinking, no worries guys, when I make my next million I’ll invest in a boat and get back to this story (insert eye roll). But guess what, there are plenty of boatibilities throughout our fair city from BBQ boats (best) to jetskis and sailboats to super yachts. Never fear, even if you don’t own a boat (us too) you can hire one without all those exxy repair costs!

And no matter your budget, there’s a way to get out on that sparkly water and when you do, here are a few places to explore (from north to south).

Runaway Bay
If a boating day trip is on the agenda, head up to the delightful Runaway Bay where the waterways are wide and the general feeling is one of extreme chill. You can cruise around for the day or put down your anchor and venture onto the land. Runaway Bay is like a holiday for locals with its waterside cafes and restaurants, grassy relaxation areas (otherwise known as parks) and scores of people who are thrilled to be living the high vibe life.
Where: Runaway Bay (northern Gold Coast)

Gold Coast Broadwater
Land of the giant, glossy famous-people owned yachts. Don’t let that put you off though, there’s plenty of room for everyone. At the south end, Marina Mirage is home to plenty of restaurants from family-friendly to five star and there are many shops to spend all your hard-earned money in. If spending ain’t your thing, there are lots of little beaches (locals top pick is Wavebreak or The Spit) you can stop into for complete privacy and relaxation. Pack a picnic and your bikini and stay for the day.
Where: Southport / Main Beach

Capri on Via Roma
Tucked away across a soon-to-be-revamped bridge is Isle of Capri, Surfers Paradise’ fancy next door neighbour. The suburb sits on the stunning Gold Coast waterways with views for days and plenty of spots for boat parking. Our recommendation is Capri on Via Roma, the beautiful shopping and dining precinct boasting five-star restaurants and even better views. Park your boat on the eastern side and pop out for brekky on the alfresco dining area then grab some fresh flowers and maybe a slab of cheese and be on your way.
Where: Isle of Capri

Tallebudgera Creek
Not only is it the perfect place for swimming, picnics and stand up paddle boarding, you can also grab a small boat and cruise up the waterways for as long as your little heart desires. There are heaps of hidden coves and tucked away beaches to pull into and if you venture far enough, it’s highly likely you won’t come across another soul. It’s the perfect way to spend a balmy summer Sunday with your friends. Don’t forget the sunscreen.
Where: South of Burleigh Heads

Currumbin Creek
Park at Duringan Street and take off into the calm, clear waters of Currumbin Creek. You can hire a boat, SUP or a BBQ pontoon (which anyone can drive), fill up your esky and get exploring. The creek is about 20 kilometres in length and at a cruisy, Sunday morning pace that could easily eat up half a day of your life. Pull into any number of beaches for a pit stop, maybe eat some fresh oysters off the rocks and generally revel in the good vibes the Gold Coast has to offer.
Where: Currumbin Creek (yep)

Of course, if you’re not into captaining a boat yourself (it’s not for everyone), check out the great water activities here and let someone else do the hard work while you cruise around with a drink in hand.

Words by Kirra Smith