Gold Coast brand launches in collaboration with local artists.
Gold Coast brand launches in collaboration with local artists.
The Gold Coast’s newest label The Undercurrent is a brand with a mission, a Gold Coast one. Created to showcase our amazing city through art on something accessible to everyone, t-shirts.
The brand’s name is both a nod to the Coast’s thriving surf culture and the side of the city locals keep hidden.
Through her extensive travels proud Gold Coaster and brand creator, Carly Snodgrass, often came across t-shirts locally designed and capturing the essence of each particular city.
She quickly realised that although the Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors from across the world due to its beautiful golden beaches, thriving nightlife and of course, abundant theme parks, it is also a culturally diverse city with a whole lot more to offer.
And this is the side that should be shown to the world.
Enter the artists. Carly commissioned five local artists – Claudio Kirac, Kiel Tillman, Sarah Beetson, Eric Koo and Byron Coathup – to illustrate their interpretation of the Gold Coast suburb in which they live.
Currumbin, Burleigh Heads, Coolangatta, Surfers Paradise and Mermaid Beach are the suburbs currently represented with more to be added at a later date.
The Undercurrent’s purpose is to work with those who share their passion for the city’s unique culture and offer them the opportunity to create projects on their home turf.
$2 from every purchase will be donated to Surf Lifesaving Queensland who were specifically chosen by The Undercurrent due to the huge part they play in both assisting tourists and the vital role in shaping our city’s culture.
Since 1930 Surf Life Saving Queensland’s mission has been to protect the lives of the millions of people visiting our beaches every year and The Undercurrent wishes to support them in continuing their fantastic work.
The Undercurrent will officially launch online April 1st and you can catch them at The Village Markets this Sunday the 2nd of April from 8.30am to 1pm.
Words by Kirra Smith.
Fill your weekend, pantry and wardrobe!
Ah markets, how we love thee. Temporarily transforming all our very favourite sun-soaked haunts into stall-laden shopping meccas so that we can get amongst the good vibes, gather fresh provisions and snap up meticulously crafted unique creations from talented local makers.
And for our troubles? Top it all of by refuelling with a hot coffee, fresh smoothie or the obligatory extra-large serve of Poffertjes.
There’s something (or many somethings…) for everyone and best of all, you’re supporting local – and isn’t that what it’s all about!
Here is a who’s who list of our fabulous local Friday, Saturday and Sunday markets here on our beloved Gold Coast.
HOTA Farmers & Artisan Markets
The stunning HOTA grounds offer an equally picturesque and conveniently central spot to convene and soak up some #sundayfunday good vibes and a whole lot of local goodies. Thanks to a little transformation into vibrant (literally and figuratively) cultural hub, the Bundall site is also home to a hotted up weekly market offering which has become one of the Gold Coast’s numero ono community events.
They’re passionate about local farmers, makers, bakers and growers, with in-season farm-fresh produce, delicious artisan foods, boutique fashion, handcrafted treasures and live music. Nestled against the backdrop of Evendale Lake and the surrounding parklands, the kids can take a dip while you sit back and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere (read: eat fresh pastries and sip hot coffee). Bliss!
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
When: Every Sunday 6am – 11.30am
Dreamworld Night Market
The only night market in a theme park? Now that’s a flex! The Dreamworld Night Market is the Northern Gold Coast’s go-to for epic food truck eats, live music, themed events, and even after-dark theme park rides. Yep, you can soar through the sky on The Dreamworld Flyer or bump your way through the Deep Sea Dodgems while feasting on street food. With special events like live pro wrestling, comedy nights, and LEGO® workshops, there’s always something fun on the lineup. Entry is just $2 (or FREE for kids and passholders), so why not make your Friday night a little more thrilling?
Where: Dreamworld, Dreamworld Parkway, Coomera
When: Every Friday & Saturday, 5pm – 9pm
Carrara Markets
Still the biggest market in Oz, Carrara Markets house over 300 stalls. Discount shopping at its best, there is literally nothing you can’t find from fresh produce, fashion, homewares, pots, plants, bric a brac, cars, souvenirs, arts and crafts and everything in between. Perfect for the family, there’s buskers, pony rides, a baby animal farm, bungy trampolines, mini golf, face painters, and even a new walk-in Butterfly House.
Where: Gooding Drive, Carrara
When: Every Saturday and Sunday, 7am – 3pm
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
No prizes for guessing where these markets are located. Mere footsteps from the sand, they’ve been an iconic Gold Coast shopping and cultural experience since the mid-90s. Featuring artisan and traditional Aussie goods, fresh produce, gourmet provisions, handmade wares and more, they showcase our best growers, makers, characters and creators. When you’re done, Surfers’ melting pot of restaurants and bars are a hop, skip and a jump over the road.
Where: The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
When: Every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night, 4pm – 9pm
Gold Coast Art & Craft Sunday Markets
Lining the beachfront at Broadbeach and Coolangatta these markets have been a local fave for over three decades. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, souvenirs, art, craft, the ingenious or the weird and the wonderful, it’s here. A-buzz with atmosphere, there are over 150 stalls showcasing original Australian-made products, fresh produce, yummy food and live entertainment.
Where & When: Kurrawa Park – The first and third Sunday of every month from 8am – 2pm at 155 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
Queen Elizabeth Park – The second and fourth Sunday of every month from 8am – 2pm at 60 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
The Sanctuary Markets
On The Village Green at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll find these popular markets. A nod to the GC’s multi-culturalism with local and international foods plus cool arts and crafts, you’ll also be wowed by our best homegrown entertainers. The venue is fully licensed (translation: let’s wine), featuring craft beers exclusively from Burleigh Brewing Co, and vinos courtesy of Sirromet Wines.
Where: On The Village Green, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
When: Every Friday, 4pm – 9pm
Farmers Markets
There are options aplenty when it comes to farmers markets around the Coast to source your fruit, veggies, locally made goods, plants and of course, brekky and caffeine. Supporting local farmers with both organic and conventional produce, you’ll get the feel-good factor as well as the taste-good factor! A ritual for many locals on weekends, it sure beats hitting the mainstream grocery retailers. Plus, the best thing is, you’re spoilt for choice with a number of different locations to hit up.
Get the full list here: Gold Coast farmers markets
Broadwater Pavilion Markets
A newer in-stall-ment to the GC’s market scene, Southport’s open air market by the sea is quickly establishing itself as a fave among Northern residents with stacks of fun for the whole family. There’s plenty of entertainment for the kiddos, with face painting, henna, hair braiding, character appearances all frequenting the lineup. While those who have aged out of face-paint demographic (#tear) can hunt for some hand-crafted wares with all manner of scented, ceramic, and sewn goodies on rotation from local stallholders. Bonus for paw-rents: they’re pet friendly (on lead), so bring your pup along for a paw-some day out.
Where: Bathing Pavilion Lawn, Marine Parade, Southport
When: The third Saturday of every second month, 8am – 2pm
Miami Marketta
There’s only one thing better than a market and that’s a vibin’ night market. The Coast’s OG laneway dining experience hosts food vendors of all nationalities in the one space, take your entrée from Spain, your main from Thailand, and sweets from France. How multicultural of you! With farshon (fashion – but we just like saying FARSHON) and accessories from local designers, these markets have cool factor for days.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
When: Every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday, 5pm – 10pm
Jack Evans Boat Harbour Waterfront Markets
Another one of the newer kids on the proverbial market block, the picturesque Tweed promenade snaking by the Boat Harbour waterfront was just begging for local stallholders and their crafty creations to set up shop and complement our leisurely Saturday strolls.
A stunner of a spot for the Southern GC (four-legged friends invited also!) to congregate with live music, artisan food vendors, hand crafted treasures and boutique fashion stalls a plenty. After you’ve shopped up a storm, cool off with a spot of paddle boarding as the glistening water beckons.When: Jack Evans Boat Harbour Market: first Saturday of every month, 8am – 1pm. Night Market: second & fourth Friday of every month, 4pm – 8pm
Where: Wharf St, Tweed Heads
Words by Bianca Trathen
Bug rolls, the beloved hill and local brews.
Oh, Burleigh, you little beauty, what’s not to love, right? Since the dawn of time (or the dawn of the GC at least), Burleigh has been one of the most-loved suburbs amongst a slew of strong contenders.
Sure, the beach is beautiful (that Hill is iconic for a reason) and James Street boasts all the best eats and acai bowls galore, but it’s more than that. Burleigh has a soul of its own born of cruisy, barefoot, salty sea breeze vibes you simply won’t find anywhere else. Gushing aside, we’ve found the best of Burleigh so you don’t have to.
Here’s our guide to the best eats, bars, shopping spots and places to visit so you can see why the locals love it and you should too (or else). We always say, when in Burleigh, do as the locals do.
Perched three floors high, within the stunning new Mondrian Gold Coast, is Haven. What is the Haven, you ask? It’s a nothing-short-of-exceptional beach club, spanning a refined yet relaxed dining room, private cabanas, a full-service pool club and a sunset bar. Whether you’re brunching in your bikini or toasting at twilight, Haven is where it’s at. As the sun sets, the evening comes alive with a soundtrack of DJs, curated playlists and live performances.
Where: Level 3/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Literally opening out onto the sand at Burleigh Beach, Rick Shores is loved not just by locals but globally for its stunning sunset views and those tiny little taste sensations, otherwise known as Bug Rolls. If you’ve never tasted one, you’ve been wasting your life (seriously). Make a booking RIGHT NOW and order like 5. Wash them down with one of Rick’s signature cocktails, and you’re a bona fide Burleigh-ite.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If you’re looking for fancy food but with the relaxed vibe that’s quintessentially Burleigh, look no further. The stunning space offers incredible Vietnamese dishes inspired by trips to Vietnam, tasting some of the very best street food in the world every single day. Sounds epic! It’s a refined style of dining paired with mouthwatering cocktails and a sleek, pared-back vibe. Jimmy Wahs is one of the Gold Coast’s most impressive eateries, and we are big fans.
Where: 1724 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
The fine dining venue has become part of the fabric of Burleigh’s bustling heart, but it’s also become one of the Gold Coast’s premier dining destinations. Tucked away on West Street, the five-star, seasonal-produce-led restaurant is an absolute must-visit. Trust us, your dining experience here won’t be easily forgotten. The produce is sustainable, and the wine list features some of the most stunning natural wines in the world. The service is impeccable too, but in a fun, not-too-formal way. We LOVE.
Where: 2A/8 West Street, Burleigh Heads
Après Surf is your friendly neighbourhood bar in Burleigh. If a crisp beer, indulgent pub-style eats, and DJ beats sound like your pint of lager, this place is for you. It’s plain ol good vibes from 5pm daily (except Tuesdays) with DJs every weekend! Head there on a Thursday for $1 dumplings and free stand-up comedy from 8pm! Doesn’t get much better than that, and Burleigh locals know it.
Where: 1/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
They started off as a taco-slinging hole-in-the-wall in Palm Beach in 2021, instantly becoming a cult favourite. Now, they’ve levelled things up with a move to Burleigh. Think bigger and better space, with the same beloved laid-back Aussie beach culture, and big Mexican flavours we all know and love. The new location invites you to settle in, sip a marg (or three) and let the good vibes take you to Mexico. Batanga, anyone?
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Looking for a Burleigh locals’ guide to the best fish and chips in town? Look no further. And this place doesn’t just stop at fish and chips (even though we wouldn’t recommend going past them). They also serve fresh poke bowls and vibrant superfood bowls, plus a range of Bali-inspired dishes that reel in people from all over; they’re that good. Think flavour-packed Gado-Gado, nasi goreng and Bali satay chicken sticks. Wash it down with a premium cocktail and watch Burleigh come to life (this place is in a prime people-watching locale).
Where: 1716 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
A true family-run gelateria, Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is run by husband-and-wife duo Craig and Rebecca Heininger, alongside their daughter, Jaime. Since opening in late 2025, they’ve been serving scoops of authentic, 100% natural Italian gelato to Burleigh locals (and visitors), and we cannot be more thankful. The signature Al Bacio, meaning “as good as a kiss” in Italian, is a rich chocolate-hazelnut scoop made with homemade hazelnut paste from Piemonte, Italy. Then, for those who like to gulp down their gelato, you can order your favourite flavour in thick shake form. Can we get a hell yeah?
Where: 7/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
As you cruise down the GC Highway, the striking red and white umbrellas and festoon lights grab your attention and give you a whiff of what awaits inside. Crispy Italian is where to head when you’ve got a hankering for wood-fired pizza done insanely well. You’ll get a fun, laid-back vibe and a menu stacked with la pasta, la pizza, woodfired gnocchi and desserts impossible to resist. Did someone say Aperol spritz? Oh yeah, that was us.
Where: 4/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Local is one of those venues that just gets it. Equal parts polished and laidback, this Burleigh favourite nails the brief from morning through to late arvo and beyond, making it the kind of place you pop into “just for one” and somehow leave with a full camera roll and a new core memory. With multiple spaces to suit every vibe, from the fairy light–lit beer garden and fully stacked tinnie bar to plush indoor booths and a main bar made for game days, Local is built for long hangs, big feeds and even bigger catch-ups. The menu covers all bases (classic pub grub, elevated plates and a few fancy moments for good measure) and the atmosphere is always buzzing.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
There’s a good reason this gem is heaving at all hours: the home of the iconic muffin top (IYKYK) and some of the best coffee in town. It’s not just locals who love it – you’ll find Gold Coasters and beyond flocking here for a taste of the goods. Come for a coffee and to get around their huge menu with something for everyone – literally, it’s impossible to not love something. Plus, we’re pretty sure it’s mandatory to leave with a pastry in tow – go on, you deserve it.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Locals know the only thing loose in this (top) paddock is scrumptious, buttery baked goods. Since opening its charmingly renovated doors in 2014, Paddock has been the ultimate spot for brunch, lunch and sweet treats that keep us coming back daily. With lush gardens, a cottage, loft, rooftop and barn to hide away in, the menu is just as endless as the spots to enjoy it – perfect for indulgence, people-watching, or a little bit of both.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
A local newbie that’s already earned its rightful place on this list (which is saying something). Start with a coffee- because there’s no other way, and theirs is superb- before diving deep into their menu full of hearty but totally healthy eats. Think Shakshuka Scramble with charred eggplant, peppers, tomato chilli salsa & charred bread. Chef’s hot tip: add brisket. Or, indulge yourself in a croque monsieur made with ham and gruyere, fried eggs, cheese sauce, green pea chef salad and parmesan that will blow your beret off. Everything here is made fresh, seasonal, and irresistible.
Where: 4 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
Serving Southern California vibes (think cactus, umbrellas, pastel greens) all day long, alongside morning margaritas (you read correctly), epic eats and epic coffee. If you didnt catch on, Palm Springs does things a little differently, and Burleigh locals love them for it. They said, ” We will give you avocado smash and serve you one better”. Better in the form of a morning marg with breakfast tacos. It may sound rogue, but don’t tell us it isn’t exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Ideal hangover feed, perfect weekend brunch. Thank us later.
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
This small but mighty wine bar has one of the largest selections of boutique wines (we mean, it is in the name) with some seriously epic eats to accompany. We can’t go past the cheeseburger – seriously, don’t sleep on this – and if you don’t know where to start on what to sip, the expert team always nail the reccos. Pop a Pet Nat on your must-try for something a little bubbly, or if you’re more of a red drinker, their signature chilled reds are the ultimate for a hot summer’s day.
Where: 12 James Street, Burleigh Heads
It’s the good time, slightly fancy Australiana bar of your dreams, and it is perfectly at home in Burleigh Heads. Rosella’s is a local haunt that’s been a firm favourite since its opening. With both a drinks and a food menu made entirely of Australian produce, we are in heaven. They’ve got cocktails inspired by Fantales, Blinky Bill and Bondi Beach, all the very best Aussie beers and some of the tastiest eats to pair. It’s refined, beautifully decked out and created by a couple of absolute legends. Love.
Where: 6/1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
This fam-and-friends-run distillery from husband-and-wife duo Justin and Lana Bell is serving up elevated cocktails designed specifically for sipping (and swooning), paired with snacky plates that absolutely understood the assignment. The space is a moody, deep-green, tropical-tiki dream and the drinks are bespoke and downright dangerous in the best way. Oh, and they’re big on collabs too, teaming up with like-minded legends to keep things fresh and fun, so consider this your official cue to keep a very close eye out for their next one. It’s intimate, it’s stylish, it’s packed with heart (and gin), and it’s proof that when you mix great spirits with great people, magic happens.
Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
If Burleigh had a local hall of fame, Burleigh Pavilion would be its MVP. This beachfront institution sits right above the sand at Burleigh Heads, serving up panoramic ocean views, sunset vibes and reliably good times from arvo cocktails to dinner dates and everything in between. Within its sprawling space you’ve got casual beach-bar energy, breezy terraces and The Tropic, the coastal-meets-Mediterranean restaurant where you can settle in for a sun-soaked lunch or a long, leisurely dinner with views literally stretching to the horizon. Whether you’re here for the drinks, the eats, the views, or just to feel like you’re living your best summer life year-round, Burleigh Pavilion is basically Burleigh’s living room with a better wine list.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
If there’s one thing Burleigh deserves (the big legend), it’s a brewery, and Burleigh Brewing Co. certainly delivers. since opening in 2006, Burleigh Brewing Co. has produced a lineup of delicious drops – all perfectly Burleigh. Get a sixer for Netflix and chill, or head into the brewery from Friday to Sunday afternoons to get amongst it.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
This place is the ideal setting for a lil cocktail and antipasti moment. A wine with your significant other, cocktail hour with the gals, or dare we say, a quick shot to kick off an epic night. Alongside wines, beers, margs and cocktails, they serve ‘a quality shot’ for those who value efficiency or are known to be fashionable-late and need to catch up, as they say. That’s definitely not us…Okay, it’s totally us.
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Hidden inside the opulent Mondrian hotel, Ciel Spa is the city’s first bio-wellness spa blending high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury. Forget cucumber slices and pan pipe music, here you’re getting a serious glow-up down to a cellular level. From zero-gravity dry float sessions and Himalayan salt rooms to LED facials and cosmetic doctor appointments, they have it all. It’s a bit of a treat-yo-self moment.
Where: Level 2/3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Well, hasn’t this simple little piece of Mother Nature become an icon? No matter the day of the week (but particularly Sunday arvos), “the hill” as it’s affectionately known, is packed with picnic rugs, ball games and groups of revellers basking in the sunshine. Looking out over the ocean and with the city in the distance, it’s the perfect spot for a late afternoon lemonade or early morning coffee date with the crew. Order some of your fav takeaway from James Street, and perch up on a picnic blanket to soak up the scenery. Better yet, sunset.
Where: The south end of The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads
If you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll around Burleigh Hill to Talle Creek for some Insta-worthy rainforest scenery. Or if you’re game, head up the vertical trail for a hill climb that’s rewarded with an epic view. Yes, some sweat may be involved, but it’s all in the good spirit of exploration. Cool down after with a swim at Burleigh Beach or Talle Creek, wherever you end up.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
A relaxing little beachside club loved by young and old alike, Burleigh Bowls has been around since 1937 and is certainly a prime piece of real estate these days. Barefoot Bowls rolls on from 12–5pm every Sunday, and it’s a measly $10 per person, including coaching and bowls (AKA ball whipper snappers). Get down and support your local while sipping on a schooner.
Where: Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
If you’re in need of some retail therapy, then James Street is the only place you need to go. The range of shopping has everything you need, whether you’re looking for some new additions to your home from Maison & Maison or to update your wardrobe at Emte, you’re guaranteed to leave suitably more stylish. If you’re looking for the perfect piece of art to dress your walls at work or home, Art Yarramunua is our pick for their incredible collection of expertly curated indigenous art.
Where: James Street, Burleigh Heads
Everyone’s favourite Saturday morning market adventure. Get up early, grab your basket and set out in search of fruit, veggies and of course, your first coffee of the weekend. These days, the farmers market also boasts locally made clothing and homewares, flowers, meat and seafood and delicious breaky and lunch options. Happy days! Open every Saturday from 7am–12 ‘rain, hail or shine’.
Where: Burleigh Heads State School, Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
