Flolo Studio is the best barre none.
Flolo Studio is the best barre none.
Whether you’re partial to the odd stretch-induced sweat sesh, or you’re a daily mind-body devotee, finding a perfect yoga studio that ticks all the boxes is like striking gold. We mean, is a spacious yet cosy, modern but not clinical space with a great vibe aaaand *dramatic inhale* a convenient location really so much to ask?!
Which is why, if you’ve noticed yoga circuit stalwart, Floating Lotus Studio MIA in recent weeks, we’re happy to report we can all breathe an (ocean breath sized) sigh of relief. Join us in breaking out the Sun Salutations as the fan-fave blossoms into its elevated new era as Flolo Studio… aand, exhale.
Widely considered one of the best by the Gold Coast’s bendiest, Floating Lotus Studio has gone from strength to strength in recent years. After helping Gold Coasters achieve Asana, feel energised and move like we never left our 20’s for some seven years now, owners Nalini and Jason Tebbey felt it was time to embark on a total transformation to better reflect the evolution of their brand’s bespoke wellness offering.
Now sporting a slick new moniker to go with the top notch yoga and pilates experience we know and love, Flolo Studio encapsulates their vision for a modern, accessible, and memorable wellness space. Plus, it’s just downright fun to say.
Proudly boasting a broad variety of membership options, class styles and teachers, local down-dog disciples can get everything from their flow yoga to barre fix out of two lush locations in Helensvale and Robina. Originally taking the reins of the OG Helensvale studio back in 2017, Nalini and Jason focused their efforts into transforming the flagging space into a thriving community; later moving to a larger location at Homeworld Helensvale to keep up with demand.
Bolstering their offering with a yoga-retreat vibing second location in Robina early last year, the dreamy new addition has been going great ‘guns’ since (see what we did there… flexes arm Arnie style). Both promise a boutique studio experience that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. The two spaces provide a sense of yin yang, balancing a light and airy Helensvale vibe with a soothing, moody ambience in Robina. And hot tip, flexibility fiends, you can even go between the two depending on your mood with any of the memberships or passes on offer.
For Nalini and Jason, living and (literally) breathing this yoga business is their passion. At its core Flolo is about “making movement as accessible as possible to as many people as possible” and having fun in the process, adding “our studios have a strong community focus, it is an absolute joy to see the connections that our members make in studio, to themselves, and to each other”. Om, anyone else feel those FOMO levels suddenly skyrocketing?
There’s clearly something pretty special in the water here, folks.
As a special treat just for Inside Gold Coast readers, Flolo Studio has hooked us up with an exclusive special so we can experience that difference for ourselves. Click here for 7 days of unlimited classes! Ahh, just the nudge we needed.
Let the good times flow.
Where: 2/217-219 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina and Shop 69/502 Hope Island Rd, Helensvale.
When: Open daily (hours vary, check website for info)
Website: www.flolo.studio
Instagram: @flolo.studio
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY FLOLO STUDIO
Chameleon New Age Salon shows its true colours with an epic, community-minded bash.
Whether it’s time to tame that boisterous bob, freshen up those limp locks or you’re craving a complete makeover for your mane, there are few names trusted as implicitly as Surfers Paradise’s innovative icon, Chameleon New Age Salon.
Renowned for its unparalleled customer service and transformative hair experiences, our very own home-grown hair haven will soon also be able to claim bragging rights as the largest and best salon in, not only the state – but the entire nation. Hold. The. Foam! Currently in the throes of an impressive transformation of its own, the Chameleon crew is gearing up to unveil an expansion that’s set to redefine the Australian salon landscape.
Dishing up an experience as dynamic as the captivatingly colourful ‘do’s they’re synonymous with, a trip to Chameleon New Age Salon has long been known as anything but your average salon zhuzh up. A sanctuary for the mind, body and soul tucked just off the bustling Surfers Paradise Blvd strip, the enigmatic hair lair is lauded among locals for its unique, holistic approach to feeling fab from our follicles to our toes. At Chameleon, the multi-talented and highly awarded team offer so much more than unmatched colouring, cutting and styling smarts – with bespoke wellness services from tailored massage to tarot readings commonly offered alongside the cutting-edge hair treatments.
Opting to swallow the former yoga studio space upstairs (for now!), come April the vibrant super venue will be operating across 2 levels, with a sprawling 600m2 footprint that will allow the Chameleon crew to better meet the demand of their devotees.
Never one to do things by halves, tress trailblazer and Chameleon founder Bromwyn Corrigan now has set her sights on throwing an epic, community-minded Cut-A-Thon to coincide with the venue’s exciting new era. To mark the momentous achievement, Chameleon will be celebrating with a community Cut-A-Thon on Saturday April 20th in a show of appreciation for the ‘wonderful Surfers Paradise community who have supported us for the last 9 years’. Partnering with Friends of Parks QLD, the proceeds of Chameleon’s charitable hair affair will go toward the enhancement of protected areas and parks across Queensland… and who among us is not absolutely buzzed about supporting local conservation efforts.
Punters will be looking fine and feeling even better, with Chameleon’s scissor-wielding wizards on the tools from 2pm–5pm, doling out charitable cuts and barbering by donation-only for the duration of the epic extravaganza. They’re also firing up the barbie with a sausage sizzle to boot – and surely a community-minded snag goes down even sweeter than a democracy sausage any day of the week.
The only requirement to participate in the cut-a-palooza is to come with clean and dry hair, with the proceedings operating on a first-come, first-served basis.
So what say you, Gold Coasters? If you fancy contributing to a cause that matters grab some mates, scrape together some moolah, get down early and score a glow up of your own in the process. Sounds like a sweet deal to us.
Where: 3171 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
When: Cut-A-Thon event, 2pm–5pm, Saturday April 20th
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY CHAMELEON NEW AGE HAIR SALON
Bowl’d claim we know, but trust us.
After a long day in the surf, there is nothing we want more than an ice-cold acai bowl to cool down and refuel. I guess you could say it’s an acai for sore eyes – see what we did there?
Okay, but does anyone really remember life before acai? That delicious little berry from the Amazon has been a breakfast, lunch and snack staple for Gold Coasters for years and because we take our jobs very seriously, we’ve done the heavy lifting (see: eating) so that you can kick back and chow down. Don’t mind us while we add acai aficionado to our resumé.
Okay, so you know it’s going to be good when they literally only make acai. Popping up all over the Coast, Oakberry has locations in all your favourite spots, so a bowl is never far away. What do we love most about the Oakberry acai bowl, you ask? No two are the same. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure vibe with bulk flavours, textures and toppings to create your custom flavour. We’re also low-key big fans of the fact that they come in cup-size containers too. No more praying your acai bowl won’t spill in the car on the drive home.
Where: Pretty much everywhere – Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, BSKT at Nobby Beach, Broadbeach, Pacific Fair, Coolangatta, The Pines, Robina and Paradise Point
They’ve served 4,117,946 bowls and counting (literally, you can watch it on their website). So it’s clear, they know how to make a good acai. Their acai bowls feel like a nauti treat, but they’re more like a serving of superfoods, made plant-based, with organic, soy-free and gluten-free ingredients! We recommend the Blue Bay Bowl made with Blue Majik, açaí, coconut, spirulina and chia, and topped with granola, banana, strawberries, and coconut butter crumbles– yummmmmmmm.
Where: Paradise Centre, Surfers Paradise, Q Super Centre, Mermaid Waters and Harbour Town, Biggera Waters
Maybe some of the most instagrammable bowls on the GC, Cardamom Pod’s bowls are truly a work of art. Loaded with colourful toppings and flavours like mango mousse, blue spirulina crème and a protein ball, the colourful mermaid tail finisher makes it feel almost too pretty to eat… Almost.
Where: 3/3 Brolga Ave, Southport
Get ready for a towering swirl of creamy acai- the ultimate soft-serve dream. Each bowl is loaded with fresh strawberries, bananas, and crunchy granola. You can then drizzle on your favourite sauce or get adventurous with something new. Fan favourites? Biscoff, Bueno and Pistachio. Drool! Their acai feels like a dessert, but there’s deep-fried ice cream if you want to send that sweet tooth on a home run. We drool again**
Where: Shop 2/ 32 Davenport Street, Southport
If you’re searching for acai perfection, look no further than Blendlove in Southport. The team behind this plant-based haven has been mastering the art of the perfect bowl for years, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of our faves on the Coast. Top yours with seasonal fruit and flaked coconut buckinis, and it’s like summer in a bowl.
Where: 1/253 Ferry Road, Southport
You probably already know them for their frozen yoghurt and if you don’t, then where have you been, honestly? Now they’re swirling up acai at both their Gold Coast locations and want to know what the best part is? You can swirl as little or as much as your tum desires AND build your perfect bowl with all of the iconic Yo-Chi toppings you know and love.
Where: 11/3240 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise and 89 Surf Parade, Broadbeach, Shop 1009/19 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina and 27 Connor St, Burleigh Heads
Taking the classic acai bowl to a whole new level, Goji Granola Bar is where locals flock, and celebrities are spotted when visiting our beachside haven. Anything but your average acai bowl, Goji’s signature Coco Fluff vegan ice cream is the hero topper, of course, with flavours changing weekly. Add fruit for something fresh or a churro if you want to indulge.
Where: 7/60 Santa Cruz Boulevard, Clear Island Waters
We’re feeling #blessed (sorry, we had to) that we have our very own Blessed Bowls on the Gold Coast. Hello, they do Dessert Night Hours?! You know the Brownie Acai is our go-to, with an acai base topped with organic granola, coco soft-serve, strawberries, brownie bites, cacao sauce and cacao nibs. They also have an OG, Peanut Bliss, Caramel Crunch, Choccy Blessed, Berry Blessed, Biscoff Acai and the Naked Acai. #heaven (again, we had to).
Where: Pacific Fair, 32 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach Waters
This corner-side hangout spot has long been the locals’ favourite place to grab a coffee and a bite post-swim/surf – and it’s easy to see why. Dreamy décor and fantastic breakfast and lunchtime menus mean this is the kind of place you want to visit on the regular with salty hair and sand between your toes.
Our pick: Get the Beach Lover Acai Bowl and don’t look back! All of the bright and zesty additions you’d expect but with a healthy dollop of peanut butter as its crown of glory.
Where: 2557 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
As classic as they come, Nobbys Shack has the traditional acai combo you know and love or another with a cheeky twist. Try the Buzzing Espresso for an unexpected flavour sensation with acai, coffee, banana, protein powder and coconut milk topped with muesli, coffee beans, cacao nibs, banana and fresh fruit– energy for days!
Where: 2241 Gold Coast Hwy, Nobby Beach
If you like big bowls and you cannot lie or you’re a southern Gold Coaster looking for your acai fix then you really don’t need to look further than The Salt Mill. Located in the perfect spot in Currumbin for you to pop in post swim and cool down with a bowl of icy goodness, all while soaking in epic beach front views – yes please! Trust us when we say the bowls are BIG, they’re loaded with crunchy goodness, fresh berries and passionfruit , plus a scoop of peanut butter if that tickles your fancy.
Where: 784 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Your one-stop-shop for all the significant essentials you need, and of course, some pretty darn good acai bowls! Whilst you wait for the bowl of your dreams, you can grab yourself some super fresh fruit, a candle or two, or even an epic-looking dried flower arrangement to spruce up a space at home.
Our pick: The Choc Acai Bowl for us – this overflowing bowl is blended with raw cacao and almond milk and is topped with ALL of the seasonal fruit imaginable.
Where: 4/467 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
You could say this superfood café have found their niche, think healthy food, good vibes and acai bowls that are anything but average. Our flavour of choice? The Snickers Acai Bowl for the perfect blend of fresh and full of flavour, it’s served with vegan granola, coyo salted caramel mousse, cacao nibs, house peanut butter, activated choc buckinis and salted caramel – it’s almost too good to believe it’s good for you!
Where: 4/449 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
This ‘burb has all the bells and whistles.
Pop quiz! Where’s one place on the Gold Coast, where you can shop till you drop, eat your body weight in quality nosh, wander amongst stunning natural parklands and more? It’s Robina! There’s also a hospital and train station, but unfortunately, they’re not exciting enough to make our list.
Here are 18 things that are exciting enough to make our list.
Say ciao to Robina’s (perhaps, Gold Coast’s) most authentic and downright delicious pasta joint! The artisan pasta boutique store is brought to us by a European mother and daughter duo – how could it not be? Made with high-quality durum wheat semolina (rich in fibre, protein, vitamin B, and also digestion-friendly), their fresh-as pasta can be paired with a selection of their no-nasties, slow-cooked sauces. The best!
Where: Easy T Centre, 514 Christine Avenue, Robina
The Euro food tour continues at My French Pastries- a slice of Paris right in Robina. They deliver made-from-scratch croissants, tarts, and decadent desserts, with each pastry crafted with high-quality ingredients that keep locals coming back for more (and more and more). Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.
Where: Shop 5, 4226/361 Robina Pkwy, Robina
Home of our beloved Titans, CBUS Super Stadium is one of the best regional stadiums in Australia and it’s ours, all ours (insert wicked snigger). Not only do Gold Coasters spend their weekends cheering on the boys here, but we’ve also been lucky enough to watch A-league and international football games, the Nitro Circus, and the Rugby 7s as part of the Commonwealth Games. High five to CBUS for being our homegrown hub of sporting joy.
Where: Centreline Place, Robina
An intimate 24-seat Asian bar and restaurant offering a modern take on Southeast Asian cuisine. The menu showcases creative dishes from Laos, Thailand and Vietnam, inspired by vibrant street food flavours and regional classics. With its cosy setting, flavour-packed plates and a Chef Hat from the Australian Good Food Guide for 2025, it’s a top pick for both date nights and group dining.
Where: 44 Commerce Dr, Robina
She’s smart, she’s stunning- she’s Bond University. Yes, Robina is home to the prestigious and world-class institution that helps current and future generations reach their biggest goals! Bond combines innovative teaching, a supportive campus community, and beautiful surroundings to create an inspiring study environment.
Where: 14 University Drive, Robina
The spacious, sports-themed bar and restaurant made a big splash on Robina Town Centre when it first moved in and continues to do so in 2023. Within The Sporting Globe there are no less than 50 high definition screens including two 5m2 screens and a nine-screen video wall, so yeah nah, you’re not missing a single second of the action. They’re also serving up perfect sport-watching food, frosty bronsons galore, and an all-round cracking good atmosphere. It’s a sure thing.
Where: The Promenade, Robina Town Centre, Robina
Calling all dog lovers! This expansive dog park is the perfect place for your furry friend to run, play, and socialise safely. With plenty of open space and shaded areas, it’s ideal for a weekend outing with your four-legged family members.
Where: Lot 21 Robina Pkwy, Clear Island Waters
A vibrant café serving wholesome, flavour-packed meals crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Harvest Foodhouse is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a relaxed lunch, with mouthwatering options like lamb shoulder tacos, cauliflower steak with a white bean hummus, loaded savoury croissants and triple-choc waffles. You’re gonna need to make a few trips.
Where: 361 Robina Parkway, Robina
The playground to end all playgrounds! Greenheart Robina Parklands is a 22.5-hectare wonderland with towering slides, net bridges, trampolines, swings, water play, and a toddler zone, all fully fenced with an onsite café (hallelujah). Kids can pedal off to the bike track with humps, bumps, and traffic signs, while parents chill under shady umbrellas. Add in walking paths, a boardwalk, half basketball court and a dog park, and you’ve got the ultimate family day out.
Where: Stadium Dr, Robina
A tried and tested (regularly. Very regularly….) favourite, Robina Pav features a sleek look’n’feel, dreamy deck overlooking the water, a specialised kids area, and plenty of good vibes. Boasting a menu packed with epic eats from woodfired pizzas to stacked burgers, it would be rude not to get involved with the impressive cocktail menu #IfWeMust. It’s the perfect spot for sun-soaked afternoon sessions with you posse.
Where: 229 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina
A modern Australian rooftop bar and restaurant, Green Fields serves up flavour-packed dishes with a focus on quality produce and sustainability. The stylish rooftop setting makes it ideal for enjoying a meal while taking in the Robina skyline.
Where: 94 Laver Dr, Robina
A yakitori-focused Japanese-Korean grill in Robina, known for its smoky binchotan charcoal skewers. The menu features wagyu beef, free-range chicken, veggie options, and fresh seafood, paired with Japanese whisky, beer, and wine. Perfect for casual dinners or a night out.
Where: 126/128 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina
If open spaces and oodles of greenery, in the middle of a city no less, is your thing (yes please), Cheltenham Park is the business. There are plenty of areas for the kids – human and fury – to run themselves ragged (#yeahmums!) bushwalking tracks, and big leafy trees to stretch out beneath with a picnic and your favourite people. Perfect for escaping the rat race without chewing through the petrol in search of a tree change.
Where: Cheltenham Drive, Robina
Cocoflufferia by Goji is the all-new dessert wonderland, where dairy-free decadence meets a candy-land of toppings! Grab a bowl of their light and fluffy vegan soft serve, then go crazy with a line-up of delicious toppings like pistachio kanufa, Bueno, pistachio and Nutella sauce, Biscoff crumbs, mini mochi, M&Ms and fresh fruits!
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina
Step into a world of optical illusions and interactive 3D art. Artvo is not only visually stunning but also a playground for your imagination, offering endless photo opportunities and fun for all ages.
Where: Ground Floor, Near the Kitchens, next to Lush, Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina
Riva is the home of sleek and stylish premium workspaces that make the 9-to-5 grind feel…well, less grindy. They’re designed to foster productivity and creativity by combining comfort, style, and convenience, with both private and co-working options.
Where: 2/14 Edgewater Court, Robina
Small Fry offers a modern twist on classic Australian seafood. One of their signature dishes is the Bug Bao– lightly battered bug meat in a steamed bun with coleslaw, chilli, shallots, lime, and sriracha mayo. Don’t walk, run! Pair that with a serve of their Family Parmesan and Truffle Fries, and damnnnnn!
Where: 273 Scottsdale Drive, Robina
Your most Instagrammable matcha moments await at Matcha Therapy- where everything is made with ceremonial grade matcha powder from Uji, Japan. Sit, sip and shop your way through matcha heaven.
Where: 129 Laver Drive, Robina
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
