From mind-bending puzzles to full-blown horror sets, these GC escape rooms have it all!
From mind-bending puzzles to full-blown horror sets, these GC escape rooms have it all!
Looking for a thrill, a brain-teasing challenge, or just a fun excuse to race against the clock with friends or family? The Gold Coast is packed with escape rooms that cater to every type of adventure seeker. From high-tech cinematic puzzles to spine-tingling horror rooms and interactive game arenas, there’s no shortage of ways to test your wits, teamwork, and nerves.
We’ve rounded up four of the best spots where you can lock in, solve the clues, and hopefully escape before time runs out. Dun, dun, duuuuun.
If you’ve ever wanted to live out a high-stakes thriller, Eclipse Escape Rooms is your stage. Nestled inside Chevron Renaissance, this local gem has four custom-built escape rooms (and another coming soon) that will test your smarts, speed, and sanity in equal measure. Everything here is done in-house, so no franchised templates or recycled storylines, just original, high-tech puzzles designed to blow your mind.
Each room feels like a movie set, with moody lighting, clever gadgets, and special effects that’ll keep you guessing until the last second. Whether you’re solving crimes, escaping secret labs, or diving into fantasy adventures, Eclipse is known for its cinematic detail and clever twists that make every session feel fresh.
Where: Level 1, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, 3240 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Fox in a Box doesn’t just lock you in a room- it throws you into the middle of a story. This world-renowned escape room franchise has made serious waves with eight themed rooms that range from thrilling to downright terrifying. If you’re a first-timer, step into ‘Prison Break’ for classic escape room vibes or take on ‘Mastermind: A Heist Story’ for a family-friendly, flashlight-in-the-dark challenge. Feeling brave? Enter ‘The Other Side’ for a thrilling, horror-heavy escape inspired by cult-favourite shows like Stranger Things. This one will test even the pros! There’s ‘Zombie Lab’ and ‘Wild West Saloon’ for medium-level puzzle fans, and ‘Bunker’ for the ultimate challenge, boasting a success rate of just 40%.
Each experience is crafted with next-level production design- we’re talking world-class tech, immersive soundscapes, and storylines that pull you straight into the action. The venue itself has a fun, social vibe with a lounge for pre- and post-game hangs, making it perfect for birthdays, bucks nights, or corporate team building (yep, they can host up to 48 players at once). Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned escaper, Fox in a Box is where logic meets adrenaline in the most cinematic way possible.
Where: Level 1/3173 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
If you think escape rooms are all smoke and mirrors, Padlock’d will prove you dangerously wrong. As Australia’s biggest escape room venue, this Surfers Paradise venue offers a whopping 14 rooms, from enchanted escapes and abandoned carnivals to heists and prison breaks. Each room is a fully immersive world, complete with clever tech, detailed sets, and a healthy dose of mystery to get your heart racing (and your brain buzzing).
Whether you’re wrangling a corporate crew, hosting a birthday bash, or just up for some puzzle-packed fun with mates, Padlock’d has you covered- up to 73 players within 90 minutes, in fact. And if you dare to turn things up a notch (or five), their new ‘Door Seven’ horror experience at Paradise Centre promises to haunt your dreams long after you’ve escaped. No wonder this place was named a Best of Queensland Experience in 2024.
Where: 3177 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise + Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
If traditional escape rooms feel too predictable, Other World HQ is about to blow your mind (and maybe your nerves). These cutting-edge escape rooms blend live-action storytelling, and video game-inspired challenges into one mega experience. It’s like stepping through a portal into another dimension (literally).
The star of the show is ‘Saboteurs’, a real-life, space-themed reimagining of ‘Among Us’, where players complete physical tasks while trying to suss out the impostor in their midst. We have to admit, it’s ridiculously addictive. Horror fans can rejoice at ‘The Cursed Passage’ – billed as the ultimate nightmare-fuelled escape experience, set inside a dream-harvesting facility overtaken by monstrous nightmares. Across five rooms, your mission is to restore the barrier between dreams and reality before the darkness takes over. Then there’s ‘The Forgotten Arcade’, where a rogue AI called ‘The Glitch’ has corrupted old-school game machines, and you’ll have to battle your way through warped digital worlds to save reality itself.
With the capacity to host up to 45 players, Other World HQ is ideal for birthdays, events, or anyone who’s bored with screen time and wants to dive into some out-of-this-world fun.
Where: Level 1/3107 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Fox in a Box is not your average escape room.
So, you’ve surfed every beach, bar-hopped your way through Broadbeach, and said “we should do this more often” over one too many share plates. If you’re officially out of ideas for your next group hang, it’s time to throw the ultimate curveball. Enter: Fox in a Box.
Tucked in the heart of Surfers Paradise, this is where your games night grows up. Think less Monopoly meltdown, more “we just escaped a zombie apocalypse with three seconds to spare” energy. With eight next-level rooms (some of the biggest in the country, thank you very much), Fox in a Box delivers pure chaos in the best way – puzzles, plot twists and a whole lot of “wait, what just happened?”
These aren’t your average escape rooms. They’re cinematic, wildly immersive, and honestly feel more like stepping into a Netflix thriller than a group activity. Whether you’re busting out of prison, shutting down a rogue nuclear facility, or running from the undead, the rooms are built for maximum suspense and adrenaline – no theatre degree required.
And don’t stress if your group is more ‘vibe’ than ‘brainiac’. Each crew gets their very own Game Master, aka your behind-the-scenes hero who’s watching everything via camera and mic. They’ll step in with a clue if you’re spiralling and can’t figure out how to open the literal first door. Zero judgement. Just top-tier support.
Now, let’s talk social plans. Fox in a Box is a serious power move for birthdays, hens, bucks, or your “we need to do something different” friendship group. The venue has space for up to 66 guests, plush couches, bar tables, a legit in-house bar, and a chilled-out vibe that makes it feel more like a cool lounge than a waiting room. Add on catering (yes to fruit platters, vegan bites and post-escape drinks tabs) and suddenly you’re the event planning MVP.
It’s also one of the rare Gold Coast activities that slaps, no matter the weather. Rainy day? Nailed. School holiday survival tactic? Sorted. Awkward date where you need a built-in conversation starter? We got you. The rooms are suitable for ages eight and up, so families are welcome too – and don’t worry, the zombies stay in their lane.
And in case you need a little more local love to tip you over the edge, the story behind Fox in a Box is just as epic. Co-owners Andy Stribling and Colin Webster built the Gold Coast venue during the peak of the pandemic, putting in seven-day weeks to bring their dream to life. They’re also the brains behind 15 Boost Juice stores, so safe to say they know a thing or two about good vibes and even better customer service.
From the slick interiors to the bar-side board games, every inch of the space was designed for locals and holidaymakers who want a five-star escape… from the usual.
So, next time someone hits the group chat with “what are we doing tonight?”, drop this:
Fox in a Box.
Clever puzzles. Cold drinks. Chaotic energy.
Because honestly – have you even lived on the GC if you haven’t broken out of prison in Surfers?
Where: Level 1, 3173 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
When: Sunday – Friday 10am–10pm, Saturday 8.30am–10pm
Instagram: @foxinaboxgoldcoast
Website: www.foxinaboxgoldcoast.com
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY FOX IN A BOX GOLD COAST ESCAPE ROOMS
It's called 'Paradise' for a reason.
Paradise calling… And by that, we mean Surfers Paradise of course. You might have thought it’s all just bikini and booze but there is so much more just waiting for you to rediscover. Whether you’ve been looking for something laid-back to take the whole fam to or something a little bit fancy for that date night you’ve been putting off, and of course, somewhere to have a cheeky beverage – Surfers has it all. Did we mention it’s beachside?
So we’ve done the leg work and found the 10 must-try spots for you to get the best feed in the heart of the Coast.
Citrique
It’s one of the Gold Coast’s most loved buffets, Citrique takes its reputation seriously. For real, its award-winning seafood buffet is the GOAT for a reason – think fresh prawns, oysters and lobster tails (did someone say boujee) alongside flavours of the world. If breakfast is more your vibe then you’re in luck because they’re dishing up all-you-can eat breakfast and weekend long lunches alongside their signature seafood feast. Calling the beautiful JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa home, you would expect nothing less from this five-star favourite!
Our pick: Anything seafood!
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Langham
If feeling a bit fancy is on the menu then The Langham Gold Coast is the destination. Just as luxe as you’d expect the international hotel to be, The Langham can’t stop, won’t stop on delivering the finest food from the East and the West. Meticulously plated, T’ang Court is where precision meets passion with each dish a show of art for the ultimate Cantonese fine-dining affair. Dine beachfront while you treat yourself at Akoya or pop down to Palm Court for a spot of Afternoon Tea.
Our pick: The Langham’s iconic chef’s menu at T’ang Court
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Palette
Palette stormed onto the dining scene just a few short years ago and it’s been a fan favourite ever since. Located within the HOTA Gallery, this dining spot brings art to life with Executive Chef Dayan Hartill-Law using the Gallery’s exhibitions to inspire the decadent degustation menu. The award-winning restaurant has also modestly received Two Chef Hats from AGFG, which is reason enough for us to book a table already. Art you can eat? Yes please.
Our pick: Go all in on the Tasting Menu you absolutely won’t regret it
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Shiraz Persian Restaurant & Bar
Shiraz have been calling their Surfers Paradise corner home for a couple of years now, so I suppose you could say they’ve settled in well. The perfect spot whether you’re looking for a cute date night or somewhere to take the entire family, Shiraz’s incredibly chic interior is big enough (like, 200 seats big) for you to get your authentic Persian fix. Best enjoyed with their namesake’s Shiraz. Ps. If you don’t feel like cooking on a Monday (honestly, who does) then pop in for their BYO day – it would be rude not to.
Our pick: We can’t pick favourites, so go hard on the banquet, we say
Where: Mantra Wings, 2893 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
The Island Gold Coast
This Island has long been a landmark of the Gold Coast and we think the reason locals and visitors on the Goldie love this place is in part thanks to an aptly named spot called, Goldies. With a huge lineup of foodie favourites from steak and seafood through to pizzas and parmy’s there’s something to satisfy everyone’s cravings. If you’re after a tipple then the Rooftop is the place to perch up with a Pina Colada in hand while you soak in the iconic Gold Coast skyline, we just love a dining destination that’s as vibrant as the city itself.
Our pick: Mare e Monti Pizza
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Yamagen Japanese Izakaya
Tucked away in the QT, this is new generation Japanese for the discerning diner. It’s modern fine dining in a way that ignites all of your senses while celebrating the best of authentic Japanese cuisine. Market fresh sashimi dishes are the hero of the menu, bringing the freshest fare and flavours together to be expertly paired with vast whisky list.
Our pick: Sashimi Moriawase for a taste of it all
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Avenue
Everyone has a story from The Avenue, right? And for good reason. Where else can you go and literally spend all night long there. Pop in for a bite at the restaurant and stay for the vibes at the nightclub or one of the iconic drag shows. Live music venues are becoming harder and harder to find, but luckily for us The Avenue aka the home of live music is doing the heavy lifting so you can sip back and listen to sweet tunes every week.
Our pick: Crispy Pork Belly
Where: 3-15 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Coast Beach Bar & Kitchen
There’s something about sipping back on a cocktail while you look at the ocean that just makes it taste that much sweeter. Fortunately for you, that view and those cocktails are accompanied by one of the best new additions to the restaurant scene. Coast Beach Bar & Kitchen brings the perfect balance of fancy food with a relaxed vibe, so you can soak up your surrounds while indulging on your choice of steak or seafood, or head out to the Terrace Bar for more relaxed bites.
Our pick: Kingfish Ceviche
Where: Ocean by Meriton – Level 1, 86 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Central Lounge
Something you might not know about us is that we love a lounge bar, so you bet we were fans of Central Lounge the moment those glorious doors opened. Massive cocktail list? Check. Epic easts? Check. R&B Sunday sessions? Check. We’ll go ahead and call that a trifecta. If you’ve been hunting for a stylish spot to sip cocktails and people watch, then this the place for you.
Our pick: Crab Linguine
Where: 8/27 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Driftwood Social
Driftwood Social, tucked just off Ferny Ave brings blissed-out, Miami pool club vibes to the banks of the Nerang River – and if it’s been a while between drinks, this secluded social spot is every bit as lush as you remember. A stacked menu is another real drawcard, and don’t be tempted to assume we’re talking basic bar bites here.
Our pick: Linguine Alla Vodka And Prawns
Where: 42 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
Spooky season was no tricks, all treats.
If variety is the spice of life, then October on the Gold Coast was the whole spice cabinet of flavour.
From Brexican bites and Mediterranean magic to Asian-fusion feasts and Italian sweets, this month took our tastebuds on a trip around the world.
Ready to eat your way through it? We’ve rounded up all October openings so you can start ticking them off.
Paradise Point just turned up the heat with its newest fusion hotspot, AKA Asiatique Dining & Bar. Helmed by Thai-born chef Akaradon Boonyarit, the menu blends fine dining with Akaradon’s family favourites. Think watermelon sashimi, melt-in-your-mouth miso eggplant and Massaman lamb worth daydreaming about. With lush interiors, intimate vibes and playful sips, AKA is where spice meets paradise.
Where: 3 Grice Ave, Paradise Point
Some milestones call for champagne, others just need a croffle and a really good coffee. Southport’s Milestone Cafe & Kitchen turns everyday moments into mini celebrations. Led by Korean-born owner Selena Mun, the cafe boasts warm wood interiors, hand-picked ceramics and a menu that marries Korean flavour with Aussie brunch staples. Enjoy Seoul-inspired croffles (croissant + waffles), matcha magic and silky lattes that’ll turn your morning caffeine run into a feel-good moment to remember.
Where: Shop C001, 56 Scarborough St, Southport
Stop, guac and roll! Burleigh has a new brunch crush. ConKaBar is bringing Brexican brilliance to the GC, where tacos meet toasties and avo meets hola! Family-run and bursting with personality, this new hotspot fuses Mexico City soul with laid-back beach culture. Expect burritos loaded with brekkie goodness, jalapeño-laced Bennys and caramel-kissed lattes that taste like a warm hug. Sun-soaked and stacked with flavour, ConKaBar is breakfast with a little fiesta.
Where: 2/3 37 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads
Dumplings are having a momo-ment and Dolma’s Momo Tibetan Kitchen is leading the charge at Harbour Town. What began as a humble night-market stall has blossomed into a soulful eatery dedicated to handmade Tibetan momos, pillowy and packed with comfort. Owners Tenzin Lhakpa and Jerry Fu bring tradition, heart and a mission to support fellow Tibetan migrants, creating food that nourishes more than just appetite. Warm and deeply authentic, this is a dumpling destination you’ll crave again and again.
Where: Harbour Town, 147-189 Brisbane Rd, Biggera Waters
Cycling meets caffeine culture at Che Cafe & Bikes, Broadbeach Waters’ stylish new hub where pedals and pastry cravings unite. Created by cycling pro Noel Charpentier and hospitality talent Ana Pedroza, this spot combines expert bike servicing with soul-warming Argentinian treats and seriously good coffee. Think empanadas, dulce-filled medialunas and traditional mate, all served in a mid-century-cool space made for both Lycra crews and leisure sippers. Whether you’re rolling in post-ride or strolling in pre-brunch, Che fuels every kind of journey.
Where: Shop 3/ 1 Sunshine Blvd, Broadbeach Waters
Smooth by name, smooth by nature, Velvet Cafe & Lounge has arrived in Miami to wrap your morning in luxury. The latest venture from hospitality duo Stefany Rincon and John Potter, Velvet brings fine-dining and everyday eats together, delivering silky brews, refined bites and a mid-century mood that feels like a hug in designer fabric. With deep velvet booths to sink into and a menu to sink your teeth into, this is coffee culture with couture appeal.
Where: Unit 6, 3 Ozone Parade, Miami
Flavour is officially in the air at Broadbeach, thanks to Meltemi Mediterrania, a dreamy new escape inspired by the Aegean winds it’s named after. From the team behind Xenia Grill, with hatted chef Tapos Singha at the helm, this venue whisks you from Morocco’s spice-laden markets to the glittering cliffs of Greece, all in one sitting. Curved coastal interiors, slow-turned meats and golden-hour cocktails? This is Mediterranean magic, Gold Coast style.
Where: 17 Albert Ave, Broadbeach
Do you remember your first lick of gelato? Al Bacio Gelato Naturale brings that magic back, serving truly traditional Italian gelato just steps from Burleigh beach. Family-run by Craig, Rebecca and daughter Jaime Heininger, this dreamy gelateria churns every batch from scratch with no artificial colours, no pastes, just real ingredients and pure passion. Inspired by training in Tuscany, the result is silky, nostalgic and oh-so-bellissimo.
Where: Shop 7/1840 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Paws at the ready, Gold Coast! Hello Kitty & Friends Cafe has officially landed at Pacific Fair, and it’s every bit as cute as the rumours promised. A whimsical pastel dream brought to life by Suzie Wong in partnership with Sanrio, this sugar-dusted wonderland blends Japanese kawaii charm with irresistible treats and photo-ready moments at every turn. Expect themed bento boxes, fluffy pastries, pink-washed interiors and pure nostalgia.
Where: Level 1 Food Court, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, 32 Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach Waters
Summer on the Gold Coast means being by the water and River House in Southport is the ultimate waterside paradise. Perched along the Nerang River with sweeping views, this three-level dining haven is designed for long lunches that drift into sunset cocktails and elegant evening feasts. Led by acclaimed chef Grant Madgwick, expect seasonal Australian produce with European-Asian flavours, all served with a side of riverfront magic.
Where: 2 Barney Street, Southport
Words by Lisette Drew
