There are few pleasures in life greater than a pamper sesh. Whether it’s a massage, facial, soak sesh or… heck, if it involves sitting/lying down and zoning out, just us sign up!

Fun Fact: Did you know Australia has just been ranked as the most desirable wellness tourism destination by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) 2025 Wellness Survey?! We’re not surprised, given the number of fine-ass day spas on the Gold Coast alone!

Speaking of, here’s a list of some of the most beautiful day spas scattered around the GC, for when your body, mind and soul need a little reset.

The Bathhouse at Ground Currumbin

Set amongst remnant rainforest in front of a lovingly restored 100-year-old farmhouse, enjoy magnesium hot tubs, spas, plunge pools and saunas in a lush outdoor setting, canopied by a majestic fig tree. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. Combine your bathhouse experience with a wellness treatment from highly skilled massage and beauty practitioners for the best of both worlds.
Our pick: The Ultimate Relaxation, including hot tub, sauna, essential oil massage and bespoke organic facial
Where: 2 Village Way, Currumbin Valley

eforea spa at Hilton

It’s at the Hilton- do we really need to say more? Their speciality is their unique Journey Enchancements, which are mini treatments that can be added to your existing services or enjoyed on their own. Specially designed for eforea, they introduce guests to unique, commonly unexperienced techniques from the most fabled spa cultures around the world. Count. Us. In.
Our pick: Renewing Vichy Shower Experience, which increases circulation throughout the body, reducing stress and toxins (it’s their signature treatment for good reason)
Where: 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

RE/WIND

With luxurious accents from pillar to post, it’s not hard to see why this Currumbin gem is one of the GC’s most loved wellness centres. Equipped with a salt therapy room, yoga and pilates classes, meditation and sound healing, along with two registered nurses to undertake everything from PDO threads to IV vitamin infusions and cosmetic injections. It’s the ultimate A-Z of beauty and self-care!
Our pick: Salt Therapy – it’s a wonder treatment
Where: 31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin

One Spa at RACV Royal Pines Resort

Exquisitely appointed with every detail considered, One Spa offers locally inspired rituals and unique water, body, facial, and massage therapies. If you’re unfamiliar with water therapies, think Vichy showers, steam, and jacuzzi soaks —highly recommend any and all. The spa overlooks the peaceful green landscape, making every treatment a complete mind, body and soul experience.
Our pick: Driftaway (because, obviously). It’s 3.5 hours of melting your worries and cares away.
Where: RACV Royal Pines Resort, Ross Street, Benowa

On Eagle Wings Mountain Retreat & Spa

High above the Gold Coast, yet just a short scenic drive from the beaches, this hinterland haven is where luxury, calm, and total reset vibes converge. Nestled in panoramic valleys, the Wellness Spa features a hydrotherapy mineral pool, infrared saunas, and a heated infinity lap pool, while a menu of organic facials, body treatments, massages, and more ensures every visit is tailored to bliss.
Our pick: Getaway Spa Package. Enjoy a Himalayan salt back scrub with hot stones, full body relaxing therapeutic massage and 2hrs full use of spa facilities.
Where: 59 Lowry Ct, Mudgeeraba

Spa by JW

Spa by JW is the Gold Coast’s ultimate five-star unwind. Housed inside the luxe JW Marriott, this sanctuary of calm is all about soothing, restoring, and spoiling yourself silly. Think six dreamy treatment rooms, a couple’s suite with twin showers and a stone bath, and tranquil pods made for post-massage bliss.
Our pick: Awaken Your Glow: A full-body massage with Aromatherapy Associates oils, Ultraceuticals facial, copper foot bath ritual, acupressure scalp massage, plus sauna and steam access.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise

Chuan Spa

Welcome to Earth’s version of heaven. Chuan Spa at The Langham, Gold Coast, delivers luxury wellness in spades, with a holistic approach unique to the prestigious global hotel group. Offering a range of treatments to both in-house guests and non-hotel guests, expect to leave this serene sanctuary relaxed, reconnected, and revitalised. Not sure what treatment to choose? They’ve got a quiz for that.
Our pick: the signature Chuan Harmony Massage, designed to stimulate meridian harmony. This unique mind, body and soul experience combines the therapeutic elements of acupressure with various relaxation massage techniques to induce a deep sense of calm.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise

Greenhouse The Bathhouse

This modern-styled Australian boutique bathhouse and communal rejuvenation space is pure ecstasy. Offering access to two hydrotherapy spas, a custom-built wet steam room, a traditional red cedar sauna, a magnesium plunge pool, a sundeck, and a lounge area —don’t think, just book. You can even hire this place privately for up to 25 people. Sorry, but does that sound like the perfect gal’s day out or what?
Our pick: Massage + Lunch. One hour stay + A 55 min full body holistic massage followed by a two-course plant-based lunch catered by Greenhouse Canteen and Bar, with a complimentary glass of bubbles, mimosa, spritz or kombucha.
Where: 268 Tallebudgera Creek Rd, Tallebudgera Valley

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

If you think you’ve experienced all the wellness therapies out there, think again. This place is not messing around, with a unique treatment for just about anything. Of course, they have your indulgent massages and facials (excellent), but have you ever heard of sqEEG Brain Mapping? What about Grounded Movement & Gait Analysis, where a functional sports podiatrist, mindset and breathwork coach, will address the impacts of modern living (eg, excessive screen time and prolonged sitting). Then there’s tarot reading, private meditations, Ayurvedic body scrubs, equine therapy, and that’s just the beginning.
Our pick: Restorative Lymphatics. Discover the numerous benefits of this restorative and harmonising therapy.
Where: 192 Syndicate Road, Tallebudgera Valley

Ocean Day Spa

Spa day goals, right here. Sitting pretty on Level 4 of Mantra on View, just steps from Surfers Paradise Beach, Ocean Day Spa is where pure bliss meets beachside luxury. Expect award-winning massages, facials, and body treatments using premium European skincare brand Afrodita Cosmetics. Relax, refresh, repeat.
Our pick: Indulgence Signature Facial, a rejuvenating facial with an AHA peel, neck and shoulder massage, plus a hand and foot treatment to top it off.
Where: Level 4, Mantra on View, 22 View Ave, Surfers Paradise

SpaQ at QT

If you’re all about customisation, this is the spa for you. There’s no need to select a treatment – just make a booking and decide once you’re there! For those who allow time for a 1+hour treatment, enjoy complimentary access to the Hammam-inspired steam room to ease your body and mind into spa nirvana. All treatments include time for a personal consultation and post-treatment recommendations.
Our pick: The Plush Princess therapeutic salt scrub, massage and facial massage.
Where: 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Ciel Spa

CIEL Spa blends high-tech treatments with high-touch luxury, perched on level two of the glossy new Mondrian in Burleigh. So, yeah, prepare for Lux AF. It’s the city’s first bio-wellness spa, meaning it’s not your average spa situation, and may be the answer to everything that’s ever made you feel meh. They fuse science-backed treatments with holistic rituals in a space that feels like a warm hug, offering facial, body, and couple rituals, as well as cosmetic treatments.
Our pick: perhaps for a very special occasion- The Augustinus Bader Method Collection. The Method Body 90 Minute Massage, The Method 90 Minute Facial, The Method Head Spa, Superfood Lunch.
Where: Level 2, 3 First Avenue, Burleigh Heads

LAN Bathhouse

LAN Bathhouse is a modern oasis designed for ultimate unwinding. With hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and private treatment areas, it’s the perfect escape from city life. Whether you’re slipping in for a solo soak, a couples or a friend-treat, LAN makes it effortless to leave tension at the door and emerge feeling completely renewed and recharged.
Our pick: Relax For Two. 60-minute Relaxation Massage + 60-minute Private Bath + 2 Complimentary Non-alcoholic Drinks.
Where: Level 1, SHOP 102, Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise

Kenz Beauty Spa and Moroccan Hammam

For those who have dreamed of a rich Moroccan escape, this spa’s for you. Experience Moroccan-inspired luxury right on the Gold Coast, with this traditional Moroccan hammam spa. For those unfamiliar, the hammam spa involves a shower or bath steam, followed by a deep exfoliation with a mitt made with a unique woven fabric. As a result, the body and skin are cleansed of toxins, blood circulation increases, and the immune system is stimulated, thereby better supporting the physical and mental systems.
Our pick: Rejuvenating Royal Dream Hammam. Whole-body exfoliation, rose clay wrap, sea salt foot scrub, and hair oiling.
Where: Shop 1 / 71 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Summer Elizabeth Luxury Day Spa

A haven for relaxation? Found! Elizabeth Luxury Day Spa is a premier day spa in Broadbeach, offering calming therapies in tranquil spaces to leave you feeling deeply rested and rejuvenated. From nourishing facials to rejuvenating massages, the peaceful environment encourages you to take a deep breath, unwind, and fully immerse yourself in a little self-care heaven.
Our pick: Celestial Escape. A soothing reset for busy lives or those wanting a refreshing pick-me-up.
Where: Phoenician Resort: 24-26 Queensland Ave, Broadbeach

Lost World Spa

Name a better place for a day spa than within the stunning O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. We’ll wait….With million-dollar hinterland views, a trip to O’Reilly’s isn’t complete without a stint here. Indulge in one of the relaxing massages, facials, hot stone therapies, spa or steam room treatments, and enjoy some restorative time alone, or with that someone special.
Our pick: The Lost World Ritual. It’s a splurge…but it includes the lot and will change your life.
Where: 3582 Lamington National Park Rd, O’Reilly

SOL Elements

Say hello to the brand-new, luxurious, elemental bathhouse, SOL Elements. Hidden in the depths of Mt Tamborine, SOL is a transformative sanctuary where ancient elemental healing meets modern-day wellness rituals. From the outside, it’s a sculptural, ring-like facility surrounded by nature. Inside, it’s a transformative sanctuary where ancient elemental healing meets modern-day wellness rituals. It’s a complete sensory experience with communal bathing rituals to private retreats and transcendent spa experiences.
Our pick: The Unwind Ritual: Float + Spa Treatment. Floatation Cave 55 mins + Spa Treatment (of your choice) 60 to 125 mins.
Where: Tamborine Mountain Rd & Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain Rd, Tamborine Mountain

The Banya

Ok, so this is not technically on the Gold Coast, but like Russell Crowe and Nicole Kidman, we’re happy to claim it! Set in the heart of the ‘biggest little town in Australia’, The Banya is a total #mood. The Bathhouse features a tiled lap and three large hot mineral pools hugged by lush foliage and cobblestone pathing. There’s also a wood-fired sauna, a steam room, a cold plunge, five massage treatment rooms, and a rooftop sundeck for post-treatment relaxation. Namaste!
Our pick: Bathhouse and Deep Tissue Massage. 90min bathhouse + 60min massage.
Where: 35-37 Burringbar Street, Mullumbimby

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

How’s your passport looking right about now?

Likely shoved away in a drawer, a little dusty and rejected we reckon. And whilst we could go on about the woes of not being able to travel overseas and how it’s really, really bad and making us all sad, we must remind ourselves — we live in Australia.

We didn’t get the name of The Lucky Country for no reason. International visitors from far and wide are almost always taken back by the vastness and diversity of our nation, then, of course, the glorious beaches and natural wonders we have, before inevitably falling for our enigmatic Outback.

After all, the Outback can be as big if not bigger than most European countries!

How much of the Outback have you seen? For most of us, the answer is very little if anything at all, however, Outback Queensland Tourism wants to change all of that. They have just recently launched a carefully curated driving guide that highlights twelve tailored road trip itineraries and unmissable experiences. The guide promises to excite and inspire anyone who reads it to pack up the car and venture out into the undiscovered back corners of our Sunshine State. We do recommend telling your boss first though.

The Queensland Outback varies a lot and has all sorts of alluring things to capture the imagination for all of the family, from friendly fossil adventures, hidden gorges, Indigenous art, gold rush pioneering history right through to some jaw-dropping luxury stays.

Queensland’s big backyard spans 932,678km square (two-thirds of the state) and Outback Queensland Tourism is looking to educate Aussies on what the region has to offer and how it can be explored throughout the year.

The recently released Drive Guide showcases in detail eye-opening adventures, rich cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, indulgent retreats, and world-class Outback events – all naturally topped off with a generous serving of quintessential country hospitality.

“It has been a great summer for those in the Outback with the summer rains breathing even more life into the region, bringing along the spectacular Outback Queensland birdlife and wildflowers that truly are a sight to behold,” says Outback Queensland Tourism CEO Denise Brown.

“From unbeatable bakeries to coffee that’d give your suburban local a run for its money, Outback Queensland has a lot on offer, and we are looking forward to showcasing it to the rest of the state.”

It’s not just hospitality either. Queensland has some of the best examples of prehistoric history in comparison to any other state. Add to this, quirky and unique experiences like Windorah’s International Yabby Race or how about a visit to Queensland’s most remote pub in Middleton to wet your whistle?

There is so much to see and do, making it almost impossible to do just one trip! So what are you waiting for? Get to it – start planning here!

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

It’s been a long few months and although of course we are lucky to live in paradise, the escapism feels are real at this point in time.

Excitingly, we’re allowed to venture out of this city of ours from now on and even more excitingly, we don’t actually have to venture very far to experience something completely different from the norm.

And here are five ways to do exactly that.

Cruise around Springbrook National Park
Take a drive through Springbrook National Park for an ample fill of dreamy views, winding roads and fresh country air. If you head toward Purlingbrook Falls, at the top of Mt Cougal National Park, you’ll find Dancing Waters Café, the cutest little cottage overlooking the rainforest where you can enjoy a wholesome, healthy lunch or some cake and a steaming cup of coffee. The Purlingbrook Falls lookout is right next door for your token road trip snaps and if (read: when) you fall in love with the place stay overnight in the cosy cottage accommodation (there’s a claw foot bathtub for ultimate chill time).
Where: Dancing Waters Café, 33 Forestry Road, Springbrook

Soak up the serenity at Spiral Beach
Just past Duranbah Beach, Spiral is somewhat of a locals’ secret making it the perfect spot to enjoy some solitude. No matter the season, there is usually some sun to be had so pack up your umbrella, a good book and your best do-nothing vibes and prepare for sweet serenity. Spiral Beach is also the perfect place for snorkeling around these parts due to the abundance of colourful coral and magical marine life. Get in quick before the water gets too chilly.
Where: Around the Corner from D’bah Beach, near Coolangatta (see, secretive)

Mount a steed at Gold Coast Equestrian Centre
There’s something so peaceful about sitting atop a horse with the wind in your hair and a world of adventure at your fingertips. The Gold Coast Equestrian Centre is the perfect place to experience exactly that whether you’re a beginner or simply in need of an activity where all you have to do is sit back and be carted around. Located in Guanaba, just 15 minutes from Helensvale Shopping Centre, the property is 50 acres of beautiful bushland and offers trail rides along the river and an Olympic-sized dressage area for those who know what they’re doing.
Where: 212 Stewart Road, Guanaba

Have a beer at The Wallaby Hotel
The Wallaby Hotel in Mudgeeraba, is one of Queensland’s oldest and most rustic hotels. Heritage listed, it opened in 1884 and was a watering hole for both horses and patrons and became the centerpiece for the Mudgeeraba township. Today, it’s the perfect place to escape the city for an afternoon coldie, a spot of live music and delicious pub-style eats. Bonus; if you find you’re having too good a time to come home, you can always stay the night.
Where: 45 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Hike the Witches Chase Track at Mt Tamborine
For those with energy to spare after a long working week, the Witches Chase track is for you. It’s a moderately difficult track that’s about a two hour round trip. The track descends through rainforest to Witches Falls and continues along the cliff to Witches Chase, passing big, beautiful red cedar trees and through the eucalypt forest and of course, there’s plenty of wildlife to keep an eye out for. You’ll be famished once you’ve made it back so pack a picnic or some BBQ supplies and put your feet up and relax for awhile before you head home.
Where: The Witches Chase Track starts from the picnic area on Main Western Road, Mt Tamborine

Words by Kirra Smith