Miami Motel has been completely reimagined.
Miami Motel has been completely reimagined.
Don’t you just love a comeback story? Here’s one straight off the GC press: Miami Motel has officially reopened with an all-new coastal modern chic look, transforming a once-forgotten local icon into a seriously stylish spot worth a vay or stay-cation. Fire up the group chat, a girls’ weekend stay is officially afoot.
Set along the Gold Coast Highway in the heart of Miami, just a two-minute stroll from the beach, this former “dodgy motel” has undergone a full-scale glow-up that feels nothing short of remarkable. Where peeling paint and tired rooms once lived, there’s now a polished boutique stay that blends laid-back beachside vibes with thoughtful, modern design.
The transformation has been led by two brothers – a Darwin-based developer and a local Gold Coast dentist – who took on the ambitious task of reviving a property many thought was beyond saving. When they acquired the motel, it was in rough shape to say the least, with demolition firmly on the table. Instead, they chose to restore and reimagine it, bringing the building back to life while retaining its place as a familiar local landmark.
After securing council approval to add three additional rooms and working closely with a certifier, the brothers brought the entire property up to current building standards. The result is a complete top-to-bottom refurbishment, managed by Nick from Fitout Frankie, who oversaw an extensive renovation touching every corner of the site. More than $3 million has been invested in the project, and it shows.
The motel now features brand-new air conditioning, lighting, walls, flooring, joinery, bathrooms, fixtures and fittings, along with high-end, carefully selected furniture throughout. The aesthetic is clean, calm and contemporary, with a coastal sensibility that feels perfectly suited to its beachfront surrounds.
The refreshed Miami Motel now offers 11 thoughtfully designed rooms, each fully self-contained and geared towards comfort and functionality- a refreshing departure from the typical hotel room setup. Guests will find proper kitchens, large fridges, and generous layouts designed for both short getaways and longer stays. A standout feature is the variety of room types. In addition to eight one-bedroom dwellings, the property includes three oversized two-bedroom units that feel far more like apartments than motel rooms. These larger spaces make the Miami Motel particularly appealing for families, groups travelling together, or anyone wanting extra room to spread out without losing that boutique feel.
The motel also operates as a fully automated boutique hotel, complete with digital locks and seamless self check-in, making stays simple, private and hassle-free – perfect for modern travellers who prefer flexibility over front-desk formalities. Location-wise, it’s hard to fault. The motel sits one minute from local cafés, five minutes from Burleigh Heads, eight minutes from Broadbeach, and just a twenty-minute drive from Gold Coast Airport. Whether you’re here for surf sessions, café hopping, beach walks or a long weekend exploring the southern end of the Coast, everything is right on your doorstep.
With the renovation now complete, the Miami Motel can now remain a Miami fixture and Gold Coast icon. Once written off, it’s now a sleek, coastal stay that feels right at home in Miami – familiar, refreshed and ready for its next chapter. Meet you in Miami!
Where: 2117 Gold Coast Hwy, Gold Coast
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Time to seas the day.
Is there anything more quintessentially Queensland than kicking back on the deck of a great surf club with an ice-cold drink, ocean breeze in your hair, and uninterrupted ocean views? Not really! It sounds like a holiday fantasy, but it’s really just a standard afternoon on the Gold Coast. How lucky are we?! Sometimes, we do forget it.
Our shoreline is scattered with surf clubs and you could pretty much stumble into any one and score relaxed vibes and a solid feed. But as always, we want the best for you, so we’ve rounded up the very best surf clubs from south to north. Grab a seat, order something cold, and settle in.
With a front row seat to one of Australia’s most iconic surf breaks, Rainbow Bay Surf Club gives world-class surf views, classic pub eats, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s one of the best spots on the Coast for sunset drinks after an ocean swim on a balmy summer’s afternoon. Salty hair? You’ll fit right in. There’s always a crowd here, so it’s always a good time. This surf club is nothing if not iconic.
Where: 2 Snapper Rocks Rd, Coolangatta
Quite literally built out over the ocean, “The Vikings” is one of the most iconic surf-club spots on the entire coastline. You’ll feel like you’re sitting above the waves while enjoying huge plates of classic favourites, weekend entertainment, and a buzzing crowd of both locals and visitors. The views alone are worth the trip, but their stacked menu and friendly staff seal the deal. You’ll hear everyone recommend this surf club, and for good reason.
Where: 741 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Positioned at the heart of Palm Beach, the award-winning Palm Beach Surf Club offers more than just a stellar upbeat atmosphere and sweeping ocean views, but a tasty menu (with weekly specials worth planning your visit around) and live music! Whether you’re popping in for a coffee, enjoying a drink with friends, or having dinner with the family, there’s a range of meals, snacks, and beverages to suit everyone’s taste and budget.
Where: 117 Jefferson Lane, Palm Beach
Perched between the beaches of Burleigh and Palm Beach, Tallebudgera Surf Club is the go-to for families and perfect for long lunches and locals who love a chilled waterfront vibe. You’ll find generous portions, vibrant cocktails, breezy open-air seating, and an epic playground for pre- or post-feed kid antics. You’ve also got Bean Surfing Cafe to enjoy from 5.30am-2pm daily, serving all your favourite beachside eats and epic coffee.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Overlooking one of the most famous beaches in Queensland, Burleigh Heads SLSC is where you’ll find old-school surf-club vibes. With sweeping views of the ocean and city skyline, hearty meals, and a prime position beside the iconic Burleigh Hill, it’s a natural choice for pre- or post-day-at-the-beach feeds.
Where: Goodwin Terrace & Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Situated at the quieter, more relaxed end of Burleigh, North Burleigh Surf Club is a top pick for families, groups, or anyone wanting beach views without the crazy crowds. You’ll get that gorgeous ocean breeze on the deck, reliable menu favourites, and a chilled atmosphere for an ideal arvo by the beach. There are weekly specials and regular entertainment top it all off.
Where: 293 The Esplanade, Miami
A true neighbourhood favourite since 1954, Nobby’s has entered an exciting new era after joining The Bears Group in late 2025. The partnership brings a refreshed hospitality focus while keeping the relaxed, community-first surf club vibe locals love. Expect updated menus with coastal-inspired flavours, classic club staples and the same welcoming atmosphere, with a major renovation planned for 2027 to further elevate the space.
Where: 25 Albatross Ave, Nobby Beach
Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Club remains a humble favourite among locals, striking the perfect balance between relaxed and lively. The club offers a kids’ playroom, heaps of weekly specials (the Tuesday Steak Night and Sunday International Food Night are local legends), plus trivia, members’ promos and plenty of big-screen sport. It’s friendly, consistent, and very easy to make a habit of.
Where: 172 Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach
Kurrawa Surf Club is one of the Gold Coast’s largest and most polished surf-club spaces, think sun-filled dining rooms, breathtaking beach views, a ‘something for everyone’ menu including pizzas and Spanish charcoal oven dishes, and a seriously popular brekkie menu. This surf club is fit for every occasion, from post-beach hangs to laid-back lunches to special occasions. They’ve also got live music and big screens to catch all the sports action. Its central location makes it one of the easiest clubs to access without a car.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
Not only are you getting all the perks of classic surf club- uninterrupted ocean views and unbeatable atmosphere- you’re also getting fed from an award-winning restaurant. Who says you can’t have it all? You’re getting everything from classic club staples to gourmet salads and asian dishes, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They have spacious, light-filled dining spaces and offer one of the best beachfront outlooks in central Surfers.
Where: 51 Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise
Sitting beachfront in the heart of Surfers Paradise, this iconic surf club is a welcome escape from the buzz of the strip. Following a major renovation, the space feels fresh and open, with sweeping ocean views that make any meal better. The bistro serves up elevated surf club classics (the Outback Parma still reigns supreme), ice-cold drinks and that easy, friendly atmosphere surf clubs do best. A top spot for sunset sessions, and whale watching if the time is right.
Where: Corner of Hanlan Street & The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Padre Brewing Co has opened a brewery in Miami.
We truly believe drinking beer is best done with mates, and Padre reckons brewing it should be too. Padre Brewing Co cares about two things: good company and great beer. They’re brewing up both in a brand new brewery in Miami.
After more than 20 years of friendship and countless convos over beers, mates Mitch Carlin and Pete Morris realised their thirst for both beer and good times were destined for something bigger. The idea soon fermented into a brewery built on the simple joy of sipping a great beer with even better company.
Head Brewer Mitch Carlin said, “We brew quality beer for people who care as much about the company they keep as the beer they drink.”
Before long, Mitch and Pete’s two-man operation became a full slab when hospitality legends Aaron Wilson, Nathan Zukerman and Joey Day – the brains behind one of Burleigh’s favourite burger joints, Ze Pickle – jumped on board. These blokes threw in their years of hospo wizardry, and with the gang assembled, the idea of “good company” wasn’t just a slogan anymore. It was the team itself.
From day one, the crew has believed anything worth doing is worth doing together. From suppliers to distributors, it’s a whole team effort to ensure every Padre beer hits the standard they’ve set for themselves… and the one your tastebuds deserve.
The venue itself is a creative playground, designed by Studio Y and built by DCQ Constructions. You can’t miss the massive “BEER” sign out front. Inside, the aesthetic fuses skate and street influences with concrete walls, curved wooden banks and paste-up art. It’s a celebration of the team’s creative roots and the Gold Coast’s laidback spirit.
Mitch said, “We’ve been intentional about creating a space that’s built for interaction and community, a place built by five mates for people who value the company they keep just as much as the beer in their glass.”
Padre’s 160-seat venue features indoor and outdoor dining, communal tables, a sunny beer garden and a stacked bar pouring 14 beers (all brewed on site!) making it easy to share great moments with friends, family, or even a new mate you just met at the bar.
And the beer lineup? It’s designed to keep everyone on tap happy. Expect crisp lagers for the purists, easy-drinking pale ales for the all-rounders, hop-forward IPAs for the enthusiasts and dark brews for those who like their beer with a bit more broodiness. There’s also a fridge loaded with takeaways for you to enjoy at home.
The food menu levels up classic pub fare, perfect for soaking up the good vibes. Think parmys, chicken wings, share platters and of course, epic burgers, all made with top quality produce.
So rally your crew and get your brew on at Padre Brewing Co.
Where: 9 Ozone Parade, Miami
When: Monday – Thursday 4pm-10pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm-late, Sundays 12pm-10pm
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Liam McDonald
Velvet Cafe & Lounge brings smooth brews to Miami.
There’s a new kind of luxury brewing on the Gold Coast and it’s draped in velvet.
Nestled in Miami’s growing cafe scene, Velvet Cafe & Lounge is the latest creation from hospitality dream team Stefany Rincon and John Potter, serving up fine-dining with Gold Coast glamour.
Stefany Rincon brings a decade of hospitality expertise to the table, with her approach being less about transactions and more about connection.
Stefany said, “It’s the simple joy of serving people, knowing that something small I do can make someone’s day a little brighter.”
That sentiment instantly connected with John Potter, founder of The Potter Group. Together, they’ve created a destination where hospitality isn’t just service, it’s an art form.
Their philosophy is simple: everyone belongs. Whether you’re an early riser chasing your morning flat white, a professional swapping your office desk for an outdoor table, or a family celebrating a Sunday brunch, Velvet makes space for all.
From the moment you walk in, Velvet wraps you up in its namesake mood: smooth, warm and a little bit indulgent. The space, designed by Studio Beck and brought to life by The Potter Group with branding by Hover Creative Studio, channels the golden age of mid-century design.
Curved lines and rich textures create elegant simplicity with deep red velvet booths and a record player setting the tone. It’s a cafe that feels as comfy as your lounge room yet levelled up to a fine dining affair.
Velvet isn’t a quick caffeine pit stop. Under the culinary leadership of Chef José Piñeros, the menu is a masterclass in balancing comfort food and sophistication.
Breakfast is chef’s kiss with Spanish tortilla filled with crispy confit potato, chorizo and caramelised onions. It’s served with Velvet’s take on a classic gazpacho, fresh chives, creme fraiche, and a slice of toasted sourdough.
Lunch brings the bold flavours of Asado rib – Dijon and honey-marinated wagyu short rib with house hand-cut chips, confit garlic sauce and a fresh seasonal salad.
Sandwiches are anything but standard. The A la’ Vodka Focaccia already has a local fan base featuring crumbed marinated chicken and stracciatella wrapped in light focaccia, draped with signature Velvet vodka sauce and a touch of basil.
But it’s the coffee that truly steals the spotlight. Velvet takes its brew seriously in the best possible way. The insignia drinks, like the Mont Blanc and Matcha Cloud, are as fancy as they are foamy.
Coffee goes beyond the morning cup and into the realm of cocktails. A Dirty Negroni laced with 20-hour coffee gin, a Coffee Yuzu G&T, and the ever-classic Espresso Carajillo are all part of the cafe’s signature line-up.
And just when you think it couldn’t get any more enticing, Velvet is soon to be expanding its hours into golden afternoons. Summer nights never tasted so smooth.
Where: Unit 6, 3 Ozone Parade, Miami
When: Daily, 6:00 to 3:00 pm
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby
