Sanctuary Cove is serving all the mum coded magic.
Sanctuary Cove is serving all the mum coded magic.
If there were ever a day to pull out the big guns for the woman who spent years pretending your macaroni art was museum worthy, it’s Mother’s Day – and Sanctuary Cove is rolling out the red carpet, the marina views…and even a retro Kombi to help you do it properly.
On Sunday 10 May, the Marine Village is transforming into a love‑soaked playground for mums, step‑mums, grandmas, bonus mums, fluffy mums, and the unofficial mums who raised half the neighbourhood. It’s wholesome, it’s nostalgic, and it’s the kind of gold‑star family time that makes Mum forget you still haven’t returned her favourite Tupperware circa Y2K.
From 10am to 2pm, the Village Green (right in front of Pablito’s) will play host to a complimentary retro Kombi photo booth that’s both adorbs, and dangerously sentimental. Think vintage vibes, pastel charm, and the perfect backdrop for capturing Mum smiling like she’s already mentally re-arranging family photos in the hallway. No bookings, no fuss – just hop in, snap away, and walk out with a photo strip she’ll show off more enthusiastically than her holiday snaps from 1998.
This seriously sweet and mum-coded activation is designed to give families a moment that feels so lovely it almost makes up for the year you forgot Mother’s Day entirely. As Marisa Laister, Senior Marketing Manager, Real Estate at Mulpha, says, “Mother’s Day is about celebrating connection and cherishing special moments,” and trust us – Sanctuary Cove is leaning ALL the way in.
And because Sanctuary Cove loves a little extra sparkle, there’s also a seriously impressive prize up for grabs. Anyone who jumps into the Kombi photo booth and shares their snaps on social media with a tag to @visitsanctuarycove goes into the draw to win a luxury escape to The Lane Retreat in the Hunter Valley (terms and conditions apply). We’re talking a two‑night stay, a wine tasting experience, return transfers to Bimbadgen Cellar Door, and a $1,000 Cove Travel voucher. In other words, a prize so good it’ll have Mum forgiving every late‑night call, every lost charger, and every casserole dish you never returned.
Once your keepsake Kombi pics are sorted (translation: Mum has declared which angle is her ‘good side’), the Marine Village is yours to explore. And honestly, it’s a choose‑your‑own‑adventure situation where every option is a winner.
Maybe it’s a long, lazy brunch by the water, complete with the kind of food Mum doesn’t have to cook or clean up after. Maybe it’s a scenic wander along the marina, pointing out boats you absolutely cannot afford but will confidently claim you’d “totally live on”. Or maybe it’s a leisurely browse through the boutiques, where Mum can treat herself to something spesh and you pretend you weren’t planning to ‘accidentally’ borrow it later.
The beauty of Mother’s Day at Sanctuary Cove is that it doesn’t matter what kind of mum you’re celebrating. The brunch‑loving mum. The shop‑til‑she‑drops mum. The “I just want a nice photo of us” mum. The “don’t make a fuss but also please make a fuss” mum. The Marine Village caters to all of them with ease. It’s relaxed, picturesque, and the perfect blend of thoughtful and fun (like a handwritten card, but with multi-million-dollar views, great shopping, and more oysters).
So, this Mother’s Day, skip the predictable gifts and give Mum something she’ll actually treasure; time, memories and a day that feels as warm and wonderful as she is. Sanctuary Cove was born ready to be a mum’s day magnet; the marina is sparkling, the Kombi is polished, and if this doesn’t secure your spot as her MVP, nothing will.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
When: Sunday 10 May
Words by Bianca Trathen
STORY SPONSORED BY SANCTUARY COVE
We know the places to make your Mama Bear feel spesh.
Gold Coasters, do we detect the slightest notes of aromatherapy oils, artisan tea blends and fresh-baked scones filling the air? Yep, that’s right – Mother’s Day is just around the corner!
But fret not if you’re yet to line up anything plush in honour of Mama dearest. All across the Coast, our most fanciful eats, fun and self-care purveyors are putting the finishing touches on myriad ways to spoil the OG lady in our lives.
Here are a few ideas that go some way towards expressing our eternal gratitude this Mother’s Day. Hint: you can defo skip the servo flowers.
Now, we’re not saying anyone’s posh, but if Mum appreciates a refined spread, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove is serving up a Mother’s Day Pink High Tea with plenty of flair at Cove Café. Sip on a glass of sparkling Bimbadgen Moscato on arrival before diving into a seasonal lineup of elegant bites like Slow-cooked Toowoomba beef brisket doughnut, Lobster & tarragon vol-au-vent, plus sweet treats including raspberry macarons and tropical passionfruit tartelettes. Of course, there are classic and lemon myrtle scones with all the trimmings, alongside delicate finger sandwiches.
Priced at $89 per adult and $30 per child (aged 5–12), bookings are essential for Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May from 12pm. Sunday is now fully booked, and there is limited space for Saturday, so get your bookings locked in quickly here.
Where: Cove Café, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island
Celebrate Mother’s Day in style at Sanctuary Cove, where waterfront views and feel-good moments set the scene for a day to remember. Head to the Marine Village for a complimentary retro Kombi photo booth on the Village Green from 10am to 2pm, complete with printed snaps and the chance to win a luxe Hunter Valley getaway.
Make a day of it with long lunches, bubbles by the water or a little retail therapy, with plenty of dining options across the precinct. Think a two-course feast at Red’s Kitchen & Bar, live music and giveaways at Cove Tavern, a blush-toned Pink High Tea at Cove Café, or a festive feast at Pablito’s.
Happening Sunday 10 May, this is your go-to for a relaxed yet elevated Mother’s Day by the marina. For information on all the offers and activities, click here.
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
If Mum’s love language is luxury (and let’s be honest… it probably is), JW Marriott Gold Coast is pulling out all the stops with their seriously elegant High Tea by JW at Chapter & Verse Bar & Lounge.
Start things right with a glass of Moët and Chandon Rosé Champagne on arrival, before settling in for a beautifully curated spread of handcrafted sweet and savoury delights from the resort’s talented pastry team. Tea is served in stunning Cristina Re teacups with 24-carat gold detailing, adding an extra layer of sophistication to an already special experience.
There are even a few extra surprises in store, including the chance to win limited edition “Mum” mugs, so the spoiling doesn’t stop at the last sip.
Priced at $109 per person, with sittings at 10:30am and 1:30pm on Sunday 10th May, this is one Mother’s Day treat she will not forget. Book here.
Where: Chapter & Verse Bar & Lounge, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Is Mum a fan of the finer things, but you know it’s quali-tea time that really fills her (tea)cup? Ditch the daisies and dial up the indulgence with QT Gold Coast’s Mother’s Day QTea High Tea. Think tiered towers stacked with standout bites like duck bombolini with truffle aioli, beef brisket and ratatouille tarts, smoked salmon en croute, plus sweet treats including Ferrero-inspired delights, cassis macarons and strawberry basil cheesecake. There are bubbles (or even a craft beer), plus tea or espresso coffee to keep the good times pouring.
Priced at $99 per adult (including a glass of G.H. Mumm Rosé Champagne), $85 per teen and $39 per child, bookings are available for Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May from 11:30am to 2pm (two-hour sittings). Book here.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Palette Restaurant at HOTA is serving up a Mother’s Day lunch that’s as impressive as she is. Set inside the Gold Coast’s only three-hatted restaurant, this is your cue to swap brekkie in bed for something a little more elevated.
Settle in for a long, leisurely lunch filled with beautifully plated, seasonal dishes that are equal parts art and flavour. Think standout plates like Australian bay lobster with brioche, char siu beef with crispy eggplant, and dreamy desserts starring feijoa or caramelised pineapple. It’s all thoughtfully curated and perfectly paired with a glass of wine or beer, because Mum deserves nothing less.
Choose between two courses for $85 or go all out with three for $100, with sittings from 11am on Sunday 10th May. Consider this your sign to book now and favourite child status is basically guaranteed. Book here.
Where: HOTA, Home of the Arts, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise
Everyone’s favourite Surfers Paradise shopping centre, Paradise Centre, is dialling things up this Mother’s Day with cool-mum energy and experiences to match. Forget the predictable pressies, this year it’s all about margaritas at El Camino Cantina, axe throwing at MANIAX, fresh piercings at Lovisa or even a cheeky tattoo at Celebrity Ink.
There’s plenty happening across the weekend, from mums throwing for free at MANIAX (with a paying guest) to mystery gift boxes at Unique Trendz Boutique, plus escape room adventures at Padlock’d (with complimentary chocolates for Mum). TGI Fridays is also getting in on the action, with a complimentary dessert for mums when you book ahead.
From shopping perks to hands-on fun, Paradise Centre is your one-stop spot to spoil Mum (and have a little fun while you’re at it). Find out more information here.
Where: Paradise Centre, Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Spoil Mum your way at The Star Gold Coast this Mother’s Day, with a lineup of dining, indulgence and a little bit of everything in between. From Italian favourites at Cucina Vivo to fresh seafood feasts at Harvest Buffet, plus Japanese dining at Kiyomi and yum cha or banquets at Uncle Su, there’s something to suit every kind of celebration. You can even take things up a notch with sky-high dining at Nineteen at The Star.
If relaxation is more her style, treat Mum to a little downtime with a 90-minute escape at Azure Spa, or turn the whole day into a staycation she won’t forget.
On Sunday 10th May, with lunch and dinner options across the precinct, this is your one-stop spot for Mother’s Day plans. For information on all the events click here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach
Burleigh Leagues Club is serving up a Mother’s Day Breakfast Buffet that’s all about starting the day on a delicious note. Expect a generous spread of hot and cold favourites, freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruit and all the hearty classics to keep everyone happy.
There’s a complimentary glass of champagne for Mum on arrival, because bubbles with brekkie just feels right, plus the chance to win a $300 hamper while you’re there.
With a relaxed, family-friendly vibe and plenty to go around, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser. Happening Sunday 10 May from 8:30am to 10:30am, priced at $45.50 for adults, $15 for kids and free for under fives. Book here.
Where: Burleigh Leagues Club, 80 Pacific Avenue, Miami
The Strand Coolangatta is bringing all the feel-good vibes this Mother’s Day with a lineup designed to help Mum truly unwind. From Wednesday, May 6, swing by with the family to snap a pic at the dreamy floral photo wall. No bookings needed, just smiles all round. On Saturday, May 9 from 9am to 3pm, Level One transforms into Mum’s Lounge, where she can soak up some well-deserved downtime with free five-minute massages from Cozy Time Massage, live music and a relaxed, flower-filled setting. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained too, from shell trinket workshops by The Craft Parlour and card-making stations to angel and tarot readings in the afternoon. Don’t miss the charity flower wall, where a gold coin donation could score Mum a prize from The Strand’s retailers. Find out more here.
Where: 72-80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Belinda Symons
Midweek bites that won’t bite your wallet.
Tuesday sits in a funny spot. The grind of Monday has worn off, but the weekend still feels a lifetime away. Motivation is… questionable. Energy levels? Also questionable. Appetite? Present, but not for the meals we just spent Sunday prepping…
The good news is that Tuesday is pulling its weight with a lineup of cheap eats across the Gold Coast that make getting through the week a whole lot more enjoyable. We’re talking tacos, parmis, pizzas, schnitties and everything in between, all at prices that feel like a small win in today’s world.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Status: living the ‘cream, 365 days a year.
Ah, ice cream, you dreamy, heaven-sent creation, you. A treat that transcends all ages, there’s no denying it is one of – if not *the* – most iconic summer foods going. And here on the GC, our (usually) balmy climate is more suited than most to indulge in (several) scoops of creamy, churned ice cream or gelato goodness any old time we please…
Which is just as well, with all of the fabulous Gelaterias and frozen dessert purveyors gracing our city. It’s a near full-time job trying to keep tabs on them all… and, side note – new dream profession unlocked.
Let’s dig in (y’know, with one of those adorably tiny, and mildly impractical ice cream spoons) to some of the best spots to cool off with a cup, cone, or even a fully-loaded sundae –stacked, sprinkled, and swirled within an inch of its life. Who’s hungry?!
Artisanal gelato slinger Rosé Gelateria dons its telltale blush accents across two lush GC locations – Tedder Ave and Sanctuary Cove – which, in itself, is a pretty decent clue as to the boujee, boutique style approach at these pretty-in-pink creameries. Besides a delicious assortment of crafted ice creams, they pour some fantastic coffee, including an iced coffee with vanilla bean gelato and vanilla syrup that’ll knock your socks and/or crocks off (hopefully not ‘and’, though). The signature Rose flavour, which comes sprinkled with petals, is a treat for the peepers and the palette. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a prettier gelato fix on the Coast!
Where: Shop 39a, Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove and Shop 6/19-21 Tedder Ave, Main Beach
As the name suggests, Italia Moto Pizza & Gelato isn’t just about serving incredible Italian savouries; it’s also about serving scoopfuls of creamy gelato. Take it in a cup, in a cone, or take it home! Take it plain, or take it with ‘tune-ups.’ AKA, indulgent sauces and crunchy toppings like M&M’s, Oreos and sprinkles. And don’t even get us started on their affogatos– did someone say heaven?
Where: 104 Helensvale Rd, Helensvale
The concept of a friendly neighbourhood noshery specialising in snacks is one we can wholeheartedly get behind, and Shiro Gelato & Snack has your cravings covered with a Japanese take on all things to nibble, slurp, and lick. If it’s the lickable variety you’ve got your heart set on, house-made gelato flavours like Matcha Pistachio, Double Rich Mango and Choco Banana are all a common sight here. Take it to the next level and make it a Mochi-wrapped gelato scoop – served perfectly encased in the gelatinous Japanese dessert.
Where: 50 Nerang St, Southport
We’ve been living the ‘cream’ ever since Gelato Messina returned to our shores, and they’ve been slinging their famed flavours out of Surfers’ slick Paradise Centre precinct ever since. The Messina name is one known for taking this gelato business seriously… everything from the dulce de leche to the gelato base – and even the chocolate – is made from scratch, down to their very own dairy farm to keep them plied with the creamiest jersey milk. There’s a reason that their… *checks notes* – literally every flavour – is what ice-cream dreams are made of.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2A Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Cup, cone, or even sundaes – no matter your preferred method of consumption, Broadbeach’s The Gelato Shop has got you covered when it comes to all things chilled, sweet and creamy. The legendairy lineup of award-winning flavours includes the likes of Chunky Chocolate Cheesecake and Snickers gelato, a slew of fruit-based sorbets and decadent vegan options like Coffee Crunch or Peanut Butter. For an all-out indulgence, there’s locally made Warm Cookies & Gelato, Waffles and an array of fully stacked Sundaes.
Where: 97 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Not only do they serve a slice worth doughing over, but scoops of gelato. Melt-in-your-mouth (it won’t last long enough to melt in your cone) authentic Italiana gelati. Savour it plain and simple with a one or two-scoop cone, or take it on a freshly baked Sicilian brioche bun or a pizza?! What could be better? We’ll tell ya! It’s their Rumming dessert pizza, made with zuppa inglese gelato (rum/custard), white chocolate glaze, and chocolate dust. Mamma mia, che buono!
Where: East Tower The Phoenician Building, Shop 10/104 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Started from Roma, now they’re here! Thanks, Drake. But yes, My Gelato did come all the way from Rome, Italy, to bring us, mere mortals, authentic gelato made with the freshest ingredients – all resulting in flavours that are both classic and innovative. Think Raffaello (just like the Ferrero balls) and Paciugo made with caramelised hazelnut and Nutella. Or, how does Latte Di Rosa (Rose Milk) or Honecomb sound? Pretty darn good if you ask us.
Where: 12w/1 Oracle Bvd, Broadbeach
A spot that’s a stickler for tradition, La Macelleria is kitted out with all the best Italian gelato-making gear. You can watch on as the crew whips up their artisanal, chilled confections daily… *drooling intensifies*. Wrap your lips around stalwart flavours like Bacio and Pistacio, gelato shakes and out-of-this-world cup sundaes – for those who love their desserts layered with pure indulgence. One taste, and your love for this place will be un-cone-ditional.
Where: 90 Markeri Street, Mermaid Waters
Every scoop of Gelato Gemelli’s creamy creations is made from scratch with imported equipment straight from Bologna, the heartland of gelato-making. No shortcuts, no pre-mixes – just proper Italian gelato crafted with love and precision. The signature scoop? The Pisellino – a heavenly blend of pistachio cream and white chocolate that’s worth melting for. Cones or cups aren’t your only choice here; you can also have your fave flavour served in their famous brioche gelato sandwich. Just stop – we may pass out from sheer excitement.
Where: 2/2217 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach ‘The Oxley’
A true family-run gelateria, Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is headed 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
Here’s the scoop… if you’re in and around Burleigh and find yourself in the mood for gelato, sorbet, or ice-cream shakes – do not pass go – head directly to Scoop Gelati.
The hand-crafted, small-batch recipes include refreshing revelations like ANZAC Biscuit, Caramel Biscotto and Apple Crumble, all made fresh on-site. Got an ice cream connoisseur in your life? Their frozen cakes are a treat for the eyes and the taste buds – perfect for every occasion, or ‘just because’ works too.
Where: 23 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Picture the scene: you find yourself in the southern end of town (wandering off of one of those world-class beaches, no doubt), when you’re hit with a hankering – not quite hunger – but you could most definitely eat. The answer is Burleigh Gelato! Don’t let the name fool you; they are not exclusive to Burleigh – they’re also in Palm Beach. Let us tell you, the array of flavours is enough to earn the affection of even the frostiest-at-heart. The cookie-inspired creations, such as M&M Cookie Dough or Biscoff gelato, are enough on their own to get dessert fans swooning. They’re also handily available on major home delivery apps and open late – perfect for those late-night sugar cravings.
Where: 9 Connor Street, Burleigh Heads and 3/10 Palm Beach Ave, Palm Beach
Palm Beach’s turquoise sensation, Tango Gelato, serves up sweet scoops daily out of its Pavilions Shopping Centre location (also in Kingscliff if you’re ever stranded across the border). The icy creations include inventive combos like Ginger & Dark Chocolate, Strawberry Cookies & Cream and Blackberry Sorbet – so if you think you’ve ‘been there, licked that’ when it comes to ice cream flavours, we’d suggest you pay them a visit to have your mind blown immediately. They also offer delivery, so if you’re lucky enough to live nearby, you can always opt to have the ‘mind blown’ come to you (in your jim-jams, obvi).
Where: 1102 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach and Unit 4/78–80 Marine Parade, Kingscliff
Elly’s is about one thing: really good gelato. Full stop. The kind you plan your beach day around. The kind that turns “just one scoop” into “okay, maybe two.” The storefront will charm your pants off, while flavours like Salted Caramel and Kinder Surprise deliver creamy comfort with every lick. If you prefer something a little more classic, the Peppermint Chocolate Chip and Bubblegum (yes, bubblegum, and yes, it slaps) are absolute crowd pleasers.
Where: 778 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Bringing Kiwi-style real fruit ice cream to Tugun, Chilly Bin (aka, an esky) is famous for its soft-serve-meets-smoothie hybrid made with frozen fruit blended on the spot with silky ice cream. First, you pick an ice-cream flavour for your base. Next, you choose your fruity flair. Finally, you add house-made cacao maple choc chips for that delicious crunch, and you’ve got yourself summer in a cup, or waffle cone. Consider us sold!
Where: 478 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
What do you get if you take a devoted Italian and send them to study for a diploma at the Gelato University of Carpigiani in Italy? You get Davide, the owner of Ottimo, of course! Promising superior gelato and coffee – rest assured, whatever flavour you settle on taking from this premium iced-goods purveyor is going to be the goods – it’s all made fresh and on-site daily, after all. Stroll in after an afternoon on the beach and let him and his friendly staff scoop you happy. And their signature ‘Sicily’ flavour, made with Mandarin Custard with Pistachio and Almond Caramel, sure does just that.
Where: Shop 18/52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
There is a multitude of tasty reasons to stop by Luna’s Deli – but their desserts are number one on that list. Alongside buttery in-house pastries, they serve small-batch gelato, best enjoyed on a fresh-baked choc chip cookie topped with chocolate sauce– that’s our professional recommendation. However, each scoop is just as good on its own, whether in a cup or a cone, and one scoop is never enough.
Where: Shop 7/120 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Serving only the most authentic Italian gelato, the rainforest-studded surrounds of Tamborine’s mountainside community are the only reminder that you are, in fact, not strolling the streets of Sicily whilst sampling your delicious scoop of choice. At Tamborine Gelato, the iced goods are served old school – hidden behind the lids of a traditional Pozzetti gelato cabinet in the name of freshness. Seasonal, house-made flavours are rejigged every couple of days, with the chance to catch creamy creations like Tiramisu, Choc Mint Cookie and Honey and Rhubarb.
Where: Shop 4/15–17 Main St, Tamborine Mountain
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
