Reset and nourish the senses at the luxurious Spa by JW.
Reset and nourish the senses at the luxurious Spa by JW.
If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that true relaxation doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by appointment.
And nowhere has mastered the art of unwinding quite like JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa’s spa-rkling new and aptly named, ‘Spa by JW’. Launched last week, this beautifully designed sanctuary is the true embodiment of bliss, and we would expect nothing less from such leaders in luxury.
Complementing the hotel’s $35 million makeover, it’s the secret sauce securing this GC institution’s position as THE destination for all things sleek, sophisticated, and superior. Summonsing locals and visitors alike to enter an in-spa-rational world of tranquillity and unwind amongst the sounds of the hinterland, echoing birds and ocean shoreline, it’s a hard yes from us.
A design collab between the DBI design studio, the building’s OG architects, and high-end interior designers, it’s the Queen Bee of spas. With an effortless yet sophisticated urban aesthetic inspired by the lush surroundings, Spa by JW is a bespoke work of art. It oozes quintessential coastal Queensland beauty with natural materials, texture, lighting, and a chic neutral colour palette. Oh, and a special shout-out must go to the emphasis on curves because a) we’re obsessed, and b) we have them too.
Curated under the expert guidance of Spa by JW Manager, Stacey Leong, we’re talking tailored treatments in six treatment rooms, a signature couple’s room including relaxation lounge, ensuite stone bath and twin showers, traditional saunas, showers, tranquil pods, and an alfresco outdoor garden terrace. Centred around four distinctive benefits; calm, indulge, invigorate, and renew, our list of recommended treatments goes a little something like this….
Firstly, The Kaffir Lime and Ginger Salt Scrub is a must. Including an exfoliating massage made from locally sourced Bunda Ginger paired with Pink Murray River Salt to stimulate blood flow and assist with anti-inflammation, where have you been all our lives?
Next, The Chamomile and Lavender Soak promotes restful sleep and a balanced mind through an immersive chamomile and lavender bath soak experience. And let’s not forget The Native Clay Body Mask to brighten, nourish and refine the texture of your skin, and incite a deep sense of relaxation.
Now because the JW Marriott team don’t do anything by halves, the Spa by JW experience includes access to a locally inspired tea service, wine service, and thoughtfully crafted food menu courtesy of JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa’s Executive Chef extraordinaire, Paul Smart. While we’re talking bougie eats and sips, sign yourself up stat for the wellbeing high tea including lavender scones, cucumber, caviar & crème fraiche, smoked salmon tartine, sesame bark, citrus aioli, tomato and bocconcini tartine, macadamia chocolate brownie, blueberry cake, mango passion slice, chocolate dipped strawberries, native honey seed nut slice, and chocolate rose with hazelnut cream ($79 per person).
Need another excuse to indulge? Here’s one we prepared earlier… A hand selected Spa by JW Introductory Package is available until Monday 11th of September where you’ll be treated to a bespoke 30-minute aromatherapy massage and 30-minute discovery facial ($180 per person).
For more information and to book a treatment guaranteed to delight the soul and nourish the senses, go here.
Where: 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: Spa by JW is open from 9am – 6pm Monday to Saturday, & 10am – 5pm Sunday.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY JW MARRIOTT GOLD COAST RESORT & SPA
Prepare to be pampered.
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.
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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 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 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
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
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
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
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
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
The only time it’s good to have a lot on your plate.
The history of buffet style eating is a mixed affair. Its origins could be said to hark back to a mixture of cultures — from Asia to Europe. The ‘smorgasbord’ became internationally known as such at the 1939 New York World’s Fair exhibition, because the Swedes had to invent a new way of showcasing the best of Swedish food to large numbers of visitors. And the rest, as they say, is history…
Whoever can claim to have been responsible, we’re not fussed! The point is buffets — and smorgasbords — are amazing ways to reach newfound eating goals, and we’ve got quite a few exceptional ones right here on the Gold Coast. Happy binge eating, folks!
It’s the seafood buffet extravaganza in Main Beach that locals keep returning to time and time again, and as one of those locals, we can tell you it’s got all of the very best things you’ll love. Yes, fresh seafood galore but also a whole charcuterie section, an excellent Asian dish section, and so many delicious desserts to choose from. Buffet is open daily for breakfast, Saturday and Sunday for lunch and Thursday to Saturday for dinner.
Where: Level 1, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, 71 Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Not only does Harvest Buffet treat their diners to top-notch eats, but they also allow patrons to feast on glistening poolside views as well. The stunning indoor and outdoor spaces are seriously as enticing as the food, and the private dining room screams “have your birthday/celebration here” and ok, if you insist…Open for breakfast and dinner daily, as well as lunch every Saturday and Sunday so you can get stuck into their famed prawn and oyster buffet, you’ll be sure to leave this place bursting at the seams. We must make special mention of their dinner offering which includes the freshest seafood like oysters, prawns, sushi, roasts from the carvery as well as crowd-pleasers like pizza, pasta, curries, soups and salads. Should we also mention they have a decadent dessert bar? Yep, complete with a chocolate fountain! It’s our buffet dreams answered!
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach
Buffet in the sky? No probs. Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise is where you’re find this gem, nestled above the city skyline so you can (literally) take your dining experience to new heights. Think breathtaking views of the city skyline from ocean to hinterland and of course, the most incredible seafood feast curated by award-winning chefs. They’ve also got vegetarians covered with a huge range of options to make sure every leaves well and truly full. All that buffet-ing is thirsty work of course, so why not treat yourself to an expertly crafted cocktail (or mocktail) to seal the deal. Open for lunch and dinner from Thursday through Sunday.
Where: Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise, 2807 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
It’s a quality over quantity affair at Il Barocco, it’s long been a favourite dining spot for buffet lovers for obvious reasons. After all, this is a 5-star luxury property we’re talking about! The team uses only the very best, locally sourced seafood and the aim of the game is to create a fresh, diverse-looking buffet, which they nail. Besides exceptional seafood, there are hot and cold meats, vegetarian dishes and the prettiest dessert section. Treat yourself to the most luxe buffet setting on the Coast. Open for breakfast daily, with Seafood buffet dinner on Saturday nights.
Where: Imperial Hotel Gold Coast, 94 Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Catering to the entire family, Frenzy’s at Southport Sharks is open for dinner and offers an extensive buffet selection featuring dishes inspired by cuisines from around the world. The all-you-can-eat buffet offers a tasty range of meats, salads, international dishes and desserts, all available between 5.30pm and 8.30pm, 7 nights a week. Yep, we don’t know about you but we have our plates ready!
Plus, Frenzy’s is now serving up a mouth-watering, heart-warming all-you-can-eat breakfast feast every Saturday and Sunday! The scrumptious selection includes all your brekkie favourites (as well as cheese and charcuterie, yes please) AND includes bottomless Bun coffee – they’ve really got everything covered.
Where: Southport Sharks, Olsen Ave & Musgrave Ave, Southport
Not a morning person? Well breakfast up in the clouds might be the closest you’ll get to staying snug in that cosy bed of yours and to be honest, I’d say this brekky is worth the wake up. With all the classics you know and love on offer to build your own big breakfast, seasonal fruits (because, summer) and even cereal if your inner child is begging for coco pops – we won’t judge. You can indulge in the food and then indulge in the view of the GC because it always looks a little prettier from up above. SkyPoint’s breakfast buffet is served every day between 7:30am – 10:30am.
Where: Q1, Level 77 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise
Many things may have changed over the years, but the yum factor of Shoreline Restaurant’s famous buffet isn’t one of them #phew. Located in the Sea World Resort, treat yourself to a balanced and plentiful breaky smorgasbord from 6.30am to 10am daily, or all-you-eat-dinner from 5.30pm to 8.30pm every Friday and Saturday (no judgement if you do both). Special dinner shout-outs go to the Queensland prawns, wide array of international dishes, juicy Chef carved meats, and delectable desserts. And let’s not forget the coastal ambience and live entertainment, satisfying all the senses.
Where: Sea World Resort, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Wake up with an expansive selection of season-inspired breakfast classics at Cove Café’s buffet. Recently reimagined with a tropic-inspired aesthetic reflecting the natural beauty of Sanctuary Cove, it’s the perfect place to start your day. Hit the live omelette station for eggs cooked your way, seasonal fruit, international dishes and naughty but oh-so-nice delicate pastries. Wash your ten outta ten breakfast down with fresh juices and Vittoria Coffee, then saunter around the glorious Sanctuary Cove shops to burn off your brekky. At least that’s our excuse…. Open seven days a week from 6.30am until 10.30am.
Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove
There are buffets and there are buffets and this my friends is the latter. A boujee buffet if you like (yes, we like!), Akoya is located inside The Langham Gold Coast, our go-to for luxury stays and plays. Serving up beautiful coastline views and some of Australia’s finest meat, fish, and poultry, this is a buffet connoisseur’s dream. Offering a buffet feast every Saturday night from 5.30pm to 10pm, or their signature breakfast buffet daily from 6.30am, it’s a must for any local or visitor. The only thing more delicious and high rent than the fare is the strikingly contemporary interiors, and bespoke open kitchen. Swoon!
Where: The Langham Gold Coast, 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
From brekkie platters piled high with tropical fruit to eggs cooked exactly how you like them (#PoachGoals), voco Gold Coast has your morning sorted. Sip on a fresh espresso and mix it up with healthy bites or hearty classics – or both, it’s a buffet, live a little! And if seafood is your love language, come back for the seafood buffet dinner. We’re talking whole prawns, rock oysters on the shell, Asian, Indian and Mediterranean faves, and seasonal dishes to keep things exciting. Oh – and did we mention the epic kid-friendly dessert bar? Breakfast buffet is offered daily from 6:30am – 10am, while the seafood buffet rolls out Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30pm – 9pm.
Where: voco Gold Coast, 3032 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
One of the most beautifully presented buffets around is Citrique at the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. They are renowned for a next-level, seasonal seafood selection, and folks, it is the goods. Every dish you could possibly want is available at Citrique, including yum cha, sushi, curries, antipasto, European dishes, and speciality plates you’ll fall for in a big way. If the delish food offer wasn’t enough, the view of their iconic pool is the ultimate for giving holiday vibes while you fill up on the fare. It’s open for buffet breakfast daily, with Friday and Saturday buffet sittings in the evenings and lunches Sunday.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Words by Bianca Trathen and Jacqueline Bojanowski
Glow with the flow at Relaxation Corporation.
If the ol’ faithful, barely-qualifies-as-self-care routine of on a slapping mask, raiding the secret chocolate stash and watching Seinfeld is no longer sparking joy, it’s time to pull out the big guns.
While the perks of living in this glorious city of ours are infinite, the problem for us locals is sometimes, we get so caught up in the daily grind we forget to slow down and smell the sea spray right in our own backyards. And if you’re a little, or a lot overdue for a spot of R&R, get ready to soak up the zen because there’s an underrated gem that needs to make its way onto your radar, stat.
Throw that phone on DND, turn on the ‘out of office’ reply because we’re about to dive into the ultimate relaxation haven – Relaxation Corporation. Tucked away within a location that needs no introduction, the iconic Sea World Resort, we need not only turn to this tropical oasis destination when we’re seeking thrills and spills. Relaxation Corporation is equally as placed to supply tranquils and chills #seewhatwedidthere.
The Relaxation Corporation space was treated to a well-deserved rejuvenation of its own last year after valiantly serving the GC and surrounds for the last 20 odd years. Because we all know a trip to the day spa is all about that ambiance, upon arrival you’ll be greeted with softly lit, rich, chocolate tones to soothe the senses, before stepping into your own personal cocoon aka treatment room. You’ll receive the star treatment in more ways than one, with the show-stopping twinkle lights fitted throughout to really help you relax and glow with the flow.
Of course, the only thing that will be glowing more than the ceilings is your skin once you’ve treated yourself to one of the signature treatments on offer, of which there are many. There are all the lush day spa faves you’d expect, from rejuvenating facials through to couples massages and luxury packages for a truly indulgent pamper experience to have you feeling as good as gold (no, really, there’s a Kardashian-worthy treatment that includes actual gold #fancy).
The Luxury Time treatment is certainly knot your average massage, you’ll be on cloud shine as your expert therapist lathers you in pure, 24-carat gold infused rosehip oil for 90 minutes of uninterrupted bliss. Rich with anti-ageing ingredients, this invigorating face and body massage really is a gift that just keeps on giving. Finally, the royal treatment we deserve.
And just when we thought we couldn’t love chocolate any more, it turns out our favourite emotional support food holds magical properties for the whole body too. Book yourself in for some Sweet Time, and not only do you get a deeply nourishing and moisturising treatment, but thanks to the addition of Cocoa you also get to harness the production and secretion of endorphins in the brain, while combatting anxiety and stress. Included in this 120 minute package is also a 15 min foot massage and 15 min head massage, so it sounds like a pretty sweet deal to us.
So go on, treat yourself to something spa-cial and bliss out for a few hours at Relaxation Corporation. With extended trading hours, there’s really no excuse not to send ‘me time’ straight to the top of the priority list.
Where: Sea World Resort, Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
When: Daily 9am – 7pm
Website: www.relaxationcorporation.com
Instagram: @relaxationcorporationseaworld
Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Belinda Symons.
STORY SPONSORED BY RELAXATION CORPORATION.
