The Sanctuary Series is bringing stay, dine and play energy to Sanctuary Cove.
The Sanctuary Series is bringing stay, dine and play energy to Sanctuary Cove.
Okay winter, we see you – and so does Sanctuary Cove. The jumpers are out, the red wine’s flowing, and Sanctuary Cove is dialling up the indulgence with a brand-new campaign called The Sanctuary Series. What is it, you ask? Oh, just a casual seven weeks of boujee giveaways designed to turn your regular chilly season into a Hallmark movie-level holiday. Basically, hot girl winter redefined.
Running now until 10 August, The Sanctuary Series is handing out one luxe experience per week to one very lucky human. That’s seven weeks. Seven vibes. Seven chances to win your dream day out, Sanctuary Cove style. We’re talking spa splurges, marina dining, boutique browsing, luxury stays and champagne-in-hand sunsets. Honestly, if winter had a glow-up, this would be it.
So, what’s the catch? Literally none. Just follow along on Sanctuary Cove’s socials, keep an eye on the weekly giveaway drops and throw your hat in the ring. It’s free, fabulous and dangerously addictive (you’ve been warned). They’re basically out here just giving away the good life. Iconic behaviour.
Let’s paint the picture: a seafood lunch on the marina so fresh it’s practically doing backflips onto your plate. A designer shopping moment where you definitely don’t need another handbag… but suddenly, you do. Aperols at Destino as the sun dips low and a DJ starts spinning the kind of tunes that make you wish you’d worn your dancing sandals. Maybe a cheeky stop at Vault Skin Lab for a glow-up, or Jala Head Spa for a scalp massage so good you’ll hear colours. Then, cap it all off by floating into a plush bed at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, where the lagoon pool is giving Santorini (minus the 30-hour flight).
Each week focuses on a different part of the Cove, whether it’s food, fashion or full-blown relaxation, and the prizes are straight out of your Pinterest board. All you need to do is enter. Maybe even twice. For… research.
Whether you’re a seasoned local, a weekend wanderer or a Gold Coast girly who simply refuses to hibernate, The Sanctuary Series is your golden ticket to treat yourself. It’s luxe, it’s low-key, and it’s your sign to stop doom scrolling and start planning that staycay.
So grab your bestie, your boo, or just your solo sparkle, and let Sanctuary Cove show you how winter is actually done. Think of it as your seven-week self-care era, with prizes. Go on, make your group chat jealous.
Want in? Head to Sanctuary Cove’s socials now to enter this week’s giveaway. Your dream winter escape is literally one click away.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
When: 23rd June- 10th August 2025
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY SANCTUARY COVE
TARA Far East Dining & Bar brings flavour, flair and 360° feels to Sanctuary Cove.
If you’re craving a culinary adventure that’ll take your tastebuds on a round-the-clock trip through the Far East without needing to renew your passport, TARA Far East Dining & Bar at Sanctuary Cove is calling your name.
This luxe yet laidback venue flung open its effortlessly elegant doors in January 2025 and has been serving up a menu that doesn’t just flirt with flavour, it goes all the way. With every dish rooted in authentic Far East traditions, expect bold, beautiful plates, priceless panoramic views, and enough ambience to warrant a dedicated folder in your camera roll.
Perched a hop, skip and a jump from the harbour, TARA is where elegance meets easy-going. With a name that nods to the rivers that connect the countries of the Far East, TARA brings a flood of flavour with its authentic Asian fusion cuisine. And unlike some fine-dining haunts that are all white tablecloths and sniggers when you mispronounce “sommelier”, TARA has made it their mission to serve easy-access luxury, welcoming everyone to enjoy world-class food and drinks – sans the snooty side-eye.
Let’s start with the interiors because this place is seriously making waves. Designed by the genius folk at Open Projects, TARA channels coastal opulence with an oceanic twist. Blue hues ripple across the space, offset by pops of gold, luxe beachy textures and chic coral features; the ultimate tribute to the great blue without going full 80s fish tank.
By day, it’s a bright, breezy beauty with views to match. By night, the mood dims down to a golden glow, ideal for sipping and schmoozing. And speaking of sipping, prepare to have your spirits lifted (quite literally) at the arch-styled statement bar stacked with over 300 premium spirits.
Whether you opt for a cosy indoor corner or take in the fresh air alfresco-style, TARA has a seat with your name on it. The venue’s layout is as flexible as a yoga instructor, with everything from casual date-night nooks to a rotating private dining room (yes, it spins!) offering 360-degree views of the city skyline and sparkling coastline.
Behind all the glam is a trio of hospitality heavyweights: Snantachat Tansacha, Pop Direk (also the mastermind Head Chef), and Emma Davis. Together, these long-time friends bring decades of combined experience and a whole lot of flavour to the table. One grew up in a family of chefs and has been wowing Aussie diners for 20 years, while the others have a solid track record launching crowd-fave restaurants around the Gold Coast. It’s safe to say, they know their way around a kitchen and a cocktail menu.
Now let’s get down the business end – the food. To kick off, you can’t go past their Lobster Roll Bun Mee with Tasmanian lobster, lime, mayo, salmon caviar, carrot, and pickled cucumber served inside a brioche bun.
Moving on to mains, let’s unpack their sumptuous signature dish; The Phuket Toothfish Curry. With marinated miso toothfish, yellow curry, betel leaf, and crispy coconut, it’s rich, aromatic, and will have you googling flights to Thailand before dessert.
And speaking of, those fanging for a dessert will go loco for their Hot Taro Pineapple Sweet Corn Puff with vanilla ice cream and plum sauce.
Thirsty? You will be when you spy the cocktail menu inspired by cities across the Far East, inviting you to sip your way from Bangkok to Busan. For a smooth, sultry concoction that tastes like the city’s neon skyline in a glass, opt for the signature sip; Tokyo Moonlight with sake, vermouth, lychee and Chambord.
With world-class food, knockout views, and an atmosphere that oozes coastal chic, it’s love at first bite. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want an excuse to dress up and chow down, TARA is the ultimate destination for Far East feasting without leaving the Cove.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 40B Masthead Way, Hope Island
When: 11am – 3pm & 5pm – 9pm, Monday to Sunday
Words by Bianca Trathen
This suburb is much more than just an optimistic name.
Hope Island might be famous for its canal-front living and a name that screams positivity, but there’s more to this northern gem than just golf courses and good vibes. Nestled far enough from the hustle of the CBD to feel like a retreat, yet close enough to dip back into the action, it delivers a lifestyle that’s totally 4220.
And honestly, it makes sense – when a chunk of your neighbourhood is an actual resort, that vibe is bound to stick.
The locals here? Absolutely smitten with their slice of paradise and trust us, they’re not going anywhere. Here are twelve reasons why Hope Island folks are locked in for the long haul.
Sanctuary Cove
I mean, this place needs no introduction. Bursting with top-notch dining, drinking, a world-class marina, primo people-watching opportunities and don’t even get us started on the shopping, it’s no wonder this vibrant spot holds a special place in our hearts. With a lineup of eats and sips venues (keep reading for more deets) and boutiques like Soho Girl and Theo & Joe, there’s no shortage of places to do your dough.
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island
Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove
If you’re after a quadruple threat, welcome. Between the Lagoon Beach Club, epic pool, beautiful accommodation and of course, the wood-fire wizardry that is The Fireplace restaurant, it’s the ultimate stay-cay destination. Plus, if you’re in the market to get hitched, there’s a reason this place has remained on bride and groom’s to-be ceremony and reception list for decades.
Where: Manor Circuit, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Rise
The French know how to wow, and Rise Bakery is no exception. With divine pastries, fresh baguettes, heavenly macarons, and a champagne bar, it’s a slice of Parisian perfection. Add a peek-a-boo kitchen and luxe interiors and you’ve got trés chic indulgence. Pop in for croissants, sip bubbly, and embrace all the bready, sugary goodness – because calories don’t count when it’s French.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Pablitos
When it comes to tacos and tequila, Pablito’s Mexican Cuisine and Tequilaria in Sanctuary Cove is a spec-taco-lar must-try. With a fresh, plant-based-forward menu, fancy margaritas, and over 50 sipping tequilas, it’s a fiesta for your taste buds. The chic Mexican-Caribbean vibes, terracotta tables, and divine dishes make this spot muy auténtico. Vamos, amigos!
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Hope Island Tavern
Say hello to the revamped Hope Island Tav, where sunshine, good vibes, and laid-back living collide in the best way possible. Smack dab in the heart of Hope Island, stretch out in the expansive beer garden and let the good times roll. The little ones will stay busy in the awesome playground while you devour drool-worthy wood-fired pizzas and fresh-as-can-be seafood.
Where: 93 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island
Doughed
Doughed is a bona fide foodie haven, serving epic coffee, matcha, NYC-style cookies, and drool-worthy doughnuts. Their all-day Early Riser Focaccia Sandwich and other sanga options hit every craving, while sweet tooths will go gaga for their array of sugary treats. Don’t miss the signature Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte – it’s qualiTEA perfection!
Where: 99-103 Broadwater Avenue, Hope Island
Rosé Gelateria
This pastel paradise serves artisan gelato, pastries, and coffee fit for a foodie’s dream. Indulge in unique flavours like Fig and Mascarpone or Passionfruit Pavlova, sip affogatos, or snack on a macaron…or ten. Pair your treats with a shake or your fave coffee and take a stroll around the magnificent marina. Yes ploise.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
Ahoy, boat lovers! The Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is back for its 38th year and ready to make waves from 22 – 25 May. The most glamorous, immersive, unmissable boating lifestyle event in the Southern Hemisphere, it showcases the latest-and-greatest boating tech and equipment, exclusive waterside VIP experiences and over 43,000+ visitors, 330+ exhibitors, and 760+ boats. It’s a shore thing.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Mecca Bah
If you love Mecca Bah Broady, get ready to fall for its chic sibling at Hope Island. Indulge in fresh, locally-sourced Middle Eastern and Mediterranean delights in a setting that’s as aesthetic as it is authentic. With live tunes on Thursdays from 5pm and dazzling belly dancers every Saturday evening from 7:30pm, prepare to be mezze-merised. Your taste buds will thank you!
Where: 18/10 Santa Barbara Road, Hope Island
Native Harvest
Native Harvest is the northern GC’s worst-kept secret, serving up a fresh take on Australian fusion cuisine and celebrating native ingredients. From Native Australian Chilli Scramble to a Fresh, Tangy Prawn Tartare, the menu is a winner winner bush dinner. Pro tip; pair your nosh with their Native Plum Spritz for peak indulgence. Doggo-friendly and oozing charm, “I’ll (definitely) allow it”.
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Hope Island Links Golf Club & Sanctuary Cove Country Club
Hope Island’s heart beats to the swing of a golf club, with world-class courses stealing the spotlight. The Links, crafted by British Open champ Peter Thomson, has aced Australia’s top ten resort courses since 1993. Whether you’re teeing off or tying the knot, this iconic venue isn’t just for golfers – it’s the go-to for unforgettable functions and events.
Where: Springfield Drive and Gleneagles Drive, Hope Island
Destino
Craving a Mediterranean escape sans the airfare? Destino at Sanctuary Cove delivers delish tapas, refreshing cocktails, and top-shelf wine in a chic, sunlit setting. Kick back on the deck or spend your Friday and Saturday nights vibing to a live DJ from 7pm. With its Euro vibes, low tables, and outdoor seating, one drink will likely become three. Take it from us, Destino is your passport to indulgence – no packing required!
Where: Masthead Way, Sanctuary Cove, Hope Island
Scalp care is the new self-care.
Haven’t heard of a head spa before? Babe, you’ve been sleeping on something seriously amazing.
Thanks to TikTok, the Japanese head spa has us in a chokehold – and for good reason! This isn’t just a wash and blow-dry, oh no. It’s a full-blown scalp experience.
Think deep cleansing, exfoliation, and nourishment that’ll have your follicles thriving and your stress levels plummeting. It’s basically a facial for your scalp, and yes, it’s just as dreamy as it sounds.
If you haven’t hopped on the hype train yet, here are some spots on the Gold Coast to kickstart your new obsession.
Dreamin’ of luscious locks? Same, bestie. And lucky for you, we’ve found the ultimate place to make those hair goals a reality. All you have to do is lie back, relax, and let spa owner and hair wizard Takashi work his magic. Dreamin Head Spa is all about personalised treatments, blending Japanese beauty secrets with Indian massage techniques to deep-clean and deeply nourish your scalp. Not only will your hair thank you, but they also do cuts and styles – so don’t be surprised if you walk out looking like a whole new person.
Where: Suite 16, 115-157 Queen Street, Southport
If you’re after a more science-backed approach to hair health (aka no fluff, just facts), GRO has your back – and your scalp. As one of Australia and New Zealand’s top hair restoration clinics, these guys know their stuff. Fun fact: a clean and nourished scalp is essential for healthy hair growth. Not-so-fun fact: most of us are out here neglecting our scalps. GRO’s Scalp Deep Wash treatment purifies, balances, and gets your hair follicles thriving. It’s ideal for anyone dealing with mild to moderate hair loss – or for those who just want to give their locks a little extra love.
Where: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Shop 1502, Broadbeach Waters
Gold Coast’s first luxury head spa? Say no more! Jala Headspa is an indulgence not just for your hair, but for your mind and soul too. Their tailored treatments include the 45-minute Refresh Mini Head Spa, the 1.5-hour Classic Head Spa, and the ultra-luxe 1.5–2 hour Premium Head Spa. Book in for the ‘Classic’ and expect herbal tea, a cooling towel, a scalp detox, Aveda cleansing, a nourishing masque, a dreamy head massage, and a soft, natural blow-dry. B.L.I.S.S. Oh, and if you’re thinking, “But I’m bald?”, they’ve got an Ultimate Scalp Refresh for you too. Everyone deserves the head spa glow-up.
Where: Sanctuary Cove, 41 Quay Street, Hope Island
La Vela is bringing Japan’s finest treatment philosophies straight to the Gold Coast, and we are here for it. Their organic massages and facials are already elite, but the real magic happens when you step inside – instantly enveloped in a cocoon of zen vibes. Whether you go for their standard, signature, or premium experience, expect a next-level scalp massage with organic oils, steam therapy to open up your pores, and treatments that relieve stress while boosting scalp health. They even mix in targeted pressure techniques for extra relaxation and recovery. We La Vela love everything about this.
Where: 1401 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
If slow living had a spiritual home, it would be Slo Space. This dreamy Japanese-inspired spa is all about intentional relaxation, which is why they only take a limited number of bookings per day – so every session is completely immersive and personalised. Think luxury, holistic scalp treatments that melt away stress while nourishing your hair and scalp with only certified organic products. It’s a whole mood, and we’re very much here for it.
Where: 5b/201 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes
Summer Elisabeth Day Spa has officially entered the Japanese head spa chat, and we are so here for it. Nestled in the heart of Broadbeach, this luxe spa is serving up the ultimate relaxation experience, where your scalp gets the five-star treatment it truly deserves.
Picture this: a dreamy shampoo scalp exfoliation, a soothing oil massage, and a blissful scalp massage that’ll have you floating into another dimension. But wait, there’s more. Your locks will be lathered in nourishing hair masks for that silky, goddess-like glow. Oh, and did we mention they also offer facial treatments, foot rituals, and full-body massages? Because self-care isn’t just a routine, it’s a lifestyle.
Where: Level 1, Phoenician Resort, 24-26 Queensland Ave, Broadbeach
A head spa without water? Yep, you heard that right. No water, no oil – just expert rhythmic techniques to stretch and relieve tension in your scalp and head muscles. Sounds way too good, right? The 70-minute treatment is performed while you’re lying in a reclining chair (because relaxation is a priority, obviously). Unlike acupressure or deep-tissue massages, this method is super gentle but ridiculously effective. Perfect for when you need an instant mental reset – no mess, no stress, just pure, unfiltered chill.
Where: 2 Cascade Avenue, Benowa
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
