For all the joy that dating shows bring, they’re also a stark reminder of the kind of dates we can’t afford—helicopter ride to Hamilton Island anyone? Lucky for you, the Coast is the perfect place to plan a date that doesn’t sting your alarmingly low bank account. If you’re scraping the barrel until next pay day but still want to treat your significant other, we got you. In fact, we’ve gone and road tested five fun adventures you’ll both love, because we’re big old bleeding hearts here at The Urban List.
So, ladies and fellas take note, these are the best free (or super cheap) date ideas to try on the Gold Coast.
Falls & Fudge At Mt Tamborine
If you can afford petrol to Mt Tamborine, you’re in for an epic date. You’ll feel a world away (well 45 minutes to be exact) as you wander through nature. Embrace the serenity of Cedar Creek Falls then meander through the main street. Dotted with quirky shops selling everything from German clocks to Australian opals, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time. And it’s no trip to Mt Tamborine without sickening yourself with fudge. Fudge Heaven has more than 40 flavours (our picks: rocky road & maltesers). Grab 3 for $12 for your drive home.
Markets At Marina Mirage
On a Saturday morning, check out the quaint Marina Mirage Farmers Market. From traditional Portugese tarts to French savoury crepes, there’s a treat for every taste bud. While you sip coffee and inhale a freshly baked croissant, mosey on down to the marina for the real show...rows and rows of million dollar boats. Nothing makes you realise just how broke you are like perusing the super yachts of the Gold Coast. But a young couple can dream right?!
Details: Saturdays, between 7am and midday
Kayak In Currumbin
Channel The Notebook as you paddle along beautiful Currumbin waters in a double kayak. Prices at Currumbin Boat Shed start at $15 for a single kayak or $20 for a double. But if that doesn’t float your boat, you can also hire stand up paddle boards. The best part? The equipment is already on the sand so you don’t have to carry it. Once you’re back on safe land, grab a seat at the Boat Shed Bar for a post-paddle beverage.
Details: Seven days a week, 7am to 5pm. Last hire is at 3pm
Pizza & Sunset At Burleigh Hill
A famous philosopher once said ‘the way to someone’s heart is Burleigh Hill’. Nothing quite says romance like watching a pastel pink sky dance over the city skyline. Once you’ve bid goodbye to the sun, it’s time to say hello to a wood-fired margherita pizza. In winter, Justin Lane delivers freshly made pizza directly to your picnic rug at Burleigh Hill. The future is now.
Details: Delivery available to Burleigh Hill everyday after 5pm in winter. Download the app to book or call on 07 5576 2563
Beachside Bike Ride
A beachside bike ride is a cheap and incredibly rewarding way to spend the day. Grab a beach cruiser from Cheap As Bike Rentals from $15 or take advantage of the new bike share operator Mobike. If you want to take it up a notch, test your relationship with a tandem bike. It’s a fun (and at times frustrating) way to explore the coastline. If you can last a day of tandem riding together, you can last a lifetime.
Details: Hire a tandem from Get On Your Bike for 8 hours - $25 each
Looking for somewhere to head at sunset? Check out the Coast's best rooftop bars for a tipple with a view.
Image credit: Unsplash