Spring has well and truly sprung on the Gold Coast.
Though, let’s be honest, we hardly get seasons. Winter blessed us with bluebird days, a helluva lot of sunshine and crystal clear waters that barely dropped below 18 degrees (except for those few random cold days but we don't talk about those). And while spring is the season of rejuvenation and renewal begging you to spring-clean your house, wardrobe, and diet, we have some better ideas to mark the turn of the season.
So folks, read on for our pick of the best things to do on the Gold Coast this spring, as the days get longer and the sun gets stronger. Amen.
Visit A Local Organic Farm
You will certainly break up with the fruit and veg aisle in your local supermarket when you stop by any of these local farms you can visit, and your wallet and health with thank you for it too. With no nasties, the finest premium-grade fruit, vegetables and herbs, a welcoming atmosphere and the ability to pick your own leafy greens, it’s the perfect activity to embark on this spring. Freeman’s also hosts guided farm tours and, on weekends, offers a range of fresh produce, coffee and long lunches served straight from farm to table.
Try SUP Yoga
If you think you have the whole balance thing nailed, then why not up the ante and try yoga on a stand-up paddleboard? Pure Aloha Yoga operates on Tallebudgera Creek and provides all the equipment and will demonstrate how to paddle and anchor down to keep the board as still as possible. Before you know it, you’ll be flowing like there’s no tomorrow. Combining yoga, being on the water, an epic sunrise and the chance to see dolphins, it’s a darn appealing way to start your day, don’t you think?
Put The Pedal To The Metal
Blow the cobwebs off your trusty bike and take it for a spin on one of the Coast’s best cycling trails. For something more leisurely, opt for the Main Beach to Spit route by following the Federation Walk; the path giving the option to bush bash, or feel the sea breeze along the Oceanway route. For a more of a challenge, there’s a 44-kilometre butt-burning road climb to Mount Tamborine which gains an elevation of 557 metres above sea level. Just think of the breweries, wineries and fudge stores at the top to keep you going. Or, for the more advanced on two wheels, get technical ripping around 60 kilometres of cross-country trails winding through Nerang National Park. We are warning you now though, wear a helmet or you’ll be at the mercy of magpie-swooping season. Look here for a plethora of cycling trails across the Coast.
Sign Up & Train For An Ocean Swim
We all know we’re running short of time to start working on that summer bikini bod, so registering for the Burleigh Ocean Swim (Sunday 24 October 2021) might just be the motivation to achieve it. There’s a two-kilometre and one-kilometre swim, plus a dash for cash option that will all require some (*cough* A LOT) of training beforehand. Just think of that incredible sense of accomplishment when you splash, dash or even doggy paddle to the finish line.
Go Whale Watching
As temperatures finally start warming up down south, humpback whales start their lengthy migration home again, ensuring late spring is the best time to view these majestic creatures on their return journey. There are numerous whale-watching tours, but Spirit Whale Watching offers a whale guarantee and, if they don’t get you up close and personal with the whales on a 2.5-hour cruise, then you get another ticket for free. No cash to splash? No problem, ‘cause there’s a free show from the best whale-spotting vantage points including The Spit and Point Danger plus the headlands at Miami, Burleigh, Kirra and Greenmount.
Wander Through An Art Gallery
There are so many epic art galleries on the Gold Coast, it would be a shame not to make the most of them all. From smaller galleries, to the epic HOTA Gallery, you could learn a thing or two from renowned local and international artists, be inspired by the connection of people, art and place, and even get your hands dirty in a creative workshop or two.
Finally Learn to Surf
Let’s be real here, you can’t live in the surfing mecca of Australia and not have learnt the art of wave riding yet. You probably know someone that can teach you or, if you would rather save face, then your best bet is to get a few lessons. Currumbin Alley and Greenmount are perfect beginner-friendly waves that will see you hanging 10 in no time. Make sure to brush up on surfer’s etiquette before you suit up and #kookoftheday won’t be fired in your general vicinity. We've rounded up the best spots to learn to surf here.
Embark On A Roadie
With the impossibility of international travel at the moment, it’s a no-brainer to rally the troops, pile up the wagon, and hit the road for a weekend adventure that’s close to home. For inspiration and ideas, check out our weekender guide to the Tweed Coast (for when the borders open, of course!) or perhaps this bucket list guide to the Sunshine Coast. Spring is also the best season for camping, as the tent does not get oppressively warm nor teeth chatteringly cold, so head for one of the best camping spots on and around the Gold Coast and make this spring one to remember.
Cosy Up Under A Jacaranda
These majestic purple-blooming trees are only in flower between late September and October, so take a mental note next time you spot a blossoming purple beauty in an accessible park. That weekend you’re gonna want to gather the picnic essentials, hit up one of the best markets on the Gold Coast for the edible goodies, grab your fave tunes and besties, and get your picnic on under the branches of a stunning Jacaranda tree.
Fulfill Your Influencer Dreams At These Insta-Worthy Cafes
We can't think of anything we'd rather do on a fine spring day than sit on an outdoor patio under the dappled light of the trees at one of the Gold Coast's most beautiful cafes. And to save you trawling through Instagram to find your next good-looking pit stop for breakfast or lunch, we’ve pulled together the most beautiful list of them all, for your dining pleasure.
Making plans for when the border opens? There's an epic farm-to-table experience in Byron and you can lust and read all about it here.
Image credit: Tim Cooper