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Date ideas in Gold Coast

46 date ideas around Gold Coast, from share plates on the sand at Rick Shores and sunset 230 metres up at SkyPoint to the Currumbin Rock Pools, glow-worms at Natural Bridge and the Twin Falls circuit in Springbrook. Swipe through them above, or browse every one below. Each was checked on the place's own website: what it is, when it's on and what it costs. 11 are free.

Every date idea in Gold Coast, by kind

46
ideas
11
free
6
kinds
Sep 2026
last checked

Views and climbs: 11 date ideas in Gold Coast

Surfers Paradise at dusk, seen from Q1
Surfers Paradise at dusk, seen from Q1. Photo: Darren Po · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
SURFERS PARADISE

Sunset and city lights from SkyPoint, 230 metres up

Ride to level 77 of the Q1 tower for 360-degree views from the hinterland to the New South Wales border. It stays open into the evening, so time it for sunset and stay for a drink at the Bistro + Bar as the lights come on.
When Daily 7:30am to 9pm (last entry 8:30pm); check the site for occasional closures
Cost From $33 each (fixed-date adult ticket)
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The Q1 tower, where the SkyPoint Climb runs
The Q1 tower, where the SkyPoint Climb runs. Photo: Chris Olszewski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
SURFERS PARADISE

Climb the outside of Q1 with SkyPoint Climb

Harnessed to a safety rail, climb the open-air stairway on the outside of the Q1 building to 270 metres above sea level, in what SkyPoint calls Australia's highest external building climb. Go at twilight for the sunset.
When Day, twilight and night climbs by booking; about 90 minutes. Minimum age 12
Cost Day climb from $89; twilight climb from $119; both include Observation Deck entry
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse, Point Danger
The Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse, Point Danger. Photo: Ché Lydia Xyang · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
COOLANGATTA

Border views and the Captain Cook lighthouse at Point Danger

A headland right on the Queensland-NSW border with views north to Surfers Paradise and south to Byron Bay. Walk past the Captain Cook Memorial and Lighthouse and the Centaur Memorial, then down to watch the surfers at Snapper Rocks.
When Any day
Cost Free
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Kirra Beach from Kirra Point, at the foot of Kirra Hill
Kirra Beach from Kirra Point, at the foot of Kirra Hill. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
COOLANGATTA

Kirra Hill lookout and the Iron Eagle

Follow the short track to the top of Kirra Hill for a panorama along the coast, and a photo with the Iron Eagle sculpture. Barbecues and covered picnic tables make it an easy sunset picnic.
When Any day
Cost Free
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The view north from the top of Elephant Rock
The view north from the top of Elephant Rock. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
CURRUMBIN

Up the stairs of Elephant Rock at Currumbin

Climb the stairs to the platform on top of Elephant Rock at Currumbin, with views north to Surfers Paradise and south to Coolangatta. A good start or finish to a beach walk.
When Any day
Cost Free
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Pandanus and surf on the Oceanview walk, Burleigh headland
Pandanus and surf on the Oceanview walk, Burleigh headland. Photo: Paul Gierszewski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
BURLEIGH HEADS

The Oceanview walk around Burleigh headland

An easy track around the rocky headland past tumbled six-sided basalt columns to Echo Beach at Tallebudgera Creek. Watch for whales in winter and spring and sea-eagles overhead, then return over the top via the rainforest circuit and Tumgun lookout.
When Any day; about 30 minutes each way
Cost No entry fee listed
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
A beach track through the she-oaks on The Spit
A beach track through the she-oaks on The Spit. Photo: Chris Olszewski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
MAIN BEACH

Federation Walk along The Spit to the Seaway

Start at the fig tree in the car park opposite Sea World and follow the path through coastal rainforest and dunes on The Spit, under the sand-bypass jetty, to the Gold Coast Seaway wall for big coastline views. Good for birdwatching.
When Any day; about 3.5 km each way, allow 2 hours return
Cost Free
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The view from Best of All Lookout
The view from Best of All Lookout. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
SPRINGBROOK

Best of All Lookout through Antarctic beech, Springbrook

A short walk through ancient Antarctic beech forest to a lookout over northern NSW, dominated by Wollumbin (Mount Warning). Go on a clear day; the plateau is often in cloud when the coast is sunny.
When Any day; 600 m return, about 30 minutes
Cost No entry fee listed
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Twin Falls, Springbrook
Twin Falls, Springbrook. Photo: Kirsty Leigh Photography · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
SPRINGBROOK

Walk behind two waterfalls on Springbrook's Twin Falls circuit

From Canyon Lookout, with its view of Twin and Rainbow falls and the ocean beyond, loop down through rock clefts, palms and tree ferns and walk behind two waterfalls. The rocks behind the falls can be slippery.
When Any day; 4 km circuit, about 2 hours
Cost No entry fee listed
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Purling Brook Falls from the lookout
Purling Brook Falls from the lookout. Photo: Tatters · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
SPRINGBROOK

Down to the base of Purling Brook Falls and over the suspension bridge

Walk through open eucalypt forest and wildflowers, descend into the gorge to see the falls from below, cross the suspension bridge and climb back to the picnic area. Walk it clockwise.
When Any day; 4 km circuit, about 2 hours. Parts may close after heavy rain
Cost No entry fee listed
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
CURRUMBIN VALLEY

Rainforest cascades on the Mount Cougal track, Currumbin Valley

At the top of Currumbin Valley, an easy path follows Currumbin Creek through subtropical rainforest to a platform over the cascades, then on to an old sawmill. Look, don't jump: the creek hides submerged logs and rocks.
When Any day; 1.6 km return, about an hour
Cost No entry fee listed
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026

Food and drink: 10 date ideas in Gold Coast

Burleigh Beach at dusk, the view from Rick Shores' end of the beach
Burleigh Beach at dusk, the view from Rick Shores' end of the beach. Photo: WikiWookie · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
BURLEIGH HEADS

Pan-Asian share plates on the sand at Rick Shores

Rick Shores sits right on the water at Burleigh Heads, with the beach at your feet and the coast stretching out in front. Share fresh Pan-Asian plates like the fried bay bug roll, or hand over the ordering with a set menu.
When Tuesday to Thursday 11:30am to 9pm; Friday to Sunday 11am to 9pm
Cost Set menus $95 or $150 a person; Rick's bug roll $26; oysters from $7 each; 15% surcharge public holidays
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
MIAMI

Street food and free live music at Miami Marketta

The Gold Coast's original street food market fills a Miami laneway with vendors from around the world, so you can take your entree from Spain and your main from Thailand. Homegrown bands play free on the Cargo Stage.
When Wednesday to Saturday from 5pm; free live music Thursday to Saturday
Cost Free entry, no booking needed; pay per vendor. Licensed, no BYO
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN

Weekend beers and live music at Fortitude Brewing, Tamborine Mountain

An independent brewery on Tamborine Mountain since 2012, a few degrees cooler than the coast below. Local musicians play every weekend; make a long Saturday of it.
When Monday to Thursday 11am to 3pm; Friday and Saturday 11am to 9pm; Sunday 11am to 5pm (the brewery says to check its Facebook for current hours)
Cost Pay as you drink
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
CANUNGRA

Wine paddle by the creek at O'Reilly's Canungra Valley Vineyards

The O'Reilly family of Lamington fame have made wine here since 1999, around the historic homestead Killowen beside Canungra Creek. Order a paddle and eat on the verandah or under the trees by the water, with a creekside set on weekends.
When Every day 10am to 4pm (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day); kitchen 10:30am to 2:30pm; live music most weekends 11:30am to 2:30pm
Cost Wine paddle $30; picnic baskets bookable online
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
CURRUMBIN WATERS

Fresh beer at the Balter Taproom, Currumbin

The brewery co-founded by Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson and mates pours its limited releases metres from where they're made, with food trucks, a beer garden and a mezzanine bar. Go Saturday for live music or Wednesday for trivia.
When Wednesday and Thursday 3pm to 8pm (trivia Wednesday 6:30pm); Friday 3pm to 9pm; Saturday noon to 9pm (live music from 3pm); Sunday noon to 7pm
Cost Pay as you drink; food from the visiting food trucks
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The taphouse at Burleigh Brewing
The taphouse at Burleigh Brewing. Photo: Burleigh Brewing · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
BURLEIGH HEADS

Taphouse exclusives at Burleigh Brewing

Burleigh Brewing has been making independent beer in Queensland since 2006 and has won 30 world brewing gold medals. Its taphouse pours beers you won't find elsewhere, and no booking is needed.
When Friday 3pm to 9pm; Saturday noon to 9pm; Sunday noon to 6pm
Cost Pay as you drink
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Surfers Paradise Beach, beside the Esplanade where the markets run
Surfers Paradise Beach, beside the Esplanade where the markets run. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
SURFERS PARADISE

Evening stroll through the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets

Running along the Esplanade since 1995, these night markets fill the foreshore with local makers, artisan goods and gourmet provisions, with live music and the beach steps away. Grab dinner at one of the nearby eateries afterwards.
When Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 4pm to 9pm, rain, hail or shine
Cost Free entry; pay per stall
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Marina Mirage from the Broadwater, where Holy Ship's trawlers are moored
Marina Mirage from the Broadwater, where Holy Ship's trawlers are moored. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
MAIN BEACH

Seafood aboard two old trawlers at Holy Ship, Main Beach

Two 1970s timber trawlers, the Austral Eagle and FV Havana, restored and permanently moored at Marina Mirage. Eat oysters, bugs and prawns on deck with Broadwater views and watch the boats go by at sunset.
When Monday and Tuesday 3pm to late; Wednesday to Sunday 11:30am to late
Cost Natural oysters $32 a half-dozen; oysters, bugs and prawns platter $128; with salmon sashimi added $149
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
MERMAID BEACH

Sashimi and sake under the red lantern at Etsu Izakaya

Look for the red lantern on the Gold Coast Highway at Mermaid Beach. Share sashimi, crispy tuna rice and robata skewers, or leave it to the kitchen with a set menu for the table.
When Daily 4:30pm to late, including public holidays (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day)
Cost Chef's three-fish sashimi $38; oysters from $6.50 each; set menus $95 or $140 a person (whole table); 10% surcharge Sundays, 15% public holidays
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
PALM BEACH

Share plates and a rooftop margarita at The Collective, Palm Beach

Latin American, Asian, American and Italian restaurants, plus the new Onda bowls kitchen, under one roof a short walk from Palm Beach Avenue. Eat downstairs among the greenery, then take a margarita up to the rooftop for sunset views west to the hinterland.
When Lunch and dinner daily from noon; Wednesday Sicilian Social; Tuesday free trivia from 6:30pm
Cost Wednesday pizzas and pastas $19; Tuesday burgers $17; 15% surcharge public holidays
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026

For couples: 8 date ideas in Gold Coast

A koala at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
A koala at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Photo: Adam Jones · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
CURRUMBIN

A day with the koalas at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Wander 27 hectares with more than 1,000 animals at this not-for-profit sanctuary, with free keeper talks and bird shows through the day. Make it a date with the Grazy Arvo With Koalas: a grazing platter and a drink among the koalas, plus entry.
When Daily 9am to 4pm; last admission 3:30pm; closed 25 April and 25 December
Cost Day pass $70 adult; Grazy Arvo With Koalas from $129; parking $10; 1.75% fee on online bookings
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
CURRUMBIN

Astra Lumina night light trail at Currumbin

After dark the sanctuary's bushland becomes a 1.5 km trail of light displays and soundscapes made by Moment Factory. Walk it at your own pace; allow an hour to an hour and a half.
When Fridays and Saturdays 6:30pm to 9pm (last entry 8pm); extra nights in school holidays
Cost From $30 each; free parking
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
TALLEBUDGERA VALLEY

A soak and plant-based lunch at Greenhouse, Tallebudgera Valley

Ninety minutes between warm magnesium pools, a cold plunge, mineral pool, steam room and red cedar sauna, out in the Tallebudgera Valley. The Botanical Soak adds a two-course plant-based lunch and a drink, in what Greenhouse calls the Gold Coast's only bathhouse and dining experience.
When Wednesday to Sunday from 10am; book a session
Cost Signature soak $58 each; Botanical Soak with lunch and a drink $115 each; massage and soak $175 each
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN

Thermal pools and a lakeside fire pit at SOL Elements, Tamborine Mountain

Move between thermal mineral pools and cold plunges, a cedar sauna and a botanical steam room, mix your own body scrub in the Earth Lab, then sit by the 7-metre fire pit set below the water level of the lotus lake.
When Sunday 9am to 7pm; Monday to Thursday 9am to 7:30pm; Friday and Saturday 9am to 8pm
Cost Communal bathhouse from $80 each for 1 hour 30 minutes
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The lake at Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens
The lake at Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens. Photo: Chris Olszewski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN

A lakeside wander at Tamborine Mountain Regional Botanic Gardens

Volunteer-run gardens on the mountain, with themed areas such as Lakeside and the Magnolia Garden. Bring a picnic; the volunteers sell plants on Wednesday and Thursday mornings.
When Every day, dawn to dusk
Cost Free; donations welcome
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
A lake boardwalk at the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens
A lake boardwalk at the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens. Photo: Batsv · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
BENOWA

Boardwalks and the rose garden at the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens

Stroll the boardwalks around the feature lake, visit the Rose Garden and take the Mangroves to Mountains walk, ten minutes' drive from Surfers Paradise. Coffee and treats at the Friends Centre.
When Daily 5am to 7pm; Friends Centre 9am to 3pm, weather permitting
Cost Free
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The waterfall inside the cave at Natural Bridge
The waterfall inside the cave at Natural Bridge. Photo: Do japan · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
NATURAL BRIDGE

Glow-worms after dark at Natural Bridge, Springbrook

Walk the 1 km rainforest circuit to a waterfall plunging through the roof of an arched cave, then come back after dark when thousands of glow-worms light it up. Bring a torch for the path but never shine it on the glow-worms.
When Any day or night; about an hour for the circuit. The display is much weaker in winter
Cost No entry fee listed
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Looking north from the Burleigh headland
Looking north from the Burleigh headland. Photo: Paul Gierszewski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
BURLEIGH HEADS

An Aboriginal-guided Jellurgal Walkabout around Burleigh headland

Start with a presentation at the Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, then walk the headland with a guide, hearing the Dreaming story of Jellurgal and learning about bush tucker, fishing and hunting. Bring swimmers for a dip in Tallebudgera Creek afterwards.
When Selected weekdays; about 2 hours
Cost $59 each
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026

Shows and music: 6 date ideas in Gold Coast

The Star Gold Coast at Broadbeach
The Star Gold Coast at Broadbeach. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
BROADBEACH

Free Sunday stand-up at The Star's Atrium Bar

Every Sunday, Based Comedy brings a line-up of stand-ups to the Atrium Bar at The Star Gold Coast, from sharp observational jokes to political satire. It's walk-in, so come early for a seat and order pizzas from the bar menu.
When Sundays; doors 6pm, comedy 6:30pm to 8pm
Cost Free entry; pizzas $15, snacks from $8; 18+
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
SURFERS PARADISE

Weekend stand-up at Kings of Comedy, Surfers Paradise

A curated line-up of Australian stand-ups every weekend at Oaks Gold Coast Resort, with a full bar and a tram stop out the front. Book ahead: walk-up tickets aren't guaranteed.
When Every weekend; doors 6:45pm, show 7pm
Cost Ticketed; 18+
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Currumbin Creek from the Currumbin RSL, home of Soundlounge
Currumbin Creek from the Currumbin RSL, home of Soundlounge. Photo: John Robert McPherson · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
CURRUMBIN

A gig at Soundlounge, Currumbin

An award-winning room upstairs at Currumbin RSL, overlooking Currumbin Creek, that has hosted Angus & Julia Stone, Sarah Blasko and Passenger. Touring acts and comedians play regularly; eat in the club downstairs first.
When Show nights; see the upcoming shows list
Cost Ticketed (Oztix); food and drinks extra
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Coolangatta Beach, across Marine Parade from the Cooly Hotel
Coolangatta Beach, across Marine Parade from the Cooly Hotel. Photo: Chris Olszewski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
COOLANGATTA

Live music at the Coolangatta Hotel

The Cooly Hotel has been pulling in locals and travellers since 1910, with live acts in the public bar most nights and touring gigs upstairs in The Balcony. Go early for sliders and a schooner in the beer garden.
When Live music in the public bar Tuesday to Sunday, various times; Balcony gigs per the gig guide
Cost Balcony gigs ticketed (Oztix); sliders and schooner deal $22
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
SOUTHPORT

A night at Gold Coast Little Theatre, Southport

The theatre began in 1950 and calls itself the Gold Coast's longest-running community theatre; volunteers stage five plays and musicals a year. The bar opens before the show, at interval and after.
When Show seasons through the year; next & Juliet, 13 November to 5 December 2026
Cost & Juliet: adults $39 ($42 opening night, $18 preview night)
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
HOTA Gallery, Surfers Paradise
HOTA Gallery, Surfers Paradise. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
SURFERS PARADISE

Free art at HOTA Gallery, then drinks on the rooftop

HOTA Gallery is the Gold Coast's home of contemporary art, with five exhibition spaces by Evandale Lake. Afterwards walk the free outdoor sculpture trail, then head up to The Exhibitionist Bar on Level 5 for cocktails with city views.
When Exhibitionist Bar Sunday to Tuesday 10am to 4pm, Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 10pm; check the gallery's hours before you go
Cost Gallery free (some exhibitions ticketed); first 4 hours parking free 9am to 7pm; drinks extra
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026

On the water: 6 date ideas in Gold Coast

Currumbin Creek at the Rock Pools
Currumbin Creek at the Rock Pools. Photo: mihitha · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
CURRUMBIN VALLEY

A swim and a picnic at the Currumbin Rock Pools

Take a dip in the Currumbin Rock Pools beside Currumbin Creek Road, with shallow sections, picnic shelters, tables and barbecues, and a cafe directly across the road.
When Any day
Cost Free
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Tallebudgera Creek beneath Burleigh headland
Tallebudgera Creek beneath Burleigh headland. Photo: Shiftchange · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons ↗
BURLEIGH HEADS

Paddleboard up Tallebudgera Creek, then swim at the creek mouth

Hire a board from Cheyne Horan's surf school at Kevin Gates Park and paddle the calm creek, with Burleigh Heads National Park on one side. Finish with a dip at the patrolled creek beach near the mouth.
When Board hire by booking; lifeguards patrol the creek 8am to 5pm on weekends and public holidays from the September school holidays to early May
Cost Board hire $25 an hour, $40 for two hours; swimming free
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The Broadwater at Biggera Waters, where the paddle crosses
The Broadwater at Biggera Waters, where the paddle crosses. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
BIGGERA WATERS

Kayak to Wave Break Island and snorkel its rocky reef

A guided paddle across the Broadwater, looking out for dolphins and stingrays, to Wave Break Island for a short bush walk and a snorkel on the reef with the city's high-rises on the horizon. All gear, snacks and photos are included.
When Daily at 7:30am, 10:30am and 1:30pm; about 2.5 hours. Early tours are usually less windy
Cost $99 each (rising to $119 from December 2026); about 12% surcharge on public holidays
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The Gold Coast skyline from the water
The Gold Coast skyline from the water. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
SURFERS PARADISE

Captain a silent electric boat on the Gold Coast waterways

Hire a Duffy electric boat, no licence needed, and cruise the Gold Coast waterways, whisper quiet, with skyline views and your own food and drinks on board. You get a safety briefing and a route map, or you can book a skipper.
When By booking; hire for 1 to 5 hours
Cost $165 for one hour, $209 for two hours (whole boat, seats up to 10)
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
The Spit beach, Main Beach
The Spit beach, Main Beach. Photo: Chris Olszewski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
MAIN BEACH

Learn to surf together at The Spit with Get Wet

A two-hour intro lesson in waist-deep white water on The Spit beach, with no more than five learners per instructor and all gear supplied. Free all-day parking at the Seaway Cafe car park.
When Daily at 10am and 1pm (more sessions in peak times); check in 15 minutes early
Cost $79 each (adult); surcharge on Queensland public holidays
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
Cook Island from Fingal Head
Cook Island from Fingal Head. Photo: Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons ↗
FINGAL HEAD

Snorkel with sea turtles at Cook Island

A 15-minute boat ride from Fingal Head takes you to the Cook Island reef, home to green, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles, for 60 to 90 minutes in the water. Groups are capped at nine; you need to be able to swim 100 metres.
When Daily, weather permitting, 8am to 10:30am or 10:30am to 1pm
Cost From $119 each
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026

Make something: 5 date ideas in Gold Coast

MIAMI

Free salsa lesson and social at Miami Marketta

Once a month the Cargo Stage turns into a salsa floor: a free beginners' lesson, then social dancing to Latin rhythms, with the street food stalls a few steps away. Everyone is welcome, first-timers included.
When Thursday 8 October 2026 (it runs monthly): advanced lesson 5:30pm, beginners' lesson 6:30pm, social dancing from 7pm
Cost Free entry; food and drinks extra
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
MIAMI

Life drawing with live music at Miami Marketta

A relaxed life drawing session in Mona Lisa's Lair at Miami Marketta, set to live music and open to everyone from novice to maestro. Pencils, charcoal, pastels and paper are all supplied.
When First and third Wednesday of the month; doors 6pm, drawing from 6:30pm
Cost $35.45 each including booking fees; bookings essential
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
BURLEIGH HEADS

Couple's Clay night at Firebird Studios, Burleigh Heads

A two-hour crash course on the potter's wheel, one wheel each, with BYO drinks served in the studio's own ceramic cups. You each make up to two pieces, which the studio glazes and fires for pick-up three to four weeks later.
When Friday and Saturday evenings through October 2026 (next Saturday 3 October 6pm; Fridays 6:30pm, later Saturdays 7pm); see the workshop calendar
Cost $130 a person; extra pots $10 each; apron $12; towel hire $5
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
VARSITY LAKES

Distil your own gin at Wildflower, Varsity Lakes

Pick from more than 50 botanicals, then run your blend through the distillery's little 2.5-litre copper alembic stills, tasting Wildflower gin as you go. You each take home a 500ml bottle of your own gin.
When Selected afternoons, 2pm (next 2 October 2026); two hours; 18+
Cost From $189.82 a person online
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026
TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN

Blend your own gin at Cauldron Distillery, Tamborine Mountain

Start with a G&T, then spend 45 minutes in the stillhouse blending individually distilled botanicals into a gin that suits you. You leave with a 200ml bottle, after a G&T made from your own creation.
When Selected days at 2pm (October 2026 sessions open for booking); about one hour; live music at the distillery weekends 1pm to 4pm
Cost $85 a person, including two G&Ts, your 200ml bottle and $10 to spend at the bar
Checked on the official website, 30 Sep 2026

Can't decide? Let the deck pick your Gold Coast date

Stuck for date night ideas, or for things to do together at the weekend? Instead of scrolling lists, let the deck deal you one date idea at a time. Swipe right on the ones you like, left on the ones you don't, and within a few minutes you have a shortlist to choose from, or just take the first one you both said yes to.

How it works

Swipe to decide. Each card is one date: what to do, where it is, when it's on and what it costs. Swipe right (or tap Save) to keep it, left (or Skip) to see the next.
Share it with your date. Share sends a link that opens the deck on the same card, so the other person can say yes too.
Keep the ones you like. Saved ideas stay under the deck and on the map. Sign in and they're kept in My Places on every device.
Filter by the kind of date. Food and drink, shows and music, on the water, views and climbs, making something together, or ideas for couples.

Where the date ideas come from

Every idea of ours names a real place and was checked on its official website: what it is, when it's on and what it costs, with a link to that website and the date it was checked. Ideas with an end date leave the deck once they finish. Photos come from Wikimedia Commons and are credited on each card. Mixed in are bookable tours and experiences, clearly marked, with today's prices.

Questions

Can it pick a date for us?
Yes. Swipe until one appeals, or save a few and choose between them. For a single answer, the date wheel picks one at random.
Is it free?
Yes. Many of the ideas are free too: walks, lookouts, galleries, markets and swims.
Do we need an account?
No. Saves stay in your browser; sign in only if you want them on other devices.
Spin the date wheel instead →
Every idea links to the place’s own website and was checked there on the date shown; times and prices change, so check before you go. Photos from Wikimedia Commons, credited on each.