The crystal-clear creeks are an oasis of calm offering respite to those seeking escape from beach waves and providing perfect conditions for families, pets and ubiquitous stand-up paddleboarders gliding over the gentle waters.
Moving inland, both Tally and Palmy reveal themselves to be laid-back yet vibrant suburbs, hosting a variety of local shops, cafes and restaurants that cater to every taste – be it humble fish ‘n’ chips, a moody whisky bar, thrift stores or fine dining Italian fare.
In recent years, both areas have undergone dramatic change as evidenced in the dilapidated beach shacks perched defiantly alongside soaring multi-million-dollar developments. Despite this, the spirit of the Gold Coast’s halcyon past still lingers on in the easy-going charm and relaxed pace of life.
Places to eat and drink
Along the Gold Coast Highway, there’s plenty on offer in both Tallebudgera and Palm Beach, but if choosing a venue is proving difficult, fear not! We’ve done all the required foodie research.
TALLEBUDGERA
Man on the Bike Pizza
Satiate your Italian cravings with some of the best woodfired pizza, pasta and homemade gelato the Gold Coast has to offer. This one is definitely a must for every true food lover. Enjoy the best of Italian cuisine with freshly made pizza dough and all-natural ingredients.
Custard Canteen
A hop, skip and a jump from Tally Creek, follow your nose to the baked goodness of Custard Canteen. Like their big bros at Bam Bam Bakehouse and Cubby Bakehouse, they serve quality nosh. Think delicious puff pastries made daily, a great breakfast range, a selection of burgers and salads, and quality coffee.
Teavine House
Love Bridgerton? This place is for you! Inspired by the beauty of provincial France, Teavine House is the vintage-styled setting for your next occasion. Enjoy high teas, elegant lunches, even weddings, whilst dining in a variety of elegant settings from traditional tea rooms, private patios and a garden courtyard. A must for Mother’s Day or a long lunch with the girls.
PALM BEACH
Barefoot Barista
There might be a queue, but (trust us) it’s worth the wait. Barefoot Barista has firmly entrenched itself in the Palm Beach café-dining scene, serving up consistent quality brews and drool-inducing menus. With all-day breakfast, artisanal coffee, cold-press juices and heathy lunch options, you’ll walk away feeling refuelled and ready for a day on the beach.
Las Palmas Bar & Restaurant
Perched above a surf shop and over-looking the beach, Los Palmas is an airy California-inspired venue which captures the ocean breeze and showcases delicious Latin American flavours. Choose between menus from the sea, land and earth (plant-based) featuring culinary delights using the freshest local ingredients. We recommend the seven-course chef’s menu ($70) to share.
Places to shop
Objects of interest
Objects of Interest has a passion for sourcing statement Australian and European (particularly France and Eastern Europe) pieces to enhance the style of any home. You’ll discover restored antiques, garden artistry, lighting, soft furnishings and more. Spend some time meandering through their vast collection, and you’ll be sure to unearth something special.
White Bohemian
Channel your inner ‘Almost Famous’ character in this local boho-fashion gem. There are plenty of flowing dresses, chic jewellery, leather handbags, sunglasses and more – all of which won’t break the bank. Hanging on the racks are popular Byron Bay labels Arnhem Clothing, Spell Designs, Amilita, and up-and-coming local brands to keep you looking chic all summer long.
Ralph White Music Store
Any local muso worth their salt knows about Ralph White. A stalwart of the Gold Coast, the Ralph White Music Store is jam packed with quality guitars, keyboards, classical instruments, recording equipment and music accessories galore. Need to brush up your skills? Book in a one-on-one music lesson. Need instrument repairs? No worries. Whatever you need, they’ve got you covered.
Places to stay
The Mysa Motel
This lovingly restored, sustainable boutique motel is serving seriously retro vibes with its salmon pink tones, and vintage design pieces like breeze blocks, glass mosaic bathrooms, vintage pool recliners and neon signage that gives a nod to 1950s Gold Coast. Book one of the seven rooms and spend your days lounging by the palm-fringed magnesium pool. Groovy baby.
Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat
Take some time out of your hectic schedule and head for the hills to this ecotourism-certified, award-winning health retreat. Gwingarra combines magnificent hinterland views with delicious organic cuisine, movement and relaxation, spa rituals, detox programs, and wellness seminars, all set in a dedicated low-tech environment.
Things to do
Pamper Yourself
Indulge in a magical plant-based massage or facial at GreenHouse, The Bathhouse, a chic Moroccan inspired bathhouse in Tallebudgera Valley. Take your time rotating between the eucalyptus steam room, magnesium plunge pool, red cedar hot rock sauna and the sun deck, all whilst snacking on vegan eats from Greenhouse Canteen in between.
Enjoy a sunset bevvy
Sometimes the simplest ideas are the best. When the sun starts getting low, make your way to Palm Beach Surf Life Saving Club to enjoy absolute beachfront views and a stunning pink, purple, orange-tinged sunset on display. The club has an extensive range of tap and craft beers, a quality wine selection, cocktails, and delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus.