Things To Do
in Southport
Southport is the historical and commercial heart at the northern end of the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, sitting on the sheltered Broadwater. It blends waterfront parks, a busy shopping precinct and a growing café and arts scene, with easy access to nearby beaches and islands. Southport is home to major institutions such as Griffith University campuses and the Gold Coast University Hospital, giving the area a mixed population of students, families and health professionals.
Its riverside promenades, marina and skyline views make it a practical base for exploring the wider Gold Coast region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling the famous Australian flat white coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the Southport Broadwater Parklands, taking in the scenic views of the Gold Coast skyline. Visit the nearby Southport School to admire its historic architecture and beautiful grounds.
Head to the Southport Cultural Precinct to explore the local art galleries and museums, immersing yourself in the region's rich history. Enjoy lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood while overlooking the beautiful Broadwater. Take a relaxing walk along the promenade, watching boats glide by and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to Australia Fair Shopping Centre for some retail therapy and a chance to pick up unique souvenirs. Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional Australian cuisine. Wrap up your evening with a stroll along the beachfront, listening to the gentle waves and enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachside café, fueling up for an exciting day ahead. After breakfast, head to Main Beach for a morning of sunbathing and swimming in the pristine waters. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline and get a different perspective of the stunning beaches.
After working up an appetite, grab lunch at a beachside eatery known for its delicious fish and chips. Spend your afternoon trying out exhilarating water sports like jet skiing or parasailing, experiencing the thrill of being on the water. Take a break to relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Broadwater, where you can take in the stunning views and maybe catch sight of dolphins. After the cruise, have dinner at a beachfront restaurant with panoramic views of the ocean. Conclude your evening with a walk along the beach, where you can listen to the sound of the waves under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕Coffee (caf ) | $3.50-5 |
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $60-90 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $6-12 |
| ⛽Petrol (per litre) | $1.10-1.80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Sheltered Broadwater and waterfront parks ideal for families and calm-water activities
- Good transport links (G:link tram) and proximity to Gold Coast attractions
- Major institutions (Griffith University, university hospital) add services and amenities
- Easier pace and lower nightlife intensity than busier Gold Coast hotspots
- Less nightlife energy compared with Surfers Paradise for those seeking clubs
- Summer humidity, storms and marine stingers can limit beach activities
- Tourist season congestion and higher prices at peak times
- Some attractions (beaches/islands) require extra transport to reach
Places to Visit in Southport
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive waterfront park with lawns, playgrounds and boardwalks—excellent for sunrise and sunset photos of the Broadwater and city reflections.
Marina and jetty views with boats, masts and skyline backdrops—good for golden-hour and long-exposure water shots.
Lookouts and beaches that capture open-water vistas, surfers and the Gold Coast skyline from a distance.
Modern campus architecture and sculptures that provide interesting urban and cultural photo opportunities.
Green spaces and riverside vantage points ideal for candid community and landscape shots.
Food in Southport
Southport Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled or in pasta and salads—look for daily-special boards at waterfront restaurants along the Broadwater and in Southport’s dining precinct.
Must-Try!
A classic Australian beachside meal available at takeaway shops and small eateries near the waterfront—best eaten while watching the sunset.
Comfort food staples found in bakeries and cafés across Southport—perfect for a quick, hearty snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Regular markets (weekend or monthly events) offering street-food stalls, fresh produce, coffee vendors and local crafts—try seafood skewers, empanadas or gourmet burgers.
Occasional pop-up food stalls and market-style events near the shopping precinct showcasing multicultural street food and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Australians are generally informal and direct—use casual greetings like 'G'day' and 'Thanks'. Be polite, smile and maintain relaxed conversation.
Respect lifeguard flags and posted beach rules—never swim outside the flagged area and follow local signage about tides and stingers.
Acknowledge traditional owners (the Yugambeh people in this region) when appropriate and respect cultural sites and local guidance.
Keep noise reasonable late at night, especially in family neighbourhoods and apartment complexes.
Safety
Tipping in Southport
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not compulsory in Australia; service staff are paid standard wages. Rounding up the bill, leaving 5–10% for exceptional service or tipping taxi drivers and tour guides for good service is appreciated but not expected.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (tap or mobile pay) are common. Carry a small amount of cash for markets or small vendors, but many stalls accept cards or mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
(Dec–Feb) Hot, humid and often stormy in afternoon or evening; perfect for beach activities early in the day but watch for severe storms and marine stingers (box jellyfish) in warmer months—swim between the flags and heed lifeguard warnings.
(Mar–May) Mild and pleasant with fewer crowds and comfortable water temperatures—great for outdoor activities, markets and walking the waterfront.
(Jun–Aug) Cooler but generally dry and sunny; daytime temperatures are comfortable for hiking and sightseeing though evenings can be cool—an excellent time for whale-watching and clear-sky photography.
(Sep–Nov) Warmer days and blooming native flora; increasing humidity toward late spring and the start of whale migration seasons—busy weekends as tourists return.
Southport at Night
Hiking in Southport
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short coastal headland trails with stunning ocean views, rainforest pockets and whale-watching vantage points—about a 20–30 minute drive from Southport.
World Heritage-listed rainforest hikes, waterfalls and lookouts offering cooler climate walks—roughly 1–1.5 hours’ drive inland from Southport.
Extensive trails through ancient Gondwana rainforest with waterfalls and well-maintained walking tracks; a longer day-trip or overnight excursion from Southport.
Short rainforest circuit walks, wineries and lookouts on Tamborine Mountain—about an hour’s drive and popular for day visitors.
Airports
How to reach Southport by plane.
Approximately 30–40 minutes by car from Southport (depending on traffic); services domestic flights and a growing number of international routes. Regular shuttle buses, car hire and rideshares provide direct connections.
About 60–90 minutes drive north of Southport; larger international hub with many flight options. Airport transfers include coach services, car hire and connecting trains/buses into Brisbane with onward bus or shuttle to the Gold Coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Griffith University campuses bring a sizeable student population, creating youthful energy and affordable dining options.
Many families live in and around Southport attracted by parks, schools and hospital services.
The presence of the Gold Coast University Hospital means many medical staff and allied-health professionals live and work locally.
As with much of the Gold Coast, there is a notable retiree community seeking mild climate and coastal lifestyle.
The Yugambeh people are the traditional custodians of the land—there are local efforts to acknowledge and share their culture and history.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant coastal sport on the Gold Coast; nearby surf breaks attract surfers year-round and local clubs are active.
Both rugby league and Australian rules football have strong followings; local and regional matches draw community support.
Popular in summer months at local grounds and parks for both casual and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Southport.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most cafés and many restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan options (bowls, salads, plant-based burgers). Specify needs and ask staff; fresh produce and salads are widely available.
Gluten-free bread and meal options are common in cafés and many restaurants—inform staff about coeliac requirements to avoid cross-contamination.
Because seafood is prominent, make allergies clear to staff and choose restaurants that can accommodate or cook separate dishes away from seafood prep areas.