Hey everyone, Kate here! Recently my in-laws kindly organised a family holiday to the Gold Coast, Australia. Although I was excited about a week of sunshine, I admit I was somewhat weary of the shopping and fossicking opportunities. How wrong I was. I only just managed to get my suitcase closed!
If you find yourself also heading to the coast of sun & sand, here is a list of places to seek out….
(We were based at Burleigh Heads so this guide is focused around that area.)
Burleigh Heads State School holds a regular market – on the first and third Sunday of every month. This is a good place to stock up on fresh local food. There was one couple selling vintage curiosities and a few cool fashion choices including these beautiful handmade clutch bags from Reinka Inka.
Hidden below the edge of the highway just up from James Street is a small cluster of coolness. Commune cafe got the tick from the kids. And according to the blackboard they do ‘meat free’ mondays and ‘ping pong’ sundays!
It is impossible to avoid a run (or walk) along the stunning waterfront. The good news is that after you have exerted some energy you can treat yourself to a decent coffee and fresh toasted banana bread with vanilla butter (mmmmmm) at Borough Barista.
In Burleigh, the heart of shopping is James Street. Here you will find your usual tourist requirements and more than a few interesting spots…
The Coin Laundry describe themselves as a fierce little fashion boutique.
Sean Scott Gallery stock a cool selection of Surf DVDs and vintage pottery.
If you like ELKE jewellery pop in to Carmels Designs and Homewares.
If you have kids, don’t go into DragonFly (you WILL buy something!).
At Le Deux Boutique I found myself a scarf so yummy I’m now enjoying winter.
Urban Groove is eclectic and fun, a perfect place for gift shopping.
Don’t miss the arcade with Village Homewares on the corner. Hiding down the lane is very sweet boutique, One Hundred Words (how cool is the flower wall) and Canteen Kitchen (more great coffee and banana bread).
And my all time favourite was Monsoon. A collection of oriental inspired homewards curated the bubbly Robyn Spratt. Thankfully Robyn sells through Instagram. I will be going back for more.
