Southport

Southport predates Surfers Paradise as the Gold Coast's commercial hub, and it still functions that way — this is where you'll find Australia Fair shopping centre, the main hospital, and a more residential, less tourist-dense feel than the beachfront suburbs to its east.

The Broadwater

Rather than facing the open ocean, Southport sits on the Broadwater — a large, sheltered stretch of water between the mainland and The Spit. It's calmer than a surf beach, making it popular for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and family swimming at spots like Southport Broadwater Parklands, which also has a supervised swimming lagoon.

What it's known for

Australia Fair is one of the coast's major shopping and dining centres, and Southport's relatively lower accommodation prices make it a practical base for longer stays or larger families. It also sits right next to The Spit, giving quick access to Sea World and the Broadwater's northern parklands without the Surfers Paradise price tag.

Should you stay here?

Southport suits travellers who want to be central without paying beachfront Surfers Paradise rates, and who don't mind a short tram or drive to reach the main surf beaches. It's a sensible base for families prioritising the calmer Broadwater over big surf.

Getting there

The G:link tram runs directly through Southport, with a stop at Australia Fair. It's about a 30-minute drive from Gold Coast Airport.