Australia: The Southport Spit, Gold Coast

I feel like I’m letting you into a secret so I feel very guilty about writing this post. When I used to think about the Gold Coast I’d think about Surfers Paradise Beach. This is probably because it’s the one everyone goes to when they visit the Gold Coast. Without a doubt, it is clean with soft sand and has lots of facilities BUT it is busy and full of tourists. Yeah I know I’m a tourist but you know what I mean!) So when we met up with one of my husband’s school friends who has lived in Australia for 20 years, he and his wife recommended The Southport Spit (The Spit). Stating it is the beach that the ‘locals’ go to. What’s not to love about that?

Southport Spit Beach

So the next day we packed up Ronnie (our trusty Kombi) and headed for The Spit. We passed the beautiful Palazzo Versace and Seaworld leaving Surfers Paradise in our rearview mirror. There is ample parking at the end of the Spit and Ronny felt right at home next to all the other Kombis. Please be warned there are no amenities at The Spit beach so don ‘t expect cafes, shops or beach bars – it’s just sand and the surf and the potential to spot a shark!!!! The beach itself is not the softest I felt underfoot in Australia however it is very clean even though everyone seemed to have a dog or 7 with them. True story! The water is also lovely and clear with many people swimming in it. The Spit also offers great views out to sea and of the Surfers Paradise skyline.

Watch out for sharks on the Southport Spit, Australia

Surfs Up!

On the day that we visited the weather was fantastic and even though there were plenty of people milling around there was loads of space to put your towel down and relax in the beautiful Australian sunshine. It appears from the number of people in the water that this spot is a great place to surf/learn to surf if you wanted to give that a go. I wish we had, had more time here to truly appreciated its natural beauty and relaxing charm but we had a road to hit and some dolphins to see at Seaworld!

Southport Tower, Australia

So if you want a lovely, relaxing, free, child-friendly day with the locals on the Gold Coast why not pack up a picnic, put your cozzie, sun cream and your towel in a bag and head down to The Southport Spit but shhhh……don’t tell anyone I told you about it!!!