Close enough to the action, yet blissfully detached, Mermaid Beach is a pocket of calm along the coastline, where the sand is just as golden as the lifestyle.
With the Pacific Ocean on one side and tranquil canals on the other, this small yet mighty suburb might just be the best kept secret on the coast—if you can call a place with beachfront mansions and a booming café culture a secret.
Named after the cutter HMS Mermaid, this coastal haven is home to sprawling properties, retro beach shacks, and an enviable lifestyle that is laid back as it is luxurious.
Places to eat and drink
Little Truffle
Award-winning Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar offers an intimate venue where food and wine lovers can indulge in chef Daniel Ridgeway’s exquisite menu. Dine on dishes like heirloom beetroot salad, wagyu bresaola, or a seared duck breast paired with a fine selection of local and international wines. The menu also features delights such as prawn and lobster bisque risotto, angus beef fillet, and decadent desserts like strawberries ‘Romanoff’ and raspberry soufflé.
Mermaid Beach Tavern
Enjoy the best pub classics on the Gold Coast, with schnitzels, steaks, burgers, pizzas, and fresh share plates at Mermaid Beach Tavern. Guests can dive into tempting dishes like salt and pepper squid, prawn and brioche rolls, or the crowd-favourite chicken schnitzel. For something more indulgent, try the crispy skin salmon bowl or the grilled tuna loin. Finish with a sweet treat like the baci ice cream, all while enjoying an ice-cold drink at the bar.
Places to stay
Albatross North Apartments
Wake up to breathtaking, uninterrupted ocean views right from your private balcony at Albatross North, where every apartment offers a front-row seat to the stunning beauty of Mermaid Beach. This beachfront accommodation features a range of luxurious apartments, an outdoor pool, two BBQ facilities, and a tranquil garden area, creating the perfect spot for relaxation.
Montana Palms Resort
Nestled among swaying palms and lush landscaped gardens, Montana Palms offers the perfect setting for a relaxed getaway. Featuring fully self-contained, two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments with air conditioning, laundry facilities, and free Wi-Fi, it’s a home away from home. Enjoy the external amenities, including an extra-large swimming pool, spa, and BBQ facilities.
Things to do
Putt Putt Golf
The ultimate mini golf experience on the Gold Coast. With three themed 18-hole courses, a video games arcade, licensed refreshments at the 19th hole, a barbecue zone, and free onsite parking, there really is something for everyone.
Soak Bathhouse
A family-owned wellness sanctuary where guests are invited to relax and recharge in a peaceful, welcoming space. Whether visiting solo, with a friend, or a small group, the tranquil environment encourages you to unwind, taking time to enjoy the sense of relaxation after your experience.
19 Karen Contemporary Artspace
This modern artspace spans 700 square meters, featuring six interconnected exhibition spaces and a spacious, air-conditioned stockroom. The gallery showcases over 90 local and international artists, offering diverse styles such as urban, pop art, expressionism, and surrealism.