As I envision my golden years on the Gold Coast, the allure of serene suburbs becomes an integral part of my retirement dream. In this guide, we’ll explore the idyllic neighbourhoods that cater to retirees seeking tranquillity and vibrant community living. Join me in discovering the best suburbs on the Gold Coast, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, scenic beauty, and a welcoming environment for those of us embracing the next chapter of life, making it an ideal destination for retirees seeking the best places to settle down.
Burleigh Heads
The charming Burleigh Heads is a picturesque haven between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta. Recognized as one of the prime Gold Coast suburbs for retirees, Burleigh Heads boasts a pleasant climate. Its summer highs reach 28 degrees, and winter temperatures reach 22 degrees. The suburb experiences an average of 27 rainy days during summer, while winter sees only 16 days of rain. Residents benefit from convenient bus services that stop within walking distance of major city attractions.
Home to three stunning beaches, a variety of beachside cafes and restaurants, and a vibrant shopping and entertainment hub, Burleigh Heads provides retirees with the ideal blend of comfort and leisure. The locals can immerse themselves in unique cultural experiences, from culinary delights to art and entertainment.
Moreover, galleries like Walting Fine Art Galleries & Burleigh Framing and Ocean Art Australia offer a glimpse into the creativity of local talent. The Burleigh Common is a central hub for entertainment and social gatherings, hosting regular events yearly.
Currumbin
Currumbin is a coastal town with over 12,000 residents, offering tranquillity amid natural wonders and unique wildlife. It is situated 85 km southeast of central Brisbane and neighbouring Palm Beach. Acting as a peaceful retreat outside city life, Currumbin residents can access bus services connecting to nearby town centres and amenities. The climate mirrors that of Burleigh Heads, with warm summer days reaching 28 degrees and winter highs at 22 degrees, creating an ideal setting for retirement.
Whether one seeks the serenity of rainforests, rock pools, and the Oceanside or indulges in a more glamorous lifestyle, Currumbin accommodates both preferences. The town boasts iconic spots like Elephant Rocks and Cougal Cascades, making it a perfect haven for those seeking peace in their surroundings. Award-winning restaurants, cafes, and world-class boutique shops contribute to Currumbin’s simple and luxurious pleasures.
Surrounded by accessible schools, medical facilities, sports, recreation facilities, and retail hubs, Currumbin appeals to families and retirees alike. The current average house price is $1,380,000, with a weekly rental rate of $885, while apartments average $816,000 with a weekly rental rate of $665.
Robina
Established as a suburb in the 1980s, Robina is a meticulously planned community centred around three lakes. This community of 8,874 residents caters to retirees and families and offers a subtropical climate, allowing the enjoyment of warm days and coastal living.
In addition, this Gold Coast suburb is suited for outdoor enthusiasts, sports lovers, and fashion fans. Robina provides easy transportation with a local train station and bus services.
Nature lovers can explore lush parks like Lake Lomandra Park or the River Walk Precinct. It is perfect for picnics, cycling, or lakeside strolls. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the Palmer Gold Coast and the Glades Golf Club. Meanwhile, the Robina Common is an excellent spot for off-leash dog walking, soccer, or strolls.
Additionally, the suburb is home to the Gold Coast’s NRL team, the Titans, headquartered at the Cbus Stadium. For shopping and entertainment, Robina Town Centre boasts over 350 stores. This ranges from local to luxury brands and a sizable dining and entertainment precinct. Bond University, one of Australia’s prestigious education institutes, also calls Robina home.
Hope Island
Hope Island, known as one of the Gold Coast’s coveted canal-frontage locations, is gaining popularity among retirees. Referred to as the North Shore, this suburb, with a population cap of 18,000, exudes an up-market northern Gold Coast ambience. Residents enjoy regular bus services and access to the Brisbane train line. With luxury marinas, Hope Island attracts yachting enthusiasts, superboat owners, and lovers of luxury cruisers. Despite its sizable population, the area maintains a sense of small-town living and simplicity.
Positioned along the waterfront, recreational activities in Hope Island revolve around sailing, fishing, and other water sports. The area boasts the prestigious Hope Island Resort course, an 18-hole, par 70 course, and the Azzura Tennis Academy headquarters. Shopping enthusiasts can explore boutique-style stores and four shopping centres, with Marina Quays Market Village offering an impressive food and entertainment hub for socializing. Three care service providers cater to retirees needing low and high care.
Coombabah
Nestled between Runaway Bay and Paradise Point, Coombabah offers river and lake front living, drawing in retirees and families among its 10,000 residents. Recognized for the Coombabah Lakes Nature Reserve, the area provides abundant outdoor recreational areas and wildlife. Just a short 12 km drive from the heart of the Gold Coast, Coombabah offers a perfect balance of tranquillity and city accessibility, with multiple regular bus services connecting to major Gold Coast locations.
Residents can explore the conservation area of Coombabah Lakes, teeming with wildlife and native landscapes. The suburb is close to Surfers Paradise, allowing easy access to beachside restaurants, cafes, and the Gold Coast’s retail selection, including the iconic Pacific Fair Shopping Centre.
Considered one of the more affordable Gold Coast suburbs, Coombabah attracts families and retirees with a continuously growing population. Median prices for three to four-bedroom homes range from $710,000 to $862,500, and apartments average $509,000. Rental prices average $680 per week for houses and $600 per week for apartments.
Miami
Between Mermaid Beach and Burleigh Heads, Miami stands out as one of the Gold Coast’s most popular suburbs for retirees. Home to an extensive beachfront, residents can relish pristine beaches and walking tracks while enjoying a subtropical climate.
Moreover, Miami is known for its laid-back lifestyle. Despite its proximity to the bustling Gold Coast centre, it offers a sense of relaxation and tranquillity. With regular tram and bus services connecting to the Gold Coast light rail, the suburb ensures convenience for those reliant on public transport.
Miami caters to diverse preferences. It has breathtaking beaches, canal-front parks, food and entertainment precincts, and a range of shopping options from local to luxurious. The beachfront promenade and Miami Beach Ocean Walk offer scenic strolls complemented by local cafes and markets.
Recreational facilities like Pizzey Park provide an Olympic-size pool, sports clubs, and walking trails. For lively entertainment, the Miami Marketta is a local hub with hybrid street food markets and live music. The central location provides easy access to Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, the Gold Coast’s food and retail hub.
Benowa
Situated just inland from Broad Beach and Main Beach, neighbouring the canal-front suburb of Bundall, Benowa offers tranquillity amid tranquil canals and lush green landscapes. Moreover, Benowa falls within the Royal Pines precinct, providing access to prestigious golf courses and various suburban amenities.
Benowa accommodates diverse interests, catering to social individuals, shopping and entertainment lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Residents may enjoy a coastal social life with regular bus services for easy commuting, which is only 4 km from Surfers Paradise.
The Spotlight Theatre within the suburb hosts regular shows, while Surfers Paradise’s HOTA Centre provides additional entertainment options. Shopping enthusiasts can explore Pacific Fair and Australia Fair shopping centres. They can also shop at beachside boutique stores along the Surfers Paradise Coast. Tranquil outdoor activities include the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens, canal-side walking tracks, and local golf courses.
Retiring on the Gold Coast
For those looking to downsize and retire with a tranquil coastal lifestyle, the Gold Coast offers a variety of popular retirement destinations. Ideal for those over 55, these suburbs provide a perfect combination of tranquillity and an active lifestyle. With a reliable public transport system connecting the suburbs to the city, driving is unnecessary. Whether seeking luxury beachfront living or downsizing to an apartment with a view, the Gold Coast provides ample choices in affordable suburbs for retirees.
Also read: Where Should I Retire on the Gold Coast? Here’s What You Need to Know!