Markets on the Gold Coast are some of Queensland’s best—and most unusual. Experience the fun of the Social Markets at Mermaid Beach Bowls Club, complete with barefoot bowls. Shop by the sea at the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets or head to Miami Marketta for outdoor dining, colourful stalls and talented local musicians. Whether you’re after a cane toad purse, designer fashion, antiques or original artworks, you’re sure to find it at one of these markets, a must on our list of things to do on the Gold Coast.
What is it? A night market featuring food trucks and barefoot bowls.
Why go? This colourful market, which takes place at Mermaid Beach Bowls Club on the fourth Saturday of every month, features barefoot bowls, live music, food, drinks and funky fashion stalls. Drinks are cheap, bowling is free and the mood is relaxed.
What is it? A beachfront market in the Gold Coast suburb of Coolangatta.
Why go? To listen to talented local musicians and browse artworks, jewellery and homewares made by artists from the Gold Coast and nearby Northern Rivers. It’s on the second Sunday of every month.
What is it? A food and craft market at the popular Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Why go? To take a delicious journey around the globe with cuisine from Japan, Brazil, South Africa and Italy, washed down with beer from Burleigh Brewing every Friday night from 4pm. The undercover dining area has aircon in summer and heating in winter.
What is it? A morning market at Burleigh Heads State School.
Why go? Talented local creatives come together on the first and third Sunday of every month to sell vintage and original designer fashion, art, homewares and handcrafted furniture. Food trucks and great live music add yet more reasons to visit.
What is it? A delicious night market at Helensvale.
Why go? Bring your appetite to the NightQuarter markets, which are open from 4pm every Friday and Saturday. With 120 food stalls, cute stores, carnival games and a live music space called The Paddock, you’ll want to make a night of it.
What is it? Australia’s largest marketplace.
Why go? This mighty market at Carrara includes everything from bric-a-brac to one-off fashion items. It’s also your chance to get up close to the world’s most venomous snakes at a live show by Luke’s Reptile Kingdom. Over 400 stalls can be found here every Saturday and Sunday from 7am to 3pm – and children are well catered for with face painting and trampolines.
What is it? A buzzing beachfront market on the main drag of Surfers Paradise.
Why go? This market takes place under the famous Surfers Paradise sign on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday nights from 4pm. Stalls are fairly touristy but they’re good for quirky souvenirs. Live entertainment and the market’s central location create a lively, upbeat vibe.
What is it? The Gold Coast’s first organic growers market.
Why go? Held on the oval at Miami High every Sunday from 6am, this morning market is packed with delicious certified organic fruit and veggies. It’s ideal for locals and travellers with self-catering accommodation and offers free environmental awareness activities and healthy snacks.
What is it? A pumping street food market in the cute beach town of Miami.
Why go? Shared tables, funky bars and talented local artists make Miami Marketta the place to be on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights. This live music venue, creative hub and outdoor dining venue boasts plenty of tasty street food and seating for 450 people.
With its golden sands and laid-back holiday vibe, the Gold Coast has always been a favourite destination for those seeking a relaxed seaside escape. With its rich Indigenous heritage, vibrant markets, heart-pumping adrenaline activities and thriving live music scene, there is plenty to keep you entertained along the coastal strip.
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