Best Things to do in Tugun

Whether you're looking for a nostalgic beach holiday or some adrenaline-packed adventure, Tugun, in the southern Gold Coast, has it all.

With easy access to the stunning turquoise waters of Currumbin Creek and local landmark, Elephant Rock, Tugun is known for its laidback surf beaches, still fronted by some of the original beach shacks and retro holiday flats.

Also a thriving foodie destination, Tugun is home to a range of funky cafes, restaurants and bars that you'd expect to find in the inner city, but with a relaxing vibe.

Here are the experiences, attractions, and places, some that you may not know of, to make the most out of a visit:

Take your trip to Tugun up to the next level, literally, and view this gorgeous piece of coastline from the sky with one of these exhilarating adventures. Marvel at the views while free-falling from 12,000 feet with Gold Coast Skydive, live out your childhood fantasy on a warbird plane with Gold Coast Adventure Flights or take to the skies with ABC Heli at the Airport, who operate daily Gold Coast helicopter scenic joy flights and charter flights.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary - The iconic Gold Coast wildlife park is conveniently located in Tugun's backyard and their best kept secret, The Sanctuary Markets, operates on Friday evenings on The Village Green. Feed the rainbow lorikeets, then feed yourself from one of the fantastic international food stalls and pick up some fresh produce to take home. 

POT Studios - If building sand castles aren't your thing, then why not try your hand at pottery, at this popular local studio. Choose from a range of one-off workshops where, under the guidance of South Korean-trained potter Cindy Hamrey, you can learn to create your own piece of pottery to take home as a cute and functional souvenir.

Cornerstone Store - This unique and funky dining and shopping precinct is a destination in its own right. Here you can browse dreamy boutiques, dine at the cool cafe Stable Coffee + Kitchen or pick up provisions for a beach picnic at gourmet providore Quince, a one stop shop for cheese, salami, European wines and other delicacies.

Tugun Fruit & Flowers - You'll find market fresh flowers, quality fruit and vegetables and a juice bar all under one roof at this local institution. Their scrumptious smoothies and tropical juices go down a treat after a session at the beach, or drop by for a healthy acai bowl before that morning power walk.

Tugun's Cafe Culture - Locals and holiday makers are spoilt for choice when it comes to the cool cafes that you'll find nestled in pockets of Tugun. Niche & Co is known for its healthy vegan friendly menu, and House of Hubert offers an all-day breakfast menu that will have you coming back again and again, while Good Day Coffee opens at 5am for that sunrise kick-starter coffee.

After the sun goes down, follow the locals to Tugun's coolest restaurants and bars: 

Craft House Bar & Restaurant - One of Tugun's best places to kick back and relax after a day at the beach with a cold craft beer, glass of wine or exquisite cocktail and some delicious food, along with live music and good vibes.

Backbone Bar - Paying homage to the relaxed lifestyle and street culture of the Gold Coast, this funky laidback bar and eating house is an all-rounder when it comes to great beer, wine and food. 

Sticky Rice Thai Food & Bar - This local's secret is the go-to for delectable authentic Thai food and Asian-flavoured cocktails in a cool tropical setting.

Best Places to Stay  - Be sure you get to experience all that Tugun has to offer with a stay at one of their fantastic beachfront resorts. Golden Riviera Beach Resort has large balconies to breathe in the salty air and a beachside pool, while San Simeon Beachfront Apartments offers a range of resort facilities including a beachfront pool and a tennis court. You'll also enjoy breathtaking views from every room at Pelican Sands Beach Resort, a relaxed family resort on Tugun's Golden Four Drive.

This feature was produced in partnership with our friends at Destination Gold Coast.

For more great things to do and see in Tugun and the rest of the Gold Coast, visit Destination Gold Coast HERE.