Southport & Main Beach
Located just north of Surfers Paradise, Southport is a modern coastal town protected from the Pacific
Ocean by the Southport Spit, a long and narrow tongue of sand dividing the ocean from the Gold Coast Broadwater. Serving as the northern gateway to the Gold Coast, the town provides a more peaceful alternative to Surfers for visitors wanting to enjoy the many attractions of the region without indulging in any clubbing activities. At the southern end of the Spit is Main Beach where many of the area's tourist developments can be found along Sea World Drive which runs northwards along the Spit next to the Broadwater. See our detailed Southport & Main Beach map. Things to See and Do
There are great beaches and surf at the ocean side of the Southport Spit that are less crowded than those to the south while being backed by picturesque parklands. Sea World is located just north of the center of the Spit and features plenty of entertainment in the form of marine animal exhibits, thrilling rides and impressive shows. Visitors can also interact closely with the animals or take an aerial tour of destinations in the Gold Coast via a helicopter ride. There's plenty of shopping at here with the large undercover and air-conditioned Australia Fair Shopping Centre located on Marine Parade as well as the more upmarket Marina Mirage complex with its range of designer boutiques, jewellers and homeware shops. The Gold Coast Broadwater that lies behind the ocean from the Spit could possibly be the biggest attraction here. Apart from being ideal for just about any watersport activity as well as for tours, cruises and fishing charters, the surrounding parklands and marinas provide for a delightful stroll on a warm sunny day.
Southport & Main Beach Hotels and Accommodation
Luxurious 5-star accommodation can be found along Sea World Drive such as the extravagant Palazzo Versace which features interior decor, fabrics and furnishings bearing the trademark designs of the famous brand. More affordable accommodation such as apartments, units and hostels can be found along Marine Parade or in the streets behind Scarborough St in Southport as well as at the southern end of Main Beach near Main Beach Parade just before Sea World Drive.
Places to Eat
For the best in dining that Southport and Main Beach have to offer, head for the award-winning waterfront restaurants at Marina Mirage where diners can indulge in a variety of cuisine while enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding marina and Broadwater.
Getting to Southport & Main Beach
Southport and Main Beach are easily accessed via the Gold Coast Highway which connects the towns to other places along the Gold Coast as well as the Pacific Motorway which leads to Brisbane. Turn off at Waterways Drive or Main Beach Parade to get to the attractions that lie along Sea World Drive. Local Surfside Buslines also run regular services through the Gold Coast Highway to Sea World and the bus interchange at Australia Fair.
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