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Seven Gold Coast Hidden Treasures

words by kobi facto

Some of the best holiday stories start with, “I met a local who……”

If you’re lucky enough to have experienced a destination through the eyes of a local you’ll know that it takes your trip to the next level, and gives you an experience you’ll remember forever.

To ensure you get the local hook-up when you visit the Gold Coast, we have partnered up with the folk in the know at localyokl.

The Australian-founded web platform connects travellers with clued-up locals to offer authentic, once in a lifetime local experiences. No longer do travellers need to wait in lines at cookie-cutter attractions or commercial day trips. localyokl gets you off the beaten track, into some of the most remote and spectacular locations with the people who know the area best.

Here are our top 7 must-try experiences with Gold Coast locals:

All day road trip with Surfing, Fishing and Waterfall Adventures
For the adrenalin junkie: Live the dream of an Aussie surfer. Enjoy the ultimate day trip enjoying the best beaches the Gold Coast has to offer. Your Guide is an experienced surfer and will be able to help you find the perfect wave for your skill level. Once you’re finished in the ‘green room’ you will enjoy a scenic drive inland before arriving at a majestic waterfall for a picnic lunch. After lunch, enjoy a spot of fishing before heading home to your accommodation. Includes: Surfboard hire, food, water, fishing rods and accessories.
Price: $120 per person*Available all days

Springbrook Serenity Day Trip
For the ultimate escape: Getaway from the busy city life and experience the wonders of the Gold Coast Hinterland. Start off the morning with a light meal at a local organic café in Bonogin before heading to Springbrook. Then immerse yourself with the best views of Purling Brook before getting your feet wet and going for a dip in some of the relaxing swimming spots. Includes: Pick up and drop off at a central meeting place (from the Gold Coast), lunch and light snacks, sunscreen, coffee and water.
Price: $100 per person. *Available all days

Beachside Seafood Masterclass and Lunch
For the foodie: Fresh, local seafood tastes so much more delicious when cooked by the beach with salt in the air and a glass of wine in your hand. Firstly, you’ll meet for coffee with your Guide to chat about the menu before heading off to the local fishmongers to purchase freshly caught seafood. You will then be taken to a stunning Gold Coast beachfront home where your Guide will teach you how to prepare, cook and present a beautiful seafood meal. Includes: Snacks, transport, all seafood lunch ingredients, and a glass of wine with lunch.
Price: $195 per two people booking.*Available all days.

Full Day Ultimate 4WD Adventure
For the beach lover: Enjoy a day spent on an unforgettable 4WD off-road bush and beach adventure. Drive off to Stradbroke to experience the island’s untamed wilderness and rugged, natural charm. Once on the island, slip into island living and explore the dozens of tracks which wind through one of the world’s cleanest and least populated sand islands. Includes: Sand dune toboggan, fishing and bait gathering guided walks, stand up paddle boarding, surfing, BBQ lunch (alternate food options can easily be arranged).
Price $159 per person min 2 people booking*Only available on Monday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday.

Stand Up Paddle Board Yoga (SUP Yoga)
For the health enthusiast: Connect with the natural beauties of Tallebudgera Creek at sunrise. You will learn how to use a stand-up board and correctly paddle before taking part in SUP yoga. Enjoy the fresh air and scenery with your experienced Guide, plus take home stunning photographs of your experience! Includes: Stand Up Paddle Board hire, photos and light refreshments.
Price: $85 pp *Available all days.

Soul Soothing Yoga Retreat – four hours
For the yogi: ‘Zen Your Life’ will be an unforgettable experience of soul soothing, body rejuvenation and blissful surrender. This private retreat will guide and mentor guests with yoga and meditation whilst they are nourished with local organic food and treated to a unique Zen Thai Shiatsu massage with pure essential oils. This private 4hr retreat is the ultimate chance to unwind, soothe your soul and reconnect.
Price: $550 pp

Sunrise to Sunset Adventure
For the photographer: Enjoy a full day photography adventure around the hidden gems of the Gold Coast. Rising early to capture the magic of the beach at dawn you will then move on and refuel at one of the Gold Coast’s best breakfast spots to recharge the batteries. Your Guide will then take you off the beaten track to secluded trails and waterfalls to photograph some flora and fauna. Includes: Photography tour, food and refreshment stops, Lightroom editing help and transport.
Price: $100 pp

To learn more or to give cookie-cutter style tourist attractions the flick, head to Localyokl


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