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The Perfect Mermaid Beach Day Trip: Eat, Play, Relax & Explore by Light Rail
The Gold Coast just got a whole lot easier to explore!
With the new Gold Coast Light Rail now open to Mermaid Beach, there’s never been a better time to leave the car at home, jump on the tram and spend a day discovering everything this vibrant beachside neighbourhood has to offer.
And with 50 cent fares, getting around the Gold Coast is easier and more affordable than ever. The new light rail extension connects Mermaid Beach south from Burleigh Heads and north to Helensvale, making it simple to build your own perfect Mermaid Beach adventure.
Whether you're a Gold Coast local looking for something different to do on the weekend or a visitor wanting to experience more than just the beach, here's our ultimate guide to a day out in Mermaid Beach.
Start Your Day on the G
With the new Mermaid Beach light rail station now open to passengers, some of the Gold Coast's best food, entertainment, shopping, wellness and culture are now even easier to reach.
And at just 50 cents, you can spend less getting around and more on enjoying your day.
Use the Translink Journey Planner to plan your trip to Mermaid Beach.
Breakfast at Bam Bam Bakehouse
First stop? Coffee and pastries, of course.
Start your morning at Bam Bam Bakehouse, one of Mermaid Beach's much loved destinations.
Bam Bam is all about traditional French-style artisan baking, with its talented bakers, patissiers and chefs making everything from scratch in small batches throughout the day. Their famous croissants take three days to make using premium butter and flour — so arriving hungry is highly recommended!
Settle in for breakfast and coffee, grab a flaky croissant or choose something from their tempting selection of pastries, cakes and brunch favourites.
Fuel up. You've got a big day ahead!
Tee Off at Putt Putt Mermaid Beach
.Next stop: Putt Putt!
Just across the road, Putt Putt Mermaid Beach is home to 54 holes of mini golf across three themed 18 hole courses — Jungle Trail, Fun Run and Waterways.
Challenge your friends, family or travel crew and see who can claim bragging rights. With colourful courses, fun obstacles and plenty of opportunities for some friendly competition, it's the perfect way to add a little play to your Mermaid Beach day.
And if you're visiting later in the day, experience Twilight Mini Golf, when the courses light up after dark.
Three courses. 54 holes. One very fun stop in Mermaid Beach.
Shop Up a Storm at Pacific Fair
Ready for some retail therapy?
Jump back on the light rail one station to Pacific Fair Shopping Centre.
One of Australia's largest shopping centres, Pacific Fair is the place to browse fashion, beauty, lifestyle and entertainment.
It's an easy addition to your Mermaid Beach day — particularly if your idea of a perfect afternoon involves a little shopping.
Mini golf winnings not guaranteed. Shopping bags very likely.
Discover Contemporary Art at 19 Karen
For something a little more cultured, make your way to 19 Karen Contemporary Art Gallery on Karen Avenue.
This contemporary art space showcases Australian and international artists across a diverse range of styles, including pop art, street art, abstract, realism, surrealism and expressionism.
With more than 75 artists represented, it's a great place to slow down, wander through the gallery and discover something unexpected.
It's also a reminder that there's much more to Mermaid Beach than sun, sand and surf.
A little culture, a little inspiration and perhaps a new artwork for the wall?
Tip: Check opening hours before you visit, as the gallery is currently open Tuesday –Thursday 9am – 4pm and Friday - Saturday 9am – 1pm.
Slow Things Down at Soak Bathhouse
After all that exploring, it's time to put your feet up.
Make your way to Soak Bathhouse Gold Coast and swap sightseeing for soaking.
Soak's Mermaid Beach bathhouse features mineral pools, hot spas, a cold plunge, steam room and traditional cedar sauna, along with spaces to relax and unwind.
Whether you're travelling as a couple, with friends or simply treating yourself to some solo downtime, it's the perfect way to slow the pace after a busy day.
Finish the Day at Mermaid Beach Tavern
You've played mini golf, explored the neighbourhood, shopped, discovered art and relaxed at the bathhouse.
Now you deserve dinner and entertainment!
Conveniently located right next door to Putt Putt. It's the perfect place to settle in for a relaxed meal, sip on a cocktail and talk about the day's highlights.
Check out What's On at the Mermaid Beach Tavern with special offers, live entertainment, music and more good times before calling it a day.
With the new Gold Coast Light Rail extension making Mermaid Beach more accessible, it's easier than ever to turn a visit into a full day of eating, playing, relaxing and exploring.
So whether you're a local rediscovering your own backyard or a visitor looking for a different side of the Gold Coast, make Mermaid Beach your next day trip destination.
See you soon in Mermaid Beach!