HERE’S CHEERS TO SURF BREWS

It doesn’t get more GC than a brewhouse co-founded by local surfing legends Mick Fanning (right) and Joel Parkinson and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Currumbin.

Balter’s core range of beers – a pale ale (Best International Pale Ale at the AIBA Awards in 2017, if you don’t mind), draught, pilsner and a brown ale – taste even better at the source, a relaxed taproom on Traders Way.

The rustic, brick-lined brew HQ has extended hours during the Commonwealth Games, open to the public Monday to Thursday from noon-7pm, Friday noon-9pm, Saturday 1pm-8pm and Sunday noon-7pm, with Zicatela Mexican to munch on and a live music line-up.

Need another lesson in life appreciation? Nab a spot on the Vikings deck, with waves rolling at your feet and blue views stretching to the Surfers skyline.

While beachfront outlooks are a specialty in this part of the world, nobody does it closer than this Currumbin surf lifesaving club. Get your hands on a seafood platter loaded with local prawns.

Rise and dine in another of the best locations on the Coast – Dune Cafe.

Snare a seat in their shaded alfresco area overlooking Tarrabora Parklands, where green lawns flow to the Pirate Park and clear waters of Currumbin lagoon. Not only is it a beautiful spot for breakfast, our readers say it’s one of the best kid-friendly cafes on the Coast.

“There is something for kids of all ages here – a calm beach for wading in, off-leash dog area, wide open grass to run around, walking paths for pram pushers and the giant pirate park all on the doorstep,” says Coffee Mumma Belinda Meginley.

While parents can savour a chef-crafted menu supporting Gold Coast growers, the crew get their own goodies, including hot cakes swimming in maple syrup, cinnamon sugar and ice cream.

“Saturday morning with live music is a must do,” Belinda tips.

Of course, the ultimate way to experience this aquatic playground is to dive right in. Readers voted neighbouring stretches of sand at Palm Beach and Currumbin as among the best on the Gold Coast.

With Talle to the left and Currumbin Creek to the right, there’s nothing like being stuck in the middle at Palm Beach, where you’ve got good odds of making some four-legged friends.

“Palm Beach has two