The Ultimate Gold Coast Hens Party Guide: Where to Stay, Eat & Celebrate
So, you've been given the very important job of planning the hens party? No pressure or anything...
Whether you're the maid of honour, a bridesmaid or the bride-to-be herself, we've got you covered!
If you're looking for the best hens party ideas on the Gold Coast, you've come to the right place. Think beautiful beaches, long lunches, sunset cocktails, luxury accommodation and, of course, an unforgettable boat party with your favourite girls.
The Gold Coast is pretty much made for a girls' weekend away. Whether you're planning a relaxed coastal getaway or a full-blown bachelorette party, there's something for every kind of bride.
We've been hosting hens parties on the Gold Coast Broadwater for over 15 years, so it's safe to say we've picked up a few tips along the way!
Here's our guide to planning the ultimate Gold Coast hens weekend, including our favourite places to stay, eat and celebrate.
Where to Stay for a Hens Party on the Gold Coast
First things first, you'll need somewhere for the girls to stay!
For groups of 5–30, we recommend booking a spacious Airbnb or holiday home, or choosing a hotel where everyone can book their own room. That way, everyone can stay together (or at least close by), while still having enough space to get ready for the big day.
Here are four of our favourite areas to stay for a Gold Coast hens weekend.
1. Main Beach – Luxury & Waterfront Living
If you're planning a slightly more luxurious hens weekend, Main Beach is a beautiful place to base yourselves.
Think quieter beaches, gorgeous waterfront dining and easy access to Marina Mirage and Surfers Paradise.
Look for a spacious holiday apartment or Airbnb with ocean views, or book multiple hotel rooms close to one another.
Why we love it: You're close to the action without being right in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Plus, you're just minutes from your hens boat party!
-
2. Broadbeach – The Ultimate Girls' Weekend Location
If we had to choose one location for a Gold Coast hens weekend, Broadbeach would be pretty high on our list.
Beautiful beaches, amazing restaurants, cocktail bars, shopping and plenty of accommodation options, all within walking distance.
You'll find everything from luxury hotels to spacious self-contained apartments, making it easy to accommodate both smaller hens groups and larger parties of up to 30 girls across multiple rooms.
Spend your mornings grabbing coffee by the beach, your afternoons celebrating and your evenings exploring the local bars.
Why we love it: It's central, convenient and has everything you need for a girls' weekend, without having to organise an Uber every five minutes.
-
3. Mermaid Beach – Relaxed Coastal Vibes
For brides who prefer a more laid-back weekend, Mermaid Beach is a great option.
It's close to Broadbeach but has a slightly quieter, local feel, with beautiful beaches, cafes and plenty of spots for a morning coffee.
Browse Airbnb for a stylish beach house or book a few holiday apartments in the same complex if you've got a bigger group.
Why we love it: You can enjoy the relaxed Gold Coast lifestyle while still being close to restaurants, shopping and nightlife.
-
4. Burleigh Heads – For the Trendy Coastal Bride
If your bride loves trendy cafes, beach walks and a good cocktail bar, Burleigh Heads is calling her name.
With gorgeous beaches, boutique shopping and some of the Gold Coast's best restaurants, Burleigh is the perfect spot for a girls' weekend away.
Look for a beautiful Airbnb close to the beach or book a few apartments within walking distance of James Street, Burleigh's popular shopping and dining precinct.
Why we love it: Burleigh has that effortlessly cool, coastal holiday atmosphere that makes a girls' weekend feel like a mini European summer escape.
-
Where to Eat: 4 Gold Coast Restaurants Perfect for a Hens Party
No hens weekend is complete without a long lunch, delicious food and a few cocktails, obviously.
The Gold Coast has some incredible restaurants for group celebrations, but our biggest tip is to book ahead, particularly if you're bringing 10–30 girls. Larger groups may need to arrange a private event or function booking.
Here are four venues worth adding to your itinerary.
1. La Luna Beach Club – Main Beach
Best for: A boujee waterfront long lunch
If your bride loves a little luxury, La Luna Beach Club at Marina Mirage is a must.
With beautiful Broadwater views, Mediterranean-inspired food, cocktails and a stunning poolside setting, it's giving European beach club without the long-haul flight.
Book a cabana for a glamorous afternoon by the pool or enjoy a long lunch at MĀRE, the restaurant located within La Luna Beach Club.
The best part? It's located at Marina Mirage, the very same marina where our Sailing in Paradise charters depart.
So you can enjoy a beautiful lunch with the girls before stepping straight onto your private hens party boat.
Our tip: Book lunch and a sunset charter back-to-back for the ultimate Gold Coast hens day.
2. Norté – Mermaid Beach
Best for: A stylish long lunch or dinner with cocktails
If your bride loves a beautiful restaurant with a little atmosphere, Norté in Mermaid Beach is one to add to the list.
Located in The Oxley precinct, Norté brings a modern Latin American dining experience to the Gold Coast, with beautiful interiors, bold flavours and delicious cocktails.
Think share-style dining, beautifully presented food and the perfect excuse to get dressed up with the girls.
And if you're keen to keep the celebrations going, the rooftop bar Sueño is located just upstairs.
Why we love it: It's stylish, fun and perfect for a bride who loves good food, cocktails and a little luxury.
3. KŌST – Broadbeach
Best for: A glamorous hens lunch or dinner
Located in the heart of Broadbeach, KŌST is a beautiful coastal-inspired restaurant that's perfect for a special celebration.
With stunning interiors, a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu featuring premium seafood, grilled dishes and delicious cocktails, it's a great choice for a bride who loves the finer things.
Whether you're planning a long lunch or a glamorous dinner before heading out in Broadbeach, KŌST is definitely worth adding to your list.
Why we love it: The interiors are gorgeous, the atmosphere feels special and you're just steps away from Broadbeach's nightlife.
4. Light Years – Burleigh Heads
Best for: A fun group dinner with cocktails
If you're after a lively restaurant where the girls can share delicious food and enjoy a few cocktails, Light Years in Burleigh Heads is a great choice.
Known for its vibrant interiors, Asian-inspired share plates, tropical cocktails and fun atmosphere, it's the kind of place that makes a group dinner feel like a celebration.
They also offer banquet menus for larger groups, making it easy to organise a delicious meal without everyone having to order individually.
Why we love it: It's fun, colourful and perfect for a hens group wanting a lively dinner before heading out for drinks in Burleigh.
-
Best Coffee & Brunch Spots on the Gold Coast
Because no girls' weekend is complete without a good coffee run!
Whether you're recovering from the night before or starting the morning with a beach walk, the Gold Coast has some seriously good cafes.
Here are four of our favourites between Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.
1. Banksy – Broadbeach
Best for: Great coffee & a delicious brunch
If you're staying in Broadbeach, Banksy Bar & Kitchen is a great spot to kick off your morning.
With its cool, industrial-style interiors, specialty coffee and delicious breakfast menu, it's the perfect place to catch up with the girls before a big day of celebrating.
Whether you're after a quick takeaway coffee or a proper sit-down brunch, Banksy has you covered.
Why we love it: Great coffee, a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of delicious breakfast options to fuel your day.
2. The Milkman's Daughter – Mermaid Beach
Best for: A wholesome, feel-good brunch
If your bride loves all things wellness, The Milkman's Daughter in Mermaid Beach is a must-visit.
Think beautiful coastal-inspired interiors, delicious vegetarian dishes, organic coffee and a menu full of fresh, nourishing ingredients.
It's the perfect spot for a relaxed morning with the girls, especially if you're after something a little lighter following a big night out.
Why we love it: The beautiful interiors, wholesome food and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect slow morning stop.
3. House of Hälsa – Mermaid Beach
Best for: Aesthetic smoothies & a healthy girl morning
If your bride is all about Pilates, matcha and a good smoothie, House of Hälsa is calling her name.
This trendy Mermaid Beach cafe has become a favourite for its gorgeous interiors, colourful superfood smoothies and fresh, healthy food.
Think loaded smoothie creations, nourishing bowls and beautifully presented dishes that are almost too pretty to eat.
Grab the girls, order your favourite smoothies and enjoy a little wellness moment before the celebrations begin.
Why we love it: It's giving LA wellness girl energy, without leaving the Gold Coast.
4. Tarte Bakery & Cafe – Burleigh Heads
Best for: Coffee, croissants & a cute brunch date
If you're spending the weekend in Burleigh, Tarte Bakery & Cafe is definitely worth adding to your list.
With its Parisian-inspired interiors, freshly baked pastries, delicious bagels and great coffee, it's the kind of cafe that makes you feel like you've stepped into a little European bakery.
Grab a coffee and croissant before exploring Burleigh, or settle in for a relaxed brunch with the girls.
Why we love it: Beautiful interiors, incredible pastries and that effortlessly chic European cafe vibe we all love.
-
Best Beaches on the Gold Coast for a Girls' Weekend
One of the best things about planning a hens party on the Gold Coast? The beaches, obviously!
Whether you're dreaming of a tropical island escape, a European summer-inspired beach day or a morning walk by the ocean, there's a beach for every kind of bride.
Here are four of our favourites to add to your Gold Coast hens weekend itinerary.
1. Wave Break Island – For Private, Tropical Island Vibes
Best for: A secluded island escape with the girls
Want to feel like you've escaped to a tropical island without actually leaving the Gold Coast?
Say hello to Wave Break Island!
Located in the beautiful Gold Coast Broadwater, this little island paradise is only accessible by boat, making it feel worlds away from the busy beaches on the mainland.
Think sandy beaches, calm-water swimming spots, beautiful natural scenery and plenty of room to relax with your favourite girls.
It's the perfect place to lay out your towels, soak up some sunshine and enjoy a little island time.
And the best part? If you're booking a daytime private boat charter with Sailing in Paradise, you can enjoy an island stop as part of your experience, with the exact location chosen by our crew based on conditions.
Why we love it: Tropical island vibes, without the flights, passports or expensive overseas holiday!
2. Tallebudgera Creek – For European Summer Vibes
Best for: A dreamy beach day with calm water
If you've seen those gorgeous photos of girls lounging by the water in Europe and thought, "I wish that was me", Tallebudgera Creek might just be your new favourite spot.
Nestled between Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach, this beautiful creek is famous for its calm, blue-green water, sandy shoreline and stunning natural surroundings.
Pack your beach towels, grab some snacks and spend the afternoon swimming, sunbaking and catching up with the girls.
It's giving European summer, minus the 24-hour flight.
Why we love it: Beautiful scenery, calm water and the perfect backdrop for a relaxed girls' beach day.
3. Burleigh Heads Beach – For Surf, Sunshine & Good Vibes
Best for: A classic Gold Coast beach day
If you're looking for that iconic Gold Coast beach atmosphere, Burleigh Heads is hard to beat.
With rolling surf, golden sand, gorgeous views of the coastline and a lively atmosphere, it's one of the best places to spend a sunny afternoon with the girls.
Find a spot on the sand, go for a swim between the flags or watch the surfers catching waves.
And when you're ready for a break from the sunshine, you're just a short stroll from Burleigh's cafes, restaurants, shops and bars.
Why we love it: Surf, sunshine, good vibes and everything you need for the ultimate Gold Coast beach day.
4. Mermaid Beach – For Long Beach Walks & Lazy Days in the Sun
Best for: Spreading out your towels and staying all day
If your idea of the perfect beach day involves a good book, a beach towel and absolutely no plans, Mermaid Beach is the place to be.
This beautiful stretch of coastline is exactly what comes to mind when you picture the Gold Coast. Think kilometres of golden sand, rolling waves and beautiful ocean views as far as the eye can see.
There's plenty of space to spread out with the girls, set up your beach towels and park yourselves for the day.
Or, if you're feeling a little more active, grab a takeaway coffee and enjoy a long walk along the sand. You can wander for kilometres along the coastline, with the ocean on one side and the Gold Coast skyline in the distance.
Why we love it: It's the ultimate Gold Coast beach experience. No itinerary, no rush, just sunshine, ocean breezes and a whole day to enjoy with your favourite people.
-
4 of the Best Hens Party Activities on the Gold Coast
Now for the fun part!
Whether your bride is all about champagne and dancing or prefers something a little more relaxed, there's no shortage of things to do for a bachelorette party on the Gold Coast.
Here are four of our favourites.
1. A Private Hens Boat Party (Obviously!)
We might be a little biased here, but we genuinely believe a private boat party is one of the best ways to celebrate a hens on the Gold Coast.
Picture this: you and your favourite girls, champagne in hand, your favourite playlist pumping, sunshine, ocean breezes and a whole boat to yourselves.
Sounds pretty good, right?
At Sailing in Paradise, we specialise in private hens party boat charters on the beautiful Gold Coast Broadwater.
Our three spacious sailing catamarans are perfect for everything from intimate celebrations to large hens groups, with plenty of room to relax, mingle and dance.
Choose a daytime charter and spend a few hours sailing around the Broadwater before stopping at an island for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding and beach activities.
Or opt for a sunset charter, with drinks, music, dancing and the Gold Coast skyline as your backdrop.
The best part? The entire boat is yours. No sharing with strangers, no crowded bars, just your favourite people celebrating the bride-to-be.
We also make planning easy, with:
- BYO food and drinks welcome, with eskies and ice provided
- Catering and drinks packages available
- Your own skipper and friendly crew
- Spotify Premium and an onboard sound system
- Optional island stops and beach activities on daytime charters
- Photos and videos captured by our crew
We've hosted hundreds of hens parties over the years, so whether you're planning a relaxed afternoon with grazing boards or an epic party on the water, we'll help you bring it all together.
Trust us, this is one hens party the girls will be talking about long after the wedding!
2. Burleigh Headland Walk & Coffee Date
Best for: A relaxed morning with the girls
Not every hens activity needs to involve cocktails!
If you're planning a whole weekend away, start one of your mornings with a walk around the beautiful Burleigh Headland.
With stunning ocean views, lush coastal scenery and plenty of spots to stop for photos, it's a lovely way to spend some quality time together before the celebrations begin.
Afterwards, grab a coffee and breakfast at one of Burleigh's many cafes, or take a dip at the beach.
It's the perfect way to ease into the day, especially if you've got a big afternoon planned.
3. Paint & Sip Class
Best for: A creative bride who loves a laugh
If you're after a fun group activity that everyone can get involved in, a paint and sip class is a great hens party idea.
Think a glass of bubbles in one hand, a paintbrush in the other and plenty of laughs as everyone attempts to create their masterpiece.
You don't need to be artistic (in fact, sometimes that's half the fun!).
Look for a Gold Coast studio offering private group sessions, or find a mobile paint and sip provider who can come to your accommodation.
It's a fun way to get everyone chatting, particularly if you've got a mix of friendship groups who haven't met before.
4. Hens Games Night at Your Airbnb
Best for: A fun night in without blowing the budget
Sometimes the best hens party memories happen when you're all together in your accommodation, wearing matching PJs and laughing until your stomach hurts.
If you've booked a spacious Airbnb or holiday apartment, plan a fun hens games night for the girls.
Think bride trivia, "how well do you know the groom?", a personalised quiz, cocktails and a few cheeky games.
Add some grazing platters, a cute table setup and a playlist, and you've got yourself a seriously fun evening.
This is also a great option if you're planning a full hens weekend and want to balance the bigger activities with something more relaxed and budget-friendly.
Just make sure your accommodation allows group gatherings and any planned decorations.
-
Ready to Plan Your Gold Coast Hens Party?
Whether you're planning a luxury bachelorette weekend, a laid-back girls' getaway or the ultimate hens boat party, the Gold Coast has everything you need to make it unforgettable.
And if a private boat party sounds like your bride's kind of celebration, we'd love to help!
At Sailing in Paradise, we've been hosting unforgettable celebrations on the Gold Coast Broadwater for over 15 years, with beautiful boats, amazing crew and hundreds of happy hens groups along the way.
So gather your girls, pick a date and leave the sailing to us.
Explore our Gold Coast Hens Party Boat Charters and get in touch for our hens party info pack, including boat options, pricing and catering menus.
Because the bride deserves more than just another night out. She deserves a hens party the girls will be talking about long after the wedding!