Sun, sea, and shopping. The Gold Coast is the perfect place for those seeking an escape from reality.
For Gold Coast locals however, enjoying the sun-kissed coastline and all its treasures is a part of life. Waking up early to smell the warmest breads at the Sunday markets, plucking freshly picked flowers for bouquets, or visiting the fashion stalls monthly to see what designs are new to the stands.
Local knowledge is what takes your Gold Coast escape from good to great. Learn to go where the locals go, and shop where the locals shop with this list of Gold Coast markets.
The Village Markets, Burleigh Heads
Credit: Destination Gold Coast
Since 2008, The Village Markets at Burleigh Heads have been a place for creatives to showcase their fashions, flavours, and flair.
The original Village Markets can be found at Sun Studio, Burleigh Heads. Now, due to its popularity, the market also hosts pop-up events on The Promenade at Robina Town Centre.
Found something you love but didn’t scoop it up on the spot? The Village Markets also have a virtual store so you can shop online any day of the week to pick up where you left off or to restock on your favourite market stalls.
Unlike other markets, The Village Markets host more sporadic events. Before you venture out, check The Village Market event calendar first.
Broadbeach Arts and Crafts Markets
On the first and third Sunday of every month, the Broadbeach Arts and Crafts Market takes over Kurrawa Park beachfront.
With the waves on one side and the buzzing market on the other, explore the locally made souvenirs, produce, and talent from over 150 stalls under the sun at the Broadbeach Arts and Crafts Markets.
The closest beach to Dorsett Gold Coast, a stroll down to Kurrawa Beach and its bi-monthly events, Broadbeach Arts and Crafts Markets are the go-to Sunday markets in the Gold Coast area.
Carrara Markets
The largest and most well-known Gold Coast outdoor market is Carrara Markets. Tucked into the back of the Gold Coast, these weekend markets are home to over 300 markets and variety stalls every Saturday and Sunday from 8am. Plus, they also host car boot markets every Sunday from 7am.
A treasure trove of the unusual and unique, Carrara Markets have consistently delivered a fun weekend excursion for locals and visitors alike for over 30 years.
Miami Marketta
Credit: Miami Marketta
When the sun goes down, the lights go up at the eccentric Miami Marketta. These Gold Coast markets are all about turning up the fun at night in the back alleyways of Miami.
Inspired by the market nightlife of Barcelona, New York, and South Asia, these epic night markets open from 5pm Wednesday to Saturday. At Miami Marketta, there’s always something new to experience - live music, rummages, fashion events, poetry, comedy, and food stalls are all free to explore four nights a week.
These Gold Coast markets also host ticketed gigs with a line-up including Middle Kids, Thirsty Merc, and latest release parties. They even host their own Miami Street Art Festival - SURFACE - annually. There’s always something exciting happening at the Miami Marketta.
Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
North of Dorsett Gold Coast, at the famous Surfers Paradise Esplanade is the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets. For almost 30 years, these outdoor Gold Coast markets have been a hub of shopping, seasonal produce, and culture along the pristine sands of the stunning coastline.
When you’re finished soaking up the sun on Surfers Paradise beach, take a stroll through the dozens of local stalls that open from 4pm to 9pm every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday on the adjoining esplanade.
Dedicated to providing high-quality wares and gourmet farmers markets, these waterfront Gold Coast markets are a fun way to cap off any beach day.
HOTA Markets
Every Sunday from 6am, Surfers Paradise hosts the HOTA Farmers and Artisan Markets. Bringing the freshest food and fashion to you from across the region, these Sunday Gold Coast farmers markets are a vibrant community beloved by every local and visitor.
Tuck in for breakfast and a coffee at one of the many food stalls then shop your heart for the latest fashion and handmade designs.
Best of all, once you’re finished treating your soul at the HOTA Farmers and Artisan Markets, you can unwind in crystal clear waters of Surfer Paradise.
Emerald Lakes Gourmet Food Markets
Why go to the supermarket when you can pop down to one of the freshest Gold Coast farmers markets in town - Emerald Lakes Gourmet Food Markets.
Taking over Lake Boulevard at Carrara every Thursday night, 3-7pm, the Emerald Lakes Gourmet Food Market is true local knowledge. Stock up on freshly picked fruit and vegetables, fill up on french cheeses and patisseries, and even pick up a delicious dinner for only $10.
Offering a wide range of seasonal and quality produce in a relaxing sunset atmosphere, you can see why the locals love it.
Palm Beach Farmers Markets
Credit: Palm Beach Farmers Markets
If you’d rather stock up on your groceries on the weekend, take a stroll through the Palm Beach Farmers Markets. From 6am Saturday, these Gold Coast weekend farmers markets are bustling with locals who come from far and wide to taste the famous Palm Beach produce.
With sustainability and freshness at the heart of these markets, the Palm Beach Farmers Markets have been supporting local businesses and filling up local tummies for almost 20 years.
Take a trip down to Palm Beach for these delicious Gold Coast farmers markets. You have to get in quick though, fan favourite items do sell out quickly.
Shop Til You Drop at Dorsett Gold Coast
When you're jam-packed with jam-fill artisan donuts and have your arms filled with handcrafted goodies, put your feet up at Dorsett Gold Coast.
Situated in the vibrant Broadbeach precinct, Dorsett Gold Coast is ready and waiting to treat you as well as you’ve treated yourself at the Gold Coast markets across the region.
Whether you want to unwind in your deluxe room or lounge at the Isoletto Pool Club, Dorsett Gold Coast encourages you to sit back and relax.
Check-in to Dorsett Gold Coast any day of the week to enjoy the Gold Coast markets and all its treasures like a local.
Further reading: Need more retail therapy? Take yourself to the Gold Coast’s Best Shopping Centres
