I’m the kind of person who loves to research and plan. I’m no different when it comes to travel. For me, doing my homework not only adds to the anticipation, but also means I can do and see things I might miss if I was less organised/proactive/anal. 

The Internet, and in particular resources like Trip Advisor have certainly made good choices for restaurants and activities easier, but to my mind nothing still beats a local’s recommendations. 

That’s what lead me to call on three local mamas (naturally with great taste) before my stay on the Gold Coast to ask them to share their favourite me-time haunts. 

Thanks to Lauren Murphy, Angela Simson and Nadine Muller here’s some local knowledge about the best places for: 

Massage/day spa 

Lauren and Angela - Endota Day Spa - Oracle Building, Broadbeach

Lauren - Bella Bronze House of Beauty - Mermaid Beach for all things lashes, spray tans, makeup, hair.

Nadine - Touch of Aloha in Surfers Paradise.

Yoga/Pilates 

Lauren - The Wellness Boutique - Burleigh Heads. This is a Reformer Pilates studio run by a qualified physiotherapist and female health professional. They hold pregnancy and also Mum’s and Bubs classes.

Angela - Essence of Living, The Pilates Pad or Zen Soul Life. 

Nadine - Essence of Living 

Meditation

Lauren - Boheme and Body Wellness Shala - Varsity Lakes. They also do some cool classes like Hip Hop Yoga.

Angela - Australian School of Meditation in Nobby Beach.

Walking/ running 

Lauren - Currumbin Estuary/Currumbin Alley beachfront walk and a dash up the very steep Currumbin stairs with give you the best Saturday morning view ever.

Angela - Burleigh beach! And up the hill.  

Nadine - Along the broadwater parklands 

Alternative healers (reiki, bowen therapy, acupuncture) 

Angela - Life Synergy 

Best coffee/cafe with kids

Lauren - For a sit down brunch I recommend Paddock Bakery - Miami. Think Nutella Donuts, Soliders and Runny Eggs, Acai Bowls and more! Seating is outdoors and spacious. 

For a coffee on the run I suggest Nook Espresso - Burleigh Beach. You can sip on your coffee while the kids play in the park or pull up a rug on Burleigh Headland.

Angela and Nadine - BSKT Cafe - they have a little play area!! 

Best coffee/cafe without kids

Lauren - Paradox Coffee - Surfers Paradise. If you’re after a ladies lunch to treat yourself, check out Rick Shores on Burleigh Beach.

Angela - Elk Espresso in Broadbeach 

Nadine - Blendlove, Southport