A Day Trip to Kingscliff: Coastal Calm & Ocean Breezes

If your dream day out includes golden beaches, boutique bites, and laid-back charm with a side of salt air, then Kingscliff is calling. Just over an hour south of Brisbane and under 30 minutes from the Gold Coast, this coastal town serves up the perfect blend of beachy relaxation and effortless style. It’s the kind of place where barefoot feels normal, brunch turns into long lunches, and time slows down in the best way.

Highlights

• Salt in your hair, sandals in your hand

• Beach walks, boutique cafés and coastal views

• A swim between bites, and maybe a sneaky nap on the sand

• A seafood lunch that actually lives up to the hype

• The kind of day that feels like a mini holiday

Morning: Arrival & Oceanfront Brunch

Roll into Kingscliff mid-morning and head straight for the beachfront strip. Park the car, take a big breath of sea air, and let the day unfold slowly.

Top brunch spots to kick things off:

• Choux Box Café & Bar – A local favourite right near the beach, with excellent coffee, big brunch plates, and a breezy deck for people-watching.

• Mockingbird – For those who love their brunch with a creative, seasonal twist. Think turmeric eggs, miso mushrooms, and seriously good sourdough.

  
  

After breakfast, stroll along Kingscliff Beach or dip your toes in the ocean. There’s a long, quiet stretch of sand here, perfect for a barefoot wander or lying back and doing absolutely nothing.

Midday: Boutique Browsing or Saltwater Soaking

After your beach fix, explore the main strip of Marine Parade, where local boutiques and independent stores give the town its low-key luxe feel.

Don’t miss:

• Salt Living – Homewares, linen, ceramics and effortless coastal style

• The Freedom State – Boho-chic fashion, floaty dresses, and weekend wardrobe goals

• Earth Beer Company (a short drive inland) – A local brewery nestled in the hills with a chilled vibe and small-batch magic

Alternatively, if you’re craving more saltwater therapy, head a few minutes south to Cudgen Creek; calm, clear, and ideal for a lazy paddle, SUP session or quick swim in the lagoon-like water. The mangroves, turquoise tones, and gentle current make it feel like a secret spot.

Lunch: Fresh Seafood & Coastal Feeds

Time to treat yourself to a proper seaside lunch—Kingscliff is known for its seafood, and it does not disappoint.

• Taverna – Absolute beachfront, Mediterranean-style, and made for long lunches. Order the saganaki, grilled prawns, and maybe a glass of rosé.

• Kettles On – Quirky, local, and known for hearty plates and warm service. A little less fancy, a lot of flavour.

• Kingscliff Beach Hotel – Classic Aussie lunch vibes with unbeatable costal charm. Grab a table in the beer garden and soak it all in.

Afternoon: Walk, Chill, Repeat

Post-lunch, head north along the Kingscliff Foreshore Walk, a scenic path that hugs the dunes and leads all the way to Dreamtime Beach if you’re up for a longer stroll. Or, grab a gelato from Tango Gelato or a smoothie from The Daily Grind, and find a shady patch in Lions Park to watch the waves roll in.

Need a moment of indulgence? Book a quick 30-minute massage or foot soak at The Spa at Salt, just down the road in Salt Village. It’s the perfect mini reset before heading home.

Sunset: One Last Look at the Sea

Before you leave, head to Salt Beach for a final ocean moment. It’s quieter than the main beach and gives off serious castaway-in-a-good-way energy. Or, if you’re in no rush, stop for a drink at Fins at Plantation House (just 10 mins inland) for sunset cocktails surrounded by sugarcane fields and mountain views.

Kingscliff is the kind of place that reminds you how good a simple day by the sea can be. Close enough for an easy day trip, but with enough style, soul, and sunshine to feel like a true escape. Whether you’re brunching, swimming, shopping or sipping, this coastal cutie will charm the sandals off you.