While foreign tourists continue to flock to Surfers Paradise, many Queenslanders are claiming that Broadbeach is the true heart of the Gold Coast. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the popular Surfer s Paradise to the north, Broadbeach is a quieter oasis perfect for those looking for a relaxing holiday. With expansive shopping centers, a seemingly endless variety of cafes and restaurants, pristine beaches and even a local casino, Broadbeach has plenty of great attractions to keep the whole family entertained and is bound to become a favourite holiday destination.

The Gold Coast's famous Sunday beachside market is held at Broadbeach on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month. These markets have been running for over 20 years, come down to experience the friendly atmosphere, live music, yummy food and of course local art and crafts. Location: Old Burleigh Road, Kurrawa Park, Broadbeach.

Pacific Fair Shopping Centre

One of the largest shopping centres in all of Queensland, the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre has over 250 stores, a 12 screen movie theater and the only crystal photography studio in all of the southern hemisphere. Pacific Fair is located right in the center of Broadbeach and is only a five minute walk from the beach and casino. The Shopping Center can also be accessed by the public transit system and buses conveniently run throughout the day. There are numerous great dining options as well, from casual to fine dining, coffee shops to bakeries, desserts, chocolate boutiques and of course, a food court. This luxurious shopping center is well worth a visit, even if only to enjoy window shopping at some of the best boutiques stores in Australia.

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The Star Gold Coast

Gambling has become increasingly popular in Australia during the last decade and casinos can be fun attractions for vacationing adults. The Star Gold Coast in Broadbeach is superbly located within a short walk to the beach and other surrounding shopping areas and boasts over 70 table games and 1,300 slot machines, as well as one of the most first rate Broadbeach hotels and many dining options.

Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the Casino never sleeps, offering guests exciting entertainment any time, night or day. While many casinos can seem dark or dated, after undergoing renovations in 2006, The Star Gold Coast stands out for its modern decor and contemporary feel.

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Kurrawa Beach

For those who enjoy unwinding at the beach, Broadbeach offers some of the most beautiful coastline in the area. Less crowded than the beaches to the north, Kurrawa Beach is the perfect attraction for anyone wanting to just relax and soak up some sun. Only minutes from the center of town, Kurrawa Beach is easily accessible by foot or car. This is a patrolled beach with lifeguards and designated safe swimming areas between flags, as well public showers, a surf club and even an outdoor workout gym. There are picnic tables, barbecue grills and a great playground for kids, making this a wonderful place for families to spend the day.

Cascade Gardens

Cascade Gardens is one of the Gold Coast's favourite family picnic and barbecue spots. There are several options for your get together, with many barbecue and undercover picnic shelters. The riverside location gives the park a relaxed feel. Cascade Gardens is a peaceful sanctuary set back from the Gold Coast Highway. The huge playground will keep the kids entertained for hours! There is even a Liberty Swing, designed for children in wheelchairs to experience the fun of a swing.

Cascade Gardens features serene rainforest walks, traces of aboriginal culture and an enclosed sanctuary for water birds. Many picnic areas overlook the beautiful Nerang River. There is also a state of the art amenity block. The gardens are home to one of the nation's most significant war memorials - The Queensland Korean War Memorial. A unique feature to Cascade Gardens is the Kokoda Memorial Walk. The Kokoda Memorial has been created to help visitors appreciate the courage and determination of the men who fought on the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea during World War II. Location: Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach.