Sanctuary Cove Gold Coast
A luxurious waterfront haven with a stunning marina, championship golf courses, and fine dining. Experience upscale living on the Gold Coast.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Sanctuary Cove Gold Coast
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A luxurious waterfront haven with a stunning marina, championship golf courses, and fine dining. Experience upscale living on the Gold Coast.
"Gloriously beautiful, shocked at how expensive it was, when it was so empty.
"🚗 Consider a Car
Public transport is possible but involves transfers. A car offers more flexibility to explore. :car:
💰 Budget for Luxury
Sanctuary Cove is a premium destination; expect higher prices for dining and amenities. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Marina
Sanctuary Cove Marina
A stunning display of luxury yachts against a backdrop of manicured waterfront. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Championship Golf Courses
The Palms Golf Course, The Pines Golf Course
World-class fairways offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for golf enthusiasts.

Waterfront Dining
Marina Precinct
Savor exquisite meals with magnificent waterfront views at highly-rated restaurants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Luxury (and the Price Tag)
Getting There: Plan Your Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Just spent 2 days at the Sanctuary Cove resort. It's so big, so beautiful, so expensive and so empty.
🚗 Consider a Car
Public transport is possible but involves transfers. A car offers more flexibility to explore.
:car:💰 Budget for Luxury
Sanctuary Cove is a premium destination; expect higher prices for dining and amenities.
:moneybag:Things to do North of Gold Coast
🍽️ Book Dining in Advance
Popular waterfront restaurants can fill up, especially on weekends. Reservations are recommended. :knifeforkplate:
🚶♀️ Explore the Boardwalks
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the marina, admiring the yachts and architecture. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Consider a Car
Public transport is possible but involves transfers. A car offers more flexibility to explore.
:car:💰 Budget for Luxury
Sanctuary Cove is a premium destination; expect higher prices for dining and amenities.
:moneybag:🍽️ Book Dining in Advance
Popular waterfront restaurants can fill up, especially on weekends. Reservations are recommended. :knifeforkplate:
🚶♀️ Explore the Boardwalks
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the marina, admiring the yachts and architecture. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sanctuary Cove is lauded for its stunning marina, beautiful grounds, and excellent golf courses, offering a serene and luxurious escape. However, visitors often note its high prices and can sometimes find it surprisingly empty or encounter unfriendly retail staff.
"Visited for lunch with friends. We didn't stay there. Beautiful area as seen when driving through. Everything is clean and well maintained. We enjoyed the lunch overlooking the marina. And later, a nice ice cream."
Michael Kitchenham
"If you want to come here by public transportation, you can take the light rail to Southport and transfer for 711 bus to here.
I have heard this place before and it’s my first time visiting here. There are a large number of yachts just like Marina Mirage, but I prefer here much more from now on.
In my opinion, it’s such an underrated spot that has various restaurants, supermarket, pharmacy, home goods stores, clothing stores and a few yacht real estates.
Speaking of restaurants, I highly recommend George’s Paragon Seafood Restaurant. In my opinion, they not only have the most authentic seafoods but also magnificent waterfront views.
In summary, despite its remote location, it’s still an underrated place to check out."
Super Porex Bros.
"A super chill place, truly a paradise for golf lovers. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a refined lifestyle, and I really like it here"
Jackson Juno
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Sanctuary Cove via public transport by taking the G:link light rail to Southport and then transferring to the 711 bus service.
This route can take some time, so factor that into your travel plans. Rideshare services are also a convenient option.Yes, there is parking available at Sanctuary Cove, particularly around the shopping centre and marina precincts. Be aware that some events may have specific parking arrangements or fees.
Sanctuary Cove is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Surfers Paradise, depending on traffic conditions. It's located on the northern end of the Gold Coast.
While possible, cycling routes may not be direct or well-signposted for the entire journey. It's generally recommended for experienced cyclists familiar with the area.
The resort and its amenities are quite spread out. Walking is pleasant for short distances, but for longer distances or to explore the golf courses, a car or rideshare is advisable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to the public areas of Sanctuary Cove, including the marina and shopping precinct, is free. However, access to specific events or private areas within the resort may require tickets or admission fees.
The public areas like the marina and shopping centre are typically open daily, with shops usually closing in the late afternoon or early evening. Restaurants and bars have their own operating hours. It's best to check specific venue times.
Yes, playing on the championship golf courses at Sanctuary Cove requires booking a tee time and paying green fees, which can be substantial.
Absolutely! Many visitors come to Sanctuary Cove for dining, shopping, or to play golf without being guests of the resort.
While you can walk around and admire the yachts, access to private pontoons or specific boats is restricted to owners and their guests.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Sanctuary Cove features a mix of boutiques, homeware stores, clothing shops, a supermarket, and a pharmacy, catering to a discerning clientele.
George's Paragon Seafood Restaurant is highly recommended for authentic seafood and waterfront views.
Other popular options include Dragon Cove (though check for event access requirements) and various cafes.While it offers a beautiful environment, Sanctuary Cove is more geared towards a luxury and adult-oriented experience. There are open spaces for children to roam, but specific family attractions are limited.
You can enjoy leisurely walks around the marina, browse the boutiques, or simply relax and soak in the luxurious atmosphere. Some resort facilities might be accessible to day visitors.
Sanctuary Cove is generally considered a very safe and well-maintained area, known for its upscale and secure environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The marina, with its array of luxury yachts and waterfront architecture, is a prime photography location.
The manicured gardens and scenic golf course fairways also offer beautiful backdrops.Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the yachts from the public boardwalks. Please be respectful of private property and individuals.
Drone usage is typically restricted in residential and resort areas due to privacy and safety concerns. It's advisable to check with Sanctuary Cove management before flying a drone.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the marina and surrounding landscapes. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
Capture the reflections of the yachts in the water during calm periods, and the elegant architecture of the buildings lining the marina.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Dining options can cater to families, but it's wise to check menus for kid-friendly choices. The remote location means planning your visit is key, and while public transport is an option, it can be time-consuming with young children. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as prices for food and beverages can be on the higher side.
🏌️ Golf Enthusiasts
Beyond the greens, the resort offers a luxurious atmosphere that complements the golfing experience. You can enjoy fine dining and relax by the marina after a round. The well-maintained facilities and scenic beauty make it a top choice for serious golfers looking for a high-quality game.
💰 Budget Travelers
To make a visit more budget-friendly, consider coming for a leisurely walk and perhaps a single treat like an ice cream rather than a full meal. Public transport is an option to reduce travel costs, but factor in the time and potential inconvenience. Visiting during weekdays might offer a slightly less crowded and potentially more relaxed experience, though prices remain consistent.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sanctuary Cove Lifestyle: More Than Just a Marina
Beyond the visual appeal, Sanctuary Cove is a golfer's paradise, boasting two championship courses: The Palms and The Pines. These courses are meticulously maintained and offer a significant challenge for players of all skill levels. The overall ambiance is one of tranquility and sophistication, making it a sought-after destination for a peaceful escape or a luxurious day out.
While the remote location means it's not as bustling as some other Gold Coast attractions, this contributes to its serene and exclusive feel. Visitors often comment on the beauty and upkeep of the area, even if they find the pricing to be on the higher side.
Dining Delights at Sanctuary Cove
Other establishments within the marina precinct provide a range of culinary options, from casual cafes to more formal dining. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for weekend evenings, as these popular spots can fill up quickly. Be aware that access to some restaurants might be affected by special events, as one visitor noted an unexpected admission fee requirement for a marine event.
While the dining scene is generally well-regarded, some visitors have noted instances of perceived unfriendliness from staff in certain retail outlets, which can detract from the overall experience. However, for those seeking a refined culinary experience with a view, Sanctuary Cove delivers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit