Southport Street Art Trail
Explore Southport's vibrant streets, transformed into an open-air gallery with stunning murals and hidden artistic gems.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Southport Street Art Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Southport's vibrant streets, transformed into an open-air gallery with stunning murals and hidden artistic gems.
"A free, colorful adventure that turns the city into an art gallery!"
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover all the art! :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Grab a Map
Locate the key artworks and plan your route efficiently. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Mural Masterpieces
Explore a kaleidoscope of colors and styles on large-scale murals that transform urban spaces into open-air galleries.
Hidden Artistic Gems
Venture off the beaten path to discover smaller, intricate artworks tucked away in laneways and unexpected corners.
Local Artist Spotlights
Appreciate the talent of local artists whose work reflects the culture and spirit of the Southport community.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art Journey
Capture the Colors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover all the art! :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Grab a Map
Locate the key artworks and plan your route efficiently. :world_map:
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit in the morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting conditions. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore Side Streets
Don't miss the hidden gems tucked away in laneways. :telescope:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover all the art! :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Grab a Map
Locate the key artworks and plan your route efficiently. :world_map:
📸 Best Light for Photos
Visit in the morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting conditions. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore Side Streets
Don't miss the hidden gems tucked away in laneways. :telescope:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vibrant and diverse street art found throughout Southport, transforming the urban landscape into an open-air gallery. The trail is praised for being a free, accessible, and engaging activity for all ages, offering endless photo opportunities and a sense of discovery. Some visitors noted that a map or guide can enhance the experience of finding all the key pieces.
"The 12 week beginners course was fantastic! Jason was an excellent tutor, the other students were all friendly & keen & I can’t believe what we all achieved in such a short period of time. It exceeded my expectations & I’d highly recommend it. I’ve signed up for the intermediate 10 week course. Can’t wait!!!"
Shevaun Stuart
"What an amazing course this is. Great teacher in Jason. Also Jess was so great with communication. Loved learning the basics again after so long from studying Art at school. So enjoyed it so have signed up for the intermediate class. Thoroughly recommend this course at the Southport Art School."
Rhonda Laing
"The Gold Coast Art School is a very special place. Many of us use our time there as a break from the daily grind, letting our imaginations soar: we are encouraged to explore and grow as painters trialing many techniques finding our way round watercolour, oils, acrylics, pen and ink.. No matter which project we choose Stephen Buntrock, a wonderful artist in his own right is there to guide, support and teach sharing his huge range of knowledge in all mediums."
Ellis Barley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Southport Street Art Trail is easily accessible by public transport. You can take a bus or the G:link tram to Southport. Parking is also available in the area, though it can be busy. Many visitors find it convenient to park and then explore on foot.
There isn't one designated starting point, as the art is spread throughout Southport's CBD. However, many people begin their exploration near the main shopping precincts and work their way outwards.
Yes, cycling and scootering are great ways to cover more ground. Just be mindful of pedestrians and any local regulations regarding where you can ride.
Most of the street art is located on footpaths and public areas, making it generally accessible. However, some laneways might have uneven surfaces.
Using a map or a dedicated app can help you find the main artworks. However, simply wandering and discovering art serendipitously is also part of the charm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Southport Street Art Trail is completely free to explore. All the artworks are publicly displayed on buildings and walls throughout the area.
The street art is always on display, so you can visit anytime. However, for the best experience and safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours.
While there isn't one single official map, many local tourism websites and community groups provide downloadable maps or guides to the key street art locations.
While you can technically see some art at night, it's not recommended for safety and visibility reasons. The vibrant colors are best appreciated in natural light.
Occasionally, local art groups or councils may offer guided tours. It's worth checking local event listings or community pages for any upcoming opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer beautiful soft light that enhances the colors and textures of the murals. Midday sun can create harsh shadows.
Try to capture the scale by including elements like people or street signs. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to highlight the artwork's details and its integration with the urban environment.
Generally, flash is not necessary and can sometimes create glare or wash out colors. Natural light is usually best.
A smartphone with a good camera is perfectly adequate for capturing vibrant street art. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can achieve even more professional results.
In most public spaces, photography is permitted. However, always be respectful of private property and avoid obstructing public pathways.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes. The trail is generally stroller-friendly, but some laneways might be a bit uneven. Make it an adventure by giving kids a 'mission' to find specific types of art or colors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the golden hours for the best natural light. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the murals, or a prime lens for sharp, detailed shots. Don't be afraid to get creative with your compositions – play with reflections, shadows, and foreground elements to add depth to your images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Discovering Southport's Artistic Heart
Visitors often highlight the sheer variety of art encountered. You might find photorealistic portraits, abstract designs, whimsical characters, and thought-provoking social commentary, all within a few blocks. The accessibility of the art means it's a democratic experience, enjoyed by everyone regardless of their background. It's a fantastic way to engage with art outside of traditional gallery settings, transforming the urban landscape into an interactive canvas.
When exploring, remember to look up, look down, and peek into every nook and cranny. Some of the most captivating pieces are the ones that require a bit of searching. The trail encourages a sense of discovery and adventure, turning a simple walk into an art scavenger hunt. It's a testament to how art can invigorate public spaces and bring communities together.
Planning Your Street Art Adventure
For photography enthusiasts, the best times to visit are typically during the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon. This is when the light is softer and more flattering for capturing the vibrant colors and details of the murals. Midday sun can create harsh shadows, which might detract from the artwork. Don't forget to bring your phone or camera, and perhaps a portable charger, as you'll likely be taking plenty of photos.
While there isn't a single official map, many online resources and local community pages offer guides to the trail's highlights. However, part of the joy is the serendipitous discovery of art in unexpected places. Allow yourself ample time to wander, get a little lost, and truly immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere of Southport.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit