Boxing Day on the Gold Coast is all about sunshine, salty breezes and relaxed festive vibes by the water. With Christmas Day done and dusted, December 26 brings a much-needed chance to unwind, refuel and take in the best of summer across the Coast's beaches, restaurants, bars and family attractions. Whether you're chasing a long lunch with ocean views, a laid-back arvo session at your favourite local, or a day out soaking up the theme parks and coastal walkways, the Gold Coast is the perfect place to stretch out the holiday feeling.
Alongside beach time and retail therapy at the Boxing Day sales, the day serves up some of the year's biggest sporting fixtures — including the Boxing Day Test live from Melbourne and international cricket action. Many venues screen sport all day, roll out special menus, host chilled summer sessions and welcome families for relaxed post-Christmas outings.
Make the most of the Gold Coast's iconic December sunshine with coastal dining, fresh seafood, riverside pubs, rooftop bars, open-air entertainment and plenty of festive flavour. From Surfers Paradise to Burleigh, Broadbeach to Coolangatta, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy Boxing Day in true Gold Coast style.
Boxing Day 2025 Ideas Guide for the Gold Coast
Get inspiredwith these great venues for Boxing Day dining and entertainment across the Coast. Think waterfront lunches, family-friendly outings, rooftop drinks, resort experiences, chilled seaside cocktails and more — all paired with live cricket and summer sport on screens throughout the day.
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JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
Surfers Paradise | 07 5592 9800Boxing Day Dining
Indulge in a refined Boxing Day escape at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. Unwind after Christmas with elevated coastal dining, premium ingredients and relaxed luxury in a stunning resort setting. Perfect for long lunches, family celebrations and celebrating summer in style.
Refined coastal dining & luxury.
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Quarterdeck Kitchen + Bar
Coomera | 07 5529 7127Boxing Day Waterfront Dining
Celebrate Boxing Day by the water at Quarterdeck Kitchen & Bar. Enjoy effortless holiday dining with fresh flavours, relaxed harbour views and the perfect breezy atmosphere for a laid-back summer meal. Ideal for long, lazy lunches and post-Christmas catch-ups by the marina.
Relaxed waterfront holiday dining.
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Topgolf Gold Coast
Oxenford | 1300 008 442Boxing Day Fun
Swap the couch for a fun-fuelled Boxing Day at Topgolf Gold Coast. With games for all skill levels, great bites and a high-energy summer vibe, it's a playful way to keep the celebrations rolling. Bring friends and family for laughs, swings and festive fun.
Fun-first summer entertainment
More great Boxing Day Ideas & Offers for 2025
Check out our curated selection of restaurants, pubs, bars and clubs open on December 26. Whether it's Boxing Day menus, live sport, kids-friendly dining, outdoor seating, entertainment and relaxed holiday celebrations you'll find your ideal spot for Boxing Day on the Gold Coast.
| LOCATION | VENUE | EVENT | COMMENTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfers Paradise | TGI Fridays
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Boxing Day Festive Feels & Flavours | Keep the celebrations going with relaxed Boxing Day dining at TGI Fridays Surfers Paradise. Enjoy classic American favourites, laid-back holiday energy and good times with friends and family. |
| Surfers Paradise | The Island
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Boxing Day Live Sport & Summer Vibes | Catch every moment of Boxing Day live sport at Goldies at The Island Gold Coast. Enjoy a casual summer atmosphere, cold drinks, screens throughout and a prime spot for the big day. |
| Surfers Paradise | QT Gold Coast
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Sip, Savour & Celebrate Boxing Day | Boxing Day tastes better at QT Gold Coast. Enjoy bold flavours, creative cocktails and a playful atmosphere perfect for long lunches, afternoon bites or relaxed post-Christmas drinks. |
More Summer Big Days on the Gold Coast
Boxing Day may kickstart the summer holiday rhythm, but there's plenty more celebration to come across the Gold Coast. Christmas Day brings long lunches, beach time and family moments, while New Year's Day keeps the good vibes rolling with relaxed brunches, coastal bites and easy afternoons by the water. Australia Day rounds out the season with classic long-weekend energy, seaside gatherings and sunny celebrations right across the Coast.
And of course, the biggest moment of all sits right in the middle — New Year's Eve on the Gold Coast. Fireworks over the ocean, rooftop countdowns, waterfront dinners, cocktail parties and balmy night-time celebrations make it one of the most spectacular dates on the calendar. Whether you're planning a glamorous night out or a fun family evening under the stars, NYE delivers unforgettable summer magic.
From festive feasting through to fireworks and long-weekend lounging, the Gold Coast shines all season long — so keep exploring and make the most of every big day.