Photos by Andy Kancachian
During the summer, the Broadwater transforms into a bustling hub with an influx of countless boats, yachts, jet skis, kayaks, and various other modes of transportation. All these vessels enable people to fully enjoy the splendid and unspoiled waterways that the Gold Coast has to offer.
Having spent my entire life here on the Gold Coast, we’ve carefully selected a handful of anchorages that make for perfect weekend getaways with the family or delightful day cruises, especially during the festive season.
While some of these spots are well-known and tend to get quite busy, the level of activity depends on the size of your boat. One constant rule I’ve learned is that there’s always someone with a bigger boat.
The Jumpinpin, nestled on the northern end of the Broadwater, offers an escape from prevailing winds and a tranquil environment with pristine waters gently caressing your feet.
Here, you’ll find a few channels with inviting sandy beaches, and deep-water access suitable for all types of watercraft. It’s a safe spot for swimming, and the fishing opportunities are decent.
Slipping Sands, located in Canaipa Passage, features a deep-water channel running alongside a sprawling sand dune that extends from the peak of North Stradbroke Island down to the water’s edge. During high tide, the water almost laps at the base, creating an exciting landing if you choose to slide down on a piece of cardboard. The surrounding channels are teeming with sand crabs, whiting, and flathead, making it an excellent destination for seafood enthusiasts with average-sized boats.
Moving south from Canaipa Passage, you’ll encounter Millionaires Row along the northern banks of South Stradbroke Island. It’s a popular destination on regular weekends, especially for larger vessels, due to its deep channel, allowing you to anchor just a stone’s throw from the shore. This area is perfect for day or overnight trips and offers protection from the wind. Camping is permitted here, although you’ll need a permit. While some larger boats used to anchor in Tiger Mullet Channel nearby, the mangrove-lined banks there are notorious for mosquitoes and sandflies, making Millionaires Row a more attractive choice. The fishing and crabbing opportunities are excellent in this area.
The Bedrooms, situated a few hundred meters south of Millionaires Row, is accessible only to smaller boats, including half cabins and dinghies, as it can become extremely shallow, especially during low tide. Once you’re there, it’s a perfect spot for family and friends to relax with the surf just a short distance away.
Fishing in the shallow waters primarily yields flathead and whiting. The Bedrooms is an ideal location for the average-sized trailer boat.
Tipplers Channel is an easily accessible spot, known for its crowds and party atmosphere. Resorts in the area have bars where you can enjoy a cold beer and lunch. Expect a few knocks on your boat, especially during peak periods when it gets crowded. This spot accommodates vessels of all sizes.
The inside of South Stradbroke Island from Brown’s Inlet south to the Seaway offers excellent anchoring opportunities, although you should avoid certain shallow spots. These areas feature beautiful sandy beaches and ample shade. Camping is allowed in specific locations like Currigee, which also provides amenities such as showers and barbecue facilities.
Wave Break Island, once less busy, now hosts numerous ships and boats of varying sizes along its banks and surrounding channels. The northern side of the island offers shelter from prevailing south-easterly winds, deep water access up to the sand, and plenty of shade along the foreshores. Swimming is safe, and camping is permitted without the need for a permit. However, there are no water or amenity blocks, and only small campfires are allowed.
The western side of the island is the shallowest, except for a small deep hole on the southwestern corner, making it an excellent spot for targeting flathead, whiting, and sand crabs.
Several smaller islands to the south of Wave Break Island offer ideal locations for smaller craft, where you can access shallow waters. These areas are relatively unspoiled, but it’s advisable to arrive early to secure your spot.
In summary, this summer break promises to be a vibrant one. The foreshores of the Broadwater, the Nerang River, Currumbin, Tallebudgera, and the shallower creeks south of the Tweed all offer beautiful spots where you can lay out a picnic blanket, watch the kids splash in the water, or try your luck at fishing for dinner.
Volunteer Marine Rescue
Southport 07 5591 1300
Jacobs Well 07 5546 1100
Volunteer Coast Guard
Southport 07 5531 1421
Join Paul Burt on his TV show Step Outside every weekend on 7Mate to see him have some fun while you learn a few tips and tricks along the way.
Published in print January-March 2024
