When you think of the Gold Coast, you probably imagine days spent on sandy towels watching surf breaks, but these days the region is also a hub for creativity, culture and the arts.
The new Home of the Arts (HOTA) precinct is dedicated to capturing the essence of the Gold Coast through some of the finer things in life. It adds yet another dimension to the Gold Coast’s claim to be an ultimate holiday destination.
Now you can mix in an authentic dose of culture and art with all the sunshine and swimming the coast has to offer. Here’s the new way to spend a weekend on the Gold Coast.
What to do
HOTA Gallery
HOTA Gallery is immediately striking from the outside with its eclectic design and the interior only continues to deliver surprises.
Currently showing is HOTA’s inaugural summer exhibition, Art Mixtape, a cocktail of photography, painting, sculpture, video and more blended together into stunning installations and artworks.
There’s even a special children’s gallery, currently headlined by Dumpling Dreams, a mixture of augmented reality, interactive activities and blank canvases designed to spark inspiration and creativity in your little ones.
The gallery also integrates with the outdoor lifestyle of the Gold Coast, with plenty of outdoor exhibitions and installations, for example the Sculpture Walk of 13 different displays you can stroll through. It’s an effortless transition from a dip in Evandale lake to drip-drying among the art and greenery of HOTA outdoors.
The main gallery has one of the most comprehensive collections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art in Australia, and always has exciting and well-curated exhibitions. It’s truly a way to explore an unseen and exciting side of the Gold Coast.
Evandale Lake
To swim free from the crowds of the main beaches and with the Surfers Paradise skyline as an appetising backdrop, take yourself over to Evandale Lake.
A long-time locals’ favourite, the lake allows you to swim, make use of the barbecue facilities, let your kids play in the fully fenced playground, or work off some holiday kilos by swimming laps or using the free exercise stations.
Catch a show
The HOTA complex has a few main venues, including two theatres, an intimate basement venue and the architectural gem, the Outdoor Stage. In the basement, you’ll catch plenty of live comedy with acts such as Daniel Townes, Danielle Walker and Kitty Flanagan all passing through in February. The theatres are always packed with excitement, with everything from cabaret shows, musicals and plays and dance performances regularly scheduled.
The Outdoor Stage is always bustling. Ocean Alley will swing through on February 12, the Gold Coast Roots music festival lighting up the area on February 26 and to cap off every week, there’s Fridays on the Lawn, with live music, free entry, lawn seating and a selection of food and drinks.
There’s also always plenty happening for kids, and the cinema and galleries are just a stroll away if you feel like something different.
Soak up Surfers Paradise
Some time spent in the HOTA precinct pairs perfectly well with some action in the Gold Coast and at Surfers Paradise. Don’t be afraid to get some adrenaline going with some stand-up paddle boarding with Go Ride A Wave or taking on the SkyPoint Climb, or taking a more relaxed approach by indulging at spaQ or taking a breezy Surfers Paradise River Cruise. Whether you choose to get your heart pumping or pampered, the experiences slot in perfectly with the unique immersive cultural touchpoints of HOTA.
Where to eat
All regular Gold Coast visitors will have their favourite seaside restaurants locked in, but coming inland to HOTA unlocks a range of new culinary experiences. Exhibitionist Bar sits on the rooftop of the gallery, with cocktails that draw inspiration from the art itself. You’ll find an Asian-inspired menu as well as plenty of authentic local seafood and produce.
For another experience you might not generally associate with a Gold Coast weekend, have your tastebuds treated with the farm-to-table tasting menu at Palette. Enjoy the spoils of Palette’s fresh, seasonal and local food philosophy and have your dishes matched with world class wines. You’ll be just minutes from the beach with all the culinary spoils of an esteemed vineyard.
Where to stay
There’s plenty of accommodation options in the area, HOTA is just a short journey from Surfers Paradise, connected to the main precinct via the bright blue HOTA bridge, so set yourself up here for a weekend of energy and entertainment. Some hotels in the area include the upscale Lotus Resort, the four-star Mantra Legends Surfers Paradise is just a short trip away, Novotel Surfers Paradise is always a reliable stay and Q1 Gold Coast is also a great option.
Explore more: hota.com.au
