A beautiful old bathing pavilion and cafe stands proudly on Main Beach, just south of Southport. It celebrates the heritage of this coastal suburb and the vibrant atmosphere found on this stretch of ocean. Surfers of all abilities are attracted to the famous open shore break. Stretching out beside the old pavilion is a huge choice of restaurants, bars, and cafes, making Main Beach busy throughout most hours of the day.

A huge array of shops and cafes line the coast, creating an ambient walk along the golden sand. There's a mix of tradition, like historic fish and chip shops, with some of the Gold Coast's most exclusive restaurants and bars. The fusion extends to architecture, with an opulent Yacht Club contrasting an olden wooden fishing pier.

Most visitors come for the beach and promenade. Surfers fill the water and a number of surf schools teach beginners in the waves. Main Beach is also home to Australia's Sea World, which features everything from polar bears to dolphin shows and opportunities to interact with marine species.

Main beach is on the Gold Coast Light Rail network and is well connected to Southport and Surfers Paradise by a wide choice of buses. The closest train connection is Robina, where visitors can take a Trainlink bus direct to Main Beach.

Main Beach was named by the surfing community, as it offered the best waves for those living in the blossoming town of Southport (now a suburb of the Gold Coast). The Southport Surf Club is the oldest in the region, established in 1936 and still gracing the promenade along Main Beach, adjacent to the bathing pavilion.