Every Saturday at 6:30am, a group of surf ski paddlers launches from The Paddle House at Main Beach and paddles 14km south to a café at Budds Beach. This is that paddle.
The Route
Launch from the Paddle House ramp at Muriel Henchman Park, Main Beach. The first leg heads south through the Broadwater — the protected stretch of water between the Spit and the mainland.
You pass Sea World on your left. The theme park is dark and quiet at 6:30am on a Saturday, which is one of the better things about being on the water this early.
Past Marina Mirage, the route turns west toward the Sundale Bridge. Paddling under the Sundale Bridge is a landmark moment on this paddle — the noise of the bridge traffic above, the cool air under the structure, the Nerang River opening up in front of you.
From the bridge, the route follows the Nerang River. Past Macintosh Island with its canal houses and moored boats. The water is typically flat here, protected from the Broadwater chop by the river bends.
The paddle ends at Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise, where the group lands at the café and orders coffee.
Distance and Time
- Total distance: approximately 14km one way
- Return paddle: 14km back — total 28km if returning by water
- Typical time: 60 to 80 minutes paddling, depending on pace
- Coffee stop: 30 to 45 minutes
Some paddlers paddle both ways. Some get a lift back. Both are fine.
Difficulty
This paddle is suitable for all levels — including beginners from around their third or fourth session. The water is protected for the majority of the route. There is minimal boat traffic early on Saturday mornings.
The group always has a tail paddler at the back. Nobody gets left behind or rushed.
Who Runs This Paddle?
Gold Coast Paddlesports Club runs the Saturday coffee paddle every week from The Paddle House, Muriel Henchman Park, Main Beach QLD 4217.
The paddle departs at 6:30am. Arrive by 6:20am.
Try membership is $50 and includes a hire ski and PFD. Annual membership is $120.
Book at gcpaddlesports.com.au
Ready to try surf ski paddling?
Your first session is $50. Hire ski and PFD included. No experience needed.