Mermaid Beach: The 'burb that captures Gold Coast charm

Tucked between buzzing Broadbeach and balmy Burleigh Heads, the serene suburb of Mermaid Beach captures that nostalgic Gold Coast charm, finding the balance between magnificence and modesty.

The residents – who numbered 7329 in the 2021 census – enjoy a five-kilometre stretch of golden sands and surf beaches away from the crowds found at the city’s more mainstream hotspots.

Located at a central point of the Gold Coast, Mermaid Beach benefits from being close to retail, dining and entertainment precincts such as Pacific Fair and The Star Casino. And yet, it has evolved into its own microcosm of cafes, creativity and culture, with a community that cherishes its village-like atmosphere.

Tightly held turf and surf

According to Michael Kollosche of Kollosche, Mermaid Beach boasts the Gold Coast’s most expensive beachfront real estate, noting the prestigious properties on the iconic millionaire’s row on the prime beachfront strip of Hedges Avenue.

“Properties in Mermaid Beach are sure to be a good long-term investment given the location, pristine beaches, and rare supply,” Kollosche says.

“Low household debt, especially along the beachfront, means we’re seeing no motivation for owners to part with these assets unless there’s a strong price being paid.”

Domain’s latest Domain House Price Report supports this, with the suburb showing a median house price of $3.15 million, up 51.8 per cent year-on-year and contributing to its staggering 125.8 per cent growth over just five years.

“Mermaid Beach is the only low-density beachfront area on the Gold Coast with a maximum height limit of 15 metres – this is rigorously protected and thereby creates an attractive village atmosphere,” Kollosche says.

“So, regardless of its blue-chip postcode, the suburb’s laid-back community vibe still prevails.”

A burst of creativity and culture

In recent years, Mermaid Beach has seen a period of gentrification. It brims with refined eateries and boutiques and is fast becoming an art destination.

The director and founder of 19 Karen Contemporary Artspace, Terri Lew, established her gallery on Karen Avenue in 2008 and describes the creative hub as “the best-kept secret in town”.

“Being an art collector for 35 years and married to an artist for 20, it was only natural to fulfil my dream of opening a contemporary art gallery to promote and nurture talented emerging artists,” Lew says.

“Fast-forward to 2022, with this dream firmly realised, 19 Karen has seen many of these Australian and international artists spread their wings to become sought after by renowned galleries and collectors worldwide.”

Lew has been a Gold Coast resident since 1978 and bought her first property in Mermaid Beach in 1988.

She says the suburb’s “vibe” has changed over time, with her gallery now having neighbours who include architects, fashion designers, florists, coffee shops and plant stores.

“While Mermaid Beach is made of young and old, I’ve noticed more young, entrepreneur families moving to the area, seeking our casual lifestyle and beach culture,” Lew says.

“What they find is a tight-knit community with warm people – just like our weather.”

Top home in the area:

Auction

2702/272 Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218

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View property

Gleaming inside and out, this beachfront sky home has uninterrupted ocean and hinterland views from its prestigious millionaire’s row position.

Occupying two levels joined by a statement spiral staircase, the luxurious residence offers a wrap-around balcony with 132 square metres of outdoor living and entertaining space.

The property is for sale with Michael Kollosche of Kollosche who quotes a guide of $10.75 million.