Ladybird

We have been staying in a lovely spot where Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach meet here at the Gold Coast, enjoying the convenience of being able to walk everywhere. But today, Peter and I decided to drive a little further to Main Beach. It’s only about 7 kilometres away, just on the other side of Surfers Paradise.

Our first destination was Tedder Avenue, a vibrant and iconic street located in Main Beach. Known for its lively atmosphere and upscale vibe, Tedder Avenue is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

As we strolled along Tedder Avenue this morning, we immediately felt the energy and charm of the area. The street itself serves as a social hub, where people gather to enjoy the relaxed coastal lifestyle. With its combination of high-end amenities and a friendly atmosphere, Tedder Avenue exemplifies the charm and appeal of Main Beach.

We walked past Hot Shott, where people were enjoying delicious breakfasts and aromatic coffee. The ambiance was inviting, and we could see why it’s a favourite among locals.

The lively atmosphere of Tedder Avenue was palpable as we continued our walk. We saw diners enjoying their meals on terraces, adding to the street’s vibrant scene.

Throughout the morning, we encountered friendly locals, drawn to the unique blend of luxury and laid-back vibes that Tedder Avenue offers. The street hosts various events throughout the year, and although we didn’t catch any live performances today, we could imagine the festive atmosphere during those times.

In summary, our morning walk along Tedder Avenue was a delightful experience. The street truly represents the luxurious yet relaxed coastal lifestyle that the Gold Coast is famous for.

Driving just four minutes north along the Southport Spit, we reached a picturesque marina on the left-hand side, nestled behind Marina Mirage.

The sight of magnificent sailboats and sleek whale watching boats bobbing gently on the sparkling water was truly captivating.

The marina’s charm was further enhanced by a variety of waterside dining options, offering a perfect blend of culinary delights and stunning views.

As we wandered along the marina, we noticed a function being set up at Omeros Brothers, a renowned waterfront restaurant. Beautiful floral arrangements adorned the tables, adding a touch of elegance to the setting. There was an air of excitement as staff bustled around, preparing for what promised to be a memorable event.

Nearby, groups of people were boarding boats for leisurely cruises under the clear blue skies and warm sunshine. The scene was vibrant and alive, with the promise of adventure on the water. The combination of exquisite dining, luxurious boats, and the lively atmosphere made visit to the marina a delightful experience.

Today, we decided to dine at Ladybird Restaurant and Bar for lunch, and I felt such excitement at the prospect of experiencing this renowned venue. Upon arrival, we were thrilled to receive an excellent table where the indoor dining area met the outdoor space, offering us the best of both worlds.

We selected the Gozen Grazing Lunch, which turned out to be absolutely delightful. One delicious course followed another, each dish beautifully presented and bursting with flavour. The variety and creativity of the menu truly showcased the restaurant’s culinary excellence.

The interior of Ladybird featured a modern aesthetic with chic decor, creating an inviting ambiance. The restaurant’s name, Ladybird, was chosen to evoke a sense of delicacy and beauty, much like the small, colourful insect. This theme is subtly woven into the restaurant’s design elements, adding a whimsical yet refined touch.

From the elegant setting to the exquisite food, our lunch at Ladybird was a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable occasion.

As the sun began its descent, casting a golden glow over the Gold Coast, Peter and I left on a tranquil walk to the end of the Spit. This narrow stretch of land, bordered by the Broadwater on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, promised a serene and captivating view of the sunset.

Leaving behind the busy Gold Coast, we strolled along the path leading to the Spit. The air was filled with the salty scent of the ocean, and the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore provided a soothing soundtrack to our evening.

As we approached the tip of the Spit, the landscape opened up before us in a panoramic display of natural beauty.

To our left, the Broadwater shimmered under the fading sunlight, its tranquil waters reflecting the changing colours of the sky.

To our right, the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean stretched endlessly towards the horizon, waves gently crashing onto the sandy beach.

Finding a secluded spot at the end of the Spit, we settled down to witness the spectacle of the sunset.

The sky was ablaze with hues of orange, pink, and purple, painting a breathtaking scene that seemed straight out of a postcard. The sun, now a fiery ball sinking towards the sea, cast long shadows and created a mesmerising reflection on the water’s surface.

As the minutes passed, we were immersed in the tranquility of the moment, soaking in the beauty of nature’s grand finale for the day. Seabirds glided gracefully overhead, adding to the serenity of the scene. The cool breeze carried with it a sense of peace and contentment, making our walk to the end of the Spit a memorable experience.

What I love most about sunset walks like this is the sense of community they evoke. As Peter and I strolled along the Spit, I found myself drawn to observing the people around us. I watched couples holding hands, their silhouettes framed against the backdrop of the setting sun. Some were deep in conversation, while others simply enjoyed the quietude of the moment together.

The fishermen along the shore captured my attention. With focused determination, they reeled in their catches, their faces alight with satisfaction as they triumphed over the sea. Nearby, couples sat on chairs, savouring the evening with a bottle of wine and delicate wine glasses, their laughter mingling with the sound of lapping waves.

My gaze shifted to the little children, their laughter echoing in the salty breeze. They chased each other, their carefree spirits a stark contrast to the serene, painted sky above. As the sun dipped lower, I noticed others capturing this fleeting beauty with their cameras, attempting to preserve the moment forever.

What struck me most was how we were all strangers to one another, yet connected by that shared experience of witnessing nature’s nightly masterpiece. We exchanged smiles and nods, acknowledging the transient beauty unfolding before us. In that brief moment, we were united by the awe-inspiring spectacle of the sunset, each of us touched in our own way by its grace.

As Peter and I continued our walk, the sense of community deepened. We were part of something larger than ourselves, a gathering of souls drawn together by the allure of a Gold Coast sunset. It is moments like these that remind me of the profound beauty found in simple connections and shared experiences, making each sunset walk a cherished memory etched into the fabric of my heart.

A map showing the Main Beach and The Spit.


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4 responses to “Ladybird”

  1. Ahhh Tedder Ave. sounds nice and lively. I don’t recall hearing about Tedder Ave. before. Might have to visit there one day.

    I see you captured several catamarans in your photos. Thanks for showing me options for a future home on the open seas. 🤭

    Sounds like Peter is back in his element and feeling at home. After so many conversations with him about Gold Coast and seeing him enjoying it so makes my heart smile.

    The views from the spit (is that like what we call a jetty?) are stunning. Can only imagine the sound of the ocean splashing against the rocks. Looks like it was so pretty! What a way to end another wonderful day!

    1. Tedder Ave is another one of Peter’s favourites. The whole Main Beach would have been worth visiting with you if we had the time. I think you and I saw as much as possible in the short time we were here.

      Oh, the catamarans! You could have your choice!

      You might be able to see the long jetty in one of the photos that is parallel to the pathway we walked at the tip of the spit, but the tip of the spit where we walked is not a jetty.

      The Spit itself is a 5 km long sandy isthmus starting at Main Beach and finishing at the seaway where Broadwater meets the Pacific Ocean.

      But we walked along the pathway that led straight into the sea. I think it’s best if you look it up on Google Maps and Images to get a good idea. I am finding it difficult to explain it.

  2. Beautiful sunset again. Looks like the weather is just perfect for walking around comfortably. Meanwhile back home, we had a lovely sunny day too, albeit bitterly cold in the hills. 🥶

    Sirpa. ☀️

    1. It has been warm, although I don’t mind a cold day with blue skies!

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