South of Brisbane, north of Sydney, and located on the banks of the picturesque Coomera River as it flows into the Broadwater, the Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove is the bright luxury star on the Gold Coast’s well-traveled shoreline. Set on roughly 1,000 acres across a thin strait from South Stradbroke Island and just up the coastline from the famed Surfer’s Paradise, this five-star Hyatt establishment is a full-service resort that melds beautifully with its bucolic coastal surroundings. 

At its epicenter is the Great House, an aptly named central lodge featuring charming colonial architecture and rustic furnishings, around which five low-rise accommodation courts, the Grange reception venue, and the Woolshed Conference Centre are situated. At its periphery, intermingled with towering gum trees and impeccably manicured lawns, are a host of world-class recreational facilities, including two championship golf courses, a ten tennis court complex, a recreational center with yoga and beauty therapy programs, and a poolside massage treatment menu. Short on history but long on service standards and amenities, Sanctuary Cove is a perfect golf destination for families, business travelers, and any group looking to enjoy one of Australia’s most popular stretches of coastline in the most luxurious way possible.

The 247 guest rooms, which range from the elegant standard guest rooms to The Federation and Manor suites, are tastefully decorated in casual Australian textiles of cream and earthen colours. With broad windows affording guests unspoiled views of the beach lagoon pool, the 300-slip marina, or various looks at the 36 championship golf courses on site. In the oversized washrooms, the accents are in marble and timber, which frame the deep bath and separate shower beautifully. Along with everything a business traveler could need – from direct dial telephones, to a 'plug and play' system that delivers data at high-speed to the guestrooms, public access areas and conference rooms. Offering the ability to connect securely and quickly, you can purchase hourly, daily or weekly options. Wireless access is available in the public access areas, which means Sanctuary Cove guests enjoy exclusive comfort, and the option to stay connected in their travels.

With its glorious and scenic proximity to Surfers Paradise at the indigo waters of the South Pacific, one would hope for exceptional seafood and fish options to be featured on the menus of Sanctuary Cove’s restaurants. True to form and expectation, the Executive Chef has taken the bounty of the region and combined these ingredients to create exciting dishes with an international flair. Pan-seared Tasmanian salmon and barramundi are highlight mains at The Fireplace Restaurant, where the residential atmosphere owes itself to customer feedback that the resort’s managers have taken to heart. And this being Australia, guests are encouraged to descend into the cherry oak timber cellar to hand-select their wine pairing. With a list that features new releases and vintages from most of the continent’s most respected vineyards, the discerning oenologist will surely find a bottle to his liking, while the neophyte will enjoy the knowledgeable staff’s suggestions. Casual fare for breakfast and lunch can be found on the menu at The Cove Café, while cocktails and snacks are served up at The Verandah Bar and, weather permitting, at Coomera’s, Sanctuary Cove’s poolside beach lagoon bar.

Adjacent to this unique outdoor pool setting is the latest addition to Sanctuary Cove, a traditional Balinese thatched-roof pavilion where in-house guests can enjoy luxurious massages in a soothing atmosphere. Among world-renowned gardens, towering palm trees, and the gentle rolling waters of the Coomera River, scented oils and rhythmic music create a total sensory experience that is unforgettable. If one wishes to channel that relaxed energy into a rigorous workout, the Recreation Club is one of Australia’s finest fitness facilities, with fully-equipped weight training and cardiovascular machines, yoga classes, and on-site personal trainers to help you meet your vacation fitness goals. Along with the tennis academy, a golf academy, the Palms and Pines Courses, and a brilliant new Peter Thomson design at Hope Island to complete the 54-hole complex, no athletic urge will be denied at Sanctuary Cove. For the casual pace that the resort name implies, Sanctuary Cove is nevertheless one of Australia’s great luxury playgrounds. No longer is the Gold Coast a paradise reserved for the surfers.