Uncover coastal gems with this local’s guide to Gladstone

As a resident of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, it would be a shame to miss out on the hearty array of seafood at your disposal here. The Gladstone Fish Markets belong on any local’s guide to Gladstone - where the freshest of seafood (from banana prawns to oysters) can be procured for you to cook up for a family feast, or enjoyed then and there.

Cafes are just as plentiful in these parts. Special mention goes to Gateway Garden Cafe, immersed in tropical gardens, complete with Balinese furniture, serving dishes crafted from local produce. Or enjoy the similarly delightful views found at nearby Holidays Cafe, proudly tucked into the beachfront. Tuck into fresh, healthy meals (and an array of juices) just metres from the sand

Where to drink

Drinking dens are equally abundant. Quench your thirst for an icy cold pint at local institution the Gladstone Reef Hotel, which boasts an army of beers on tap. Originally the Commercial Hotel, this watering hole, popular with locals, was one of the region’s first pubs, opening its doors back in 1856. Now alongside its 2 bars, it offers 49 hotel rooms and a rooftop pool.

Though weekends are best spent at Flavours Marina where Sunday Sessions are famous. The tapas bar welcomes a slew of rotating specials to salute the end of the weekend. Sundays are also a cause for celebration at the sophisticated Lightbox Gladstone, an espresso and wine bar with a progressive food and drink menu. But best views are reserved for 1770 Beach Hotel, a casual establishment with unrivalled access to the beachfront.

Where to play

There’s no chance of being bored in Gladstone, with so much to do, no matter your budget. Don’t miss out on a chance to visit the splendour of the Great Barrier Reef, which sits within arm’s reach. Join a charter and make way for the coral of Heron Island, or take the Curtis Island ferry to get up close and personal with the local population of turtles.

Adrenaline-junkies may prefer to keep active with a meander along the steep tracks of Mount Larcom, with its summit 632 metres above sea level, or a cycle along the Boyne Tannum Turtleway Artscape. Liquid Adventures is also on hand for those eager to partake in the company’s famous sunset kayak tour.

Not to mention the ample other activities available to visiting outdoors enthusiasts. Gladstone is famous for its fishing, with fans of the sport able to throw in a line along the coast, as well as the bevy of fish-laden rivers, lakes, and streams scattered throughout. Those who prefer to keep their feet dry may choose instead to make the most of the 4WD tracks which wind their way through the surrounding national parks, including Deepwater National Park.

Or keep things leisurely. Pack a hamper and enjoy a picnic and a splash around the East Shores Precinct, a family-favouring new addition to town that includes a water park, viewing platform, and barbecues galore. Or grab your towel to make way for hidden gem Chinaman’s Beach, a less crowded sand alternative to main stretch Agnes Beach.

Where to stay in Gladstone

Accommodation is pleasantly varied around this region. Any local’s guide to Gladstone will recommend the chance to sleep out under the stars on the reef with a camp out on one of the many surrounding islands, with off-grid options at Facing Island popular, as is the slightly more sophisticated campsite on Lady Musgrave Island. If tents aren’t your forte, hop aboard the award-winning Lady Musgrave Experience. After a day spent diving the southernmost coral cay in the reef system, snuggle up for the night on the boat for the night. Kids in tow? Don’t miss out on the junior reef keeper program.

Or treat your family to a stay at resident resort Agnes Water Beach Club, a collection of fully self-contained one and two bedroom holiday apartments within easy stroll of the country’s northernmost surf break. After a day spent in the swell, enjoy the resort’s collection of facilities, which include a heated pool and poolside barbecue.

When to visit

Any local’s guide to Gladstone will tell you the best time to visit is during the summer months, from November through to March, with the hottest temperatures experienced in January and February. Be warned that Gladstone is a popular place to visit during school holidays so those seeking solitude may be better off making a stop over  after peak season. Gladstone is also home to an array of local events such as the Gladstone Harbour Festival.