You’ve probably heard the buzz around the Broadbeach Country Music Festival. Free beachside gigs, over 50 artists, October sunshine, and a crowd that knows how to two-step. It’s loud, lively, and absolutely worth the visit. But staying too far from the festival zone can turn a good weekend into a logistical challenge. Traffic piles up early. Parking fills fast.
Queues stretch longer than the guitar solos. Book accommodation nearby and keep your focus on the fun. Let your boots follow the rhythm, then wind down in style when the last song wraps.
Broadbeach Country Music Festival 2025
The Groundwater Country Music Festival 2025 returns to Broadbeach from 17 to 19 October, bringing three days of free, open-air performances right in the heart of the Gold Coast.
It is one of the most anticipated live music events of the season, drawing in locals and visitors alike for great tunes, sunshine, and a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
Across Surf Parade, Oracle Boulevard, and Victoria Avenue, more than 50 local and international artists will perform on multiple stages just steps from the sand and nearby dining spots. Entry is completely free, making it one of Queensland’s most accessible and celebrated country music festivals.
To keep things smooth:
- Catch the G: link light rail to Broadbeach North Station
- Bring a picnic rug or a low-rise chair
- Pack a light jacket for the cooler evenings
- Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen for daytime sets
This Gold Coast country music festival brings a relaxed pace, quality acts, and a setting that keeps you close to the action without the chaos.
What to Pack
Get ahead of the rush and enjoy the festival without the usual hassle. This Gold Coast festival experience is all about timing, comfort, and being ready for anything the weekend brings.
Essentials for Day and Night
July brings sunny days and cooler evenings. Pack smart so you can enjoy every set without heading back early.
Bring these:
- Light jacket or hoodie
- Hat and sunscreen
- Picnic rug or low-rise chair
- Refillable water bottle
- Portable charger
Need to Grab Supplies?
Left something behind? Head to Oasis Shopping Centre. It’s perfect for picking up snacks, sunglasses, or that jacket you didn’t think you’d need.
With a full what’s on Gold Coast lineup across the weekend, staying prepared means you can keep moving through each Gold Coast event without missing a beat.
Eat, chill, repeat
A packed music lineup is brilliant, but long days call for the occasional timeout. A solid breakfast, a well-timed dinner, or a shady spot to rest can help you power through the weekend without missing a beat.
Where to start your day
Begin your morning at Elk Espresso, one of the standout Broadbeach restaurants. Their rich coffee and generous breakfasts are perfect for festival mornings when you need a relaxed, no-fuss start.
Best dinner near the festival zone
Book a table at Social Eating House + Bar for share plates and a sharp drinks list. This Broadbeach restaurant is known for its energy and convenient location close to the main stage areas.
For something more casual, the Kurrawa Surf Club is a top pick for beachfront views and crowd-friendly menus. It’s ideal for groups and families looking for a relaxed dinner after a big day.
When you need a breather
Stretch out at Broadwater Parklands between sets. This leafy spot offers wide lawns and plenty of space to recharge. Keep an eye on the Broadwater Parklands events calendar for pop-up gigs and low-key Gold Coast night attractions.
Getting around
Skip the traffic and head straight for the good stuff. Broadbeach makes it easy to move between stages, snack stops and shady spots without a hassle.
Take the G: link
The G: link light rail runs frequently and stops at Broadbeach North Station, just a short walk from the main festival areas. It’s quick, reliable and avoids the drama of crowded parking zones.
Walk it off
Broadbeach is built for foot traffic. The festival layout connects easily to local cafés and parks, giving you space to reset before the next act. You won’t need a schedule or car keys. Just your feet.
Fill the gaps
Start your day with coffee near the beachfront, stretch your legs along the foreshore or cool off with a swim before the music picks up again. These simple stops bring a quieter pace to the weekend.
They’re the kind of Gold Coast entertainment that doesn’t need a stage to shine. These are the things to do in the Gold Coast that keep the rhythm going even when the music pauses.
After the music ends
When the last chorus wraps, Broadbeach still buzzes. Late-night spots keep the weekend energy alive without the rush of peak-hour crowds.
Catch a few low-key extras:
- Acoustic sets inside cosy venues or tucked-away laneways
- Beach cafés with extended hours and soft lighting
- Pop-up shows near Oracle Boulevard or Victoria Park
A calm dinner can be the perfect way to slow things down. Local eateries stay open, and options for post-show meals are easy to find.
The Gold Coast event calendar often lists late-night pop-ups, so check what’s on the Gold Coast before you call it a night.
For easy-going Gold Coast night attractions, Broadbeach keeps the lights low and the mood steady well into the evening.
Keep the vibe going
Festival crowds begin to thin out on Sunday night, but Broadbeach keeps the atmosphere going. Monday is your chance to wind down slowly and enjoy the calm before heading home.
Brunch then breathe
Start your day with a laid-back meal at one of the nearby Broadbeach restaurants. Once you’ve eaten, stroll along the foreshore or take in the ocean air at your own pace.
Parks and playlists
Spend a slow hour at Broadwater Parklands, an easygoing spot for family time or a solo reset. Check for Broadwater Parklands events still running into Monday.
Keep it light
The best Gold Coast things to do after a big weekend are easy, local and low on effort. No schedule needed. Just fresh air, good food and the space to slow it all down.
Stay close for the win
Staying nearby makes everything easier. No long commutes, no rush to find a park, no need to carry everything all day.
You’ll spend more time in the moment and less time worrying about how to get there and back. Being close means you can head in when the music starts and slip away when you need a break.
Keep drinks chilled and snacks ready in your own space. Take a real shower. Reset in quiet comfort between sets. With the right spot, the festival weekend feels like a holiday, not a mission.
Where to stay
Victoria Square Apartments gives you the comfort, space and access you want on a busy festival weekend. Located close to the G: link light rail and a short walk to Broadwater Parklands, it’s a calm spot in the heart of the action.
Each apartment is self-contained with a kitchen, living area and private balcony. Swim in the pool, fire up the BBQ or take a quick gym session before heading back into the crowd.
It’s your place to unwind between shows. When the weekend wraps, you’ll be glad you booked a stay that felt like home.
With Broadbeach restaurants, beach walks and all the essentials nearby, everything is within easy reach.
Book your stay now and step straight into the music.
Image credit: Broadbeach Country Music Festival 2025