SUBURB GUIDE
Chevron Island
A small island in the Nerang River, wedged between Surfers Paradise and the mainland — walkable distance from the tourist strip, with a noticeably more local dining scene.
Chevron Island is genuinely tiny — a residential island in the Nerang River connected by bridges to both Surfers Paradise and the mainland — but it punches above its size for dining, with a strip of restaurants and cafés along Thomas Drive that draws locals looking to avoid the tourist-strip prices and crowds just across the water.
What it's known for
The island's small restaurant and café cluster is the main drawcard, offering a genuinely local alternative to Surfers Paradise's more tourist-oriented dining just a short walk away. It's also almost entirely residential apartments, giving it a quieter feel despite sitting right next to the coast's busiest suburb.
Should you stay here?
Chevron Island can work well as a quieter accommodation base that's still walking distance from Surfers Paradise's beach, tram and nightlife — a genuine middle ground for travellers who want proximity without staying directly on the busiest strip.
Getting there
It's an easy walk or short drive from Surfers Paradise's tram stops. It's about a 25-minute drive from Gold Coast Airport.
FAQ
Quick questions
Is Chevron Island walkable from Surfers Paradise?
Yes — it's connected by bridges and sits within easy walking distance of the Surfers Paradise beachfront and tram stops.
Why do locals go to Chevron Island?
Mainly for the restaurant strip along Thomas Drive, which has a reputation for being more locally-oriented and better value than dining directly in Surfers Paradise.
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