Authentic Charcoal Grill, Cocktails & Persian Hospitality in the Heart of Surfers Paradise

If you've ever walked along the tram line in Surfers Paradise and been stopped in your tracks by a warm, golden glow spilling out onto the footpath, chances are you've found Rumi Persian Restaurant.

I first noticed it from across the street — the elegant black awning with that distinctive white script, the rustic stone pillars, and those hundreds of soft pendant lights twinkling inside like something out of Tehran. It doesn't try to be flashy. It just invites you in.

And that's exactly what Persian hospitality is all about.

Stepping inside Rumi, you're met with the unmistakable aroma of the charcoal grill, the low hum of happy diners, and staff who make you feel like family from the first hello. It's a fully halal restaurant that manages to do it all — premium steaks, signature cocktails, and of course, authentic Persian charcoal-grilled kebabs cooked the traditional way.

In this post, I'm sharing my full experience — what we ordered, what stood out, and why Rumi has quickly become one of my favourite spots on the Gold Coast for a special night out that still feels relaxed and welcoming.

Rumi Website rumipersianrestaurant.com.au

Rumi Menu

Surfers Paradise Beach 2026 Beautiful Sunny Day with Blue Sky no clouds

Surfers Paradise Beach is buzzing with excitement in 2026! This iconic Gold Coast destination is packed out with tourists soaking up the sun, sand, and surf. The beaches are alive with people building sandcastles, surfing, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere

Shop 'Til You Drop

Cavill Avenue, the heart of Surfers Paradise, is thriving with shoppers, street performers, and live music. You'll find everything from surf shops and boutiques to popular fast-food chains and cozy cafes. The Beachfront Markets are also a must-visit, with over 100 stalls selling handmade goods, local art, and gourmet treats. If you're looking for something bigger, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre is just a short drive or Tram Ride away, offering over 280 specialty stores, a cinema, and plenty of dining options.

Surfers Paradise Beach Entrance 2026

Dining and Nightlife

Restaurants are fully staffed and ready to serve up a storm, with options ranging from seafood to international cuisine. Enjoy a sunset mojito at a beachfront bar or get your groove on at one of the many nightclubs ¹ ² ³.

Theme Parks Galore

Thrill-seekers, rejoice! Surfers Paradise is surrounded by some of Australia's best theme parks, including:

• Sea World
• Dreamworld
• Warner Bros. Movie World
• Wet n Wild

Endless Adventure

From surfing lessons to scenic cruises, there's something for everyone in Surfers Paradise. Take a ride on the Aquaduck, explore the Q1 Building SkyPoint Observation Deck, or simply relax on the beach.

With its perfect blend of beachside relaxation, shopping, dining, and adventure, Surfers Paradise is the ultimate holiday destination. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Australia's Gold Coast!

What are you most looking forward to doing in Surfers Paradise? Would you like some personalized recommendations for accommodation or activities by just using our search Bar at the top of our blog?

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The front entrance to the entertainment precinct for schoolies 2025 Surfers Paradise

Schoolies 2025 – Surfers Paradise — The First Two Days of the Celebration

The sun set on the Gold Coast on and the whole foreshore was buzzing with the kind of energy that only 2 days of school‑leavers can create. With the official Schoolies Hub going off and a week of non‑stop music still to go, beach parties and late‑night club crawls, the last two days felt like the perfect Party to an unforgettable rite of passage.

Friday night – the “big night” at the Hub
The Schoolies Hub stayed open until the early hours, offering a fenced, alcohol‑free zone that kept the party safe and the vibes high. Live DJ sets and a handful of local bands kept the crowd dancing on the sand, while volunteers from Red Frogs handed out pancakes and safe‑ride vouchers. For anyone who wanted a taste of the “real” night‑life, the Wicked Nightlife Tour was already in full swing, whisking groups of 18‑plus schoolies from one glitter‑strip club to the next. With a professional MC, bar vouchers and private security, the tour gave the feeling of a rock‑star night out without the hassle ¹.

Saturday – a day of sunshine and epic experiences
The morning after the big night, the beach was a sea of colourful wristbands, sunscreen and the occasional “hang‑over selfie”. The Schoolies Hub reopened at 10 am, this time with a relaxed vibe: beach games, a pop‑up coffee cart and a quieter DJ lounge for those who needed a slower start.

Around midday, the action shifted to the iconic Nation Festival at The Spit, Main Beach. This all‑age event packed the shoreline with thousands of graduates, a massive stage, and a stacked DJ lineup that kept the energy soaring well into the afternoon ². For the thrill‑seekers, the Dreamworld Day Out was still in full swing – a full‑park pass that let schoolies ride the Giant Drop and Tiger Island without missing a beat ².

Sunday
Queensland Schoolies kicked off with a Pool Party at Hilton Surfers Paradise. The resort’s pool deck turned into a summer oasis, complete with inflatable flamingos, a DJ spinning beach‑side mixes and a lunch buffet. It was the perfect mix of chill and celebration, giving everyone a chance to soak up the sun one last time before heading home ².

As the sun dipped below the horizon on Sunday night, the Schoolies Hub hosted a another beach party. A fireworks display lit up the sky, and the crowd sang along to classic “school‑leaver” anthems.

What made the last two days special?

• Safety first: The Safer Schoolies Hub and Red Frogs volunteers ensured a secure environment, with free wristbands and on‑site medical support ³.
• All‑age fun: From the Nation Festival to the pool party, events were open to 17‑ and 18‑year‑olds alike, keeping the crew together ².
• Memorable moments: Whether it was dancing under the stars, conquering Dreamworld’s biggest rides, or simply sharing a laugh on the beach, the final days captured the essence of Schoolies – freedom, friendship and a dash of nostalgia.
• 
   School leaver for 2026 start planning now – the Gold Coast’s next Schoolies is already shaping up for 2026, and you’ll want a front‑row spot on that beach. Until then, keep the memories alive, and maybe start a “Schoolies 2025” photo album – you’ll thank yourself later.

Drop your schoolies photos on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/surfersparadiselocal1 this article

Repco Supercars

Get ready to feel the thunder! The most spectacular event on the Supercars calendar, the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500, is back from October 24–26, 2025, transforming the streets of Surfers Paradise into a concrete canyon of high-octane racing and non-stop entertainment.

It’s more than just a race; it's a beachside festival where the worlds of sun, surf, and Supercars collide.