Macintosh Island Park

Macintosh Island Park sits on Main Beach Parade at Main Beach, on the northern Gold Coast between the beach and the Nerang River. A pretty, much-loved island park, it's a lovely green oasis — combining landscaped gardens, lawns, ponds and walking paths with resident wildlife, including its well-known peacocks and abundant birdlife, all in a peaceful waterside setting.

The appeal is that combination of beautiful gardens, a tranquil island setting and the charm of its resident wildlife: room to walk, picnic and relax, lovely landscaped surrounds and the chance to see the famous peacocks and other birds up close. It's a peaceful, family-friendly escape that's become a genuine favourite, a lovely contrast to the nearby beach and high-rises.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 800 reviews, it's a much-loved spot. The park is free and open year-round, but facilities vary and the wildlife is wild, so it's worth checking the surrounds before a special trip — and respecting the birds and the gardens — though for a stroll, a picnic or to see the peacocks, you can generally just turn up and enjoy this lovely Main Beach park.