Why Everyone is Obsessed with Isle of Capri Right Now:
If the Gold Coast had a "cool older sister" who lived in a designer villa, spent her weekends on a boat, and knew exactly where to find the best Aperol Spritz—it would be Isle of Capri.
While the rest of the GC is busy with high-rises and tourist traps, "Capri" (as the locals call it) is where you go for that high-end, barefoot-luxury lifestyle. It’s an island vibe, but with a Harris Farm and better coffee.
The Daily Routine: Living "La Dolce Vita":
Life here revolves around the water and the Capri on Via Roma precinct. It’s one of the few places on the Coast where you can genuinely park the car on Friday afternoon and not touch it until Monday.
Morning Ritual: You’ll see locals at Urban Fix Espresso or South Coast Coffee Co. grabbing a brew before a walk over the bridge to HOTA for the Sunday markets.
Lunch & Grazing: Bisou Bakery is the go-to for artisanal carbs, while Harris Farm Markets is basically the neighbourhood pantry (and yes, the cheese selection is as dangerous as it sounds).
Sunset Sips: For a long lunch or a "just because" cocktail, Edgewater Dining offers front-row seats to the water. It’s all about those sparkling Surfers Paradise skyline views without the actual Surfers Paradise noise.
The Housing Scene: Modern Mansions & Chic Villas:
Isle of Capri has always been "old money," but the look is changing. The suburb is a mix of three main styles:
The Waterfront Masterpieces: Huge, multi-level homes with private jetties. If you’re a "boat person," this is the dream. Many of these are bridge-free, meaning you can take the yacht straight out to the Broadwater.
Mid-Century Modern Gems: You’ll still find those iconic 1970s bungalows. They are becoming rare, but they’re the ultimate project for anyone looking to do a "Palm Springs" style renovation.
The New Guard: Luxury Villas: Since big apartment blocks aren't allowed here, the latest trend is high-end, gated villa communities (like the new Capri development on Salerno Street). Think 3-4 bedroom "mini-mansions" with shared resort pools and cabanas—perfect if you want the luxury without the 2-hour lawn-mowing session.
Why It’s the Ultimate "Vibe":
What makes Isle of Capri special is its connectivity. You’re technically an islander, but the HOTA Green Bridge means you can walk to a concert or an outdoor cinema in minutes. You’ve got the beach a 15-minute stroll away, but you’re tucked far enough back that you don't have to deal with the hustle and bustle of the busy beachside suburbs.
It’s prestigious, sure—the median house price usually hovers well north of $3M—but it doesn't feel stuffy. It feels like a neighbourhood where people actually know their neighbours' names (and their dogs' names).