Gelato Messina Surfers Paradise

Right across from the Surfers Paradise foreshore—prime territory for a post-surf sugar hit. Messina is a total powerhouse in the *gelato artigianale* game. Forget standard scoops. Self-confessed dessert obsessives from Melbourne to the Goldy make a deliberate detour here for the ridiculously good pistachio praline and profoundly rich dulce de leche. Expect a line spilling out the door—but the crew works the *spatola* with lightning speed. Authentic matcha. Knockout tiramisu. Portions lean boutique, and the Queensland heat means you need to eat fast before your cup turns to soup. Doesn't matter. Pure, unadulterated flavor—grab a tub and hit the sand.