Chevron Island: The small Surfers Paradise island with a big sense of community

After someone visits an island, they invariably bring back stories of sandy beaches and glittering seas, friendly locals and a pace of life that relaxes the senses. 

For all these reasons, the luckiest people of all might be those who’ve discovered Chevron Island. 

But this isn’t a remote holiday destination. It’s a friendly, walkable suburb with a village feel and a retail strip that punches above its weight – all just a two-minute walk from the bustle of Surfers Paradise.

The locals are the ones who describe it best. “There’s a ‘small village in a big city’ feeling that makes everyone feel at home,” says Kylie Stanley, owner and principal teacher at Yoga in Paradise studio on Thomas Drive. 

Stanley chose Chevron Island to create something she herself hadn’t been able to find – “a real community hub” for yoga practitioners to find support and make connections. 

“I was struggling to find a yoga community on the Gold Coast that felt like a warm hug, and somewhere I wanted to practice,” she says. 

“Chevron has always had this beautiful blend of calm energy, village charm and walkability that felt perfect for me to build a mindful, welcoming studio.”

But relaxed and friendly doesn’t mean sleepy and dull – there’s a refined urban vibe to the place, says Kate Malvenan, owner of Maison & Maison boutique. 

Originally from the UK, Malvenan now travels the globe to personally source pieces for the eclectic collection of Moroccan and Indian homewares stocked in her store, popular with locals fitting out new apartments or updating their homes. 

With a long connection to “fabulous Chevron” – her first apartment when moving to Australia was here – it made sense for Malvenan to open a sister store on Thomas Drive. (The original Maison & Maison is in Burleigh Heads.) 

“I was drawn to open my second store on Chevron Island due to its village atmosphere, and the ongoing opportunity for growth,” she says.

It’s an accurate assessment, given the high standard of retailers in the area. This is clearly a community that values nice things. 

Also on Thomas Drive is Dipcro, a patisserie famed for its flaky croissants and French-inspired treats; pumping cafes including Espresso Bonsai and Cafe Alfons; and even a vintage clothing store, Edit and Refresh. 

“They are a beautiful and accepting group of locals who have welcomed us with open arms,” Malvenan says. 

Just a two-minute walk from the retail strip, one of the island’s newest residential communities is set to contribute further to this village-like atmosphere. Chevron One Residences offers 229 architect-designed apartments in a luxury development with community at its core.  

Due for completion in early 2026, Chevron One features thoughtful communal areas integrated into 2000 square metres of resort-style spaces. Think multiple swimming pools, a spa, gymnasium, dining options and a yoga and sculpture garden. 

Beauty is a given, with curated art and sculptural pieces throughout, topped off with spectacular vistas. 

“With its height and location, the apartments boast panoramic views of the ocean, Nerang River, the hinterland and the city skyline,” says Mark Nelson, general manager of sales and marketing at Bensons Property Group. 

“Rather than being an isolated high-rise, Chevron One’s close proximity to nearby cafes and shops allows its community to connect with the island’s village feel.” 

There is, of course, also easy access to Surfers Paradise’s beaches and amenities, but Malvenan confirms that with the vibrant culinary scene, resident foodies might never want to leave Chevron. 

“There’s great coffee at all the cafes on the island,” she says. “And with Thai, Indian, Italian, Asian fusion, Japanese, Lebanese and Brazilian restaurants, we are spoiled for choice.” 

Stanley adds that newcomers will likely be quickly embraced as neighbours. 

“People here genuinely care about each other – they stop to chat, support local businesses and show up for community events,” she says. “The island community is incredibly open, friendly and down-to-earth.” 

Chevron One

42 Stanhill Drive, Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217

View property