The Gold Coast's Most Magical Winter Dining Experience Is Inside an Igloo

Imagine your own private dome, fairy lights overhead, a glass of Moët in hand and a six-course degustation arriving course by course beside a shimmering lagoon. That's not a European fantasy — it's available on the Gold Coast right now.

This winter, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa has transformed its iconic saltwater lagoon into something rather special — a private igloo dining experience that brings the romance of alpine destinations to Queensland's Gold Coast.

Private Dining Under the Stars is available Monday to Wednesday evenings through to 26 August, and the concept is exactly as indulgent as it sounds. Guests retreat into their own beautifully styled all-weather dome, framed by fairy lights, tropical palms and waterfront views, with a dedicated personal service team for the evening.

What to Expect

The experience is curated by Director of Culinary Paul Smart and the team behind Citrique, the resort's 2 chef-hatted restaurant. It opens with a glass of Moët & Chandon Imperial Brut and a 30g tin of premium caviar before moving into a six-course degustation with Australian and international wine pairings throughout.

Highlights include Seared Scallops with Chorizo (Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc), Chef's Signature Moreton Bay Bug Dumplings (Kellerei Kaltern Pinot Grigio), Oven-Baked Snow Fish (Collector 'Tiger Tiger' Chardonnay), MB 8–9 Wagyu Steak (Leeuwin Estate Prelude Cabernet Sauvignon), and the JW Citrus Illusion Dessert to close.

"We wanted to create a winter offering that feels luxurious, romantic and completely transportive," said Paul Smart. "Allowing guests to slow down and enjoy an unforgettable evening beside our iconic lagoon under the stars."

The Details

Designed for couples, anniversaries, proposals or celebrations, the experience requires a minimum of two guests and full prepayment. For those wanting to extend the evening, overnight accommodation at the resort is available as an add-on.

Private Dining Under the Stars is part of Marriott Bonvoy's Winter After Dark campaign — a new collection of after-dark experiences across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, designed to inspire travel over winter and celebrate the atmosphere and beauty of the season after sunset with experiences best enjoyed under the cover of night.

Private Dining Under the Stars | JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa $599 per couple | Monday – Wednesday from 6:00pm | Until 26 August 2026 Book via SevenRooms | Minimum 24 hours' notice required