Southport Sharks Poker Guide 2026: Home of the APL Million

Southport Sharks is the undisputed powerhouse of the Gold Coast poker scene, recognized globally as the home of the APL Million, the largest and most prestigious poker series in Australia. Spanning a massive multi-million dollar entertainment precinct, this venue blends professional championship-level tournament poker with a high-energy coastal lifestyle. Whether hosting thousands of international travelers for record-breaking festivals or providing elite weekly action for local “regs,” Southport Sharks offers a world-class arena where high-stakes ambition meets Gold Coast hospitality.

Why Southport Sharks?

• The Home of the APL Million: Southport Sharks is the permanent base for the APL Million, with the 2026 series confirmed for August 14 – 31. This landmark event features nearly 100 tournaments and prize pools that regularly exceed 15 million TWD.
• Consistent Championship Stops: Beyond the Million, the club is a premier host for the APLPT Queensland, with major 2026 stops scheduled for January and May, featuring professional-grade setups and deep-stacked structures.
• The “Aviary” Experience: Players can unwind at the Aviary Rooftop Bar, which offers authentic Italian wood-fired pizzas and panoramic views of the Surfers Paradise skyline, providing the ultimate post-game atmosphere.
• All-Access Fitness & Recovery: The venue features a state-of-the-art gymnasium with over 160 machines. For tournament grinders, this integrated wellness facility is critical for maintaining peak performance during long multi-day series.

The Southport Sharks Experience

Poker at Southport Sharks is defined by its massive scale and professional atmosphere. The venue’s dedicated event centers, including the Presidents Room and Village Green, regularly transform into sprawling card rooms capable of seating over 1,000 players. During the APL Million, the energy is electric, with a schedule featuring marquee events like the Jackstar Super High Roller, the Centurion, and the famous $1,500 buy-in Main Event which recently drew over 3,300 entries.

Daily action is consistently supported by a highly social gaming room and a diverse range of dining options. Frenzy’s Food Court provides the high-volume buffet experience necessary for quick tournament breaks, while Mackenzie’s Sports Bar features a massive 5.25m² screen for tracking live sports between hands. The venue is an industry leader in responsible gaming, providing a secure and well-managed environment for all skill levels.

For the international traveler, the integration with the Mantra at Sharks hotel offers a seamless “stay-and-play” experience. Situated just minutes from the Gold Coast University Hospital and a short drive from the iconic beaches of Surfers Paradise, Southport Sharks offers a unique blend of competitive “Mind Sports” and vacation-style luxury that makes it the premier destination for the Australian poker calendar.

Venue Logistics

📍 Location: Corner Musgrave & Olsen Avenue, Southport QLD 4215, Australia . (Centrally located with massive complimentary on-site parking and EV charging stations).

🏨 Accommodations: The on-site Mantra at Sharks provides 120 well-appointed rooms with direct access to the club facilities. Early booking is essential during the August “Million” window.

📝 Entry & Requirements: Open daily from 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM. Original Photo ID (Passport or Australian Driver’s License) is strictly mandatory. Casual neat attire is standard; singlets are typically prohibited after 6:00 PM.