Loved by locals for its laidback, friendly neighbourhood vibe, Mermaid Beach received its name from the cutter HMS Mermaid. Explorer John Oxley sailed aboard the Mermaid in 1823 when he discovered the nearby Tweed and Brisbane rivers. Mermaid Beach is home to the beautiful Hedges Avenue, or better known as ‘millionaires row’, the avenue runs adjacent to the beach and is occupied by sprawling mansions, dog walkers and cruiser riders. The street was named after William Hedges, a real estate agent in the 1920’s who bought and sold land in the area, owning over 32 acres himself which, at the time was valued at only 810 pounds. Many of the surrounding streets were also named after William’s family including Arthur Street (his son), Alfred Street (his step son) and Hilda Street (his second wife). Other street names are unmistakably beach-related adding to the appeal of this little seaside suburb.