The Gold Coast SUNS are on a winning streak and, if you’re not already, it’s high time you got on board the supporters bandwagon for our one and only AFL team.

With practically a whole new team and coaching staff, we’ve had a cracking start to the season, lead by legendary co-captains David Swallow and Jarrod Witts.

It’s a pretty exciting time for the team and, in turn, those of us who enjoy live sports events in which our team actually wins. And also those of us who like to drink beer and yell things at people who are doing things we could probably (definitely) never do.

Anyway, we’re here today to discuss the recently upgraded bar at Metricon Stadium. It’s called The Pirate Life Deck and, yes, it’s sponsored by one of the very best craft beers around, Pirate Life. How good are pirates.

There are skateboards artfully placed about plus some sweet graffiti feature walls to bring up the good time vibe.

It’s part of the corporate section of the stadium and we highly recommend treating yourself to a ticket first and foremost because VERY DELICIOUS food is included and secondly, it’s the best possible view with plenty of space to spread out.

There are high tables you can sit at to watch the game slash eat all the foods if you get there early enough to nab one.

Back to the food though. Meatballs and pasta, sliders, spring rolls, party pies and sausage rolls are just some of the tasty treats you can expect at The Deck and, in the interest of honest reporting, we sampled them all and they are all the goods.

The food is both brought around by waitstaff and also available for you to help yourself at a station where there is also tea and coffee should you need it.

At the bar, Pirate Lifes’ range of craft beers are on tap and in the fridge there are wine, sparkling and bottled beer options for your sipping pleasure.

The view from The Pirate Life Deck is unrivalled with an epic view of the entire field, it’s all undercover and there’s plenty of space to spread out.

The Pirate Life Deck is the entry-level corporate area at Metricon Stadium. Tickets are $149 per adult and $135 for kids aged six to 12.

It’s one of the best spots to watch the game and you should definitely go check it out for yourself next time the SUNS are playing at home.

LOCATION: Metricon Stadium, Nerang Broadbeach Rd, Carrara

Words and photos by Kirra Smith

Sunset has to be the best time of the day (some people we know say sunrise, but we wouldn’t know, ahem) — so sunset it is.

Now that spring has sprung, cue the Spotify sunset mix, we’re keen to start enjoying the balmy evenings and appreciate this gorgeous time of day. To get you all inspired, here’s a list of some of the best sunset-chasing adventures on the Gold Coast. Psst — there’s more to do at golden hour than snap the perfect pic (although you must also do that) #everythingiscontent.

Kick back at a rooftop bar
This one’s a no-brainer, but hear us out. Sure, it took the Gold Coast a minute to catch up to our southern pals in the rooftop bar game. Odd, right? Especially considering we’ve got the best weather in the country—no contest. But hey, better late than never! These days, we’re spoiled for choice with rooftop spots all over the Coast. So why not make up for lost time? Pick your favorite perch, grab a drink, and soak in that golden hour glow as the sun sets on another perfect day. We love The Exhibitionist Bar for its ever-evolving and always killer cocktail list or newbie Sandfire for a sophisticated (kids free) sip overlooking the North Burleigh headland.

Overlook the Gold Coast at Mt Tamborine
The Gold Coast hinterland is the perfect spot for a bit of sunset spying. When it comes to breathtaking views, Mt Tamborine offers a vantage point that’s unmatched. Perched high above the Gold Coast, you get a bird’s eye view of the glittering skyline below, framed by lush, green hinterland. As the sun dips towards the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges, pinks, and purples, casting a magical glow. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll along the scenic trails or just kicking back with a glass of local wine, Mt Tamborine is where you’ll find a slice of sunset paradise that’s truly worth the climb. Why not make a weekend of it and stay a night or two mixing waterfall fuelled adventures with some sunset action?

Get High (on views)
Take things to new heights—literally. Head to SkyPoint Observation Deck, to soak in 360-degree sunset views from the highest vantage point on the Coast. Alternatively, elevate your evening at Horizon Sky Dining, Queensland’s only revolving restaurant. As you rotate, enjoy stunning panoramic views paired with a delicious buffet and handcrafted drinks. These two spots are your best options for soaking in the full circle breathtaking scenery of a Gold Coast sunset

Take a picnic to Burleigh Point
Ah, the iconic Burleigh Hill. It’s a local love and visitors paradise. Having a picnic on this roll of green is an essential activity and must be enjoyed at sunset. Watch as the sky turns its pink hues, and the rays from the descending sun bounce off the glitzy Surfers Paradise towers in the distance. Sounds like a dream if you ask us. You may even spot a whale in passing (this is a known whale-watching location). BYO charcuterie set up (and wine!) or grab a takeaway pizza or fish & chips from one of the many epic options in Burleigh.

Sip frosty beers and bubbles at a surf club
Surf clubs are lifesavers, aren’t they? They’re conveniently located at your local beach, serve affordable drinks and eats, are thong-appropriate, and always know how to deliver a decent palmy. They almost feel like a hoax. Enjoy our opulent ocean-front views, and our savvy b is chilled and affordable. Score! It’s the most laidback Gold Coast-esque way to enjoy yourself a sunset.

Take a dip anywhere
We are spoilt for choice for this one! Take your sunset dip at any of our flawless beaches, creeks or canals, and you won’t go wrong. But what help would we be if we didn’t share a couple of our favourite (and patrolled) gems? Straight up, Kirra would have to be one of the most picturesque spots to take a dip while watching the sun go down. Currumbin and Nobby Beach would follow very closely behind.

Prep your schedules, friends, because another sunset is on its way.

Words by Chelsea Ipsen

If there is a fancier thing to do than sip mimosas on a Sunday morning overlooking the ocean on the top floor of The Darling at The Star Gold Coast, we have not heard about it.

Throw in some exceptional brunch eats, followed by a poolside sipping session and you’ve got yourself the perfect day in our (very well researched) opinion.

Well Gold Coasters, that’s exactly what’s on offer at Nineteen at The Star as of right now with the introduction of their new Sunday Brunch menu, followed by Sunday Poolside Sessions that is sure to be a good time.

The Coast’s most sophisticated rooftop venue has gone above and beyond to offer a stunning brunch menu including of course, beloved Mimosas, Bloody Mary’s and a Breakfast Martini plus a menu meticulously created by Head Chef Uday Huja that’s going to blow your brunch-loving mind.

You’ll be able to sample decadent Souffle Pancakes served with seasonal berries, chantilly cream and maple syrup, a delicate Blue Swimmer Crab Omelettes with tarragon and tomato fondue or the robust Ratatouille Tart with goats cheese and poached egg.

Nineteen at The Star’s signature Oyster Journey also graces the brunch menu, allowing you to embark on an oyster-sampling experience spanning the New South Wales coastline.

If you’re after something a little heavier (ie hangover friendly), we suggest the hearty Steak & Eggs featuring a Scotch Fillet Wagyu 5+ Steak or our French favourite, the Croque Madame, a ham & Gruyere sandwich, sunny side up egg and bechamel sauce (cheese and butter come at me).

You may (and absolutely should) pair your brunch with a premium two-hour champagne package, but the hardest part is choosing which one… Moet & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot or Ruinart?

Alternatively, delight in the one of the bars signature cocktails – the Orange Blossom Mimosa, Pineapple, Peach or Grapefruit Bellini should do the trick.

There are two brunch seatings to choose from – 11am – 1pm or 1.15pm – 3.15pm – and if you’re keen to keep the party going you can pop on outside to the pool for a Sunday Poolside Session.

The After Brunch Party will take off from 12pm every Sunday with a disco vibe complete with luxury day beds and magical 180 degree views of the sea and the cityscape beyond.

Sip on Nineteen’s epic range of cocktails while dipping your feet in the sparkly infinity pool and thank your lucky stars you live on the Gold Coast.

In true Nineteen at The Star style, you’re encouraged to pack your bikini and throw on your favourite oversized sunnies and soak up those summer on the GC vibes.

What a time.

Make sure you book for brunch, it’s definitely going to be a popular event.

WHERE: Nineteen at The Star, The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach
WHEN: Every Sunday at 11am and 1.15pm