It’s one of life’s greatest pleasures; eating Mexican and drinking margis – sounds a bit corny but we stand by it. So it’s pretty darn lucky the Gold Coast is spoilt for choice when it comes to Mexican meals, mmm there’s a little Mariachi band playing in our head just thinking about it.

And if you don’t like Mexican then this is guac-ward, because we’ve done the heavy lifting – aka eating – so you can pick your taco joint of choice and put your taco where your mouth is. Come on, don’t be salty – unless you’re a margarita of course.

So here’s our round up of the Coast’s best spots to get your Mexican fix, but before you go don’t forget the rules – first we fiesta, then we siesta. We’ll be there faster than you can say “extra guac, please”.

Chicos Taqueria
Hola chica, this Southern Belle is one of the newest additions to the Mexican scene. And what do they bring to the table? Glad you asked because tacos and un-burrito-ble burritos are clear heroes but if we’re honest, we’re yet to taste a dish we didn’t like. Don’t fret if tacos are nacho vibe, get around the delicious little morsels of flavour that are their empanadas.
Where: 27-31 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Waters

Nude Amigos
Grab your (fully clothed) amigos and head on town to Cancun – uhh, we mean Broadbeach – because Nude Amigos might be nude in name but it’s flavours are anything but. The space is as light and breezy as it is chic and vibey, it’s basically just begging of you to sip back on one of the exotic (see: very fancy) tequilas that take pride of place behind the bar. In fantastic news for our across-the-border neighbours, they’ve opened a second venue in Kingscliff.
IWhere: Lot 1, 70 Surf Parade, Broadbeach and 60 Marine Parade, Kingscliff

El Camino Cantina
With shops across the country, we’re lucky to have ourselves one of these spicy little dens of Mexican magic here on the Goldy. Slip in and slip on a sombrero and let the endless fantastic food and de-lish cocktails flow. Overlooking one of the Gold Coast’s best known beaches – Surfers Paradise – it’s big on size, vibes and margs… No really, the margs are giant and nothing gets us going like a cocktail as big as our sombrero.
Where: Paradise Centre, 2 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Panchos
Who said the beachside burbs should be having all the fun? Not us, so if you’ve been having a siesta on our humble Hinterland’s worst kept secret and Gold Coast institution, Panchos, then this is the sign you need to get on out to Mudgeeraba so they can guac your world. With splashes of colour from wall to wall plus enchiladas, margs and tinnies at the ready you’re set for a spec-taco-lar feed.
Where: 581 Springbrook Road, Mudgeeraba

Isla Cantina
Isla just go ahead and say it, this cal-mex might be the GOAT cultural combo and Isla Cantina understood the assignment when they curated not just their menu, but the holy trinity of Wing Wednesday, Taco Thursday and Sunday Specials so you’ve got not one, not two, but three reasons to treat yourself to those glorious water views and the Surfers skyline while you chow down on some mex-cellent fare.
Where: Shop4, G7 Capri on Via Roma, Surfers Paradise

Agave Rosa
Fresh, delish dishes with dashes of distinct oriental flavour (say that after a few tequilas), served Mexican style is what you’ll get in spades at Agave Rosa. It’s funky, bright and welcoming feels are perfectly complimented by their phenom menu mixing our two fave cuisines with finesse. And like any Mexican establishment worth its salt, their cocktails and margaritas slay!
Where: Shop 2/74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta

Clay Cantina
It might just be the Cooly-est Mexican haunts to hit the south – Gold Coast we mean. The casual laneway dining outside and inviting, home-style dining inside makes the perfect home for this feisty Latina to dish up the best Mexican outside of the Motherland. And we’re not actually joking. Plus, you can transform into a Mexican Masterchef yourself with super fun classes using authentic ingredients and tools.
Where: 2/16 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Hail Mary
If you haven’t been to Hail Mary have you even been to Burleigh? Tucked away in a James Street laneway we’ll forgive you for missing this pink hued haven just this once. It’s not just it’s ridiculously good looks that maker her a winner, they deliver with the freshest, most flavoursome Mexican nosh you’ve ever tasted. With a daily lunch special like two tacos and a beer/wine or soft drink for $19, what are you even waiting for?
Where: 6/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads

Mexicali
Always busy, the Cali meets Mexico feels of Mexicali have us coming back again and again. You can’t go wrong with a banquet if you’re in a group, so you can think less about what to order and more about the margaritas on the horizon. Sunset cocktails on the balcony never get old, and a snap under the ever-changing lightbox message above the stairs is mandatory!
Where: Level 1, 2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach

Bonita Bonita
Eats institution Bonita Bonita (and little sister Bon Bon pouring mezcals and tequilas for pre or post-dinner party starters) is a long-standing fave. Its dimly lit, moody and ornate interior design never ceases to impress and create an intimate vibe and while it’s traditionally been a dinner-only spot, the Mexican gods answered our prayers and we’re officially on for lunch Tuesday to Saturday. Enjoy the mouth-watering eats (the grilled corn…OMG) and don’t even get us started on the cocktails.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

California Tacos
SoCal vibes are so strong with this one it’ll have you singing CALIFORNIAAAAAA, here we come… No? Just us then. Well if you can depend on anywhere to give you a taste of authentic Mexican street-style tacos it’s a place called California Tacos, step into the beachy vibe at Burleigh or Broady and get better acquainted with the well-stocked bar – the only way a bar should be, we say. Salud!
Where: 1718 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads & 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

Costa Taco
Overcoming the momentary temptation to leave this one out (in hopes of greedily keeping more of those highly coveted tables all for ourselves) – but no list about epic Mexican spots would be complete with such a glaring omission. Especially now they’ve opened another outpost in Broadbeach. Dishing up authentic Mexican eats, the menu is short but sweet, sticking only to their specialities with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.
Where: Cnr Armrick Ave and Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach and 1136 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

The Aztec
Kicking around since 1995, The Aztec Broadbeach…along with The Aztec Coolangatta…is a hit with the whole fam, boasting a fun-loving mixture of cosy booths, ultra-modern furnishings, neon lights and an epic fluoro bar. A colourful and upbeat venue, you’re spoilt for choice with all the Mexican goodies you’d hope to find and half price lunches Friday through Sunday in case you needed any more convincing.
Where: The Aria Building, Shop 11/17 Albert Avenue, Broadbeach & 152 Griffith Street (Twin Towns end), Coolangatta

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski

Nestled between Bilinga and Coolangatta, Kirra may be small but she is also mighty.

Best known for a pumping, world-renowned surf break and ever-present chill vibes, there’s so much more to Kirra than just waves and a pristine stretch of sand (although that’s motivation enough for us).

Here are 14 reasons Kirra locals ain’t budging for love nor money, and why the wider GC community can’t get enough of this thriving yet mellow footwear-optional ‘burb.

Billy Chow
When news spread that Kirra was scoring the new sister to Nobby Beach cult fave Ally Chow, involuntary salivation immediately ensued. One of the more recent additions to the eats scene of this beach-blessed suburb, Billy Chow is already beloved and absolutely no one is surprised by this development. Serving up share style all-day feasts, it’s one of those spots that’s got everything going for it – incredible pan-Asian eats, stellar sips, a swoon-worthy fit out and a ripper beachfront vantage. All of which make it an especially swell long (looong) lunch spot, if you ask us.
Where: 76 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Kirra Beach House
Making waves for all the right reasons – the hotly-anticipated arrival of Marine Parade’s sprawling new dining addition, Kirra Beach House, redefined the southern eats and sips game. The handiwork of local hospo gun, Dave Galvin, which speaks to the caliber in and of itself – but just wait till we get to the three seperate bars, insta-worthy interiors, cabana-studded wraparound terrace, and panoramic ocean views from all angles! We’d be remiss not to also mention the Mediterranean-style grazing and crafted cocktails. Perfect 10’s all round.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

MADE
No longer coasting by on the merits of its stellar beaches alone, Kirra’s really been stepping things up on the foodie front of late. Just one of the hip new haunts we can thank KTQ Group’s multi-million dollar beachfront transformation for, Made is the second endeavour for Tugun’s MADE Barber & Barista founders Josh Blair & Britt Westcott. A slick, industrial style space bringing gourmet toasties, cafe treats and tight trims to Kirra’s esplanade, beach trips just got a little more productive and whole lot tastier.
Where: Corner of Musgrave & Miles St, Kirra

Kirra Beach Hotel
Back and looking better than ever after a hefty zhuzh up, a fresh look for Marine Parade’s stalwart watering hole is yet another slam dunk we owe to the mammoth Kirra Point Project development. Still the same no-fuss favourite at heart, now nestled one level beneath the slightly posher Kirra Beach House. If you’re in the mood for casual chews and brews, this place will happily hook you up with a cheeky pint and parmi – and some pretty spectacular views, of course.
Where: 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Cotton Living
Who doesn’t love a luxurious homewares store that’s also a patisserie café, and the answer is a unanimous NOBODY. In its beautiful new location, Cotton Living showcases stunning handmade furniture and timeless accessories to make every room in your abode sing. Everything is Insta-worthy with a focus on natural colours and textures, plus you can grab a croissant with your cushion and #WhatsNotToLove. This luxurious space right by the beach is family-owned and the obvs choice for your next coffee date with the gals.
Where: 1 Lord Street, Coolangatta

Native State
A boutique gym and European-style bathhouse, Kirra’s self care prospects have never looked better since Native State swanned into town back in 2023. An all-in-one wellness destination, whether you’re craving an invigorating ice bath, or a sweat-sesh in the state-of-the-art studio or infrared sauna; you can choose your own adventure with casual sessions, classes and memberships available. No matter what your dream workout looks like, reward your efforts with a bliss out with soak in the bathhouse to finish… be warned though, you might never want to leave.
Where: 3/2 Creek Street, Coolangatta

Siblings
Another of Kirra’s panoramically blessed haunts (anybody sensing a theme here?) Siblings revived the heritage listed beachside Kirra Pavilion which was once but a humble Pizza Hut. And lbh, it’s hard to feel sad about farewelling our childhood icon when the replacement comes bearing gifts this good. Founded by local restaurateur royalty Jarrod Kyle and TJ Cianci, Siblings is a modern Australian brunch and dinner showstopper, dripping with 1950’s Miami beach vibes goodness. The menu is infused with fresh seafood and share-plates a-plenty and don’t even get us started on the cocktails, because this place takes their sips seriously! You haven’t lived till you’ve been.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra

Kirra Beach Pavilion
While driving around the headland, you may have noticed the cute little shelter overlooking the ocean. It’s a great place to hide from the scorching sun, and has certainly seen a lot over its lifetime – more than a century to be precise. Early photos of Kirra Beach show the shelter in place by around 1916 and we love ourselves some GC history. The Kirra Shelter Shed makes for a great viewing platform and is the perfect spot to watch whales frolic out in the big blue.

Kirra Surf
Speaking of institutions, Kirra Surf is a must-visit when cruising into this salt-kissed suburb. Whether you’re in the market for some new threads, a new board or you’re a total surfing rookie just looking to get started, these guys will hook you up. Their range of surfing apparel, products and know-how is unrivalled, the staff are super friendly, and there’s always at least (twenty)two things you’ll want to take home with you. 10/10 beach rats agree, this place is one of the best.
Where: 6/8 Creek Street, Kirra 

Agave Rosa
A taqueria that does mexi eats, but not as you might expect, Agave Rosa is Kirra’s casa of modern Mexican fusion. The only thing more vibrant than the telltale hot pink interior is fresh and zesty eats this place is churning out on the reg. From the brilliant mind that brought us Project Tokyo, imagine a menu where your favourite Mexi flavours are melded with bold Japanese influences. The result is inventive and tantalising creations like Chipotle Hibachi Chicken Tacos and pico de gallo drizzled Tuna Tataki – just add in a round of Classic margaritas (because sometimes you can’t improve perfection) and you’ve got yourself a tastebud party.
Where: 74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta

Kirra Beach Bakery
One of the best barometers of a town is its local bakery – and no visit is complete without a trip to Kirra Beach Bakery. Serving quintessential Aussie bakery fare at its finest – if it’s been a while between cheeky nostalgic treats (think Jam and cream donuts and Custard slice) this place will have you reevaluating your priorities.  Whether you’re in need (need being the operative word, here) of a post-surf pie, sausage roll, quiche or pastie, a healthy salad sando or sweet treat (don’t judge) for the road, Kirra Beach Bakery is the place. Get down there early in the morning for fresh-out-of-the-oven bread and enjoy a slice or two with the local ‘gulls while watching the sunrise. Good stuff.
Where: 11/48 Musgrave St, Kirra 

HiPoke
A dish originating in Hawaii, the poke bowl phenomenon is here to stay. Made of colourful salad and protein combinations artfully arranged in bowls almost too pretty to eat (almost). For our pick of the signature bowls, the Salmon Sashimi always slaps – as does the Karaage Chicken made with edamame, carrot, corn, sweet chilli mayo and lotus root chips. Satisfying and healthy, the entire menu is preservative free and all seafood is sustainably sourced. It’d be rude not to try them all.
Where: 18/48 Musgrave Street, Kirra

Kirra Surf Life Saving Club
We can always count on surf clubs to bring great vibes and an even better location, and this is one of the best (shh, don’t tell the others). Just footsteps from the sand, this old boy has been around longer than you (est. 1916) and is a firm fave amongst all Gold Coasters. It’s the perfect family-friendly spot for dinner with your brood, or a sundowner or two overlooking the ocean. Perch up on the deck and let that balmy sea breeze take you to your happiest place.
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra 

Kirra Hill Lookout
If by this stage you’re suitably fed and watered (read: bursting at the seams) the only thing left to do is drink in the world-famous Kirra beach in all its glory! Trek to the top of the headland and prepare to be wowed by views from Main Beach to Snapper Rocks and everywhere in between. If you wanna make a day of it, pack a picnic or fire up the barbie (you’ve earned it after that walk) – and thank your lucky stars you get to live in the best place on Earth. No bias, just #facts.
Where: It’s on the big hill, you won’t miss it!

Words by Bianca Trathen & Kellie Leader