Driftwood Social

Finally, sipping cocktails by the pool with your pals is a thing you can do on the Gold Coast. Well, a thing you can do at a bar, not just at home while mixing way-too-strong margies with your mates and taking bulk Insta-snaps on inflatable unicorns.

Back to the bar with poolside cocktails. Driftwood Social opened up at Vibe Hotel just a few short weeks ago and already, it’s become THE place to spend a balmy weekend afternoon playing giant lawn games and taking numerous dips in said pool while also gazing at the pretty view and eating tasty treats.

It’s a tropical-inspired paradise with bright lounge chairs, pink flamingoes and patterned cushions dotted throughout plus a big lawn space for giant Jenga and the like and, a covered cabana to hide from the blazing sun should that be your choice.

The bar overlooks the entire space and, on the level below, the pool all sparkly and bright blue, boasts luxurious white lounge chairs perfect for kicking back and working on your tan. While sipping a Mojito and watching the sunset of course.

The entire venue brings a laidback, beachside club vibe we’ve not experienced on the Gold Coast before and being there feels as though you’ve escaped for a little holiday but, in fact, you can go home and sleep in your own comfy bed once you’re done frolicking. It’s win win.

The menu is perfectly befitting of the space with snacks of the cheese plate and fries varieties. There’s also a small plate section with dishes like Wild Mushrooms on housemade toast and House-smoked salmon with pickled cucumber, kimchi, wasabi and cashews.

Light meals include the Driftwood Burger with a Cape Grim beef patty, bacon, Guyere cheese, pickled chilli, lettuce and a tasty burger sauce.

Main plates are Market Fish (SO GOOD), Driftwood Social Nasi Goreng and Rump Steak with herb salsa and shallot salad.

They’re all the perfect, tasty eats to match the poolside bar and a few hours spent sinking drinks with the crew. Oh and EVERYTHING on the menu is made in-house so that’s always a good sign.

All your favourite cocktails are on the list (highly recommend a Mojito) plus, of course, many beers and all the wines you could wish for.

If you’ve got a function or just want some space to yourself, you can book an area that will be cordoned off, so it’s pretty much like being Rihanna but without bulk bodyguards. Unless you have bodyguards of course.

Anywho. Get down there for a good old-fashioned party time with your fellow cocktail lovers.

LOCATION: Vibe Hotel, 42 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
HOURS: 11.30am until 7pm Monday to Thursday and 11.30am until 8pm Friday to Sunday

Words and photos by Kirra Smith