fbpx
Filter by Suburb
Select all
Broadbeach
Burleigh
Coolangatta
Currumbin
Main Beach
Mermaid Beach
Miami
Nobby's Beach
North Burleigh
Palm Beach
Robina
Southport
Surfers Paradise
Tugun
Water Fun

16 reasons locals love Coolangatta

It’s pretty Cool-y if you ask us.

Rooftop of The Pink Hotel, Coolangatta (Image: © 2017 The Undercurrent)
Rooftop of The Pink Hotel, Coolangatta (Image: © 2017 The Undercurrent)

Coolangatta is our southernmost suburb and it’s almost like stepping back in time for a taste of the good old Gold Coast, a little slower and sleepier (the way we like it) but with a sprinkle of some seriously epic eats for good measure – dreamy.

If you’re a fan of chill coastal vibes and pumping surf, where you can soak up the sunshine all-day long and hop from beach to bar as your heart desires then Cooly’s got your name written all over it. The laidback lifestyle is just one of the reasons why locals love this little beachside suburb, but we’ve found another 16 for when you want to go exploring.

Dining at Franc Jrs. (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Dining at Franc Jrs. (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Franc Jr’s
I’ts called the famous pizzeria for a reason, Franc Jr’s have gotten a rep for dishing up the best pizzas on the Gold Coast – maybe even Queensland. Big call, I know but IYKYK. Home of their signature Sicilian square pizza, pop down for takeaway or dine in with a bottle of pinot to wash down your pizza. Our pick is the red strip with a pickled grape salad on the side (sounds weird but trust the process) and a frozen marg if you fancy a tipple.
Where: 2/102 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Pipi's Restaurant, Rainbow Bay (image by Brooke Darling)
Pipi's Restaurant, Rainbow Bay (image by Brooke Darling)

Pipi’s Restaurant
Cooly brought in the big guns with Brisbane hospitality mavens, the Gambaro Group bringing Pipi’s to life and it’s something Southern Gold Coasters have been waiting for. Pipi’s is the newest seaside sensation to call Cooly home and you best believe our tastebuds can’t get enough of it. Nothing to be crabby about with a Mediterranean-inspired menu – Chargrilled Mooloolaba King Prawns and Freemantle Octopus Carpaccio just a couple of the stars of the show. If you’re feeling boujee then treat yourself to a Kaviari Caviar Bump – served with a shot of Belvedere or glass of Tattinger.

Special mention to the cafe-style sequel to this suave new seafood nosher, Awaken Cafe. Situated underneath Pipi’s Awaken thos caffeine-slinging counterpart is giving girl-next-door (but, y’know, downstairs) in the very best way.
Where: Level 1/275 Boundary Street, Coolangatta

Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Food at Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Kefi
Kefi popped up on the café scene in late 2023 and their suitably summer vibe has been gracing our social channels here, there and everywhere. With coffee and food as delicious as the interiors are gorg it’s the kind of spot we could just spend all morning long at. With a Mediterranean twist on your classic brekky favourites, fuel up with a feed or pop in for the viral strawberry matcha and take a stroll on the beach because, wholesome.
Where: Corner of Griffith & McDonald Street, 2/110 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Interior of Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Interior of Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)

Cooly Breeze
There’s something about being beach side and on a rooftop that just hits different, throw some fine dining into the mix and that’s our kind of trifecta. Executive chef Marcondes Almeida Neto has combined gastronomy with the flavours of the Medierranean Coast for bold flavours you’ve never tasted before. A feast for your eyes and your tum, the dishes are almost too pretty to eat… almost.
Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Coolangatta Pie Shop
This iconic Gold Coast pie shop has been around for more than 50 years, so it’s no wonder they’re serving up some of the tastiest pies around. We’re partial to a baked good and fortunately, the Coolangatta Pie Shop have them aplenty – perfect for that post surf carb load.
Where: 50 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Maverick Hair & Art (image supplied)
Maverick Hair & Art (image supplied)

Maverick Hair & Art Studio
If you’ve been looking for a place to tame that mane then say less, because Maverick Hair & Art Studio’s got your back. Or hair, I guess. The award-winning salon and of course, their stylists, know their way around the locks and can we just say – they do one of the best blondes we’ve seen on the GC, and that’s no easy feat. The refined industrial feel is a pretty little paradise to sit back and relax while you’re pampered, which is exactly what you want when you’re investing hours in those tresses – t’s the crown you never take off, after all. No bad hair days here
Where: First Floor, 1/17 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Bar Evelyn
This place has been a hotspot for locals and visitors ever since it popped up on Marine Parade a couple of years ago. Cooly’s home of antipasto and pasta, you best believe we want a pizza that. Our picks? If you’re a seafood lover like us then the bug bucatini and pickled mussels with bottarga mayo, cucumber and dill are a must try. Sweeten the deal with their house-made tiramisu – do as the Italians do, we say – and one of their season sours.
Where: Shop 20/58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Clay Cantina (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)
Clay Cantina (Image: © 2022 Inside Gold Coast)

Clay Cantina
One thing about us is that we are always down for a Mexican moment. Now let’s taco-bout the margs, specifically the Laneway Marg – just trust us when we say their signature agave inspired bev is everything you’ve been looking for in a marg and more. Taste the flavours of all your fave Mexican fare, or if you’d rather a hands on approach to your dining experience, get the crew together for their signature cooking classes where you’ll get up close and personal with their most-loved recipes. Gracias!
Where: 2/16 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Greenmount Beach Surf Club (image supplied)
Greenmount Beach Surf Club (image supplied)

Greenmount Beach Surf Club
With unsurpassed views in a northerly direction, you can take in everything overlooking the spectacular Greenmount Beach right up to the skyline of Surfers Paradise and, on some days, beyond. If the surf’s up, watched the surfers below shred waves or wipe out with an ice cold schooner in hand.
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Cinebar Licensed Cinema, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Cinebar Licensed Cinema, Coolangatta (image supplied)

Cinebar
Forget that there was a ripper cinema in Cooly? How could you! It’s time you get acquainted with Cinebar, a restaurant-style movie experience where you can get the full dinner, drinks and show vibe without having to lift a finger – or leg for that matter. Because we’re all about efficiency, kick back and catch up on the freshest flicks while you’re wined and dined for the ultimate date night with your special someone or your gal pals.
Where: The Strand at Coolangatta

4 Pines Coolangatta (image supplied)
4 Pines Coolangatta (image supplied)

4 Pines
On the brew-tiful beach front you’ll find one of the vibiest beachside breweries we know, the ultimate for whether you’re escaping the surf or just looking for a spot to kick back with live tunes and a beer in hand. You’ll find all your 4 Pines favourites, like the classic Pacific Ale for a fresh and fruity finish or the Pale Ale for a more crisp and citrusy taste, on tap and calling your name. Well, what are you waiting for – hop to it!
Where: The Strand, 28/72 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Ottimo Gelato (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)
Ottimo Gelato (Image: © 2021 Inside Gold Coast)

Ottimo
If you want the inside scoop then here it is – if you want to be served up gelato the Italian way, Ottimo know that sticking to tradition is anything but boring. Having studied at the Gelato University of Carpigiani (yes, that’s a thing), owner Davide let’s his Italian heritage swirl through each delicious morsel whether it’s Ferrero Rocher or passionfruit flavoured. We give it an High Distinction!
Where: 18/52 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Timezone
Nothing like a bit of healthy competition to get the heart rate up, blitz your bestie with more than 200 classic arcae games to choose from. With full-sized bowling lanes, dodgem cars and laser skirmish there’s something for all ages – including the big kids at heart.
Where: Level 1, 72-80 Marine Parade, The Strand, Coolangatta

The Pink Hotel exterior (Photo by @sydneygirl63)
The Pink Hotel exterior (Photo by @sydneygirl63)

The Pink Hotel
Not a Cooly local? No problem, because one of our most aesthetic hotels just happens to call Coolangatta home! It’s impossible to miss the iconic pink glow of the Palm Springs inspired Pink Hotel, if it weren’t for the fact that you can spot the GC’s glorious skyline from it, we’d forgive you for thinking you were in the California desert. Originally a motel, the legends behind The Pink Hotel lovingly restored it to its current glory so now we gorg destination for the ultimate staycation – love that for us.
Where: 171 Griffith St, Coolangatta

Eddie's Grub House (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)
Eddie's Grub House (Image: © 2017 Inside Gold Coast)

Eddie’s Grub House
Rock ‘n roll meets fried chicken, burgers and whiskey: does it get any better than that? Get a mouthful of naughty but nice American classics in this soul food dive bar. They regularly have live music and karaoke nights if you’re feeling brave, it’s long been a Cooly institution for good grub and good vibes – for good reason!
Where: 171 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

Cooly Rocks On (image supplied)
Cooly Rocks On (image supplied)

Cooly Rocks On
It’s got to be one of the most colourful creations that Cooly has brought us, each and every year we love seeing Cooly transform into the home of motors and music with a dedicated festival to celebrate the lifestyle of yesteryear. Think Hot Rods, Elvis Tribute Artists, Swing Dancing, Pin Up Pageants and so much more,
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.

Awaken your tastebuds

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

If you ask us, Coolangatta has been looking particularly perky of late – no, not in a BBL kind of way, but rather, the kind of pep in your step that comes with scoring a couple’a delightful new dining additions in your neck of the woods.

Hot on the heels of the Gambaro Group’s latest gem, Pipi’s Restaurant, making its grand entrance mere weeks ago, comes the cafe-style sequel for suave new seafood nosher. Gold Coasters, say hello to Cooly’s bright-eyed and bushy-tailed new addition, Awaken Café.

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Following in the footsteps of its Kingfish Tartare slinging big sis one level above, the lush, dual venue venture now reigns supreme over Point Danger; occupying the two lower levels of the recently constructed Awaken Complex. Already making some waves of its own, the caffeine-slinging counterpart is giving girl-next-door (but, y’know, downstairs) in the very best way, adding caffeine hits and relaxed, brunchy bites like Fresh Pastries and Blueberry Pancake stacks to the rotation for Rainbow Bay’s neck of the woods.

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Sporting an aesthetic as dreamy as the offering is delicious, the seaside venture is impressive, but not totally unexpected – coming courtesy of the culinary heavyweights behind esteemed Brissy eateries Black Hide Steakhouses, Italian gem Persone, and Caxton Street mainstay Gambaro Seafood Restaurant.

Delivering a knockout Gold Coast debut, the Gambaro Group says embarking on this exciting new chapter is a “moment to cherish”.  It’s a sentiment shared, now we can finally get in on the action Brisbanites have been hogging had to themselves for some six decades.

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Between a pearler of a pedigree, and the legacy of its locally-beloved predecessor, Cafe DBar; there’s no doubt the new venture has had some rather lofty expectations to live up to.

With the (very welcome) aroma of freshly-brewed beans once again filling the air, the cosy, 40-pax venue sees the cliffside community’s iconic whale-watching site restored to its former, coffee slinging prime.

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Offering breakfast and lunch, the new dreamboat cafe on Cooly’s block boasts panoramic views from Snapper Rocks across to Duranbah Beach, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating at which to perch up for a cuppa or a bite to eat while you also ‘drink’ in those iconic views.

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

For the Gambaro gang, the goal was to create a contemporary yet inviting venue, with retro nods infused throughout in an ode to “classic cafes that have dotted the Queensland coastline for years”.

A joint collaboration between BYculprit. x S.SHYNE, the fit out is all about channeling that laidback Cooly lifestyle, while riffing on that of its upstairs counterpart, with chic, coastal tones and finishes featured throughout.

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

And look, we can (and will) gush Grand Designs style all day long, but let’s be honest – Breakfast Rolls and avo and runny egg studded Green Bowls are what we’re all really here for.

The Awaken menu is all about the quintessential, cafe-style classics, with Goat cheese studded Omelettes on sourdough served alongside crowd-pleasers like Cheese Toasties for the kiddos.

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

If you’re feeling famished, the Point Danger Full Breaky will be a no brainer – or for a lighter start, you can’t go wrong with the fresh and summery Corn & Zucchini Fritter, served with Siracha aioli. As the latter half of the day looms, the offering benefits from a couple of lunch additions, think staples like Fishermans Baskets and Wagyu Burgers, with a nom-worthy Pumpkin Salad that gives them a run for their money.

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

To wash it all down, Juices, Smoothies and all the usual caffeine-based suspects round out the rise-and-shine ready offering. Though, in quite the plot twist, the smoothie selection – like the Snazzy Snapper made with Mango, orange juice, Greek yoghurt, honey, mint, might just tempt us to forgo our usual coffee order. (Just kidding, we’ll be double parking all the way.)

Where: 275 Boundary St, Coolangatta
When: 6am – 2pm Monday to Friday, 6am – 3pm Saturday & Sunday

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Awaken Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

A new Cool-y spot spreading sunshine and sips

Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Turkish Eggs, Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Okay sure, haters might say our daily cup(s) of liquid sunshine for the soul bring us disproportionate amounts of joy – but what about a whole dang cafe whose entire ethos revolves this concept?

Marina Ghobrial is the super Saiyan of good vibes behind Cooly’s newcomer, Kefi, a coffee spot dedicated to food that makes you feel good, inside and out.

Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Named after a Greek word that roughly equates to the essence of joy, which, is something Marina says the new venture embodies, adding “living a life full of Kefi is about cherishing the simple things that bring happiness to our souls.”

So hey, let’s all continue to lean into our caffeine-worshipping ways, in the name of livin’ our best kefi lives.

Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Food at Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Headed by Vy Truong, a Head Chef who counts esteemed Brisbane eateries PawPaw Cafe and Stanley among her lengthy CV, the seed oil free kitchen specialises in serving soul nourishing food made with love. Whipping up beverages made with house-made almond milk, Eggs Benne, and berry-nice stacks of ricotta laden Hotcakes, daily.

All of which absolutely sparks joy, if you ask us.

Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Drinks at Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

Perched on the corner of Griffith & McDonald Street, Kefi can be found just footsteps from Cooly’s sand-kissed promenade, one block beyond the beach (a stone’s throw from a Marine Parade hidden rooftop gem – Cooly Breeze).

The 60-seater radiates warmth from the get go, with sunset-vibing tangerine pops conveying the brand’s ethos.

For the fit-out, Eddie Studio came together with Meka Build (a name also responsible for Social Espresso’s sweet new digs) to bring Marina’s vision to life.

One which was sparked by her travels, melding some Bali vibes and Mediterranean-inspired elements for the interior direction.

“I fly to Bali almost every year and love to visit all the beautiful cafes so wanted to bring something magical to the coast where people can escape the mundane” says Marina.

Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Kefi Hotcake, Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

It’s a theme also carried throughout the menu, with Marina adding “I am quite health conscious and obsessed with the Mediterranean diet” – and by the sounds of the Hotcake with lemon whipped ricotta, fresh berries, maple and pistachio blanc anglaise.. we are about to be too.

The Eggs Bene also comes totally pimped out, feat. an extra delicious dose of nutrients – poached eggs, served with confit lamb shoulder, kale, tahini hollandaise and paprika on pita. And to drink, we think the signature cocktail, a Tiramisu Martini, says all you need to know.

Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Eggs Bene, Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

For Marina, the new venue represents a long-held dream, and one that surely required a seismic leap of faith to make a reality.

“I decided that this was the year I took the leap, quit my job, moved from Brisbane and poured my heart into creating Kefi”, adding “Hospitality is my passion, I am a big foodie and love being around people.”

Which is just as well, because with a dreamy little venue like Kefi – something tells us you won’t be able to keep us away.

Go on Gold Coast, get those keisters along to drink in some sunshiney goodness in all forms, stat.

Where: 110 Marine Pde, Coolangatta
When: Daily, 6:30am–2:30pm

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)
Kefi Cafe, Coolangatta (Image: © 2024 Inside Gold Coast)

A very Cool-y rooftop bar that needs to be on your radar

Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)

We Gold Coasters like to keep those ‘best kept secrets’ very close to our chest, lest word get out about our fave lesser-known spots.

Which is why the existence of a hidden rooftop haunt flying under the radar right in the heart of Coolangatta may very well be news to many.

Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Interior of Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)

A sky-high destination for Mediterranean eats and sips boasting sweeping views of the Cooly skyline.

If you’re not already acquainted with Cooly Breeze Rooftop and Bar, it’s time to be.

Sitting pretty on the 13th floor, it is the Coast’s only fine dining rooftop restaurant with unique views to the southern coastline and the Tweed River surrounds.

Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Oysters at Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)

With a gastronomy-trained chef at the helm, the views certainly are not the only thing worth heading up for.

For chef-owner powerhouse Marcondes Almeida Neto, Cooly Breeze Rooftop and Bar is the culmination of 16 years refining his craft abroad, after notable stints in the UK and most recently, Italy.

The latter leading to Marcondes uncovering his love of seafood and the stunning Mediterranean coast, and fair enough too, how could you not?

Head chef Marcondes Almeida Neto (image supplied)
Head chef Marcondes Almeida Neto (image supplied)

The welcoming space also features those same hints of Amalfi coast influence, with cosy lighting, rustic timber features, chic white tablecloths and flickering candlelight adorning the tables.

Lending a charm that feels akin to being welcomed into an authentic Italian eatery.

Of course, that is if you can tear your eyes away from that stunning ocean vantage for long enough to take it all in.

Signature bug on focaccia, Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Signature bug on focaccia, Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)

For starters, we’ll certainly be all about the alla sea – natural oysters with finger lime & ginger, though the thought of digging into the signature Bug on focaccia with avocado, finger lime, jalapeno and watermelon radish sounds like the perfect summer dish.

The Seared Scallops da Costa with walnut butter sauce and cauliflower puree are definitely calling our name

Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Seared Scallops, Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)

The extensive mains offering showcases authentic Mediterranean flavours at their finest.

Seafood features prominently, with the likes of Octopus Tentacles, sautéed potatoes, capers dressing, fresh herbs and the WA Half Lobster & Scallops Linguini, made with caviar, confit tomato and light lemon butter sauce set to steal the show.

Interior of Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Interior of Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)

There’s a host of equally enticing dishes from the land and earth, with a Vegan Paella, made with zucchini, red capsicum, olives, sun dried tomato, garlic, saffron that’s sure to satisfy absolutely everyone.

To complement the whole experience, there’s a stacked dessert menu (House Nutella Brownie, Spanish Churros, House Tiramisu, Chocolate Lava Cake) or for those who prefer their indulgence to take liquid form for their sipping pleasure, a stellar selection of cocktails (and in case you’re wondering, we’re firmly #teamboth.)

Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)

There is absolutely no reason why we would go home without getting our hands on the signature Rainbow Martini – vodka, lychee liqueur, lychee juice, lavender syrup.

Or two for good measure.

The kicker?

This time of year your 5 star dinner might even come with a spontaneous show, with the vantage providing the added bonus of the whaley cool chance to see the whales doing their thing during the migration season.

What more could you need?

Rainbow Martini, Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar might be Cooly’s best kept secret.
Rainbow Martini, Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar might be Cooly’s best kept secret.

Maybe just one more Rainbow Martini.

Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
When: Mon 5pm 9pm, Thurs to Sun 12pm – 9pm

Words by Kellie Leader.

STORY SPONSORED BY COOLY BREEZE ROOFTOP AND BAR

Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
Cooly Breeze Restaurant and Bar, Coolangatta (image supplied)
© 2024 All Rights Reserved.