Fan of a frothy? Us too, and if there’s one thing the Gold Coast does just as well as its beaches, it’s breweries. From hinterland hideaways to beachfront beer havens, we’ve scouted the ultimate list of spots for you to sip, sample, and savour. Whether you’re chasing a session ale, a crafty IPA, or just a place to chill with your mates (and maybe your dog), these breweries have got you covered.

So ‘hop’ on down to one this weekend. And every other weekend after that.

Fortitude Brewing Co
Froth fanatics, Fortitude Brewing Company sees you! This hinterland spot has 15 taps, each pouring something different from the range of Fortitude and Noisy Minor beers – all brewed on site! Visitors can nom their way through a variety of made-to-order pizzas whilst sinking a tasting paddle…or two, or… Enjoy the venue’s rugged exteriors and soft-hearted interiors and on weekends, soak up the beats from talented muso’s.
Beer to sip: Fortitude Pacer — the perfect session pale ale.
Where: 165 Long Road, Eagle Heights

Laughing Lizard Brewery
The good times keep on keeping on at Laughing Lizard with over 150 different beers! The best part, however, is that none contain any nasty chemicals or preservatives (yay, no hangover…well, that’s our story and we’re sticking to it…), and there’s even a gluten-free option #CeliacsRejoice! Here you’ll find a micro-brewery, beer and spirits shop, and every party planner’s besty – a keg hire service!
Beer to sip: You can’t go wrong with the Skini – light bodied, low carb, but full flavour.
Where: 27 Sinclair Street, Arundel

Hound & Stag
The Northern GC’s (not so) best kept secret is undoubtedly the Aussie farm styled Hound & Stag. The Coast’s largest taproom and live music precinct, it’s famous for its abundant beer (28 beer taps) and cocktail options, stellar Modern Aussie food menu, huge family-friendly outdoor beer garden, and hosting epic live music events. Always bulging at the seams, even Aussie music royalty like Darryl Braithwaite grace the stage regularly.
Beer to sip: Struggling to pick the perfect pint from the huge range on offer? You can’t go wrong with the award-winning Red Baron for a spritzy and refreshing brew.
Where: 13 Wrights Place, Arundel

SOPO Brewing Co
A hidden gem on the beer scene here on the Gold Coast, we reckon SOPO Brewing Co is one of the suburb’s best kept secrets. They’ve got house brews as well as monthly releases to keep those tastebuds on their toes, with the microbrewery delivering a tasty range of craft beers, lagers and ciders exclusive to the venue.
Beer to sip: When in SOPO one must drink the SOPO IPA of course!
Where: 146 Scarborough St, Southport

Madocke Beer Brewing Company
The ultimate Belgian beer experience awaits at Ashmore’s Madocke! Starting their commercial brewery in a tiny garage, proud owners Jimmy and Annelies are a bona fide local success story! Enjoy the complex flavours and richness of their brewskis at Thursday trivia nights, and pair your pitcher with some belly laughs at live comedy night every Friday. Skohl!
Beer to sip: The creamy and refreshing White IPA Celebration is the perfect night starter – see you on the d floor.
Where: 286 Southport Nerang Road, Ashmore

The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines
You’re always close to the action at The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines! Standing loud and proud on the ex-Hard Rock Café digs, this $6.5 million super venue serves up the ultimate trifecta; brews, bites, and a bumper line-up of the best sports viewing. Pouring everything from crisp Japanese-style lagers through to some sunny state-inspired limited release brews, this family-friendly sports bar is a beer (and sports) lover’s happy place.
Beer to sip: 4 Pines Pacific Ale
Where: Cnr Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

BOB’s Beer
Beers near the beachfront – you’d be hard-pressed to find a better way to spend an arvo on the GC arvo. Whether you’re a local or playing tourist, BOB’s Beer is one of the best joints in Surfers for a cheeky brew, a seriously swanky fit-out with sky-high ceilings, and most importantly those glistening copper pipes delivering that expertly brewed amber nectar straight to our glasses.
Beer to sip: The Surfers XPA of course – a deliciously easy drinking pale ale brewed entirely out of local malt, perfect!
Where: 10/2 Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

The Lucky Squire
In case you haven’t put two and two together, this brewhouse brings to life the story of Australia’s first brewer, the rogue swindler James Squire (cue ‘aha’ moment). Celebrating quality craft beers and modern pub grub, the custom-designed full-functioning microbrewery pumps out small, exclusive batch brews, and it’s a cracking spot to round up your crew for an arvo sesh.
Beer to sip: Check out their limited-release small batch brews rotating the taps. Our current fave is Chivalry – because of course it’s not dead.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach

Lost Palms Brewing
This pink and mint icon is a short stroll from the hot spots in Nobby’s and a ‘hop’, skip and a jump from Miami Marketta. Pull up a pew outside, sink some unique and refreshing brews, and make sure you grab some sweet snaps for your socials. Roll up for $1 Wings on Thursday nights and live music on Sunday arvo’s and see why this wicked brewery is a must-visit!
Beer to sip: Lost Palms Talle Daze Hazy Pale — one of their core range beers, named after the local Tallebudgera Creek.
Where: 11 Oak Avenue, Miami

Precinct Brewing
Bursting onto the Miami arts precinct scene with a rapacious welcome, Precinct Brewing now has solid status as the place to pull up a stool, grab a freshly made beer, and forget all of life’s woes. They make matters much more bearable with the tastiest of pizzas, stand-up comedy, and some captivating, limited releases like their recent Big If True, Hazy IPA — yummy!
Beer to sip: Check out their weekly Friday releases for exclusive flavours!
Where: 17 Christine Avenue, Miami

Black Hops HQ & Black Hops II
The runaway success of the original Black Hops in Burleigh spurred the creation of its spacious and upscale sibling, Black Hops II in Biggera Waters. Both serve up 16 beers on tap and have popular food trucks on site to feed hungry punters. So whether you’re north or southside, round up your mates, the fam and even your pooch for some award-winning amber ales.
Beer to sip: Black Hops Send It Session Ale — light, fruity, and not too strong
Where: 15 Gardenia Grove, Burleigh Heads and 671 Pine Ridge Road, Biggera Waters

SOBAH
If you love a social brew but you don’t love the idea of a potential hangover, then Australia’s first non-alcoholic brewery – SOBAH – is for you. Tucked away in Burleigh, the brewery and café boasts a range of full-flavour brews, bringing that real craft beer flavour you know and love without the sore head. Yes please!
Beer to sip: The Pepperberry IPA or Davidson Plum GF Ale are our regulars, celebrating the best of our native Australian ingredients.
Where: Unit 1, 314 Burleigh Connection Road, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Brewing Co.
With gold medals for days from the World Beer Championships, you know you’re in for a good ale here! Famous for their paddle boards, relaxed atmosphere, big smiles and super friendly service, it’s the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday arvo (or Friyay / Saturday sesh). There’s even awesome live music to set the mood while you quench your thirst. Cheers!
Beer to sip: Burleigh Brewing Burleigh Bighead — No carb, no-fuss big flavoured thirst quencher.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Aardvark & Arrow Brewery
This Varsity based microbrewery may produce ‘petite’ batches, but their list of return customers is anything but small! Consistently producing and supplying chemical and preservative free beer and cider that exceeds expectations, the boutique beers here are on point. The staff are uber friendly and knowledgeable and the prices will blow ya mind (in a good way).
Beer to sip: For something fresh, opt for the GC Crisp – a seriously refreshing light coloured, crisp beer perfect for a brewery sesh.
Where: 13 John Duncan Court, Varsity Lakes

Balter Brewing Company
With awards up the wazoo, the amazing Balter Taproom never disappoints. Its line-up of founders includes some seriously famous sporting legends, and it just oozes chillax and cool in equal measure. Whether it’s from the tap or can, there’s a variety of styles to get your tastebuds singing. Kick back in the beer garden and enjoy live beats with your brew, along with food truck goodness.
Beer to sip: Balter XPA — Balter’s most awarded beer can be yours fresh from the production line.
Where: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin

Currumbin Valley Brewing
Complete with a 10hL Rolec copper cladded brew house (brew-speak for ‘legit’), the Currumbin Valley Brewing HQ offers choice aplenty, including 16 beers on-tap. This artisanal farmhouse brewery combine crafted burgers, bowls, bougee bar snacks, and boutique beverages in an environmentally-conscious space that is as much about community as it is craft beer.
Beer to sip: The Alley – Session IPA (aptly named after Currumbin Alley!)
Where: 27 Traders Way, Currumbin Waters

4 Pines Coolangatta
Another beachfront favourite of ours, but this time nestled on the Cooly shoreline is 4 Pines Coolangatta. The relaxed Southern Gold Coast vibe makes this little brew spot the perfect place stop in for a session. With six taps of their finest beers and two Keller door taps pumping out fresh flavours, as well as a dedicated Doggos of 4 Pines polaroid wall, it’s loved by locals for a reason.
Beer to sip: Nothing says 4 Pines like their Pacific Ale – fresh, fruity and floral, it’s impossible not to love.
Where: The Strand, 28/72 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

A LITTLE FURTHER AFIELD

Straddie Brewing Co
Just across the water, you’ll find this three-level architecturally designed showstopper. The ground floor welcomes you with double-height glass windows and the awe-inspiring brewery. Up the stairs you’ll find a 90-seat taproom with eye-popping art installations, and the top deck featuring panoramic views of the BrisVegas CBD skyline, the Glasshouse Mountains, and the stunning Redlands Coast #ShowUsYourSunsets. Plus there’s a menu with plenty of fancy local seafood inspired sharesies.
Where: 5 Junner Street, Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island

Perentie Brewing Co
Perentie Brewing Co. is an exciting new addition to the local brewery scene, located in Eagleby. This $6 million-dollar brewery, part of the Distillery Road Market (DRM) entertainment hub, offers authentic lager beers, seasonal bar bites, and a sprawling beer garden on the banks of the Albert River. With 68 taps of beer, including three signature products and a seasonal menu, Perentie Brewing Co. is set to become a central craft brew hotspot, attracting visitors from far and wide.
Where: 124 Distillery Rd, Eagleby

Ventura Brewing
Ventura Brewing is Australia’s first craft hard kombucha taphouse. With 12 taps, there’s an array of options to suit every taste. If you’re a fan of a destination venue that is serving up good vibes, tasty beverages and world-class views in spades, Ventura Brewing is your new favourite Sunday arvo sipping spot.
Where: 10/141 Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah

Words by Bianca Trathen

Ah markets, how we love thee. Temporarily transforming all our very favourite sun-soaked haunts into stall-laden shopping meccas so that we can get amongst the good vibes, gather fresh provisions and snap up meticulously crafted unique creations from talented local makers.

And for our troubles? Top it all of by refuelling with a hot coffee, fresh smoothie, or the obligatory extra-large serve of Poffertjes.

There’s something (or many somethings…) for everyone and best of all, you’re supporting local – and isn’t that what it’s all about!

Here is a who’s who list of our fabulous local weekday, Saturday and Sunday markets here on our beloved Gold Coast.

The Village Markets
An award-winning platform for small creative businesses, The Village Markets host curated markets encouraging collaboration, creativity and good vibes. With clothing from the coolest designers, jewellery and accessories, homewares, rack sales and amazing food, these curated lifestyle markets are run like a well-oiled machine.

After 16 years TVM have announced the Gold Coast icon will no longer trade at Burleigh Heads State School but will be popping up with a series of events at Robina Town Centre as well as hosting Pop-up Rack Sales around the Gold Coast.
Where: Robina Town Centre, Robina
When: Check their instagram for the latest

HOTA Farmers & Artisan Markets
The stunning HOTA grounds offer an equally picturesque and conveniently central spot to convene and soak up some #sundayfunday good vibes and a whole lot of local goodies. Thanks to a little transformation into vibrant (literally and figuratively) cultural hub, the Bundall site is also home to a hotted up weekly market offering which has become one of the Gold Coast’s numero ono community events.

They’re passionate about local farmers, makers, bakers and growers, with in-season farm-fresh produce, delicious artisan foods, boutique fashion, handcrafted treasures and live music. Nestled against the backdrop of Evendale Lake and the surrounding parklands, the kids can take a dip while you sit back and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere (read: eat fresh pastries and sip hot coffee). Bliss!
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
When: Every Sunday 6am – 11.30am

Farmers Markets
There are options aplenty when it comes to farmers markets around the Coast to source your fruit, veggies, locally made goods, plants and of course, brekky and caffeine. Supporting local farmers with both organic and conventional produce, you’ll get the feel-good factor as well as the taste-good factor! A ritual for many locals on weekends, it sure beats hitting the mainstream grocery retailers. Plus, the best thing is, you’re spoilt for choice with a number of different locations to hit up.
Where & When: Helensvale State High School – every Saturday from 6am – 11am at 243 Discovery Drive, Helensvale; Marina Mirage Farmers Markets – every Saturday from 6.30am – 12pm at Marina Mirage, 74 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach; Palm Beach Currumbin High School – every Saturday morning from 6am – 11.30am at PBC, Thrower Drive, Palm Beach; Burleigh Farmers Markets – every Saturday morning from 7am – 12 noon at Burleigh Heads State School, Cnr West Burleigh Rd &, Lower Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads.

Carrara Markets
Still the biggest market in Oz, Carrara Markets house over 300 stalls. Discount shopping at its best, there is literally nothing you can’t find from fresh produce, fashion, homewares, pots, plants, bric a brac, cars, souvenirs, arts and crafts and everything in between. Perfect for the family, there’s buskers, pony rides, a baby animal farm, bungy trampolines, mini golf, face painters, and even a new walk-in Butterfly House.
Where: Gooding Drive, Carrara
When: Every Saturday and Sunday, 7am – 3pm

Emerald Lakes Gourmet Food and Craft Markets
Feeling a bit fancy? Described as a complete alfresco gourmet shopping experience with an international ambiance, head to Emerald Lakes for some of our region’s best street food and fresh produce. It’s also one of the few markets available for a mid-week meander to replenish the larder with quality essentials – with Australian seafood, grain fed and hormone free meats, free range eggs and home-baked goodies all on offer. Plus stock up on gorgeous candles, melts and a myriad of unique crafts, all handmade with love and arguably, still *somewhat* essential.. bc vibes are important too.
Where: Emerald Lakes Complex, The Boulevard, Carrara
When: Every Thursday, 3pm – 7pm

Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets
No prizes for guessing where these markets are located. Mere footsteps from the sand, they’ve been an iconic Gold Coast shopping and cultural experience since the mid-90s. Featuring artisan and traditional Aussie goods, fresh produce, gourmet provisions, handmade wares and more, they showcase our best growers, makers, characters and creators. When you’re done, Surfers’ melting pot of restaurants and bars are a hop, skip and a jump over the road.
Where: The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
When: Every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday nights, 4pm – 9pm

Gold Coast Art & Craft Sunday Markets
Lining the beachfront at four beautiful GC locations (Broadbeach, Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads and now Paradise Point), these markets have been a local fave for over three decades. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, souvenirs, art, craft, the ingenious or the weird and the wonderful, it’s here. A-buzz with atmosphere, there are over 150 stalls showcasing original Australian-made products, fresh produce, yummy food and live entertainment.
Where & When: Kurrawa Park – The first and third Sunday of every month from 8am – 2pm at 155 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach; Queen Elizabeth Park – The second and fourth Sunday of every month from 8am – 2pm at 60 Marine Parade, Coolangatta; Justin Park – The last Sunday of every month from 8am – 2pm at Burleigh Heads; Esplanade North Park – The fourth Sunday of every month from 8am – 2pm at Paradise Point.

The Sanctuary Markets
On The Village Green at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll find these popular markets. A nod to the GC’s multi-culturalism with local and international foods plus cool arts and crafts, you’ll also be wowed by our best homegrown entertainers. The venue is fully licensed (translation: let’s wine), featuring craft beers exclusively from Burleigh Brewing Co, and vinos courtesy of Sirromet Wines.
Where: On The Village Green, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
When: Every Friday, 4pm – 9pm

The Organic Gold Coast Farmers Market 
Every Sunday morning you can get your fill of organic, spray-free fruit, veggies, ready-made eats (we’re all about easy eats), organic cosmetics, organic clothing…basically, if it’s organic and it exists, it’s here! It’s the perfect place to spend a sunny Sunday morning and load up your basket with treats that will not only make you feel good, but help the planet too!
Where: Merrimac State High School, 3 Dunlop Ct, Mermaid Waters
When: Every Sunday, 6am – 11.30am

Hide & Seek Children’s Market
Those familiar with the Hide & Seek Children’s Market from its former Elanora and Robina locations will be thrilled to learn the concept lives on thanks to a new home in Upper Coomera – with the same signature blend of unique and skilfully hand-crafted creations, all designed with parents and mini-me’s in mind.

The curation of clever local creatives and artisans brings us cute clothing, accessories, toys, décor, furnishings and more. Bop along to all-day live music, grab some bites from local food trucks and wear the kids out with a range of activities. If you love on-trend goodies, rare finds and spoiling your little loves, you won’t be disappointed.
Where: The Well, 58 Highland Way, Upper Coomera
When: Third Saturday of every month from 8am – 12pm.

Miami Marketta
There’s only one thing better than a market and that’s a vibin’ night market. The Coast’s OG laneway dining experience hosts food vendors of all nationalities in the one space, take your entrée from Spain, your main from Thailand, and sweets from France. How multicultural of you! With farshon (fashion – but we just like saying FARSHON) and accessories from local designers, these markets have cool factor for days.
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
When: Every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday, 5pm – 10pm

Broadwater Pavilion Markets
A newer in-stall-ment to the GC’s market scene, Southport’s open air market by the sea is quickly establishing itself as a fave among Northern residents with stacks of fun for the whole family. There’s plenty of entertainment for the kiddos, with face painting, henna, hair braiding, character appearances all frequenting the lineup.

While those who have aged out of face-paint demographic (#tear) can hunt for some hand-crafted wares with all manner of scented, ceramic, and sewn goodies on rotation from local stallholders. Bonus for paw-rents: they’re pet friendly (on lead), so bring your pup along for a paw-some day out.
Where: Bathing Pavilion Lawn, Marine Parade, Southport
When: The third Saturday of every second month, 8am – 2pm

Jack Evans Boat Harbour Waterfront Markets
Another one of the newer kids on the proverbial market block, the picturesque Tweed promenade snaking by the Boat Harbour waterfront was just begging for local stallholders and their crafty creations to set up shop and complement our leisurely Saturday strolls.

A stunner of a spot for the Southern GC (four-legged friends invited also!) to congregate with live music, artisan food vendors, hand crafted treasures and boutique fashion stalls a plenty. After you’ve shopped up a storm, cool off with a spot of paddle boarding as the glistening water beckons.

And if that hasn’t worn out the kiddos, the fortuitously placed new foreshore playground should do the trick.
When: Jack Evans Boat Harbour Market: first Saturday of every month, 8am – 1pm. Night Market: second & fourth Friday of every month, 4pm – 8pm
Where: Wharf St, Tweed Heads

Words by Bianca Trathen and Kellie Leader

If Queensland weather doesn’t shout rooftop bars at you in a high-pitched squeal, we don’t know what will. Our climate, coupled with the amazing hospitality scene here in our city, means these open-air meccas of good times and delicious libations are the prime place to find yourself — any time of the year! It’s all about drinks in the sunshine and snapping selfies with picturesque backgrounds for Insta-bragging purposes.

So, in honour of bars in high places, here are 14 next-level rooftop bars (listed north to south) you should prioritise visiting this weekend, next weekend, and the weekend after…

Aviary Rooftop Bar
Perched atop Mantra on Sharks, Aviary Rooftop Bar’s views are as stunning as their extensive drinks list. With 180 degree views over the Surfers Paradise skyline and the ocean, it’s the perfect place for an after work beverage or Sunday arvo session with the crew. Ohh and don’t even get us started on their authentic Italian pizzas, and tapas… if you know, you know.
Where: Mantra at Sharks, Melia Ct, Southport (next to Southport Sharks)

Mr PP’s Deli & Rooftop Bar
A game-changer in Southport’s food and beverage scene, Mr PP’s is a multi level pizzeria and rooftop bar boasting city views and plenty of good vibes in the century-old postal building. There is a generous menu full of pizzas, tapas and charcuterie boards, the ideal scenario. Plus cocktails and local tipples, of which there are many. Live music on Sundays too.
Where: 43 Nerang St, Southport

Last Night on Earth
Pretty sure that if it were, in fact, your last night on Earth, you would want to spend it at a sweet rooftop bar with bulk cocktails at the ready. Which maybe isn’t the point of Southport’s Last Night on Earth but a good intro nonetheless. Last Night on Earth is the work of local legend Arran Wollams and his crew. It’s a somewhat underworld themed rooftop bar in the heart of Southport offering good times aplenty. It’s a dive bar, but not as you know it. Check it out.
Where: 50b Nerang St, Southport 

Cali Beach Club
Cali Beach Club is not just a rooftop bar, it’s Australia’s largest Beach Club! This Gold Coast classic is the ultimate beachside party destination that’s never known a dull moment. The 2L spritzer and cocktail jugs may have something to do with this… One minute, you’re lounging on your dedicated daybed by the pool. Next, you’re sipping a Cali Colada in the pool. What’s that? The DJ set has begun?! Off to the dancefloor with you!
Where: 21a Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

The Exhibitionist Bar
News flash: HOTA isn’t just for the arts and culture, people, it’s also for cocktails. Speciality cocktails- each inspired by and changed to reflect the art centre’s current major exhibitions. We feel more cultured already. Enjoy it all while absorbing the breathtaking views of the city skyline. The highly talented Tom Angel heads up the bar and cocktail list, which is a seriously good spot for a sundowner — and the ideal place to take out of towners!
Where: Level 5/135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise

Lulu Rooftop & Bar
Say hello to one of GC’s newest editions- the lovely Lulu. Think Miami’s art deco scene meets laid-back tropical Gold Coast, with lush greenery, plush booth seating and marble-topped bars, it’s a vibe! Throw in the fact it’s on a rooftop and we’re sold. Okay, that’s a lie, our booths were booked when we got word of a Frosé Wall! Choose from six boozy frosé flavours (or try them all) and garnish your icy creation with an array of lollies.
Where: Level 2/4 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

The Island Rooftop
It’s the largest open-air (and much adored) rooftop on the Gold Coast, perched on top of The Island in Surfers Paradise. This spot is kind of a unicorn, being part nightclub, part bar and part live music venue. And now, they have taken things up a notch, launching Above Sundays. where killer beats meet delicious eats and craft cocktails. From 11am every Sunday, find a line-up of DJs playing, a specially curated summer cocktail menu, and indulgent share-style eats. Think of it as your new Sunday ritual.
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Nineteen at The Star
The fanciest of the bunch is undoubtedly Nineteen at The Star, complete with velvet booth-style seating, an infinity pool and ocean views for days. Found atop The Star Gold Coast’s The Darling, Nineteen is the perfect place for people-watching, dressing up and sipping on fancy tipples while dancing the night away. Be sure to take a snap on the runway stretching out into the pool!
Where: The Darling, Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach 

JuJu
The GC’s newest rooftop bar has serious “it’s a vibe” energy. JuJu in Nobby Beach delivers upscale dining with a side of cheeky fun. Split across two levels, this new venue is perfect for sunset cocktails and late-night revelry. Expect Euro-summer vibes, lush greenery, and after-hours parties that feel straight out of Mykonos. With a sleek rooftop bar featuring a retractable roof, tequila carts, and live DJ-saxophonist duos, JuJu is where you go when you’re ready to keep the night alive.
Where: 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

Tropic Vice
Tropic Vice is one of (if not, the) hottest bars on the Gold Coast, and for excellent reason. Go from dinner to disco, and dance the night away under the neon lights. The Nobby Beach venue is ideal for a weekend catch-up, a mid-week cheeky cocktail, or an epic bottomless brunch every Sunday. Do yourself a favour, find yourself here sipping a cocktail whilst drinking in the gorgeous hinterland view.
Where: 2215 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

Justin Lane
A much-loved favourite among locals and visitors alike, Justin Lane is still one of the most popular rooftops on the Gold Coast and was actually the coast’s first official rooftop bar opening in 2011! Hard to imagine.  The space is intimate, with booth-style seating overlooking Burleigh and plenty of cocktails to tickle your fancy. Once you’re done slinging back bevvys with the gang, head downstairs for some fair dinkum pizza (it’s so damn good).
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

The Collective
Everyone’s favourite multi-restaurant establishment, The Collective in Palm Beach, boasts a sweet rooftop bar with epic cocktails for your sipping pleasure. You can also order eats from one of the five menus on offer and watch the sunset over the ocean while you’re at it. We HIGHLY recommend it.
Where: 1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

Burleigh Pavilion
This one is straight-up iconic and the vibe is a match. It’s as close to the ocean as you can get with a cocktail before it becomes a safety hazard. You may be closer to Earth for this one, but the view here is arguably the best on the Gold Coast. Soak in the stunning sunshine while mulling over which epic cocktail to try first.
Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

The Salty Fox
Made for those who are “here for a good time, not a long time”- literally. The Salty Fox can be found on the 7th floor and rooftop of Rydges Gold Coast Airport and is the perfect destination for your pre-departure or post-arrival drinks. Catch uninterrupted views of the stunning Bilinga Beach from the rooftop as you get ready for takeoff, or settle into the Gold Coast spirit with a cocktail (or a few). You may even snag some live music and DJ sets if you’re lucky.
Where: Lot 5, Terminal Drive, Bilinga

Words by Chelsea Ipsen