Quench your thirst with a top shelf round at the most epic Gold Coast bars.

Afternoon beers, a sunset spritz and late-night tipples — the Gold Coast hosts an eclectic range of bars, each with its own personality to sing ‘cheers’ at. Drinks on the Gold Coast aren’t complete without at least one rooftop bar, often visited before settling into one of the best Gold Coast restaurants, and fortunately for you, there are plenty to choose from. Spanning casual breweries, the lush Hinterland, cosy laneways and high-end hotels, Gold Coast bars suit any and every occasion. Here, we sampled the best for your convenience.

1. Rosella’s, Burleigh Heads

Best for: A Fantales cocktail with a homemade homage

We’re calling it (but, admittedly, we’re not the first) — Rosella’s shakes Queensland’s best cocktails. You’ll spot the gang’s Australiana signage a mile away, all shades of rainbow pastel like a 90s Sportsgirl logo, with an illustrated rosella grinning its face off. It’s a tiny spot but roadside seating and bench seats at the open window facade spill the bar’s great vibes beyond its rich mahogany walls, bar and booths. The team are chilled but ready for a chat between maintaining the bar’s hum, but what you’re here for is the likes of their nationally acclaimed ‘Fantales’, inspired by the discontinued sweet. 75ml of a house-made rum with all the sweet notes, one large ice cube (Negroni-style) and droplets of caramelised butter, topped with a house-made chocolate that stirs instant nostalgia without all those pieces stuck in your gums. Insane, no matter how many you’ve ordered it, and the rest of the cocktail menu is equally genius.

Address: 1734 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

2. Sueño, Mermaid Beach

Best for: Sunset selfies

Transporting you to a Latin American vacay, Sueño offers a slice of rooftop heaven perched atop its joint restaurant venture, Norté. Follow the red spiral staircase up to high tables paired with striped caramel-cream statement chairs as views across the couple of blocks before Nobby Beach, and the water itself, flood in. Stroll through to the terrace, dotted with scattered palms, white umbrellas, punchy red seating and chequerboard tiles, for the money shot as there’s no better spot for al fresco sundowners. Pair cocktails with share plates that speak the theme’s language, including ceviche, guac, Queso with roasted garlic oil and lime, empanadas, skewers and our personal favourite, the “Choripan" grilled chorizo hot dog with salsa verde and lime pickled onions. More-is-more excellence, and that’s before the team comes around with an Instax camera to help you take the fun home with you.

Address: 2217 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

3. Familiar Spirits, Burleigh Heads

Best for: Girls’ nights

The bang-on limoncello and smooth gins they produce are coveted for their labels alone, but Familiar Spirits is a beautifully fitted-out cellar door made for girly get togethers. From the fresh flowers and statement jungle-printed wall behind the bar to the leafy, floral wallpaper opposite, every angle is a photo moment. Then there’s the delicately presented signature cocktails, embracing their spirits well, plus great wine and the internationally inspired share dishes including beef carpaccio with baby beetroot, rocket and parmesan, and burrata with Mexican chilli oil. It’s a scene and feels more grown-up than a lot of this neighbourhood’s late-night hot spots.

Address: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads

4. Bar Monte, Miami

Best for: Italian classics

It’s technically a restaurant, and you’ll be tempted to stay once you smell what’s cooking, but Australian Traveller loves Bar Monte for its laidback kerbside spritz-slurping in the ‘burbs of the Gold Coast. Around the corner from Paddock Bakery in the creative residential buzz of Miami, this Gold Coast bar slings a bunch of exceptional tipples, including refined margaritas, the obligatory Aperol spritz and like-minded spritz counterparts, and international wines.  

Address: No. 3 Mountain View Ave, Miami

5. Burly Bar, Currumbin

Best for: Date night

One of the sexiest, moodiest fit-outs on the Coast, Burly Bar is straight-up iconic, an intimate space filled with great gin cocktails (it’s run by the local artisanal Burly Gin team), New York lounge bar decor and electric vibes. It’s chic before you even enter, located within The Warehouses, a co-working space in chilled out Currumbin, but then they start pouring and it’s like you’re drinking a million miles away (it’s a bit Osaka-laneway-feeling, too actually). The cocktails are all-class, divided into Cucumber, Citrus and Berry varieties, before launching into classic concoctions, while shareable plates embrace fresh produce and native ingredients with creative punch, like the roast cauliflower with pickled grapes and the beef tartare with a saltbush cracker.  

Address: 60 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin

6. Moustache, Mermaid Beach

Best for: People watching

A laidback neighbourhood hang with always-filled seating right on the footpath on Mermaid’s main strip, Moustache is a great drop-in for killer vino and delicious, shareable snacks. Grab one of the tables outside if they’re free because it’ll plunge you into the bustle of this booming locale, and dive straight into their wine list which spans new-age drops, like the widely trendy orange and cool reds. Don’t miss their seasonal food menu, too, dripping in European influence including the mainstay house-made fluffy focaccia, best paired with stracciatella and olives.

Address: 3/2217 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

8. JuJu, Mermaid Beach

Best for: Getting your party started

We’ll get out of Mermaid soon, we promise, but no bar list can overlook rooftop crowd-magnet JuJu , a place for beautiful people to gather and sip on cocktails as the sun sets. The al fresco terrace is the scene-stealer, overlooking the Gold Coast Highway and spacious enough to fill big groups, but you’ll be equally taken by the mammoth cocktail list that caters to every craving. Spanning the ‘Naughty Sour’, mixing berry gin and citrus, and the ‘Twinkle Toes’, with amaretto and more citrus, to classics done with finesse and more than 10 unique spritzes, there’s no chance you’ll stop at one round.

Address: 2235 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

9. Paloma, Burleigh Heads

Best for: Enjoying the quieter side of Burleigh’s night life

Not far from its big sister, Restaurant Labart , Paloma Wine Bar is one of the Gold Coast’s most elegant watering holes. While many outings in Burleigh and her surrounds are neon-lit and saturated in high-vis vibrancy, Paloma is the sophisticated and subdued alt-bar. An elegantly curated menu and drinks list let you know you’re in for a lovely time. It’s walk-ins only, so the earlier the better.

Address: 1/12 James St, Burleigh Heads

10. Lars Bar & Grill, Mermaid Beach

Best for: Pre-dinner drinks

Another elevated Gold Coast restaurant we love treating like a good time bar, Lars spins serious magic across its cocktail list. The seating is minimal, just a few bar stools by the front window as the rest of the space is dedicated to dining, but that’s all gravy when the drinks are this good. Soft drapes and equally delicate lighting create luxe elegance before the hard stuff arrives. We highly recommend the Spatula if it’s still on the menu when you swoop in (the team love playing around with fresh ingredients), which shakes Beenleigh spiced rum, amaro, sugar syrup, bitters and one whole egg. It’s dangerously smooth with just enough sweet, and you’ll be dreaming about it long after you’ve slipped out (or, is that just us?).

Address: Shop 1, 2217 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

11. Hyde Paradiso, Surfers Paradise

Best for: Handcrafted cocktail menu

Perched above the crowds of Surfers Paradise, Hyde Paradiso is adorned with tropical foliage and neon lights. Gaze at the ocean beyond and soak in the endless summer vibes as you taste your way through the handcrafted cocktail menu and delicious Mediterranean-inspired plates.

Address: Level 2/8 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

12. Bruce, Currumbin

Best for: After-work drinks by the surf

Cafe by day, chilled wines by the waves by night, Bruce is a cheery neighbourhood local that not many out-of-towners know about. Get there on a Friday afternoon from 3pm for live music while the sun sinks, creating one of the most soothing after-work sessions on the coast (there’s also live music on Saturday). Classic cocktails are rolled out alongside a savvy wine list that’s always shifting depending on what the team’s discovering, and creative snacks — think lamb pancakes and charred red cabbage with smoked black tahini — plus hearty burgers and loaded chips will line your stomach in style.

Address: Shop 1/794 Pacific Pde, Currumbin

13. Aviary Rooftop Bar, Southport

Best for: Cocktails and spectacular views

Sitting on top of the Mantra at Sharks hotel, Aviary Rooftop Bar features a contemporary coastal design with a playful edge. Sip on cocktails and share tapas-style dishes while taking in the sweeping views of the iconic Surfers Paradise skyline in one direction and the Gold Coast Hinterland in the other. Bliss.

Address: Corner Olsen and Musgrave Ave, Southport

14. Garden Kitchen & Bar, Broadbeach

Best for: Events and celebrations

Whether you’re catching up with friends on the lounges, celebrating out on the deck, or relaxing on the lawn with live entertainment, Garden Kitchen & Bar offers all kinds of indoor and outdoor spaces so you can pick your own vibe.

Address: Casino Level, The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach

15. Mr. PP’s Rooftop and Laneway, Southport

Best for: Cosy laneway vibes with live music

Check out the wide array of gins and beautifully crafted cocktail jugs alongside live music in the laneway at Mr. PP’s . Order a cheese board or their famous truffle fries on the side or go all in and grab a delicious pizza.

Address: 43 Nerang St, Southport

15. The Island Rooftop, Surfers Paradise

Best for: A fun atmosphere

Located in the heart of Surfers Paradise with views overlooking the CBD and the famous Main Beach coastline, The Island Rooftop is the Gold Coast’s largest open-air rooftop bar with an electric atmosphere and plenty of entertainment. Enjoy a refreshing spritz under a sunny sky here.

Address: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

16.  The Exhibitionist Bar, Surfers Paradise

Best for: Champagne with views

Sitting high on the HOTA Gallery rooftop is The Exhibitionist Bar for when you’re in need of a specialty cocktail, a glass of champagne or a delicious bite to eat. Take in the views across the Coast to the hinterland before catching the elevator back downstairs to check out multi-level artistic genius.

Address: Level 5, HOTA, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise

17. Soho House Bar, Broadbeach

Best for: Pre-dinner happy hour

With entry via a red British telephone box door, you know you’re in for a treat when you pop in for a drink at Soho House Bar . Famous for being the Gold Coast’s first small bar, you won’t find food here, but you can order fine spirits and creative cocktails.

Address: 4/2713 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

18. Nineteen at the Star, Broadbeach

Best for: A taste of luxury

For a slice of sophistication and cool coastal flair, head to Nineteen at the Star , a sun-drenched lounge bar at The Star Gold Coast. Sip on a martini or Old Fashion, or head along for Spritz Saturdays between 4pm–7pm on the terrace. Book yourself a VIP booth and dress to impress.

Address:  Level 19, The Darling at The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach

19. The Cambus Wallace, Mermaid Beach

Best for: Rum and whisky

Specialising in fine liquors, classic cocktails, and the finest aged spirits from around the world, The Cambus Wallace is a fun, nautical-themed bar with wall murals, drop lights and an extensive grog menu. Grab a bite and sit back to enjoy a laugh over a tall tale or two with live music every night.

Address: 4/2237 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

20. Grandad Jack’s, Miami

Best for: Award-winning gin

Enjoy an intimate afternoon sitting and sipping with friends enjoying award-winning spirits and liqueurs or well-crafted beers at the family-owned Grandad Jack’s . For the whole shebang, opt for the tour, which begins with a cocktail on arrival, followed by a wander behind the stills and tastings of Grandad Jack’s gins and spirits, all as you hear tales of the man himself.

Address: 45 Lemana Ln, Miami

21. Burleigh Pavilion, Burleigh Heads

Best for: Ocean-side views

For the ultimate bar by the ocean extravaganza, you can’t go past Burleigh Pavilion serving freshly finessed drinks and breezy beachside cool. From the Oh La La cocktail shaken with strawberry liqueur and pineapple juice, to jugs of lychee rosé and homemade lemonade mocktails, it’s a real ‘pinch me, I’m on the Gold Coast’ moment here.

Address: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

22. Lockwood, Burleigh Heads

Best for: Secret bar brags

Ever had to text a bar to be let in? That’s exactly what you’ll need to do at Lockwood , but that’s what makes a visit here all the more exciting. Once you’ve found this secret bar, you’ll be greeted by well-dressed bartenders asking for your drink of choice. Sit back, melt into the ambience and enjoy.

Address: 7B Justin Ln, Burleigh Heads

23. Justin Lane, Burleigh Heads

Best for: Casual rooftop drinks

If you’re chasing a casual, chilled space with white umbrellas, festoon lighting, and misting to keep you cool in summer, you’ll find it at Justin Lane ’s rooftop. With views out to the world-famous Burleigh Point, booth seating, and plenty of room to dance, check out this perfect unicorn for yourself.

Address: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

24. Destino Wine Bar, Hope Island

Best for: European wines and Spanish tapas

Located in the Marine Village of Sanctuary Cove, Destino Wine Bar will transport you to the Mediterranean with its world-class service, design and atmosphere. Feel Euro summer vibes with an Ibiza Spritz and halloumi, anchovies and Jamón Serrano plates.

Address: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island

25. Balter Taproom, Currumbin Waters

Best for: Weekend sessions

Nothing says Gold Coast more than a brewery set up by some of the world’s top surfers (local Mick Fanning was one of them), which is exactly what you’ll find at Balter Brewing Company’s Taproom . Combining good beer with good times, there’s a rotating roster of fresh, limited-release beers that are best paired with a bite from the food trucks sitting outside and live music. It’s the place to be on lazy, sun-drenched afternoons.

Address: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin

26. Kirra Beach House, Coolangatta

Best for: Ocean-gazing and people-watching

It’s all eyes on the shimmering aquamarine horizon at the sleek rooftop of Kirra Beach House . Choose your own adventure here by taking over a pool club-style cabana, grabbing a spot on the Sunset Terrace, sliding into a teal-hued both in the restaurant, or watching it all happen from the terrazzo-topped bar at Preston’s.

Doing an excellent job of wrestling your attention back from the ocean is a cocktail menu that roams from classics, such as a negroni, to the quirkier Weis Bar Daiquiri boozy slushie. A well-rounded and refined menu of Italian-leaning plates keeps everything elevated.

If you’re after something more casual, pop downstairs to the Kirra Beach Hotel for some trad pub energy.

Address: 4 Marine Pde, Coolangatta

27. Apres Surf Kitchen and Bar, Burleigh

Best for: Well, after the surf

If you’ve worked up an appetite and accompanying thirst at the beach, Apres Surf is your go-to. This is a come-as-you-are establishment, where flip flops, salty hair and bikini tops are perfectly acceptable attire. From the red-and-white checked tablecloths to the fish decor adorning the walls, and the obvious homage to ’70s Australiana surf culture, this is where to come for some good old fashion neighbourhood fun. The DJ is on the job every Friday and Saturday night and doors open all week except Thursday from 5pm.

Address: Shop 1, 1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh

28. Hard Fizz Taproom, Burleigh Heads

Best for: Fizzy fun

Get fizzy with it from Thursday to Sunday at this effervescent locale . You’ll find the usually canned Hard Fizz alcoholic seltzers on tap here, where you can spend an enjoyable few hours catching up and snacking on the booze-appropriate menu.

Bring your kid, bring your dog and toe-tap while you sip at this all-comers-welcome venue.

Address: 16 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads

29. Southport Pavilion, Southport

Best for: Absolute waterfront revelry

You can’t get much more waterside without getting wet than at this northern GC bar. Take your place under one of the bright umbrellas at Southport Pavilion and order yourself a seafood platter to kick off a session of sundowners. The drinks are cold and the vibes are lit as the night gets underway here.

Address: 2 Barney St, Southport

29. The Malibu Racquet Club, Burleigh

Best for: Dressing in your best lounge set

It’s game, set and match at this ultra-sleek venue that leans all the way into the luxe tennis club motif. Through the door you’ll find a minimal colour palette that calls to mind grass courts and starched whites, and a mod-Med aesthetic. Grab your visor and prepare for a serve of well-rounded cocktails, such as the chilli coconut margarita, Malibu negroni and a concise curation of very nice wines.

Address: 1740 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh

30. Las Palmas Bar & Restaurant, Palm Beach

Best for: Bottomless brunch and happy hour

Fast becoming one of So-Go’s (that’s south Gold Coast) hippest urban locales, Palm Beach is freshening up with breezy bars such as Las Palmas . Saltwater-infused air blows into this chic open-to-the-ocean establishment and keeps everything cool.

As do the delicious margaritas. If it’s between 4–6pm between Thursday and Sunday, or 9–10pm on Friday and Saturday, you’ll want to head along for $2 oysters and drinks specials.

Address: 1097 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

31. Suga, Palm Beach

Best for: Late nightcaps

Being ocean-oriented, the Gold Coast deserves its own dedicated rum bar. And now it has one in the form of Suga , a speakeasy-style, plantation-esque bar that drills down into the sweet and strong flavour of the sailor’s spirit. Of course, there’s more to offer than rum if you’re not into spirits. Yours will be lifted, though, when the disco balls get going and the beats carry on into the early hours from Thursday to Sunday.

Address: 1142 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

33. Lulu, Surfers Paradise

Best for: Heeled hens and groups of friends

Ascend to the second level for a GC-meets-Miami mash-up that’s bold with Art Deco style and modern design elements. Lulu is here for all times, be it a boozy brunch, a late-night letting of the hair down, or romantic sundowners. Expect a menu of dialled-up flavours and a cocktail list to follow suit.

Address: Level 2, 4 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Originally written by Lara Picone with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

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