Close out 2025 with a BANG this NYE!
Close out 2025 with a BANG this NYE!
New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and let us tell you, the Gold Coast is not here to play. In other words, we’re in for a NYE to remember (hopefully…). We’ve survived yet another 365 days- we deserve to celebrate! From sips with sky-high views to lux dinners and burning dance floors, GC is serving celebration on every level this year.
However you want to send off 2025, we’ve rounded up the very best ways to shimmy your way into 2026. Let’s get into it…
Prepare for an evening of curiosity, and where cocktails whisper “drink me”. Why? QT’s Stingray Lounge is serving Wonderland with a Mad Hatter’s NYE Party! Think roaming costumed performers, tea party–themed canapés, a huge 5.5-hour drinks package, a resident DJ, and immersive, chaotic-fabulous photo moments at every turn. Doors open at 7pm, the drinks flow until 12:30am, and the party continues through to 2am. Book here.
Curiosity encouraged. Madness required (yes, madness is the dress code).
Where: Stingray Lounge, QT Gold Coast, Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Price: Final Release $189pp + bf or $90pp + bf for entry and canapes only
Take your NYE celebrations sky-high at SkyPoint, 230 metres above the Gold Coast. From the moment you step into Level 77, the ‘Fiesta Pass’ sets the tone with four hours of Mexican-inspired eats from a live taco station, a five-hour premium beverage package, a cocktail on arrival and access to the Altos Cocktail Bar for tequila-fuelled fun.
Want to go next-level? The ‘Guacamole Grande Booth’ gives your group a private booth, table service, a Mexican feast delivered to your table, a bottle of Moët & Chandon on arrival, cocktails for each guest, and optional spirit upgrades- all with unrivalled views of the city and fireworks. Sip, snack, sway, and celebrate 2026 in style with unbeatable vibes from the sky. Book here.
Where: SkyPoint Observation Deck, Level 77, Q1, Surfers Paradise
Prices: Fiesta Pass $229pp, Guacamole Grande Booth from $375pp
Set sail into 2026 in all-white everything aboard the YOT Club for their iconic NYE White Party. From 8pm to 12:30am, you’ll cruise the Gold Coast waterways with premium roaming canapés, free-flowing drinks and live entertainment, setting the pace for the night. Depending on your vibe (and your budget), you can go for General Admission on either the Upper Deck or Ocean Deck, both offering a four-hour cruise, firework views and a generous drink and canape package. If you’re ready to level up, the VIP Booth options take things up a notch with reserved seating, Moët on ice, Grey Goose, grazing platters and bottle service for your whole crew. Whichever way you board, you’re landing the best floating fireworks vantage point on the Coast. Book here.
Where: YOT Club, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Price: From $310.45pp
If you’re chasing electric energy, iconic Turner belters and the kind of dance floor action that’ll have your feet filing for workers’ comp, Tina: The Ultimate Tribute is your NYE spiritual home. Hitting The Star on 30th and 31st December, this glitter-soaked tribute serves up her biggest hits from the ’60s to the ’90s, complete with powerhouse vocals, big-band vibes and costumes shinier than your NYE resolutions. Roll into Broadbeach (preferably in something Tina-worthy) and prepare to be dancing from the first key all the way to midnight. Book here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Price: From $59.90pp
If you’re after an elegant, resort-style NYE, Sanctuary Cove is serving a triple treat of celebrations. Start your night with a sumptuous Seafood Buffet Dinner at Cove Café, or take your evening a step further with a six-course Degustation Dinner at The Fireplace- a wood-fired, grown-ups-only affair that screams sophistication.
Then from 6pm, Lagoon Beach transforms into a balmy coastal celebration complete with a DJ, a spectacular 9pm jetpack show, and of course, midnight fireworks over the water. A dreamy way to welcome the new year. Book here.
Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island
Prices: Seafood Buffet Dinner $229pp, Fireplace Degustation Dinner $309pp
For those who love their celebrations with a little artistic flair, The Exhibitionist Bar is bringing its signature rooftop glamour to NYE. Enjoy a night of delicious canapés (think lobster skewers, chilli corn ribs, halloumi bites and caviar bumps on arrival), a 4-hour premium beverage package, and a DJ to help you dance the year away on the viewing deck.
If you’re feeling EXTRA, book a VIP Booth in their luxury lounge on level 5. Includes all the above, plus your own cheese and charcuterie grazing table and champagne upgrade. Sip, snack, and soak up the city lights before the midnight fireworks burst across the skyline- for you to enjoy from one of the Coast’s chicest vantage points. Book here.
Where: The Exhibitionist Bar, HOTA, Surfers Paradise
Prices: Cocktail Event: $210pp, VIP Booth: $2,100 (6 people max)
The Island is going big (as always), with three massive ways to party your way into 2026. First up, there’s ‘Laneway Lights’, giving you access to three bars- The Glasshouse, The Pool Deck & Lounge and Goldie’s with resident DJs. Prefer to celebrate under the stars at the Gold Coast’s favourite open-air rooftop bar? Say less, ‘The Island Rooftop’ ticket gives you live entertainment all night long plus 4.5-hour food and drinks package featuring premium drinks and gourmet canapés.
Finally, the ‘Island Penthouse’ ticket is as boujee as it sounds, giving you access across the entire Penthouse on level 12 with stunning views over Surfers Paradise and live entertainment by Mitchell in the Middle. Expect a 4.5 hour VIP experience, including premium gourmet canapés and super-premium drinks including espresso martinis, margaritas and Mumm Prestige (just to name a few). Book here.
Where: The Island Gold Coast, 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Prices: The Island Rooftop $189pp + bf, The Island Penthouse $229 + bf, Laneway Lights Party first release tickets from $30pp + bf, Access all areas $299pp + bf.
If your dream NYE involves mood lighting, next-level flavours and a countdown that feels like a scene from a very chic, very delicious movie, YORU is calling your name. On 31st December, this lantern-lit Nobby Beach favourite is serving an immersive Japanese Korean dining experience with a curated set menu featuring the likes of kingfish carpaccio, charcoal grilled wagyu, mixed sashimi, aburi tacos and matcha ice cream. Guests can choose from three shared menus including Hikari, Yūgen or Kurayami, plus optional wine pairings if you’re feeling a little extra (it is New Year’s Eve after all). With low lights, warm music and that signature YORU vibe, it is the perfect pick for couples, small groups or anyone craving a stylish send off to 2025. Bookings are essential and seats are limited, so secure your spot before it’s gone. Book here.
Where: Shop 1B 2249 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Price: NYE Set Menu $95pp, optional wine pairing $49pp
Ring in 2026 without ringing out your bank account thanks to a trio of free, family-friendly NYE celebrations across Varsity, Miami and Robina. Varsity Lakes kicks things off with New Year’s Eve by the Lake, a chilled waterfront soirée from 5.30pm on 31 December featuring live music, food trucks, kids’ entertainment and an 8.30pm fireworks finale over Lake Orr. Down by the beach, Miami Twilight NYE at Thorn Park brings DJ beats, bubble fun, train rides and coastal fireworks from 4pm to 8pm. And over at Robina Town Centre, The Promenade transforms into a Glitter & Glow party zone with carnival rides, face painting, live tunes and plenty of eats, all wrapping up with an 8pm fireworks display. Three suburbs, three parties, zero excuses to stay home.
If a classic beachside fireworks moment is more your style, the City of Gold Coast has you sorted with family-friendly 8pm shows followed by the big midnight spectacle. Snag your seat at Broadbeach, Coomera, Surfers Paradise or Coolangatta. Pack a picnic, gather your favourite people and watch the sky light up along the coastline. Whether you’re chasing sparkling skies or gathering for a community celebration, it’s a firework-filled farewell across the Gold Coast that you won’t want to miss!
Where: Fireworks: Kurrawa Beachfront, Broadbeach – 8pm & midnight, Kirra, Coolangatta – 9pm & midnight, Surfers Paradise Beach – 8pm & midnight. Community Celebration: Coomera Sports Park, Coomera – 6pm to 8pm.
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Unwrap joy with a feast fit for Santa himself.
Christmas on the Gold Coast is creeping up on us at alarming speed, and if you’re anything like us, the thought of tackling a big festive feast after a morning of opening presents and popping bubbly sounds downright exhausting.
Luckily, there are plenty of local spots ready to handle the heavy lifting for you. Hang up the apron, ditch the dishes, and let the pros serve up a day of delicious indulgence with no cleanup required. Here’s your guide (north to south) to the best Christmas Day feasts on the Gold Coast. Word to the three wise men – these tickets are flying faster than Santa’s sleigh, so grab yours before they’re gone!
A tried and tested festive contender for your consideration – round up your kin and revel in the Chrissy Day array at RACV Royal Pines, for an indulgent spread hosted within the impeccable surrounds of the Royal Benowa Ballroom.
Kicking off from 12:00 pm, this year’s proceedings include a 3-hour beverage package along with all the traditional festive fare – delight in fresh Australian seafood, carved meats, and a selection of hot dishes, salads and desserts. Tickets start from $51 for children aged 2-4 (ages 0-2 free) up to $328.45 per adult. Click here for all the details.
Where: Ross St, Benowa
SOLD OUT
Families looking to converge for some magical (and mouthwatering) Christmas mems, look no further than the luxe QT Ballroom.
Bubbles pouring, spirits soaring, this year’s feast is pure festive indulgence. Start with a Christmas cocktail on arrival, then dive into a glittering seafood spread of Crystal Bay prawns, Moreton Bay bugs, oysters, crab and more. Follow with the classics – roast turkey, smoked leg ham and Cape Grim sirloin – before finishing with brandy pudding, 24-month soaked mince pies and a flowing chocolate fountain.
Three hours of free-flowing drinks, live music, entertainment, gingerbread decorating and even a visit from Santa keep the merriment in full swing.
Tickets from $89pp for kids up to $320 for adults + BF. Get all the details here.
Where: QT Gold Coast Ballroom, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
We need not spend days toiling away in the kitchen, offload the preparations (read: stress) and let the voco pros handle your Chrissy day proceedings. Indulge in a banquet of iconic Christmas Day fare, such as fresh seafood, summer salads, succulent roast carvery, a variety of hot and cold dishes – complete with a mouthwatering dessert bar and a three-hour beverage package for your feasting pleasure. Plus, face painting and a sneaky cameo from the big man in red, for some extra special Christmas magic for the kiddos.
This little Chrissy extravaganza will set you back $299 per person, with children from $89 (ages 0-4 free). and simultaneously deliver max satisfaction and zero stress in the process. Get all the details here.
Where: 31 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Assemble your nearest and dearest for a delicious ripper of a Christmas celebration at the Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach. This year, the Grand Ballroom is serving up a feast to remember – ocean-fresh seafood, pistachio-stuffed turkey, slow-roasted pork, a Parmesan wheel pasta station, and decadent desserts to finish.
Kick things off with a sparkling welcome drink, then enjoy three hours of premium wines, champagne and Byron Bay Lager, all while live music and festive fun keep the mood merry.
These tickets are limited so jump on now and book and then all you have to do come Christmas is sit back, relax and let lunch be served. Go here for all the delicious details.
Where: 81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Words by Belinda Symons
Kirra Beach House is a whole new era for Kirra.
It’s a whole new era for Kirra – as the hotly anticipated Kirra Beach House, slinks into town bringing chic sips, cabana chills and rooftop revelling to the formerly not-much-happenining Marine Parade precinct, and totally transforming the southern social scene as we know it.
And let’s all just try to maintain an orderly fashion here.. thankfully, there’s plenty here to go round.
Like, 1200 whole sqm of it – the mammoth, terrace-studded stunner is fully prepared for the inevitable inundation as we all clamour to get a glimpse of the dreamy new venue, equipped with multiple indoor and alfresco areas, wine and cocktail bars (three, to be exact!) and high-end event spaces.
The kitchen, meanwhile, brings the likes of raw and cooked seafood platters, succulent steaks and signature burgers to Kirra’s picturesque beachfront – slinging perfectly crisped pizzas out of the Marina Forni pizza oven daily.
And did we mention the uninterrupted ocean views from every angle?
The new standard for a spectacular summer has well and truly been set here, guys.
Our jaws may be on the floor, but we’re not at all surprised – after all, the new concept was pioneered by local hospo trailblazer, Dave Galvin, an undertaking a mere four years in the making.
The SITE Hospitality owner/operator has been working tirelessly to deliver us not one, but two bar-raising venues this year alone – already blessing us with Broadbeach show-stopper, kost a few months back (and before that Mozza Mozza, Bird Royale and Crafty’s Sports Bar).
Somebody stop him (but don’t, actually, keep ’em coming Dave).
And frankly, we just have one question.. when doth the man sleep?
When it comes to new venues, often the phrase ‘game changing’ often gets bandied about rather liberally (guilty) – but Kirra Beach House is truly unlike anything we’ve seen this far south, the breathtaking venue putting the seaside village on the map as a destination for elevated dining and drinking.
And we do mean elevated in all senses of the word – the new venue sits atop it’s more casual counterpart, the newly unveiled and fresh-faced Kirra Beach Hotel one level below.
The new additions signify a whole new chapter for the suburb’s seaside promenade that comes courtesy of the KTQ Group’s multi-stage Kirra Point Project.
“The venue will have a beach club atmosphere about it, with great music, mesmerising panoramic views of Kirra, Mediterranean-style food using the incredible local produce we have on our doorstep, a world-class drinks list and, of course, great service” says Dave.
And really, did anyone expect anything less?
The kitchen of Kirra’s darling new destination is led by head chef Drew Wilson, curating a Mediterranean-style grazing menu that is both flavour-packed and true to the laidback, coastal location.
It features a contemporary mix of dishes such as Kingfish crudo with citrus vinaigrette, chive oil and floral salt… or perhaps the summery ‘burrata with yellow peach, aged balsamic and smoked salt’ to woo the cheese fans.
Bars Manager, Kaden Pool invites us to ‘dive in’ to a delectable menu of resort-style cocktails, the type that scratch that nostalgia itch in all the right places.
Such as ‘Bahamas’ Champagne Piña coladas and ‘Cancun’ spicy watermelon margaritas, made for summer sunsets and crafted to make you feel like you’re on holiday…
Wait, we’re pretty sure we might be. Or dreaming. Who could say for sure. We might need to get around a few spicy melon margs to determine, first.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
When: Sunday to Thursday 11am–late, Friday & Saturday: 11am–1am
Words by Kellie Leader.
