The Sporting Globe Surfers is your go-to for finals, feasts and functions.
The Sporting Globe Surfers is your go-to for finals, feasts and functions.
If your idea of a winning weekend involves frosty pints, stacked plates, and enough screens to make your lounge room telly feel inadequate, allow us to introduce your new MVP: The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines Surfers Paradise. Smack-bang on the corner of Cavill Ave and Surfers Paradise Boulevard, this mega sports bar isn’t just big on screens, it’s big on vibes, brews, and bites too.
First things first: the screens. Sixty-plus of them, to be exact. Yep, you could literally blink, sneeze, wander to the bar, and still not miss the action. Goals, tries, dunks, home runs, it’s all covered. And for those who like their sport extra interactive, the private booths come with their own Booth TV (think channel-hopping, web browsing, and even gaming while you wait for your next round). Honestly, the only thing missing is a ref’s whistle.
Speaking of rounds, let’s talk brews. The central bar is pouring cold pints like it’s going out of fashion, and the 4 Pines crew are brewing fresh beer right downstairs. Yes, you read that right, your schooner may have been born mere metres from where you’re sipping it. Pale Ale, anyone? If cocktails are more your lane, the espresso martini here is tipped to be a fan favourite (and will keep you cheering long after extra time).
Of course, all that cheering burns calories, cue the food menu. Think pub classics turned crowd-pleasers: the MVP Parma, saucy loaded wings, juicy stacked burgers, and fries that never stand a chance. Dessert fiends, we see you too, brownies, churros and sticky date pudding are waiting in the wings. Can’t choose? Do yourself a favour and order The Trifecta (because sometimes, choosing is overrated).
Now, let’s chat functions, because The Sporting Globe doesn’t just do casual pints and parmas, it does parties. With space for up to 1,000 people, a private function room, and a balcony made for post-beach sipping, it’s the Gold Coast’s answer to festive season fun. Whether it’s the annual Chrissy do with the work fam or a 300-strong corporate shindig, the combo of screens + brews + bites = guaranteed good times. Forget stuffy dining rooms, this is sport-meets-sparkle.
But wait, there’s more. Beyond the beers and burgers, The Sporting Globe is also kicking community goals. Over the past decade, the brand has donated more than $1 million to local Aussie sports clubs. Proof that their commitment to grassroots sport is as strong as their pint game.
So whether you’re rallying the crew for the footy finals, planning a Christmas knees-up, or just chasing that unbeatable trifecta of sport, beer, and sunshine, The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines Surfers is the spot. Open from 10am until late every single day, they’ve always got a cold one and a front-row view waiting for you.
Where: Cnr Cavill Avenue &, Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
When: 10am-late daily
Website: sportingglobe.com.au
Instagram: @sportingglobe
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
STORY SPONSORED BY THE SPORTING GLOBE X 4 PINES
Your go-to guide for all the footy final fanfare!
No matter if you’re team AFL or NRL, for the footy fanatics among us, the pointy end of the season also means it’s time to prepare ourselves to bid a bittersweet adieu to our beloved code yet again.
Whether you’re an AFL fan chomping at the bit for the sound of that sweet siren at 2.30pm on Saturday 27th September, or a League fanatic counting down till Sunday 5th October, the GC has you sorted. Clear the calendar and gather the buds for double the fun, nail-biting action and… hangover, lbh.
Go ale out to say farewell (or good riddance, depending on your footy fanatic status) to another glorious footy szn in style. Here are 12 local haunts getting into the game day spirit, so you don’t have to worry about your crew drinking your fridge dry.
Our fave recreation destination does this stuff with their eyes closed. Catch every bounce, tackle, try and goal on the on the mega screens from the electric atmosphere of the Sports Bar, or for some unbeatable alfresco-ish vibes, in The Marquee at Garden Kitchen & Bar. Oh, and it would also be a #rookieerror to not tackle one of those delish footy burg specials while you’re at it.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
We’re not sure how we got so lucky with the calibre of mighty fine pubs, clubs and establishments us Gold Coasters get to frequent, but here’s another Grand Final worthy watering hole. Restoring the Glitter Strip’s favourite street corner to its former, brews and chews slinging glory, The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines venture is a state-of-the-art new venue complete with mixology from the city’s largest circular island bar, fancy pants wrap-around digital screens and an on-site microbrewery. Count us in!
Where: Cnr Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Southern folk flock to Currumbin RSL in droves for footy final weekends, and 2025 will be no exception. Grab your mates and get creekside to catch all the action of both finals clashes, live and loud on their colossal plasma screens.
Where: 165 Duringan Street, Currumbin
Fun fact: The Sports Bar at The Club has over 40 (that’s 4-0) HD TVs, which this is bound to speak to any sports fan…and a particularly pertinent tidbit to bear in mind when GF weekend rolls around.
Where: 76-122 Napper Road, Parkwood
No doubt this sprawling spot will be a popular choice come game day, boasting a massive wrap-around TV and a multitude of screens to scream at. And of course more ice-cold bevvy’s on tap than you’d need to fuel a Mad Monday sesh.
Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads
No matter your preferred code (and no shade if that’s NRL, we’re all allowed to be wrong sometimes), the beloved Southport Sharks is welcoming the whole fam to get in on the finals festivities. The big game(s) will be broadcast live on the Mackenzie’s Beer Garden goliath big screen, plus the slew of tactically placed big screens throughout the club… so you couldn’t miss a minute even if you try. Enjoy food and drinks specials all afternoon including footy feast platters.
Where: Corner of Musgrave and Olsen Avenue, Southport
Footy finals, refreshments a-plenty, and darn good footy grub await at Harbour Town’s epic sports bar, Crafty’s. This place has become quite the icon on the northern GC, and is the perfect spot to perch up and catch all the edge of your seat AFL and NRL Grand Final action. If you happen to have the ankle biters in tow, no worries because kids and cool folk unite at this crowd fave.
Where: Harbour Town Premium Outlets, Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters
If you can’t make it to the actual finals, don’t fret as Burleigh Bears Leagues Club is known as the ultimate destination for every sporting event #TrueStory. Whether you catch the games in the Lounge or Sports Bar, sit back, relax and pair the good times with a couple of cold ones. With friendly staff at every turn, you can see why this one is a finals venue of choice.
Where: 80 Pacific Avenue, Miami
Are you ready to watch the finals Cooly Hotel style (translation; with the trifecta of vibes, authentic footy eats and of course, booze)? Opting to cheer on our team at the Southern GC’s go-to entertainment HQ is akin to leaving a sideline conversion in JT’s hands aka, a sure thing.
Where: The Strand, Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Finals footy, beanbags, and beachfront vibes? Sign us up. The People’s Esplanade Pop-Up in Surfers Paradise is screening the big games live and loud on the giant screen, so you can cheer on your team with sand between your toes (and maybe a hot chip in hand). Park yourself in Joytopia, sink into a beanbag, and settle in for the Grand Final action. This epic new pop-up space is all about community connection, live entertainment, art, sport and chill zones.
Where: People’s Esplanade Pop-Up, The Esplanade (between Hanlan Street and Soul roundabout), Surfers Paradise
Boasting over 50 screens, we challenge you to miss a moment of the action #MissionImpossible. Full menu is available including their signature wings, burgers, parmas, ribs & share platters!
Where: The Promenade, Robina Town Centre, Robina
Avoid your digs undergoing a Mojo Dojo Casa House transformation this GF weekend, and divert the crew to an electric atmosphere made for tackling that fever pitch finale energy. The spruce-up Robina Pav was treated to a few years back make this destination and its myriad of pozzy’s at which to perch, a delight for begrudging tag-alongs and those set to have their eyes glued for every second of the action.
Where: 229 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina
Words by Kellie Leader and Belinda Symons
Where sports fanatics unite!
Picture this: the game’s on, your crew’s assembled, the beer is icy cold, and the only thing louder than the crowd is your mate who suddenly thinks he’s the coach. Anything less than this elite setup? Unacceptable. But finding the ultimate spot to soak up the action – one with massive screens, solid feeds, and an atmosphere that screams game on – isn’t always an easy feat.
Luckily, we’ve done the legwork (no pre-game warm-ups required) and rounded up the best sports bars on the Gold Coast. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a casual observer, or just here for the snacks, these Gold Coast sports bars (listed north to south for your convenience) have you covered. Now, go forth and cheer responsibly – or, you know, as loudly as possible.
Hope Island Tavern
This coastal-cool tavern has had a massive glow-up, and sports fans, you’re going to love this one. The brand-new sports bar is stacked with mega screens, TAB access, and an ice-cold beer lineup that’ll keep your thirst quenched from the first whistle to the final siren.
Not just a sports haven, this revamped spot also brings next-level pub bites (hello, Prawn & Bug Rolls and Salsiccia Pizza) and a lush beer garden perfect for pre-game pints or post-match celebrations. Add in a pool table, air hockey, and weekly entertainment, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate sports, sips, and good vibes HQ.
Where: 93 Broadwater Ave, Hope Island
Crafty’s Sports Bar
Shopping and sports? An unexpected MVP combo. Smack bang in Harbour Town, Crafty’s lets you mix and match – stock up on the essentials, then settle in for some top-tier craft beers and next-level eats while you catch the action. Or, better yet, let your partner hit the stores while you lock in for the game. Win-win.
Where: Harbour Town Eats – 147/189 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters
Ashmore Tavern
If you haven’t checked out Ashmore Tavern’s $5 million glow-up, now’s the time. With a revamped sports bar (hello, sleek screens and balcony views), daily live sports, and a lineup of delicious eats, this place is serving up the action in serious style.
Where: 161 Cotlew Street, Ashmore
The Cavill Hotel
When it comes to bigger is better, The Cavill delivers – literally. With one of the biggest screens in Surfers, this is the place to park up, grab a drink, and catch every second of the action in all its larger-than-life glory. Bonus points for booking a table so you can cheer on your team in style.
Where: 46 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines
This place is a game-changer – literally. Sitting pretty on the most iconic corner in Surfers, The Sporting Globe x 4 Pines is a state-of-the-art sports mecca, boasting wrap-around digital screens, a killer menu, and an on-site microbrewery. Oh, and the city’s largest circular island bar, so you’ll never be more than a few steps away from your next cold one. Game on.
Where: Cnr Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
Broadbeach Tavern
Broadbeach Tavern is a coastal icon and your go-to for catching all the live sports action. Whether you’re watching the footy, cricket, or the latest game, the Sports Bar has you covered with huge screens showing every play, goal, and try. Catch all the sports action on the big screens or relax on the spacious deck with a drink in hand, enjoying the sunshine and ocean breeze.
Where: The Oasis, Old Burleigh Rd, Broadbeach
The Beach Hotel Broadbeach
Fat Freddy’s may be gone, but what has replaced it? A revamped, reimagined, and ridiculously good sports bar that blends beachy vibes with big screens. The Beach Hotel Broadbeach has more screens than ever, so you won’t miss a second of the action. With wall-to-wall TVs in the Public Bar, a breezy Beer Garden, and a menu that’s part pub grub, part chef-hatted magic, this spot delivers top-tier viewing, top-tier bites, and top-tier vibes. Game on.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
The Star Sports Bar
If sports bars had a podium, this one would be standing front and centre, medal gleaming. With 23 massive screens, private booths (yes, you can pre-book them like a VIP), and a huge 10.5-metre mega-screen, The Star Sports Bar is where legends are made – on and off the field. Add in the iciest beers and a smorgasbord of top-notch food options, and you’ve got yourself a championship-level experience.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Main Gaming Floor, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill
When it comes to knowing what sports fans want, The Sporting Globe has it down to a fine art – and a nationwide lineup of venues to prove it. Expect wall-to-wall screens, daily food specials, and an electric atmosphere that rivals the final seconds of a tied game. Heading to a Gold Coast Titans match at Cbus Stadium? These legends will shuttle you there and back, so you can focus on celebrating (or commiserating) properly. Now that’s a game plan we can get behind.
Where: The Promenade, Robina Town Centre, Robina
Burleigh Bears Leagues Club
Can’t make it to the big game in person? No worries! Burleigh Bears Leagues Club is your ultimate sports haven on the Gold Coast. Whether you’re in the Lounge or the Sports Bar, this place has it all – big screens, a relaxed atmosphere, and the best spot to catch every moment of the game. With cold beers flowing and friendly staff making sure you’re looked after, it’s no surprise that this spot is a top pick for sports fans.
Where: 80 Pacific Avenue, Miami
Burleigh Town Hotel
Burleigh Town Hotel isn’t just playing the game – it’s winning it. Home to an 11-metre mega-screen (the biggest pub screen in the southern hemisphere, no less), this place is an absolute showstopper. Add in a suspended cylinder screen so you can see the action from every angle, plus a sleek new bistro for pre-game feasting, and you’ve got yourself a spectator’s paradise.
Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads
Coolangatta Hotel
On the southern end of the Coast, The Coolangatta Hotel is the prime location to catch any sporting activities and be assured of a buoyant and passionate atmosphere. Pair it with a splash and lounge on one of Coolangatta’s famous golden beaches, and then be sure to stick around for the post-game live music, and you are onto a hole in one.
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Words by Belinda Symons
The original icon of the Gold Coast.
Once upon a time we left holidaymakers to their own devices in arguably the GC’s most famous beachside suburb, but off the beaten path – well to be fair, some are still very much on it – locals have been keeping these gems all to themselves for a little too long if you ask us. That’s right, Surfers Paradise is more than a postcard-perfect destination, it’s a lifestyle locals love to embrace, because why should we leave all the fun to the tourists! So now we’re here to spill the beans on all the reasons locals can’t get enough of Surfers Paradise.
For all-in-one spots
Surfers Paradise does convenience like a pro with destinations where you can shop, eat, and play all in one spot. Paradise Centre is a beachside fave with a mix of fashion, food, and fun, right at your fingertips in the heart of Cavill Mall. Just a short stroll away you’ll find Soul Boardwalk where laidback vibes met beachside dining and retail therapy aplenty – because what better way to get the food digesting than with a shopping moment.
If an urban escape is more up your alley then pop on over to Chevron Renaissance for all your boutique shopping needs, whether it’s a bite to eat, to grab groceries for the week, a new fit for that special event or a pedicure pamper moment your wish is their command. The two hour free parking is also a big drawcard!
All-you-can eats
If you’re in the market for a buffet that’ll bowl you over then you’ve come to the right place because at this point buffet should be Surfers Paradise’s middle name.
Locals know that they’ve got the buffet game locked down so if you’re up for eating so much seafood you’ll need to unbutton your pants to fit in another plate then Citrique at the JW Marriott has your name all over it.
Just down the highway you’ll find a bustling international market that dreams (and hungry bellies) are made of with QT Gold Coast’s iconic Bazaar Marketplace experience.
Edging on the cusp of neighbouring Broady, Horizon Sky Dining might have pretty much everything on the menu but what about revolving panoramic views of the Gold Coast? They’ve got those two and we’ll take a plate of both thank you very much.
For your morning sips
If you’re anything like us, the day doesn’t start until coffee has been sipped. Kickstart your day with the perfect brew at ESPL Coffee. This beachside gem is great for delicious bites with a friendly vibe.
If you’re seeking people who are serious about coffee, Paradox Coffee Roasters is the destination you seek. They are committed to producing the highest quality coffee there is — just ask the locals!
Like your morning sip with a side of epic treats? Janus Bakehouse is for you… don’t mind us drooling just thinking about it.
To escape the hustle & bustle head to Bumbles. Budds Beach has long been a local secret but there’s good reason why Gold Coasters have been flocking to this hot spot for 10+ years. Get your coffee fix, some snacks and set up on the edge of Budds Beach for the ultimate start to the day.
For you harder sips
Fancy a cocktail (or five)? Well you’ve come to the right place because Surfers is a cocktail connoisseur’s dream come true. After sunset – okay maybe before too – Surfers turns into a cocktail connoisseur’s playground.
Lulu Rooftop is the newest addition to the scene, serving up a funky art deco aesthetic alongside sophisticated sips.
Sports fan? Hit up The Sporting Globe to get all the sporting action live and loud or get ready to yeehaw and let loose at Cowboys, with a bucking bull taking pride of place the Americana vibes are vibing.
Okay party people, we hear you asking where to go get Gold Coast vibes going and it’s obviously got to be Cali Beach Club – it’s giving European inspired beach party so you’re guaranteed a good time. If it ain’t broke don’t fix it we say, so it’s no wonder locals keep going back for more at The Island Rooftop, an institution for good reason you can’t beat the open air and the huge beverage list never fails us.
For drinks with a view Surfers Pavilion has nailed casual waterfront meets ‘I don’t want to leave yet’ as it overlooks the canal so you can watch the boats drift by. Hinterland your preferred view? Well, The Exhibitionist Bar’s got them aplenty, actually they’ve got panoramic sight of the whole GC so take your pick. Back over on the beachside Coast Beach Bar are home to some of the best marg’s on the GC and even better views of the suburb’s namesake beach.
For casual eats
Sometimes you just want to keep it low-key and you know what, that doesn’t have to mean that the flavours are low-key too. You go-to for authentic Thai flavours has got to be Sura Thai, dine in to make the most of the cosy and authentic feel or grab your favourites to-go. Shiraz Persian Restaurant has become known as the Coast’s best Middle Eastern bites with aromatic Persian dishes like tender kebabs gracing the menu.
Don’t sleep on Velaa’s Asian fusion fare from classic poke bowls and new flavours like their signature Thai Milk Tea Parfait (uh, YUM) just waiting for you to discover.
We like big burgers and we cannot lie so Wahlburgers is a must-try for us, plus you might even sneak a peek at Mark Wahlburg when he’s in town next if you’re lucky!
Alright, this one is definitely loved by more than just locals, HOTA’s Markets are the ultimate hangout to ring in Sunday Funday, pick up all the local farm fresh produce and flowers your heard desires and then grab a bite (we’re looking at you, Mio Wraps) and a sweet treat for the road and thank us later.
For something a little bit fancy
Now’s the time to bust out your best fancy fit because Surfers has some pretty boujee spots up their sleeves.
Nestled beneath the HOTA Gallery, Palette proves that fine dining is back, baby! Treat yourself to the degustation for the full experience, with dishes and cocktails inspired by the each gallery exhibition you need to see it – or taste it – to believe it.
The buffet is always a winner at Citrique, but have you tried their a la carte? Take this as your sign to snag a seat and let the food come to you while you spoil yourself with the Chef’s Signature Bay Bug Dumplings (life-changing) or some chargrilled Australian Wagyu.
Elevated Thai is the word at Nahm Talay Thai, all your regular favourites but even better and cocktails that are just begging to be instagrammed – bonus point for the beach front views.
Let the good times roll
Surfers Paradise isn’t short on adrenaline or intrigue and it doesn’t matter if it’s your first or 50th time visiting, they still pack the same punch in our humble opinion.
Scale SkyPoint for unbeatable views atop the Q1, chill out (literally) at the IceBar and get a moment to reflect at the Mirror Bar – see what we did there.
If you’d rather enter another dimension for a little while then Infinity is begging for you to explore their mysterious maze or drop into Other World HQ and escape the ordinary with mind-bending interactive games and escape rooms. Test your team work (and maybe patience) at Eclipse Escape Rooms and Fox in a Box, go on – put that big ol’ brain to work.
We’re partial to a trip down nostalgia lane so we’re always down to battle it out at Timezone, and when there’s fun for all ages on the menu how could you not! Feeling flighty? Take a literal leap of faith at iFly and get a taste of indoor skydiving before you brave the great outdoors.
Gosh all that exploring calls with some pampering to finish the day, but not without its quirks! Barefoot Fish have tanks full of fish – yep, real live fish – just waiting for you to dip in for a soak so they can get rid of any dry or dead skin and leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski
