Al Bacio Gelato Naturale churns out traditional Italian gelato in Burleigh.
Al Bacio Gelato Naturale churns out traditional Italian gelato in Burleigh.
Do you remember your first lick of gelato? That sweet, creamy moment when the world just melted away? Well, get ready to relive it because Al Bacio Gelato Naturale is scooping up the Gold Coast’s freshest take on authentic Italian gelato.
Husband and wife Craig and Rebecca Heininger, with their daughter Jaime, are the dream team behind this family-run gelateria that’s making waves just a short stroll from Burleigh beach. With Italian roots in their family tree, they’ve certainly mastered the art of la dolce vita – the sweet life – one churn at a time.
Before scooping for success, Craig was a water engineer and Rebecca worked in the health industry with a flair for design. Jaime, meanwhile, has been obsessed with gelato since her first lick when she was 13 (can relate!) and has been working in gelato since her teens.
Earlier this year, the Heiningers took their gelato obsession global, heading to Tuscany to train at an artisan gelato academy. There, they learned to transform simple ingredients into something magic. No artificial colours, no pre-made pastes, just fresh fruit, creamy Jersey milk and a whole lot of love. After graduating, they embarked on a gelato tour across Italy. From Sicily to Milan they tasted their way through award-winning gelaterias, picking up inspiration along the way.
Now they’re pouring their passion into Al Bacio Gelato Naturale in Burleigh. Designed in collaboration with the creative team at Pennybridge and the fit-out pros at Zero 9, the space blends modern design with old-school Italian charm. Think terrazzo tiles, lush green tones and a welcoming open layout that lets you peek into the gelato lab. Yes, you can literally watch gelato being made before your eyes.
Behind the counter, a sleek under-bench Pozzetti cabinet keeps each flavour at its optimal temp. Outside, a cute alfresco nook invites you to linger with a cone and watch the world melt by.
And the flavours? Bellissimo, of course, with each scoop having its own story.
The signature Al Bacio, meaning “as good as a kiss” in Italian, is a rich chocolate hazelnut scoop made with homemade paste using hazelnuts from Piemonte, Italy. It’s a true tribute to Rebecca’s father who grew up in the region.
The rotating seasonal menu features creations like Jack-O-Lantern pumpkin spice and olive oil with jalapeño (yes, it works and its spicy nice). With changing flavours, it’s the ideal excuse for regular return visits.
If you like to gulp down your gelato, you can order your favourite flavour in thick shake form. And that’s not all! Coming soon are gelato protein sticks, slices, tubs and cakes for when you want to take the sweetness home.
Located in laid-back Burleigh near Commune cafe, it’s a dream spot for their dream to take shape. At Al Bacio Gelato Naturale, life really is sweeter by the scoop.
Where: Shop 7/1840 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
When: Daily, 10am to 9:15pm (9:30pm on Friday and Saturday nights)
Instagram: @albaciogelatonaturale
Website: albaciogelato.com.au
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Kirra Smith
Burleigh’s buzzing, and it’s not hard to guess why.
Let’s be real: coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s a lifestyle. Without that first cup of liquid gold, productivity would probably collapse faster than a popped balloon. Honestly, how do people function without coffee? Because we couldn’t tell you.
In Burleigh, the rich aroma of fresh brews flows with the sea breeze, creating the ultimate feel-good combo. We’ve taken one for the team (you’re welcome) and hit the streets to track down the very best coffee Burleigh has to offer.
Needing no introduction, word has got around that Tarte is the place to be in Burleigh. The coffee is Parallel Roasters Exclusive Tarte House Blend so you know it’s going to be goooood. You can order it however you like to sip, from velvety flat whites to a rich filter. Pair your caffeine fix with a loaded bagel (the Bullseye Bang is a cult fave) or go light and sweet with a strawberry muffin top. Whether you’re a morning regular or just passing through, skipping a visit to Tarte is practically a crime.
Where: 1748 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
When it comes to coffee culture in Burleigh, Commune is the OG. This laid-back cafe has been fuelling locals with smooth, strong brews since day dot, and under the Blackboard crew, the espresso game is as sharp as ever. Grab a quick latte on the run or linger over a long black with friends, Commune’s coffee is the kind that keeps you coming back. Pair it with their famous rosti-stacked Eggs Florentine or a chorizo burrito if you’re hungry, and stay for the community vibes.
Where: 1844 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
If you’ve cruised the GC Highway, you’ve definitely spotted Palm Springs, the pastel-hued cafe serving up serious Cali desert vibes. But behind the breezy facade is a coffee club that locals rave about. Smooth espresso, perfectly poured lattes and iced coffees made for sunny mornings. The Therefore Coffee Roasters brew feels right at home under the Burleigh palms. Of course, the eats are on point too. Breakfast tacos, anyone?
Where: 1878 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Next Door Espresso in Burleigh is a coffee lover’s dream tucked inside the stylish St Barts space. With crisp white Besser block walls, timber tables and a sleek concrete bar, it’s the kind of spot you’ll want to linger. The coffee? Organic, roasted by Federal brewers Moonshine. Want to treat yourself? Try a speciality bev like a Banana Pudding Matcha or Dirty Chai Cloud. Pair your cup with wholesome brunch bites or a sweet treat, then browse St Barts’ dreamy homewares. Shopping, sipping, smiling – your day in Burleigh is sorted.
Where: 24 Junction Road, Burleigh
Social Espresso has been fuelling the Gold Coast caffeine scene for over a decade, roasting beans that power many of your favourite cafes. Their Burleigh HQ is a sleek space in the industrial area of Burleigh where the coffee truly shines with three signature blends, rotating single origins and smooth cold brew. Owners Mitch and Hayley have built a hub for coffee lovers and locals alike. Whether it’s a takeaway or a sit-down sip, this is specialty coffee done right.
Factory 1/9-11 Fremantle St, Burleigh Heads
Tucked inside the Big B Arcade, Social Brew is where Burleigh’s coffee culture comes alive. From early morning espressos to mid-morning cappuccinos, this buzzing cafe is fuel for brekky dates, work catch-ups and everything in between. The people-watching is as good as their signature house blend, and the vibe makes it easy to linger as breakfast drifts into lunch. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a little oasis in the heart of James Street.
Where: 34-36 James Street, Burleigh Heads
When it comes to cafes locals love, Canteen is the name on everyone’s lips. Crowned Best Coffee in Burleigh in last year’s Love My Cafe awards, their brews have earned a true cult following. Perched on the Park Ave side of the Burleigh buzz, the timber fit-out adds rustic charm, while friendly smiles greet you from kitchen to counter. Serving their signature Cleanskin Coffee Co. roast, Canteen feels like the perfect pause in busy Burleigh.
Where: 23 Park Avenue, Burleigh Heads
Re-firing the coffee machine last year, Pretty Handsome has made a pretty epic comeback. Pouring Allpress beans, every shot is carefully weighed and extracted for consistently smooth, rich flavour, from your morning flat white to a cheeky espresso martini in the afternoon. Pair your cup with a breaky wrap, tacos, or ribs, and you’ll be fuelled up for the rest of the day..
Where: 18 Christine Avenue, Burleigh Heads
At LiTO, coffee takes centre stage in true Italian style, beginning with smooth Allpress brews that pair perfectly with breakfast favourites like Sicilian Poached Eggs or Spiced Avocado Bruschetta. Mondrian Gold Coast’s all-day eatery is the kind of spot where a quiet morning espresso naturally stretches into lunch and beyond, with every cup keeping the la dolce vita flowing. From that first sip post-surf to a final flourish of Tiramisu with coffee mascarpone cream and syrup, LiTO proves life really is better with coffee.
Where: Ground Level, 3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Coffee is at the heart of Common Ground, with Burleigh locals raving about their expertly poured Social Espresso brews. Whether you’re after a silky flat white, a refreshing cold brew or something a little spiced like their chai, every sip is designed to complement the sunlit garden setting. The sleek machine on the counter hums from morning to afternoon, fuelling long brunches and catch-ups. Pair your cup with one of their seasonal plates and you’ve found your new daily ritual.
2/2 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh.
If you’ve seen a classic red Jeep humming around town, you might have seen Willy’s Beans delivering signature roasts to many of your favourite caffeine hubs on the GC. Willy’s Beans takes you on a coffee journey from crop to cup. The warehouse cafe is decked with nods to Colombian coffee culture which captured the heart of owner Jayson to open Willy’s Beans. On the menu, you’ll find an impressive lineup of single-origin beans and rare specialties like the Summer Gesha, crafted for those chasing something extra. For an even deeper dive, Willy’s Beans hosts private tastings, giving coffee lovers an immersive experience that goes far beyond the everyday brew.
Where: 1/4 Ramly Drive, Burleigh Heads
Tucked just off Reedy Creek Road, Dover’s Drop is the kind of pit stop that turns into a daily ritual. Serving up fantastic brews from carbon-neutral roasters Locale Espresso, every cup is smooth, rich, and full of flavour that’ll keep you powering through the day. Swing by for locally sourced baked goods, fresh sandwiches and healthy bites that pair perfectly with your caffeine fix. Industrial district coffee never looked (or tasted) so good.
Where: 9 Dover Drive, Burleigh Heads
Paddock may have first won us over with donuts and sweet treats, but it’s their coffee that keeps locals lining up day after day. Tucked inside the charming weatherboard cottage, the team pours smooth, perfectly balanced brews that pair effortlessly with their fresh-baked goods. Whether you’re grabbing a latte to go, sipping a flat white in the garden, or settling in for a long breakfast, the coffee is always flowing. And yes, you should take home their signature sourdough or that Almond Croissant Cookie for later.
Where: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads
Just steps from the beach, Memento is the perfect spot to grab your morning flat white before a seaside stroll or settle in with friends (and furry companions) over a leisurely breakfast. The Supreme Coffee brews are smooth, the space is warm, and the vibe is carefree. But the best thing? It’s open at 5am, making it the ultimate pit stop for a pre-surf caffeine hit or a post-run club refuel.
Where: 16 The Esplanade, Burleigh Heads
At MC’s Sandwich House, the coffee is as carefully considered as the sangas. They’ve teamed up with Coffee Supreme, ensuring every cup is bold, balanced and smooth enough to stand alongside their globally inspired creations. Grab a flat white to go with a Hot Chicken sanga or sip a long black while you people-watch from the front window, MC’s keeps your sandwich game and your caffeine levels strong.
Where: 83 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Heads
Long before Burleigh became a cafe hub, Nook Espresso was already shaping the Coast’s coffee culture. Now the beloved local keeps serving the smooth, perfectly balanced brews that built its cult following. Using the same Byron Bay beans for over a decade, Nook proves consistency is key and every cup hits just right. With friendly faces behind the counter and a breezy, plant-filled setting, it’s the perfect stop for your daily caffeine hit.
Where: Stockland Burleigh Heads, West Burleigh Rd, Burleigh Heads
Words by Lisette Drew
Ze Pickle’s got your weekend sorted.
Buzzing on the corner of Burleigh’s main block is local burger legend, Ze Pickle. Locals swear by it and visitors quickly learn why. If you haven’t wrapped your chops around one of their epic concoctions yet, it’s about time you get acquainted! This summer they’re turning weekends up a notch with ‘ZP Summer Sesh’, and it’s a ‘don’t walk, run’ situation.
It’s not hard to get a crowd on board for beers and burgers at Ze Pickle on a regular day. But with the launch of their all-new ZP Summer Sesh every Friday to Sunday from 3–5pm, the party’s officially on! Think of it as your new ritual. Each week brings a fresh frozen cocktail flavour and a rotating lineup of craft beers, paired perfectly with Ze Pickle’s signature bites. Ze Chips, Chicken Wangs, and the indulgent Ze Sweet Load fries are perfect for sharing, or keeping all to yourself. No judgement.
And then there are the burgers. Oh, the burgers. Each one is a hero in its own right, and the menu is packed with flavour bombs. The classic beef ‘Basic AF’ is a no-brainer for beef lovers, while the ‘Baja Fish Taco Burger’ takes your usual fillet-o-fish obsession to new heights. Craving spice? The ‘Buffalo Blue’ will set your taste buds alight. Plant-based fans aren’t left out either, Flick the Beanz delivers all the indulgence without the meat. These burgers are often imitated, never duplicated, and the perfect reason to gather your crew.
Ze Pickle’s space is just as much a draw as the menu. Industrial-chic touches meet laid-back, sunlit corners, making it perfect for everything from casual catch-ups to milestone celebrations. Whether you’re nestled inside with exposed brick and timber or soaking up the Burleigh breeze outdoors, it’s a spot that feels effortless yet full of energy.
Combine the sea breeze, a cocktail in hand, sunshine on your face, and a table stacked with Ze Pickle favourites, and you’ve got the recipe for an afternoon done right. The vibe is easygoing, the food is unforgettable, and the scene is alive with locals and visitors alike, all looking for a good time, minus any fuss.
This summer, it’s is more than just a burger joint; it’s a weekend destination, a place to relax, indulge, and make memories. Make your weekends a little tastier, your afternoons a little cooler, and your memories a little sweeter.
Head to Ze Pickle for the ZP Summer Sesh- because nothing says summer like frozen cocktails, drool-worthy burgers, and sunshine. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Ze Pickle promises an unforgettable summer experience.
Round up your gang, claim a sunny spot, and let Ze Pickle handle the rest. ZP Summer Sesh kicks off from 31st October, and runs from 3pm – 5pm Friday through Sunday all summer long (ending 1st February). Grab $10 selected beers, $15 frozen cocktails, $12 Ze Chips, $12 Ze Sweet Load, and $15 Chicken Waaangs. Sunlit vibes await. You just bring the smiles.
Where: 37 Connor St, Burleigh Heads
When: Monday-Thursday, 5pm-8pm. Friday, 5pm-9pm (open from 2pm Nov-Jan). Saturday-Sunday, 12pm-8:30pm
Instagram: @zepickle
Website: https://www.zepickle.com/
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
SPONSORED STORY BY ZE PICKLE
Dive headfirst into this list.
If you ask anyone what their numero uno ‘must have’ is when looking at staycays here in our beautiful city, chances an insta-worthy (or family-friendly) pool experience would take pole position. A pool maketh the staycay, and we’re here to give the low-down on the best pools in town coz girls (and guys) just wanna have sun…and swims…and preferably with a cocktail in hand.
Just a few sandy footsteps from Burleigh Beach, the GC’s newest hotel pool is bringing a touch of international cool to our shores. Mondrian’s Haven Pool Club is where golden hour never ends and the vibes are as crisp as the rosé flowing by the cabanas. Inspired by the world’s best beach clubs, think live DJ sets, luxe loungers, and poolside grazing that’s made for sharing (and snapping). Whether you’re here for a lazy lounge or a sunset sesh that turns into a dance floor moment, this pool scene is pure Burleigh brilliance.
Where: First Ave, Burleigh Heads
Quite possibly Australia’s best hotel pool, take a dip alongside tropical fish in the famous saltwater lagoon and sorry, it doesn’t get much cooler (literally) than this. Enjoy white sandy beaches, waterfalls, and a swim-up grotto. And, for small peeps, the freshwater pool with an epic waterslide will keep them entertained for hours while you chillax in a jacuzzi or poolside cabana #VIP.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Swim in the crystal blue water of the one-acre saltwater lagoon, float around on colourful beanbags, or relax on a sun lounger sipping on an InterContinental coconut! There’s also a 15-metre-long terrace swimming pool and spa, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, reclining sun loungers and plenty of space for family activities. Just like Adele, you’ll be rolling in the deep (end).
Where: Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circuit, Hope Island
The Star houses an all ages-friendly, glisteningly gorg pool side area decked out with cabanas, a relaxing water feature, spas, and plenty of sun lounges and seating. Or, if you’re really hamming it up at The Darling, it’s a case of “to infinity (pool) and beyond”! Situated on the nineteenth floor with breathtaking GC views, this elegant infinity pool is a showstopper.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Dorsett (located within The Star) doesn’t just have a pool, but its own super on-fleek Isoletto Pool Club #TooPoolForSchool! Experience the 12-metre-long viewing wall overlooking Broadbeach, delish light eats and drinks, comfy cabanas around the pool deck, as well as our fave ‘wet lounges’ built into the pool itself! They’ll even deliver your spritzers and cocktails straight to your cabana. Suns out, buns out we say!
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
With its own water park, find us a kid who won’t go bonkers for this place! Whilst the pool and spa area may be closed until the 16th of August for remedial works, the ever-popular SpongeBob Splash Pads and Aqua Play will remain open. Once the maintenance and ‘shoosh-up’ are finished, create everlasting family memories with a 50-metre lagoon, complete with waterfall and soothing 12-seater spa. Bliss!
Where: Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Whether you love a luxurious indoor pool, or prefer a five-star outdoor pool experience, The Langham has you covered. The 20-metre-long indoor pool is perfect for those channelling a (multi) million-dollar Pacific Ocean view with their workout. Meanwhile outside, another 20-metre-long outdoor pool awaits, with a highbrow swim-up pool bar, a sandy lagoon-style entrance, and plenty of swanky pool lounge chairs. Fancy feels for days!
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Voted Australia’s Best Family Resort for years in a row, you just know this place gives a good pool! Heaven for kids and paradise for parents, it even has its own water park with a giant water playground, lagoon pool, large, heated spa and two enormous aqua play attractions. And, for mum and dad, enjoy a dedicated Parents Retreat, featuring an adults-only (eee!) swimming pool and lounge bar #KidsWhatKids?
Where: 122 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Experience beachfront bliss and soak up ‘dem luxurious feels as you take in the vast pool surrounds – 6,727 square feet of them to be exact! Plus, there’s just something about a pool that’s a hop, skip and a jump away from the ocean! Oh and remember, it’s a rite of passage to treat yo’self to a cocktail or five (daily) at the swim-up bar… no judgement.
Where: 71 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
Relax poolside and get your zen on as you laze by the lush tropical lagoon pool at Mantra Crown Towers. There’s no “I’m bored mum” here, as the kids are too busy living their best life in the splashtastic children’s pool. With its own sandy beach, waterslide and pirate ship, they won’t want to leave – and neither will you!
Where: 19 Palm Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Aquaholics listen up coz good times and tan lines await at Mantra Sun City. With three swimming pools and a sauna, you can cool off and warm up on repeat or in the words of Dory, “just keep swimming just keep swimming”. The whipper snappers are well catered for here too, with several waterslides making their staycay an adventure they’ll always remember!
Where: 3400 Gold Coast Hwy, Surfers Paradise
We reckon we’ve seen at least 1 million poolside selfies here last year alone. An exotic poolside oasis, the Imperial Hotel showcases an award-winning 63-metre pool with its very own white sandy beach and Australia’s first-ever Water Salon. The exclusive cabanas add a whole new dimension of luxe, with breezy sheers for more private poolside luxury.
Where: 94 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Take the plunge at The Spring, QT’s stylish poolside precinct that’s equal parts elegance and fun. With its chic striped tiles (swaying palms and resort-style cabanas, this is one of the prettiest places to cool off on the Coast. Dip between the shimmering blue and sun-drenched lounges, then refuel with flavours inspired by Japan, Mexico and the Med. Whether you’re here for a leisurely float or a little poolside glamour, The Spring has that effortless QT sparkle.
Where: 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Words by Bianca Trathen
