Time to seas the day.
Time to seas the day.
Is there anything more quintessentially Queensland than kicking back on the deck of a great surf club with an ice-cold drink, ocean breeze in your hair, and uninterrupted ocean views? Not really! It sounds like a holiday fantasy, but it’s really just a standard afternoon on the Gold Coast. How lucky are we?! Sometimes, we do forget it.
Our shoreline is scattered with surf clubs and you could pretty much stumble into any one and score relaxed vibes and a solid feed. But as always, we want the best for you, so we’ve rounded up the very best surf clubs from south to north. Grab a seat, order something cold, and settle in.
With a front row seat to one of Australia’s most iconic surf breaks, Rainbow Bay Surf Club gives world-class surf views, classic pub eats, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s one of the best spots on the Coast for sunset drinks after an ocean swim on a balmy summer’s afternoon. Salty hair? You’ll fit right in. There’s always a crowd here, so it’s always a good time. This surf club is nothing if not iconic.
Where: 2 Snapper Rocks Rd, Coolangatta
Quite literally built out over the ocean, “The Vikings” is one of the most iconic surf-club spots on the entire coastline. You’ll feel like you’re sitting above the waves while enjoying huge plates of classic favourites, weekend entertainment, and a buzzing crowd of both locals and visitors. The views alone are worth the trip, but their stacked menu and friendly staff seal the deal. You’ll hear everyone recommend this surf club, and for good reason.
Where: 741 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
Positioned at the heart of Palm Beach, the award-winning Palm Beach Surf Club offers more than just a stellar upbeat atmosphere and sweeping ocean views, but a tasty menu (with weekly specials worth planning your visit around) and live music! Whether you’re popping in for a coffee, enjoying a drink with friends, or having dinner with the family, there’s a range of meals, snacks, and beverages to suit everyone’s taste and budget.
Where: 117 Jefferson Lane, Palm Beach
Perched between the beaches of Burleigh and Palm Beach, Tallebudgera Surf Club is the go-to for families and perfect for long lunches and locals who love a chilled waterfront vibe. You’ll find generous portions, vibrant cocktails, breezy open-air seating, and an epic playground for pre- or post-feed kid antics. You’ve also got Bean Surfing Cafe to enjoy from 5.30am-2pm daily, serving all your favourite beachside eats and epic coffee.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Overlooking one of the most famous beaches in Queensland, Burleigh Heads SLSC is where you’ll find old-school surf-club vibes. With sweeping views of the ocean and city skyline, hearty meals, and a prime position beside the iconic Burleigh Hill, it’s a natural choice for pre- or post-day-at-the-beach feeds.
Where: Goodwin Terrace & Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
Situated at the quieter, more relaxed end of Burleigh, North Burleigh Surf Club is a top pick for families, groups, or anyone wanting beach views without the crazy crowds. You’ll get that gorgeous ocean breeze on the deck, reliable menu favourites, and a chilled atmosphere for an ideal arvo by the beach. There are weekly specials and regular entertainment top it all off.
Where: 293 The Esplanade, Miami
A true neighbourhood favourite since 1954, Nobby’s has entered an exciting new era after joining The Bears Group in late 2025. The partnership brings a refreshed hospitality focus while keeping the relaxed, community-first surf club vibe locals love. Expect updated menus with coastal-inspired flavours, classic club staples and the same welcoming atmosphere, with a major renovation planned for 2027 to further elevate the space.
Where: 25 Albatross Ave, Nobby Beach
Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Club remains a humble favourite among locals, striking the perfect balance between relaxed and lively. The club offers a kids’ playroom, heaps of weekly specials (the Tuesday Steak Night and Sunday International Food Night are local legends), plus trivia, members’ promos and plenty of big-screen sport. It’s friendly, consistent, and very easy to make a habit of.
Where: 172 Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach
Kurrawa Surf Club is one of the Gold Coast’s largest and most polished surf-club spaces, think sun-filled dining rooms, breathtaking beach views, a ‘something for everyone’ menu including pizzas and Spanish charcoal oven dishes, and a seriously popular brekkie menu. This surf club is fit for every occasion, from post-beach hangs to laid-back lunches to special occasions. They’ve also got live music and big screens to catch all the sports action. Its central location makes it one of the easiest clubs to access without a car.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
Not only are you getting all the perks of classic surf club- uninterrupted ocean views and unbeatable atmosphere- you’re also getting fed from an award-winning restaurant. Who says you can’t have it all? You’re getting everything from classic club staples to gourmet salads and asian dishes, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They have spacious, light-filled dining spaces and offer one of the best beachfront outlooks in central Surfers.
Where: 51 Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise
Sitting beachfront in the heart of Surfers Paradise, this iconic surf club is a welcome escape from the buzz of the strip. Following a major renovation, the space feels fresh and open, with sweeping ocean views that make any meal better. The bistro serves up elevated surf club classics (the Outback Parma still reigns supreme), ice-cold drinks and that easy, friendly atmosphere surf clubs do best. A top spot for sunset sessions, and whale watching if the time is right.
Where: Corner of Hanlan Street & The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Dive into the new Tallebudgera Surf Club.
Talk about a glow-up! A $12 million upgrade has transformed Tallebudgera Creek Park into a go-to destination for tourists and out-of-towners. And now there’s even more reason to visit, as Tallebudgera Surf Club unveils its new look, just in time for summer!
The club has been a hub for the community since its founding in the 1940s by six visionary volunteers. With a fresh renovation breathing new life into this beloved institution, it’s now more inviting than ever. Let’s paddle through what’s new, shall we?
Bean Surfing Beach Café is aptly named as a one-stop spot for your post-surf pick-me-up. Conveniently perched at the Tallebudgera Beach access, it serves up barista-crafted coffee from 5.30am–2pm with favourite breakfast classics like avo on toast and chilli scrambled eggs. It’s the ideal way to fuel up on a sun-soaked day.
When it’s time to swap sand for sport, the Sports Bar is calling your name. With ice-cold beers, piping hot games on the big screen and classic bar snacks delivered right to your table, it’s a haven for mates looking to cheer, chat and chow down.
When hunger strikes, head to the Restaurant & Café, where mouthwatering meals meet million-dollar ocean views.
The new summer menu shines with fresh and vibrant dishes like Burrata Caprese, combining creamy Byron Bay burrata with heirloom tomatoes, basil dressing and olive oil. The Lobster Taco is a seafood lover’s dream, featuring battered lobster tail, baby gem lettuce, sriracha mayo and soft taco shell.
For a show-stopping feast, The Seafood Platter for Two is a coastal feast featuring local king prawns, a selection of oysters, grilled market fish, salt and pepper squid, sautéed garlic bugs, glazed parsley butter and selected accompaniments.
Prefer something heartier? The Sunday Roast brings back tradition with chef-selected cuts of meat, roasted to tender perfection. Whether ocean-fresh or farm-raised, these dishes celebrate the best local flavours with every bite.
Surf club classics are also on the menu, including hand stretched pizzas, juicy steaks like 200g Queenslander eye fillet and hearty house-made chicken parmigiana. There’s something for everyone including a dedicated kids’ menu for the little nippers.
For the adults, the drinks menu is stacked with fun cocktails like the signature Tallebudgera Thunder – combining refreshing coconut water, zesty ginger beer and the smooth, spiced kick of Tropical Captain Morgan. Pair that with tap beers and curated wines to keep cool all summer long.
Last but certainly not least, no summer day is complete without a trip to the Gelato Bar, boasting 12 dreamy flavours to please every palate.
Beyond the food and fun, every dollar spent supports lifesavers who keep our beaches safe. From cocktails to coffee, your visit helps train and equip those who protect our shores. This summer, Tallebudgera Surf Club is more than a destination – it’s a community celebration.
Where: 1505 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
When: Bean Surfing Cafe, 5:30am – 2pm every day
Sports Bar, 10am – Midnight every day
Restaurant & Cafe, Monday to Friday 11.30am – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 8.30pm, Saturday & Sunday 11.30am – 8.30pm
Instagram: @tallesurfclub
Website: tallesurfclub.com
Words by Lisette Drew
Making it that little bit harder to concentrate on the menu.
As it turns out the Gold Coast is quite the good-looking city. With all of our green mountains and beguiling beaches, you’d expect venues to be taking full advantage of the glorious vistas we have on show. And guess what — there certainly are!
We propose you consult our trusty list of scenic dining spots and feast your eyes upon some infinitely more inspiring and soul-fulfilling sights than the mountain of half-folded washing on your dining room table. Or is that just us?
We’ve taken a good look around our city and put together a list of the very best places you can eat with your eyes.
Oozing luxury at every turn, if it’s knockout views you seek, there’s a whole yacht to love about La Luna. Perch up and be mesmerised by all the Broadwater action passing you by as you treat the tastebuds to some top notch Mediterranean and Asian-fusion inspired eats – and soak up some world class marina vibes while do it. With a spot that just screams long lunch, tuck into ocean inspired delicacies like Moreton Bay bug rolls and Kingfish Ceviche and sip the afternoon away on the signature cocktail menu. Pinky popping and fanciest pants, optional.
Where: La Luna Beach Club, Marina Mirage, 74 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Hyde Paradiso
A light and airy stunner studded with cascading greenery, spacious ceilings, and of course, uninterrupted views to the iconic shores of our very own glitter strip – Hyde Paradiso is oceanfront, Surfers Paradise dining at its finest. Start – or finish – your day by gazing out to the rolling surf, watching the world go by while you refuel with your choice of breakfast, brunch, lunch and/or dinner at this Euro-chic noshery. And if we *have* to choose, Kingfish Tacos and a Salted Coconut marg sounds like a particularly swell way to farewell the day, no?
Where: Hyde Paradiso, Level 2/8 Esplanade, Surfers Paradise
Nab yourself a spot on the deck and watch the water goers weaving throughout the canals (aka jetski’s absolutely carving up) as you ponder working your way through the dedicated marg list – perhaps Pineapple or Watermelon to start? Situated on the banks of the Nerang River, Surfers Pavilion is a particularly stunning spot for scenic dining and/or drinking, with a mix of small bites, share plates, seafood and burgers on offer. Grab some mates, chuck in a helping of Bug and Prawn Linguine or a Pav Parmy, and you’ve got yourself a party for the peepers and the tum.
Where: 30/34 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
Gonna take a little more than some enchanting views to impress you? The Langham Gold Coast’s five-star stunner, Akoya, dishes up an elevated and extravagant experience from breakfast through dinner, daily. Come Friday and Saturday evenings, the seafood-centric menu becomes a full-blown buffet of ocean odysseys inspired by the breathtaking beachfront backdrop. All dished up with that specific, over-achieving brand of Langham indulgence, it’s safe to go ahead and consider those socks well and truly knocked off (we’ll spare you the butchered Berlin ‘Take my breath away’ power ballad rendition, though).
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Excuse us while we don our Captain Obvious pants, but, no waterfront restaurant list worth its salt(water) would dare omit an icon like Rick Shores. Located mere footsteps from the sand and directly underneath The Tropic, this place is certainly not riding on the coattails of its incredible views – an esteemed foodie haven renowned for its equally stunning and inventive array of eats. Get your fix of sensational pan-Asian flavours flanked by panoramic views to the Pacific Ocean as far as the eye can ‘sea’. Their share plate menu is filled with absolute taste sensations and the cocktails are always pure perfection. For us, it doesn’t get much better than dining (and drinking, obviously) at Rick Shores.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
It might be one of our worst kept secrets, but there’s no denying there’s something magic in the water at Burleigh – and who hasn’t spent many a weekend scrambling to get a slice of that sweet outlook out to the Surfers Paradise skyline? Capitalising on that million dollar view, The Tropic brings a whole new level of luxe to our long standing weekend hill chill pilgrimage, with a windswept, sun-kissed deck to throw down Freshly Shucked Oysters, King Prawn Pasta and vodka-infused Caviar bumps. With a view like this, it would be rude not to also oblige in sunset inspired sips, like the Lucy Lava, made with Malfy Blood Orange Gin, Spiced Rum, apricot and aromatic rosemary notes.
Come for the water views – stay for the… *insert absolutely any item from the menu, here*
Where: 3b/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Sitting right on the sand in one of our most sought-after suburbs, the vistas extend the entire coastline from Surfers to Tweed. Though more specifically, it’s the mouth-watering, modern pub-style fare and frosty bevvys they’re consistently churning out breakfast–dinner that makes this surf club gem both worth a mention and a visit. An old-faithful that’s always a sight for sore eyes.
Where: 741 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
The epitome of la dolce vita vibes – Tommy’s Italian in Currumbin has so much more going for it than incredible Italian eats, courtesy of some killer ocean views. Housed in the heritage ex Beach Shack Cafe site, its breezy beachside abode is a dreamy sun-drenched spot for lazy afternoons spent slurping down grilled seafood, woodfired pizzas and hand-crafted pasta. Two levels of absolute beachfront bliss are backed up by an enticing and extensive sip menu of shaken cocktails, wines, spritzes and jugs. A trip to Tommy’s truly is a treat for all the senses.
Where: 818 Pacific Parade, Currumbin
With a whopping 1200 sqm of sweeping surf views, newcomer Kirra Beach House was not messing around when it came to capitalising on the suburb’s relatively untapped surf frontage. And the uninterrupted, panoramic ocean views are just the beginning – equipped with not one, but three bars, an oh-so instagrammable mix of indoor and cabana-studded alfresco spaces, and chic beach club vibes aplenty. The epitome of elevated seaside dining, the vaycay-inspired sips like the Champagne Piña colada and ‘Cancun’ spicy watermelon margarita are complemented by a Mediterranean-style grazing menu, purposefully crafted to share with your crew as the waves roll in and sun sinks low.
Where: Level 1, 2 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Bringing a fresh face to the iconic Kirra Beach Pavilion with some slick 1950s Miami vibes, Siblings is another vantage-blessed stunner at which to simultaneously treat the eyes and the tastebuds with Modern Australian style eats, available anytime from lunch onwards. Those lucky enough to snag a waterfront table can soak up uninterrupted beach views flanked by swaying pandanus palms, and people watch to our heart’s content. Pineapple salsa studded Steak tacos and share platters of Moreton bay bugs & king prawns go down an absolute treat surrounded by the salty sea air, as do cocktails like the Sicilian Summer – a frosty concoction made with Mulberry gin sour… and, er, what were we saying again? We were momentarily distracted by… *gestures vaguely at entire menu and IRL Baywatch unfolding in front of our eyes*
Where: 15 Marine Parade, Kirra
Sitting pretty on the 13th floor of the Beachcomber International Resort, Cooly Breeze is our only fine dining restaurant that boasts unique views to the southern coastline and the Tweed River surrounds. Easily one of the southern GC’s best kept dining secrets, the hidden rooftop gem channels an intimate, Amalfi coast experience with moorish Mediterranean-inspired eats from a sky-high vantage hidden in plain sight. The cosy ambience and sweeping surf vista is coupled with a fresh menu, such as the Seared Scallops da Costa and an azure-toned Rainbow Martini as vibrant as the view. Plus, there’s always the chance to catch a spontaneous whale show during migration season. Neat, huh?
Where: Level 13 of Beachcomber International Resort, 122 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Perched dramatically atop Point Danger with uninterrupted ocean views stretching from Snapper to D’Bah, Pipi’s Restaurant is the kind of place that makes you order dessert before mains, purely because the view told you to. This Mediterranean-inspired stunner from the Gambaro Group nails the holy trinity of epic scenery, polished coastal interiors and seriously elevated eats, making it a no-brainer for long lunches, sunset sips and special-occasion splurges. Expect pristine seafood, perfectly cooked Steak Frites, theatrical oyster shucking and cocktails that pair alarmingly well with salty sea air. It’s refined without being stuffy, luxe without losing its laid-back Cooly soul, and frankly, the ocean is doing most of the heavy lifting. But the food happily keeps up.
Where: 275 Boundary St, Coolangatta
Monday can wait.
What could be more Australian than spending a sunny Sunday afternoon with mates indulging in a slew of drinks and generally celebrating life? It’s a given right to live it up on a Sunday no matter what the week is!
Because if you’re going to that Monday morning performance review/toolbox meeting a little worse for wear, where do you go to stretch out the weekend just that little bit longer? We’ve rounded up the places that embrace Sunday frolics and are the perfect way to round out the week.
Burleigh Pavilion
Very few places offer a better view and, therefore, a better Sunday session option than Burleigh Pavilion. Right on the ocean in the heart of bustling Burleigh Heads and offering both a sit-down (The Tropic) and more casual menu paired with all of the lovely sips and buzzing atmosphere: there’s no way you’re not having a good time at ‘The Pav’.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Cali Beach
If you haven’t been to the multi-million-dollar entertainment precinct in Surfers Paradise, can we ask what rock you have been living under? The rooftop venue is a behemoth day and night club with a multitude of seating options around several pools, and always has a stellar line-up of DJs on rotation. All-day Sunday Sesh, here you come!
Where: 21a Elkhorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
The Hood 4221
We know RNB Fridays are a thing, but why can’t we coin the idea of a Sunday spin-off of nothing but epic 80’s/90’s songs playing? And if this sounds like your sort of Sunday (welcome to the group) you’ll get exactly that at The Hood. Hot tip, order The Hood Cosmo to get things started! Because Sunday sessions were made for cocktails, not the other way around!
Where: 10 Palm Beach Avenue, Palm Beach
Justin Lane Rooftop
Quite possibly the alfresco place to be, not only on a Sunday but any day of the week. The rooftop bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a sunny afternoon, lavishing your eyes with views of the Burleigh foreshore and stunning Gold Coast skyline. Oozing personality, this Burleigh Heads institution never disappoints!
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Aviary Rooftop Bar
This venue takes care of your Sunday sessions with everything your heart could desire. Think imaginative cocktails, authentic Italian Pizzas, and live entertainment between 4-8pm every Sunday. Get comfortable — you’re going nowhere.
Where: Mantra at Sharks, Melia Court, Southport (next to Southport Sharks)
Surfers Pavilion
Arrive by boat or jet-ski and slip into an oasis of sublime food, decadent cocktail jugs and a generally all-round good time! Take things slowly with oysters and champagne on high tables or turn it up with on-tap frosé on the decking area. A guaranteed good time will be had here.
Where: 30-34 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Nineteen at The Star
Looking to round out the weekend at the fanciest rooftop bar on the entire Gold Coast? Look no further than Nineteen at The Star. Perhaps you should treat yourself to an indulgent meal on the restaurant side and then head over to the bar for kick-ons overlooking the city and the ocean. There’s a stunning drinks menu (yasss), and the bonus is, you get to dress up and that cute new dress you bought!
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Garden Kitchen & Bar
Wind down the weekend at Garden Kitchen & Bar, where lazy afternoons meet steamy nights. Think live tunes on the deck, flirty banter on the lawn, frosty drinks at the bar, and tasty bites… all the ingredients for an A-grade Sunday session in our book.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Tropic Vice
As if you needed any more encouragement to hit up Nobby Beach on a Sunday. This rooftop stunner is one of the leading places to sip drinks and mingle in the afternoon sun on the GC. Backed by an incredible Floribbean/South American-led menu and exclusive Champagne packages, Sundays have just been elevated a notch.
Where: Upstairs, 2215 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
Burleigh Hill
Want to keep it casual and not spend the big bucks? Head to Food Works in Burleigh’s James Street, stock up on cheese and crackers, pick up a bottle of wine and make your way to Burleigh Hill for a Sunday session Burleigh style. Simples!
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Local Distilleries
Ok, so if it wasn’t already obvious enough, the main point of a Sunday session, is to have a session. Period. So why not distillery-hop or better yet, grab the crew and settle in at one of your favourite local distilleries? Guaranteed to have your favourite drinks flowing, your local watering hole should be the OG Sunday session spot. So go on and get into the spirit!
Where: Multiple locations
Local Breweries
Nothing quite compares to being perched in the sun on a Sunday arvo sinking your favourite amber ale. And being on the GC we are spoilt for choice of where to do exactly that. Lucky for you, we have a handy list of where to get a quality Sunday session underway. Yipee-IPA!
Where: Multiple locations
Surf Clubs
How could we create a list of Sunday sessions and not include our beloved surf clubs?! Look, we all have our favourites, and for the most part, they are all amazing places to grab frosty beers, tuck into some great and often modestly priced food, whilst enjoying a relaxed and uncomplicated atmosphere. And what about the views! There’s far too many to mention here, but everyone has their unique attraction and they equate to being one of the best ways to spend a Sunday arvo.
Where: Multiple locations
