The Gold Coast’s best rooftop bars

By Amy Fraser

Whether you’re strolling off the beach in search of a refreshing beverage or looking for an escape from the city, the Gold Coast is bursting with epic rooftop bars, all serving up equally serene views and good vibes. Here’s nine rooftop bars you won’t want to miss.

The Island Rooftop

Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise

Step off the city streets and into the oasis of The Island, the Gold Coast’s largest open-air rooftop bar. Expect fun cocktails, a lively atmosphere and sweeping views of the city and Main Beach. Add to that the bar’s live music and you have yourself an epic evening in true Gold Coast style. 

Garden Kitchen and Bar

Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Dr, Broadbeach

If you’re looking for a special occasion venue with your mates, the Garden Kitchen and Bar won’t disappoint. With indoor and outdoor areas fitted with sleek and stylish interiors, grab a cocktail and choose the most Instagrammable spot for your group. The bar’s lawn is known for hosting an array of events, so be sure to check their calendar and get ready to party.

Burleigh Pavilion

Where: 3a/43 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

There’s nothing better than watching the sunset melt over the ocean with your favourite beverage in hand. Overlooking the beautiful Burleigh Beach, Burleigh Pavilion has to be one of the Gold Coast’s most picturesque bars. Pull up a chair, order a pizza (or two) with a drink to wash it down, and watch the surfers ride the waves. Dreamy, right?

Justin Lane

Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads

Did somebody say pizza party? For a casual affair, the pizza-loving Justin Lane’s rooftop bar is a great option after a day at the beach. While the DJ jams, enjoy the bar’s top-quality cocktails and tap beers. And if you’re feeling peckish, the hand-crafted pizza and pasta will no doubt do the trick. Humble and so very delicious. 

Nineteen at The Star

Where: The Darling at The Star Gold Coast, Casino Dr, Broadbeach

Just a couple of floors away from the Garden and Kitchen Bar lies Nineteen at the Star. Grab one of the chic lounge chairs on the balcony and be dazzled by a sensational view of the Gold Coast skyline. If you’d prefer a private party, head to one of the bar’s booths and cheers to the weekend ahead – with a signature cocktail in hand of course.

Aviary Rooftop Bar

Where: 5 Melia Ct, Southport

Aviary’s Rooftop Bar exudes style, with its chic interiors and charming outdoor area, known as ‘The Nest’, which comes with spectacular views of the Gold Coat Hinterland and Surfer’s Paradise skyline. Bring your pals for cocktails galore, handmade pizzas and tapas-style plates in the sunshine, or wait for ‘golden hour’ and sip beneath a bed of stars. For a real treat, head over on a Thursday evening for all-you-can-eat pizza.

The Collective

Where: 1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach

If you’re a foodie who’s a sucker for a cocktail, stopping by The Collective is a must. This enchanting spot is a cocktail bar meets market food stall, with multiple different cuisines available from the venue’s restaurants. Enjoy the breeze from the bar’s expansive rooftop, where the sunset will be just as epic as your cocktail choice. Cheers to that.