Because the best time to drink is after work.
Because the best time to drink is after work.
Thirsty after a long day of emails, meetings, and pretending to be productive? Don’t worry, we’ve got your post-5pm plans sorted. Whether you’re into cocktails that slay, craft beers that cheer, or wines that simply whine down your day, the Gold Coast is brimming with top-notch spots to sip, swirl and savour.
From rooftop vibes to secret hideaways, this list of 13 go-to venues will have you raising a glass to good times and even better company. So, ditch the desk and clock out early – your first round is calling and it’s got happy hours (yes, plural) written all over it!
The Island Rooftop
Why settle for a regular drink when you can take it sky-high? The Island Rooftop is the epitome of Gold Coast chill with balmy breezes, a beachy fit-out, and good vibes on tap. Perfect for knocking back a cocktail (or three) after work, this lush oasis has everything you need: tasty bites, live beats, and even a dancefloor if the mood strikes (which we know it always does).
Where: 3128 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Justin Lane Rooftop
When it comes to rooftop revelry, Justin Lane takes the cake (or should we say, the pizza). Perched in beautiful Burleigh, this spot is all about good times, great views, and even better carbs. Sip on your fave cocktails while soaking in ocean vistas and the cheerful chirps of Burleigh’s famous Rainbow Lorikeets. Whether you’re toasting the day or diving into their legendary pizza and pasta, Justin Lane is a slice of after-work heaven.
Where: 1708-1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Garden Kitchen & Bar
Why settle for one vibe when you can have all the vibes! At Garden Kitchen & Bar, you can sip and snack indoors surrounded by lush greenery or take it outside to the lawn, where the sunset and evening stars put on one helluva show. Perfect for unwinding after work, this gem (amongst many gems) at The Star Gold Coast has been a GC institution for many a moon for good reason.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Granddad Jacks
Looking for a distillery that’s equal parts charm and chill and has received over 100 international awards? Granddad Jack’s has you covered with their top-shelf gin, whisky, and unbeatable vibes. This family-run hotspot is where expertly crafted cocktails meet weekend tunes and good company. Pull up a chair, swap stories with the friendly crew, and sip your way through some of the Gold Coast’s finest spirits.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami
Burleigh Brewing Co.
If craft beer is your love language, Burleigh Brewing Co. speaks fluently. This local fave serves up an impressive range of brews, from crisp lagers to bold ales, all best enjoyed in their sprawling outdoor space. With regular events, live entertainment, and a welcoming vibe, it’s the ultimate spot to kick back after work. Round up the crew, claim a big table, and let the schooner stacks do the talking.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads
Rosella’s
Rosella’s is the ultimate blend of laid-back vibes and top-notch drinks where every hour feels like happy hour. With its charming interior, lush outdoor space, and a menu that’ll have your tastebuds singing like a, well, Rosella, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a long day in the office or on the tools. Down a cocktail, share a craft beer with friends and line your belly with delicious bites. You’ll be tweeting about it for days.
Where: 1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Pavilion
If you’re channelling a picture-perfect post-work drink with a side of stunning views, it’s Burleigh Pav for the win. With the ocean as your backdrop, sip cocktails at the Beach Bar while nibbling on delicious bites, or head over to The Tropic for a more indulgent feast paired with Prosecco and good vibes. Unwind, catch the sunset and the latest goss, check out the eye candy, and let your work woes float away.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Exhibitionist Bar
Vibing a post-work drink with a dash of culture and a splash of style? Look no further than the Exhibitionist Bar at HOTA. Set in the heart of Bundall’s much-loved arts precinct, this chic spot serves up a fine selection of cocktails, wines, and brews, all paired with jaw-dropping views. Whether you’re toasting the end of your workday or enjoying some live music, it’s the perfect place to drink in the atmosphere – literally and figuratively!
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Roji Cat
On the hunt for a meow-vellous Japanese-inspired after-work drink spot? Roji Cat in Miami sees you. We’re talking 12 brews on tap, a sake bar boasting 24 varieties, and the signature Japanese Rice Lager. The vibrant, neon-lit vibe, complete with a karaoke room and electric darts, sets the perfect stage for post-work fun. Pair your drinks with delicious street food and you’ve got yourself a night to remember.
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
Local
Ah Local – it’s quite literally the local’s local and the perf after-work hangout. With a lush beer garden, 10 taps of craft beer, and a menu that serves everything from brekkie to late-night bites, it’s the ultimate spot to shake (or sip) off your workday hangover. Sip a Local Anaesthetic cocktail, devour a Prawn Roll, and soak in the coastal-chic vibes. Whether it’s drinks, snacks, or a feast, this Burleigh based beer-lover’s paradise is the shiz.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
Lulu Rooftop Bar
Rooftop? Tick. Cocktails for dayz? Tick. Killer atmosphere and a touch of Miami flair? Tickety tick tick! Lulu Rooftop & Bar in Surfers Paradise is your new after-work haven. With boozy frosé (#ded), a DIY candy station (more #ded), and a menu that will make your taste buds dance, Lulu’s got it all. Pair all of that with stunning views and live tunes, and you’ve got the perfect spot to sip, snack, and party the night away!
Where: Level 2/4 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Bridges
Calling all northerners! For a bev (or many-a-bev) to bid farewell to your weekday, the gang at Bridges never disappoint. This funky little pizza and tapas bar is always packed with bums on seats and is the first port of call for locals craving a cocktail and hand-made pizza. Good luck popping in for a quiet drink coz you can betcha bottom dollar you’ll run into at least five people you know – another reason why we love it.
Where: 36 The Esplanade, Paradise Point
Moustache
Moustache at The Oxley 1823 is the Gold Coast’s newest hotspot for after-work drinks, and it’s making a serious stache-ing impression. This cozy, Euro-inspired spot serves up divine cocktails, artisanal espresso, and a wine list that’s been handpicked with serious finesse. Sip at a street-side table or nestled away in a vibey laneway and raise a glass to toast the end of your daily grind!
Where: 2217 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Words by Bianca Trathen