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.

La Luna
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

Surfers Pavilion
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

Akoya
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

Rick Shores
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

The Tropic
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

Currumbin Beach Vikings SLSC
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

Tommy’s Italian
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

Kirra Beach House
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

Siblings
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

Cooly Breeze
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

Greenmount Beach Surf Club
With surf clubs calling dibs on some of the most epic beachfront real estate the GC has got to offer, it will come as no surprise to find another SLSC gracing this list. Looking for waterfront dining, served surf club style? Look no further than Greenmount Beach Surf Club, a laidback watering hole beloved for many reasons – including its breathtaking outlook. As you’d expect from a SLSC, this place is situated just metres from the sand so you can perch up and tuck into pub-style classics and watch all the action unfold on the beach below.
Where: Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Our surf clubs dotted along the Coast are historical hubs and important social pillars of the community. They’re the uncomplicated place where you can always find a cold beer with a spectacular view or an affordable meal any day of the week — and for this, we love them.

Keeping up with the way the Gold Coast has been reimaging itself has been a fast affair. One such club keen to not ignore this trend, but at the same time not lose their history or nostalgia of yesteryear, is Burleigh Surf Club. An extensive $5 million refurbishment has just been completed, and if you’re anything like us, you’re probably curious to see what has transpired within this iconic venue.

The entire dining and bar space has had a splash of sophistication added but nothing over the top. A dark backdrop highlights a new and impressive marble bar top highlighted by unique birdcage pendant lights, a subtle reference to the name “The Birdcage” given by locals of yesteryear due to women congregating on the higher floor, while men tended to meet downstairs in “The Crabpot”. The bar of course features twenty-plus beer taps showcasing local craft beers alongside other better-known favourites. Oh and should we mention they now sport a two-lane lap pool located on the 3rd floor available for members and nippers? — Yep, it’s a perfect excuse to sign up and actually enjoy exercising at the best spot on the Coast to get in a few laps.

On the dining level, cast your eyes around towards the rest of the venue, and you’re met with a modernised space with large ornamental light features, high tables and that million-dollar view we all know and love. Seriously Gold Coasters, when the sun is shining, and the Pacific Ocean is shimmering, we literally can’t think of a better vista to accompany some tasty food.

So what is there on the menu?

New executive chef, Paul Macnish (who we must mention has actually had the pleasure of cooking for some of Europe’s most well-know royal families), is a man with a distinct vision in mind. He hasn’t completely reinvented the menu here (it’s ok everyone, a chicken parmi is still on the menu), but he has approached it with fresh eyes. Whilst ensuring the offering isn’t overly fancy, Paul has made the focus on dishes to be nothing short of fresh and tasty.

For breakfast, you have dishes such as the Breakfast Hash with fried halloumi, potato roast capsicum, crisp kale and topped with a poached egg, alongside a selection of freshly made smoothies such as the Detox, Reboot, or Energise, the perfect healthy drink to sip while you cast your eyes out over the beach.

With an aim to keep locals whilst also tempting a new crowd, the lunch and dinner menu speak volumes of this approach. Expect dishes like the Soba Noodle Salad with Crispy Salmon or the classic Chicken Caesar Salad which are both light and great for when the temperature rises. As for what to order after a long day spent at the beach, we suggest The Haloumi Burger or Prawn & Crab Linguine.

There’s also a selection of smaller dishes for those who might just want to graze from the Birdcage Bites menu, like the Falafel Plate, and naturally, a comprehensive yet well-thought-out kids menu. Aiming to please even the fussiest ones.

With an incredible view, it’s wholly necessary for drinks to match. If you’re the type of person who likes themselves a cocktail — or five — then it’ll be music to your ears to learn there’s a spattering of classic drinks which won’t blow your budget. The majority of cocktails are $14 and served up with the handy assistance of the Gold Coast’s very own Mr. Consistent. Meaning you’re guaranteed the same great-tasting cocktail whether it’s 6pm on a Friday or noon on a Tuesday — don’t worry, we don’t judge.

And for you wine fans out there, the wine list has been carefully elevated to include some great Australian producers and even features a President’s Reserve List should you feel like splashing out for a bottle of something a little more refined. How does a magnum-sized bottle of Provence Rosé sound after a week at the office? — Yep, we are down!

By their own admission, the Club wants to retain its character but also keep up with the ever-changing face of Burleigh Heads. Ideally, sitting between a pub and somewhere a bit fancier, they want to make everyone who walks in the door feel incredibly welcome. After checking it out for ourselves, it’s safe to say they’ve made Burleigh Surf Club a place for everyone to enjoy — and dare we say, most likely your new Friday afternoon knock-off spot!

Where: 55 Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am — late and Sat & Sun 7am — late

Words by Alex Mitcheson.

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