Shenanigans are afoot, Gold Coasters. Yep, in case you’ve been off with the fairies – March means St Patrick’s Day is indeed upon us for another year. Who can resist the time honoured tradition of donning the green garb, and gathering over a cheeky pint of Guinness to celebrate Irish culture in all its glory… and who could forget waaay too many (questionable) impressions, to be sure, to be sure.

March 17th is the date famously reserved for good, old fashioned Irish-inspired revelling in cities across the globe. If you’re wondering what’s the craic on the GC this St Paddy’s day, we’ve got you covered better than a kilt on a breezy day with all the best spots to bust out those second-hand Riverdance renditions.

And better still? This year it falls on a Sunday funday – Irish luck indeed!

Here’s a list of top Gold Coast spots to get your green on from north to south.

Harrigan’s Irish Pub
If you’re looking for a spot to take your kilt for a whirl this St Patty’s day, Harrigan’s Irish Pub should be a no-brainer for our northern GC revellers. Serving up an high energy event you won’t want to miss, they’ll be bunging on back-to-back live Irish tunes and traditional fare for the duration. Catch Celtic Cowboy on the mic from 11am-2pm, Celtic crooners Asleep at the Reel from 2pm-5pm and the DJ spinning jig-worthy tunes in the beer garden from 5pm-8pm. Book a table and thank us later!
Where: Harrigan’s Lane, Jacobs Well

Paradise Point Bowls Club
Embrace your inner Irish (coz surely we all have a long-lost relo from the Emerald Isle in our family tree) on St Pat’s Day at the Paradise Point Bowls Club. Catch the McNeill Academy of Irish Dance from 2pm to 3pm, followed by the 2 Be Sure from 3pm to 7pm. To add to the festive spirit, they’ll also be rolling out some special deals on traditional Irish food and tipples, including a Guinness Filo for $10, Irish Stew with Mash, Veges & Irish Soda Bread for $25, and Guinness and Kilkenny cans. Sláinte!
Where: 22 Thrush Avenue, Paradise Point

Dublin Docks Tavern
Harbour Town Premium Outlet’s favourite neighbour Dublin Docks is never light on Irish cheer, particularly not on St Paddy’s Day! There’ll be live entertainment, Irish dancers, and of course, the refreshing ales will be flowing with Guinness and Kilkenny on tap to really get in the spirit. But we should issue a very valid warning here; too many of the latter may induce the Irish flu come Monday morning (aka a humdinger hangover)! Irish dancing and tunes courtesy of Mama Ju Ju kick off from 1–5pm, with Richard Neill & the (aptly dubbed) Drunken Midnight Choir set to soundtrack the merrymaking well into the evening.
Where: Harbour Town Drive, Biggera Waters

Waxy’s Irish Pub
Why limit the fun to one day only? Surfers’ Irish icon, Waxy’s is going the whole hog with full-blown St Patrick’s fest spanning the entire weekend… and frankly, we would expect no less! The keen little leprechauns are kicking off the festivities from Friday (or Paddy’s Day Eve Eve, more like) with Tartan Shamrock supplying the tunes, followed by the sweet sounds of Darren Gallagher on Saturday. Backing it up bright and early on Sunday, the main event will fire up from 9am with a full day of live entertainment – including appearances from Dublin Dan, Gold Coast Pipe Band and Irish dancing from McNeill Academy of Irish Dance. Top stuff!
Where: 3206 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

Finn McCool’s
Witness a sea of green take over Cavill Avenue at Finn McCool’s! All the crazy craic will be kicking off at 10am on St Paddy’s Day, with free entry and Guinness galore! You’ll have a grand ‘ole time celebrating all-things-Irish as traditional Irish dancers and pipe bands hit the stage! So tell Siri to remind you to swing by the $2 shop and stock up on silly Irish stuff now because Finn punters get involved!
Where: 39 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

The Local Tavern
The Local are bringing back a part of the Lansdowne Road Tavern and guys, we salute you #RIPLandsdowne. Reviving its former Irish pub roots for one day only – its spirit lives on in the form of all day dining, Irish fare faves and chef specials available specifically for this grand occasion! We’ll forgive you for leaving a chubbier little leprechaun #MoreToLove. Available only on St Paddy’s Day, so get it while you can!
Where: Chevron Renaissance, 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise

The Avenue
This Monday 18th, The Avenue is celebrating with some good ‘ole fashioned karaoke-style shenanigans – along with a chance to win a share of $1000 for the best Irish-inspired song. And seriously, who can resist belting out Zombie by The Cranberries (honourable mention: Nothing Compares 2U, because Sinead always slaps) whenever it comes on? Certainly not us! Along with bangers galore, there’s loads of specials & prizes up for grabs – including the chance to Burn the Bill with the chance to score up to 100% off your total. Grand!
Where: 3-15 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

D’Arcy Arms Irish Pub
It’s not just a day, or even a weekend, it’s a full-blown St Patrick’s Fest at this much loved local Irish icon. The three-day extravaganza is shaping up to be their best yet, with an outdoor marquee and multiple stages primed to host a stellar lineup of live acts. Running from Friday–Sunday, catch tunes from the likes of Gallie, Gold Coast Pipe Band, Mark Butler & Claddagh and more. Of course, irresistible Irish bites like Beef & Guinness pies with mushy peas and Kilkenny beer battered Barra will also be coming thick and fast; so head down for what’s sure to be the best time outside the motherland itself! We’ve got all the details here.
Where: 2923 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise

Dan Devine
If the sound of Irish-inspired pub grub and an all-day gig fest is up your alley, get on down to Den Devine for an absolute gas of a time this St Patty’s day. The Kilkenny and Guinness will be flowing from 11am, with every pint of Guinness purchased also earning you the chance to win a month’s supply of the Emerald Isle’s beloved elixir. But why stop at traditional bevvy’s? The ode to Ireland continues with the Bangers and mash ft Guinness gravy food special coming in hot for lunch and dinner. And with back-to-back live tunes locked and loaded from 11am–11pm, it would be prudent to keep that sustenance up for this epic sesh.
Where: Shop 12/15 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach

Bine
Experience the Luck of the Irish at Bine this St. Patrick’s Day! From noon onwards, Bine will be decked out in festive green. Indulge in authentic Irish cuisine with specials like Bangers & Mash and Corned Beef Spring Rolls. As the evening unfolds, enjoy the sounds of live music by Maddy Breen from 6pm to 9pm. Quench your thirst with a selection of Irish themed drinks, including Boiler Makers, Celtic Slushies, and ice-cold Guinness cans.
Where: 1/28 Chairlift Avenue, Nobby Beach

Robina Pavillion
Get set to paint the town green! Join the St. Patrick’s Day Sunday Session at Robina Pavilion on March 17th. Dive into live tunes, sip on Irish whiskey, and enjoy exclusive deals on Kilkenny & Guinness all day. Treat your taste buds to their irresistible Steak & Guinness Pies. Get ready for an Irish bash you won’t forget!
Where: 229 Ron Penhaligon Way, Robina

Dust Temple
Celebrate all things Irish from 6pm on Friday 15th March with an evening filled with traditional folk music, delicious hearty food, and the cozy ambiance reminiscent of gatherings at ‘the local’. Headlining the festivities are The Munster Bucks, featuring Tommy Donovan, Jack O’Leary, and Sam De Santi. Hailing from Munster, Ireland, and Australia, this talented trio infuses traditional Irish music with their own unique flair, creating an irresistible groove that has earned them acclaim in the Australian folk scene. Joining them onstage are The Stowaways. Known for their diverse interpretations of traditional music, from delicate airs to contemporary foot-stompers, their performances captivate audiences in venues nationwide.
Where: Dust Temple, Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters

Words by Kellie Leader.

Let it be known, we are quite the fans of basking in the sunshine and drinking icy cold tipples whilst gazing appreciatively at pretty views. In fact, those three things are right up there when it comes to our top reasons for living on the Gold Coast in general.

We suspect you might feel the same so, in celebration of summer and getting amongst all the goodness on offer, we’ve collated a list of the 14 best spots to drink frosty daytime beverages for maximum sun soaking opportunities.

Palm Springs Cafe
Miami’s new addition is indeed a cafe, but not as you know it. Found on the highway, where Siam Thai once lived, Palm Springs Cafe is unmissable, all white washed with pops of green – Southern California style. Inside it’s absolutely beautiful, the menu is packed with goodness and the best part – morning cocktails of the Margarita, Espresso Martini and Bloody Mary varieties. As early as you like. Best.
Where: Cnr Gardenia Grove and Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Aviary Rooftop Bar
Rooftop bars are up high (surprise), so it makes sense they would get even more sunshine and even more balmy breezes, making them the perfect spot for daytime drinks. Aviary Rooftop Bar has a sweet little outdoor section called The Nest, it’s an uncovered space with cute pops of colours and 180 degree views toward Surfers Paradise. See, perfect.
Where: Melia Court, Southport

Burleigh Brewing Co.
Laidback beers around a table full of mates is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Particularly when said beers are local made by a team of absolute legends who know what’s up when it comes to brews. Burleigh Brewing Co. is all those things and more, found just off the beaten track and ready to cater to all your day drinking needs. Weekend sorted.
Where: 2 Ern Harley Drive, Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Pavilion
This place was pretty much made for day drinking – right on the beach at Burleigh, with guaranteed life-changing sunset views, all your favourite beers on tap, Frosé (a revelation), plenty of fancy cocktails and lots of tasty each, there’s really nowhere better than Burleigh Pavilion to don your fave oceanside drinking outfit and gather the crew for a good time.
Where: Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Garden Kitchen & Bar
It goes without saying a venue with the word garden in it is a good choice for day drinking. Garden Kitchen & Bar found in The Star Gold Coast, is a delightful mix of pretty insides and expansive, outdoor sunshine-filled spaces so you can alternate between the two and cram in as many good times as possible. One of our absolute favourites.
Where: Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Southport Yacht Club
Talk about jaw dropping views. The Southport Yacht Club is perched on the edge of the marina in Main Beach and with a huge outdoor deck, lawn space and even a white sandy beach, there are plenty of spots to kick back with a drink in hand and pretend one of those multi-million dollar yachts is yours. Drinking and dreaming, it’s definitely allowed.
Where: 1 Macarthur Parade, Main Beach

Rick Shores
Another Burleigh beauty, Rick Shores recently reopened with an updated menu and drinks list. Not that you need any extra incentive to go there because, bug rolls. With uninterrupted ocean views, and maybe even a salty splash or two, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place to spend your drinking days. Get dressed up and grab the girls, this one is unmissable.
Where: Shop 3, Goodwin Terrace, Burleigh Heads

Precinct Brewing Co.
A brand new brewery on the Miami / Burleigh block is Precinct Brewing Co. by the good people who brought us a slew of epic local venues (Bine Beer Bar, Nightjar, Hideaway etc.). It’s a converted garage on Christine Ave and the team are going to be brewing an array of unique sips, they serve beloved Mr Consistent cocktails AND they’re serving up pizzas, fried chicken and all of the perfect beer-accompanying eats. Pop in for frothy and see it for yourself.
Where: 17 Christine Avenue, Miami

Justin Lane
Burleigh’s much-loved rooftop bar is a no brainer when it comes to day drinks. Sunshine pouring in, an open roof and LOTS of other fun lovers enjoying the frivolities. Treat yourself to a pizza to go with those cocktails and that is one of the best days out you can possibly have. Oh and did we mention there are ocean views and people watching opps aplenty. Yes please.
Where: 1708 – 1710 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads

Lost Palms Brewing Co.
Miami’s pretty pink brewery is the GOODS guys. There is a basketball hoop for your playing pleasure and what could be better than sinking beers with your pals, while also sinking hoops and being outside in the fresh air. Not much we say. If running around isn’t your thing, pull up a seat along the fence and sledge those willing to give it a go. Or don’t and just drink beer.
Where: 11 Oak Avenue, Miami

Currumbin Beach Vikings Surf Club
Without a doubt, one of the most spectacular venues on the Gold Coast in terms of five star views is Currumbin Vikings. It rises directly out of the ocean and offers views of the city to the north and as far as Tweed Heads to the south. It’s a little bit magical to be honest and an absolute cracker of a spot for day drinking and counting your lucky stars you’re a Coastie.
Where: 741 Pacific Parade, Currumbin

Balter Brewing
Another of our epic breweries is the one and only Balter Brewing, found in Currumbin’s cool-as industrial area. The indoor space is good enough but there’s also an outdoor strip with umbrellas and bench seating and colourful cushions for lazing about with a beer in hand. Get a designated driver and taste test every single one. Best spot for a Sunday session.
Where: 14 Traders Way, Currumbin Waters

Mr PP’s Rooftop Bar & Deli
Another bar up high is Southport’s Mr PP’s, overlooking the Southport cityscape and with plenty of space for all your pals. Found in the old post office building, there’s a deli downstairs for all your charcuterie needs plus plenty of pizza options to go with those tasty cocktails you’re sure to consume. The perfect spot for a long lunch that stretches into the evening.
Where: 43 Nerang Street, Southport

Words by Kirra Smith

If there was one thing that Surfers Paradise was missing, it was a stylish brewery complete with it’s very own range of epic beers and a menu that is unlike anything you’ve seen in a brewery before. But that one thing is missing no longer thanks to the long-awaited opening of BOBs Beer this week.

Found on the corner of Elkhorn and Orchid Aves, in the heart of Surfers Paradise, the stunning new brewery is a must-visit not only because of an impressive range of frosty brews on tap and the aforementioned impressive menu but because the fitout is one of the very best we’ve seen in a while and you’re going to absolutely love it.

Being on a corner block means the venue offers plenty of window seating so you can sit back and watch the bustling world of Surfers Paradise roll by. There’s a little outdoor seating section if you’re keen to catch a breeze but inside is where all the Insta-worthy goodness can be found.

The first thing you’ll notice are the growlers suspended from the roof that have been transformed into light fittings and second, the bar made with beer taps that are actually huge copper pipes and behind that, the brewery itself. It all comes together absolutely perfectly and we are huge fans.

Now let’s chat beer because that’s what we all came for and BOBs is of course, a working brewery led by famed (former) Melbourne brewmaster Ryan Fullerton who knows what’s up when it comes to beer. He and his team have been busy brewing and already you can get four BOBs Beers on tap ( a lager, IPA, XPA and a Saison), with four more on the way.

The idea is to always have eight in-house brews on offer and the rest of the taps to be taken up by other Australian brewers.

If you’d prefer a cocktail there are sips like the Monkey Business with Mr Black Coffee Liqueur, Flor de Cana 5yo rum, banana and coffee and the Buffalo Berry with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Fino Sherry, Raspberry, Orange and Soda. So lovely. There’s also an extensive wine and sparkling list and A LOT of thought has been put into every single aspect of it.

To eat, as we said, there’s an incredible menu filled with bites you might not expect to find at a Surfers Paradise brewery — for example savoury profiteroles with craquelin, ricotta and King Island Mousse, oysters with mignonette, shallots, shitake and topiko and a chicken dish with carrot and pumpkin gels and purees and a chicken jus. All extremely delicious (tried and tested by us).

Of course there’s also a Waygu Beef Burger (so good), premium steaks and fries with aioli.

The entire venue boasts a few finishing touches that really make BOBs Beers something special – for example a stamp to brand the ice cubes (played with that for way too long) and plates made out of leftover grain from the beer production (how good).

Not to mention the team is planning to open a whisky bar downstairs in the coming months. It’s all happening in Surfers Paradise Gold Coasters, you’re not going to want to miss this one.

LOCATION: 10/2 Elkhorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
HOURS: 12pm to 12am daily

Words and photos by Kirra Smith