Without a doubt one of life’s greatest pleasures is sitting down in front of a multi-tiered tray, delicately filled with morish bite-size eats and paired with a cuppa. Or bubbles. Okay both.

In all honest-tea, here are 13 of the best high tea haunts here on the Coast. Bake a leg and get bready to tick them off your must-visit list, one by one. And go!

Cove Cafe
Following a multi-million dollar refurb, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is looking better than ever – as is the the ever-elegant High Tea menu, hosted in Cove Cafe from 1–4pm every Saturday and Sunday. Elevate your weekend with decadent morsels such as Spanner Crab with saffron mayonnaise, and Salted Caramel Choux with orchid vanilla tea cream and caramel sauce.

Plus, since they also have the bragging rights as the first hotel to feature globally renowned Tea Forté teas, so you can rest assured you’ll be treated like royal-tea – starting with a welcome of Tea Forté infused towel and palate-cleansing iced tea piccolo from your host. You can also upgrade to bottomless rosé or the signature ‘Pear-tea-ni’ cocktail – either of which sounds pear-fect to us (and bonus, we can finally swing by and suss out that lush, spruced up lagoon pool in the process). Prices start at $57 per person.
Where: Cove Cafe, Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Sanctuary Cove

Pearls Bar
This eclectic fave with warm mood lighting for days is known for its rotating seasonal high teas. Starting March 1 they invite us all to celebrate the heart of autumn with their Falling for Flavours: Autumn High Tea. Infused with luxurious flavours inspired by the new season, we’re drooling in anticipation. From Roasted Hazelnut Nutella Slice to Spiced Pumpkin Cake, you certainly won’t leave underwhelmed…or hungry. Complemented by the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and tropical palms, it looks as decadent as it tastes. $76 per adult, which includes a glass of Sparking Wine as well as unlimited tea and coffee.
Where: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Le Jardin
The Imperial Hotel, Seaworld Drive’s HQ of luxury might be sporting a fresh new name – but thankfully they’re serving up that same fabulous Couture High Tea experience we know and love. Bringing a fashionable culinary experience to the perennial classic – you’ll be feeling very high socie-tea indeed sipping bubbles surrounded by the sparkling crystal chandelier and grand vaulted ceilings. There are two high tea options to choose from (fancy and fancier) – depending on how bougee you’re feeling – starting from $89.90 per person. Or for a slightly less extravagant experience (that doesn’t skimp on the delish factor), there are also four curated mini-spreads to pick from (think Devonshire tea) for around $30 per person.
Where: Imperial Hotel, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Chapter and Verse
Located in the luxurious JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, high tea at Chapter & Verse is an unmissable resort tradition created by their esteemed culinary team. Using local ingredients, this team take their high tea business seriously – sharing that each homemade morsel is inspired by the echo of birds in the resort’s peaceful and tranquil surrounds. So excuse us as we channel our inner seagull and duke it out over the likes of of Honey Lavender Scones and Salted Caramel Chocolate Tartlet… we kid, of course – only our best etiquette for a classy establishment like the Marriott. There’s also a cute mini-me version for the little ones, Teeny Tiny Tea for $39 per child. Prices start from $79 per adult.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Bumbles
Tucked peacefully a stone’s throw from the Budds Beach waterfront, Surfers stalwart Bumbles has long been a beloved spot to meet for coffee and some grazing action (and now cocktails – thanks to neighbouring big sis sip spot, Blue House #squee).

Inside the most charming little cafe in 4217 (and perhaps, the entire coast) there’s a mix of themed private rooms that branch off the main space – so it figures that it also makes a particularly spesh spot for a fanciful high tea soiree. Acquaint yourself with the divinely appointed Library (or luxurious Hamptons room, perhaps) and tuck into a spread of smoked salmon blinis, pint-sized quiches, fruit tarts and tea sandwiches. Bookings for the “regular” high tea (a misnomer if ever we’ve heard one) come in at $50 per person, with dietary and bubbles options also available. La-de-dah indeed.
Where: 19 River Drive, Surfers Paradise

QT Gold Coast
This is no ordinary high tea! … well okay, technically speaking they do offer an ‘Ordinary’ High Tea option, but since you know QT Gold Coast is all about infusing the unexpected into everything they do – trust us when we say it’s anything but. The variety of pinky-popping menus also include a champas-studded Extraordinary High Tea experience, a Man Tea for a more savoury take and a mini spread for your little Q’Ties for $39 per child.

Here, the typical savoury tea fare has been treated to a tapas-style twist, such as Spiced Tempura Cauliflower and Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Poppers to excite the tastebuds – so, move over cucumber sandwich, you culinary snooze-fest you (there, we said it). And don’t get us started on the Choux Pastries and Brownie-macarons. Prices start at $64 per adult with a variety of boozy upgrade options, such as jugs of Aperol Spritz really enhance to your experience.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Ms Margot’s
A pretty little gem nestled just inside the lobby of Hilton Surfers Paradise, Ms Margot’s certainly knows a thing or two about being boujee. Along with serving up superb sips and all-day bites, the signature High Tea spread is available from 11:30–3:00 daily for whenever the urge for a lavish light lunch hits. Gather your gal and/or guy pals for a glam #SATC style rendezvous, and spill the tea over soft-shell crab bao, pumpkin arancini, and halloumi with pickled fig. The Signature and champagne upgrade Par-Tea option come in at a very Carrie approved $42 and $67 respectively – bc, y’know – more to splash on shoes. OTT outfits optional.
Where: Hilton Surfers Paradise, 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Palette
Every Sunday, locals and visitors alike flock to HOTA not just for their arty fix or a spot of market browsing, but to tuck into a delightful High Tea. Served in the critically acclaimed and ever-popular Palette restaurant, superstar Executive Chef Dayan Hartill-Law has curated the ultimate high tea experience. A couple of highlights are the Prawn Toast with yuzu mayo and sesame and for the sweet tooths, Davidson Plum and Marshmallow Pinwheel. Yum! Prices start at $70 per adult.
Where: HOTA Gallery, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

Greendays
With its pavilion backdrop, lush gardens, and tranquil setting, this centrally located secluded oasis is the home of high tea. To set the scene on the type of sumptuous snack spread they put on – we’re talking mouth-watering morsels like Pork and Chestnut Gyoza, Pandan Swiss Roll and Dragonfruit Pannacotta. Throw in a glass of French bubbles for an extra $12… just because, or go the whole hog and upgrade to bottomless bubbles for an extra $45 pp. There’s also a separate vegan high tea and junior high tea so no one misses out. High Tea from $65 per adult.
Where: 8/6 Ashmore Road, Bundall

The Langham
Okay so technically this one is officially called an Afternoon Tea, but when it comes to sumptuously snacking our way through bite-sized helpings of Miniature coconut + mango pavlovas, Hot smoked salmon rillettes and Lemon curd scones, we’re not about to get caught up in the semantics now are we (a ‘Rosé’ by any other name and all that).

In a British nod to its namesake at The Langham, London where traditional English afternoon tea was served over 150 years ago, the stunning Palm Court restaurant inside the hotel pays tribute to its heritage. Serving a bespoke offering of the traditional Afternoon Tea crafted by culinary experts, it’s time to start practicing your tea drinking etiquette (no pinky!). Prices start from $109 per person Monday to Friday and $119 per person Saturday & Sunday.
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise

Videre
Local fave Videre does a high tea with panache… with the added perk of some some pretty stellar views, to boot. From Moreton Bay Bug Fritters and Barramundi Summer rolls with bush tomato relish, to a selection of sweets whipped up by the in-house Chef de Patisserie’s – the quali-tea here is unparalleled. And quite frankly, the assortment of freshly baked scone flavours served with all the trimmings (hellooo Sun-dried mango scone and just-churned butter!) alone is enough to get us swooning. Don’t forget the unlimited French press coffee and ‘Tea Drop’ tea and breathtaking panoramic views from the 21st floor whilst the golf folk slug it out below. We know what we’d rather be doing. Prices start at $68 per person including a glass of Mumm Tasmania Brut Prestige or a speciality mocktail, delish!
Where: RACV Royal Pines, Ross Street, Benowa

Mecca Bah
Have you tried a Middle Eastern high tea yet and if you’re shaking your noggin, we’re about to open up a whole new world of d-lish. Boasting exotic sweet and savoury bites a-plenty, it will become your new normal to meet your mates here. Tuck in to three tiers brimming with treats such as Orange Blossom Cheesecake and Halloumi and Eggplant Skewers, with unlimited barista made coffee and tea, and a sparking wine or mocktail on arrival. $69 pp, minimum of four people.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach & 18/10 Santa Barbara Road, Hope Island

Bon Appetea Teahouse
Nestled in leafy Mudgeeraba, the stunningly decorated and truly breathtaking Bon Appetea Teahouse exudes French charm and traditional elegance. Popular for bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays and basically any event you can think of, their Luxe High Tea is the definition of decadence. Think scones with homemade jam and cream and a selection of petite patisseries, organic sandwiches and savoury bites. Oh and if you’re on the hunt for a truly beautiful, quaint, spot to tie the knot, this one’s a keeper. $55 per adult.
Where: 7 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba

Words by Kellie Leader.

If there’s one thing we never grow tired of it’s a cracking cocktail and lucky for us, the GC is a melting pot of masterful cocktails guaranteed to leave you shooketh.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these spots are a must-visit for anyone who loves a tipple (or five), tried and tested by the team because you know, we had to complete our due diligence. From beachy vibes to moody speakeasies, here’s the scoop on where to sip the best cocktails in town.

Rosella’s
Rosella’s has been bringing all things Australiana to bustling Burleigh since January 2019, recently winning the coveted ‘Best Cocktail Bar in Queensland’ gong. And what’s more quintessentially 2024 Aussie behaviour than sipping on a host of sensational cocktails in a beautiful beachy ‘burb?! Serving up nostalgic and native fare, this little ripper hums until late seven nights a week. ‘Knoath!
Our pick: Fantales. Our fave (discontinued) lolly in liquid form. Rosella’s Blend Bundaberg Rum, Mac. Daintree Dark Choc, Mushroom Garum Caramel, Wattleseed Butter – with their very own custom Fantales.
Where: 1734 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh

Cantina
Mermaid Beach locals will tell you that if you’re frothing for a quality cocktail (us – always), it’s Cantina for the win. This pint-sized neighbourhood tapas bar proves that good things come in small packages and by good things, we mean cocktails. Forming the perfect pair with sibling Piatto Italian restaurant right next door, line your tum with Spanish style bar bites so that your sneaky cocktail can turn into two…or five….
Our pick: Quattro Bianchi- A citrussy Italian take on the Long Island Ice Tea
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach

The Cambus Wallace
If you haven’t stepped aboard The Cambus Wallace, are you even a Gold Coaster? Serving up the finest classic cocktails, international rums and whiskeys, and heartwarming food, the only thing moodier than the dark hues of the boat-themed bar is you if you don’t sample at least one of their tipples. There’s a reason (AKA epic cocktails) that it always gets a nod on our lists!
Our pick: Maiden Voyage #2: Fresh muddled pineapple, Sailor Jerry spiced rum, Brinley coconut rum,  Angostura white rum, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and tiki bitters.
Where: 4/2237 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach

Fig + Frankies
If artisanal cocktails and coastal-inspired tapas are your kryptonite, you need Fig + Frankies in your life. One of Broadbeach’s laneway treasures, the cocktail list is as impressive as the venue’s arch features, exposed brick, and charmingly textured interior. Phone a friend, your other half, or anyone who appreciates a killer cocktail and we’ll meet you there.
Our pick: Number 42 – Arette Blanco Tequila, Piel de Sapo Tea, Maidenii Classic Vermouth + Lychee Foam. Bitter + Sweet.
Where: 4/2707 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

Six Tricks Distilling Co.
Hold onto your highball glasses Gold Coast because Six Tricks is redefining the local distillery scene one cocktail, rum, or whisky at a time (okay, maybe more than one). This two-million-dollar masterpiece is state-of-the-art with a spacious indoor bar and sunset deck perf for sipping the night away – and even a private cask hall! You’ll be left shaken not stirred in the best possible way.
Our Pick: Melon & Lime Highball: Lime Leaf Six-Tricks Vodka, Melon Liqueur, Fino Sherry, Lacto Honeydew, Carbonated.
Where: 3 Brightlands Court, Mermaid Beach

The Exhibitionist Bar
Flirt with breathtaking views across the Gold Coast to the Hinterland – and a cracking array of cocktails – at The Exhibitionist Bar. Sitting high on the HOTA Gallery rooftop, its specialty cocktails are inspired and expertly curated using the major art exhibitions as the starting point to each creation. Changing with each new major exhibition, this means you’ll never run out of reasons to pop in for a sip.
Our Pick: NAKED AND FAMOUS- #69  Rhubi Mistelle, Becherovka, Altos Tequila, Amores Mezcal, lime
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise

Granddad Jack’s
Distil our beating hearts! With a fresh curation of concoctions that could coax Sleeping Beauty herself from her 100-year slumber, this magical albeit not-so-faraway Miami-based fave has earned quite the rap for its bewitching, fable-inspired concoctions. If you’re after something extra spesh that you can’t find at every other cocktail bar, welcome. Extra points for everything from syrups to spirits made on site.
Our Pick: The Tainted Apple – Greenhouse Gin, Clear Apple Juice, Sour Coriander Cordial. Green Apple Slice, ‘Tainted’ Charcoal Drops.
Where: 45 Lemana Lane, Miami

Sandfire
Looking for an absolute beachfront cocktail tapas bar? Look no further – this.is.it. Serving up an exciting fusion of coastal charm, inventive cocktails, and sumptuous tapas, it’s a winner winner cocktail dinner. Crafted by expert mixologists, the cocktail list boasts an array of innovative libations, from classic martinis to exotic tropical creations, so you’re assured a perfect pairing for every palate and mood.
Our pick: FUTURE PIÑA- Spiced rum, toasted coconut, jasmine, lemon balm, plum, pineapple C02
Where: 293 The Esplanade, Miami

Bar Evelyn
You’ve never met a cooler Evelyn (and if you’re born after 1980 – you’ve probably never met one). This antipasto and pizza bar has not only garnered a staunch following for its A+ seasonal antipasti, sough dough pizza, and freshly made pizza, but also for the evelyn-utionary cocktails. With warm and cosy feels for days (particularly perf this time of year), Evelyn is especially epic on a cool winter’s night.
Our pick: Limoncello Margarita-  Altos bianco tequila, Limoncello, lemon, sugar. salt
Where: Shop 20, 52-58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta

Destino
With inspo derived from Mediterranean islands where world class service, design and atmosphere collide to create an unforgettable destination – need we say more? This little gem at Sanctuary Cove is the gift that keeps on giving. Earning a reputation within its first week as a cocktail connoisseur’s haven, the initial hype has not only endured – it continues to soar. If you’re up the north end (or even if you’re not) – just go.
Our Pick: Strawberry Fields- Peach liqueur, vodka, simple syrup, lime & house made strawberry puree
Where: 4601 Masthead Way, Hope Island

Suga
With a name that (literally) sums up our guilty pleasure, Suga lives up to its namesake – and then some. When it comes to our local speakeasy, the only thing more satisfying than the cocktails is the…no, it’s the cocktails. The low-lit lamps highlight the insanely good menu, which serves as the perfect belly-liner so that you can partake in another cocktail (yes, even on a school night).
Our pick: Not A ‘Colada- rum, coco, water, pineapple, lime, agave
Where: 1142 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Veladora
Asking us to “find the red palm tree”– challenge accepted! We all know any restaurant or watering hole at The Star Gold Coast never misses a beat and Veladora is no exception. This place is actual cocktail nirvana so take it from us; leave the car at home because you won’t be able to stop at one. Watching the mixologists in action is half the fun and don’t even get us started on the vibe, thanks to Mezcal-inspired speakeasy design.
Our pick: The Margarita! Herradura Plata, orange liqueur & fresh lime juice
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach

Words by Bianca Trathen

Looking for a slice of heaven right here on the GC? Aren’t we all and sidenote; suddenly all we can hear is Dave Dobbyn in his Footrot Flats era #BornInThe80s. Well, we’re pleased to do our bit for community self-care by pointing you in the divine direction of eforea spa at Hilton Surfers Paradise.

Now the bliss buffs among us have already been drinking the eforea kool-aid for many years (13 in fact) and can confirm that this wellness wonderland delivers everything you could ever want from a day spa. It balances the mind, body, and soul with a unique menu of exclusive treatments to ignite your inner peace, harness your harmony, and nurture your namaste.

Satisfying all the senses, eforea spoils us with a host of innovative design elements. It’s undeniably luxurious with all the trimmings you’d expect from Hilton, yet it’s not just for the highfliers and nepobabes.

It serves up a welcoming, serene space where we can all experience the pinnacle of pampering and emerge brighter – both physically (come at us glowy skin!), and with a restored sense of overall wellbeing.

As an eforea guest, you’ll be privy to a range of beautiful, organic products whilst zenning out on one (or both!) of their two distinctive journeys; the Essentials Journey and the Escape Journey. Both have been developed from results-driven practices, and merge nature’s best with locally inspired therapies and techniques from the most fabled spa cultures around the world. Plus, eforea guests can enjoy complimentary use the hotel’s four pools and spa, and take advantage of free, secure parking.

Let’s get straight into their signature offering; the iconic Vichy Showers treatments. With three treatment options to choose from, our vote goes to the Renewing Vichy Shower Experience, increasing circulation throughout the body and reducing stress and toxins.

Starting with a relaxing full body exfoliation (see ya manky fake tan remnants) combined with the refreshing Vichy shower, it washes away body tension and awakens your vitality. Finishing with a gentle full body massage, we’ll partake every day and twice on Sundays please and thanks.

There’s a suite of face treatments to explore, like the Rebalancing Facial and Diamond-Peel Microdermabrasion which uses actual diamond-tipped wands, and if this doesn’t scream luxe, nothing does. If your bod is need of some TLC and whose isn’t after an action-packed Easter long weekend, then look no further than eforea’s famous massages, like the Aromatherapy Massage. Or, if a Remedial Massage is calling your name, bonus incoming – HICAPS is available, accepting all major health funds.

Your feet can feel the love too with various pedicure options, plus treatments to balance the bod like the Rest & Restore Body Mud Wrap. For the indecisive spa-goer, there are combination packages like the ultimate one-stop-(spa)-shop offering, the Head-To-Toe Revitalisation Package. Plus, there are treatments for mothers-to-be, and group discounts for private events to celebrate that upcoming special occasion.

If you want to share the indulgence with your +1, we recommend a Couples Massage and while you’re at it, why not level up with eforea’s signature Journey Enhancements. These exclusive and powerful mini treatments can be added to any existing service, for a more holistic and personalised spa experience.

A visit to eforea is the wellbeing gift that keeps on giving and speaking of, if you’re searching for the perf pressie for your besty, lady (or lad) love, or anyone worthy of a five-star pamper, look no further than an eforea spa voucher. Platinum gift-giver status guaranteed!

Bookings are essential so for the love of day spas, go here now!

Where: Level 2, Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences, 6 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
When: Monday – Sunday
Website: hiltonsurfersparadise.com.au/eforea-spa-hilton/
Instagram: @eforeaspa.hilton

Words by Bianca Trathen

STORY SPONSORED BY HILTON SURFERS PARADISE HOTEL & RESIDENCES