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 — or in the case of a long weekend: get things started!
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 seen the news of this multi-million-dollar entertainment precinct having only just opened 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 already has a stellar line-up of DJs such as Brooke Evers and Little Fritter organised for summer. All-day Sunday Sesh, here you come!
Where: 21a Elkhorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Mermaid Beach Tavern
One of the city’s best-loved taverns is back — and what a makeover it has had. From comfortable dining options and breakaway spaces you can hire, to a fully dedicated sports bar and a perpetually sunny back deck area. Whether you’re with a lively crowd or the kids, the space caters for everyone — and all tastes — with ease.
Where: 2500 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid 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
Fat Freddy’s
This venue takes care of your Sunday sessions with everything your heart could desire. Think imaginative and moreish cocktails, a delicious modernised American diner-style menu, beer towers and more than enough screens displaying every sport known to humankind. Get comfortable — you’re going nowhere.
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Nineteen at The Star
After brunch comes the after-party, and that’s what’s up at the fanciest rooftop bar on the entire Gold Coast, Nineteen at The Star. Indulge in a boozy brunch 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, and you get to dress up in your prettiest frock too.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
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! Likely one of the most eye-catching openings of 2021, this diverse venue offers different experiences for everyone. Take things slowly with oysters and champagne on high tables or turn it up with on-tap frosé on the decking area. There’s also a regular ticketed Sunday Brunch Club — or is that too early for you?
Where: 30-34 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Fisherman’s Wharf Tavern
If you’re as old as us, you remember the good ol’ days of Fisho’s, well Sunday sessions are back. Nothing beats watching the sunset across the Broadwater, so Fisho’s is the perfect spot for a classic brew or cocktail and a nibble with friends. From 2pm-6pm there’s a live DJ on the deck with sax and bongo’s that are sure to inject some fun and entertainment into your Sunday. Of course, there’s always a tonne of sport on-screen to ensure you never miss your favourite team.
Where: Shop 40, 60-70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Bo’teku
Hidden in plain sight, Bo’teku in Coolangatta are not only serving up yummy eats and a smashing cocktail menu but live music on Sunday arvos — all whilst overlooking the ocean. Meander in after some time on the beach and settle in for an afternoon well spent.
Where: Shop 6, 110 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
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 from two different menus… 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, and then this little number decided to come into our lives. This rooftop stunner has recently opened and, from the outlook, is primed to be a leading place to sip drinks and mingle in the afternoon sun. 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
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 equate to being one of the best ways to spend a Sunday arvo.
Where: Multiple locations
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
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
