A trip to the sunshine state is thirsty work, especially if you’re here in the heat of summer. Luckily, on the Gold Coast, we are blessed with stacks of outstanding bars to quench your thirst.

Whether you’re floating around the northern or southern end of our sun-soaked city, there are a number of unmissable watering holes with tasty cocktails to try.

Locals and visitors, whoever you are, scroll on – this is where to find the Gold Coast’s best cocktails.

In this article

Mr P.P.’s Deli & Rooftop – Southport

If you find yourself meandering the northern end of the Gold Coast – be sure to head towards Mr P.P.’s Deli & Rooftop. Sensational for after-work drinks or catch ups with friends – this cozy wine bar is the ticket, hidden behind the guise of a deli. Select from a curated shelf of spirits and finely crafted cocktails. Upstairs, there’s a bit of history to enjoy – pass by the original hardwood floors and converted rooms that once housed nurses during the building’s history as a Maternal and Child Welfare space. Head to this unmissable spot for a sunset drink on the rooftop, but remember to book ahead, this multi-level gourmet pizza and pasta restaurant is in high demand.

Mr P.P.’s Deli & Rooftop

Sandbar – Surfers Paradise

A breezy fit-out with salty summer vibes and delicious cocktails – Sandbar is an unmissable Gold Coast watering hole with the city’s most extensive range of beer – over 100 options to choose from! It’s clear the crew at this hotspot want you to wine, dine and take your time by slinging delectable cocktails, wines and crisp ales. Taste quality in their wide range of dishes, from fresh seafood to comfort food classics. A relaxed, laid back atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long week at work, or after a long day exploring our glorious sun-soaked city.

Sandbar

Fig + Frankie’s – Broadbeach

Tapas and cocktails – need I say more? For a magical hole-in-the-wall bar scene with stunning peach-hued terracotta walls and a truly groovy atmosphere, Fig + Frankie’s in Broadbeach is to die for. Taste delicious specialty and classic cocktails, sublime wines, spritzers, and beers (even the increasingly popular sour beer!). Pair your choice with something from the extensive selection of small share plates, from charcuterie and pasta to oysters and kingfish ceviche. Optionally, choose from two ‘chefs banquet’ menus if you’re heading down for a special group occasion.

Fig + Frankie’s

Happy Endings – Broadbeach

For a spot to grab a drink, settle in and get comfortable – also known by the Japanese word ‘Izakaya’ – snuggle into Happy Endings, a Japanese-inspired eats and booze venue right above sister venue Fig + Frankie’s. Encapsulated by a dimly lit interior and unmissable tunes, Happy Endings sets the stage for absolute indulgence with decadent cocktails including Cherry Blossom, Tokyo Drift, Shibuya Crossing, Midnight Onsen and more. With someone who doesn’t vibe cocktails as much as you? There are plenty of wine and canned and on-tap beer options to delight their palate.

Happy Endings

Tropic Vice – Nobby Beach

Laidback meets luxe at this California-inspired modern rooftop bar. Right in the heart of the Nobby Beach bar and restaurant strip, Tropic Vice boasts stunningly uninterrupted views of the Gold Coast. Climb the steps up to this prime sipping spot and peruse the extensive cocktail menu. There’s also plenty of small and larger plates to enjoy with your friends, family, or significant other. The best part? You can pair your delectable lychee fire, tropic thunder, coco mojo, watermelon summertini, or tropic white choc passion cocktail with Tropic’s weekly special – $5 tacos!

Tropic Vice

Precinct Brewing Co. – Miami

At Precinct, the hip, graffiti-covered exterior is cool, but it’s what’s inside that really makes us tick. Taste pure quality in your choice of 16 on-tap beers, with every drop lovingly brewed on site. This watering hole situated in the heart of Burleigh is a staple among the locals for after-work drinks, but also a fantastic joint for a night out with a variety of live music, comedy and games nights on the calendar. Taste beer-friendly appetizers, pizzas, hearty meals and more – we rate Precinct very high on our list of the Gold Coast’s best spots for a crisp, fresh pint.

Precinct Brewing Co

Granddad Jack’s – Miami

Founded by father and son duo David and Luke Ridden, Granddad Jack’s is a fully-functioning craft distillery created in honour of their Granddad Jack. Even before visiting this unique space, the Jolly team could tell this distillery was one for the books thanks to its over 100 international awards. While visiting the slick barber shop set up and seriously cool barrel room, you will of course be drinking gin – whether that’s one drink or a few off the padel. Sip on incredible cocktails with friends, family and even your dog by adding this chic loft watering hole to your list.

Granddad Jack’s

Burleigh Pavilion – Burleigh Heads

What’s a cocktail list without including the Burleigh Pavilion (or The Pav to locals). It’s got inarguably the best view of our stunning city’s coast. With a great cocktail list, including Oh La La, Dusk Till Dawn, Lychee Paradise, Spicy Margarita, White Linen, Espresso Martini and Aperol Spritz, as well as a variety of jugs to share amongst friends – Burleigh Pav is a crowd fav when it comes to sinking a tipple. Head here for beachside-luxe vibes after a morning in the water or time spent walking the much-loved shopping strip on James Street.

Burleigh Pavilion

Malibu Racquet Club – Burleigh Heads

Right on the Burleigh bar strip is Malibu Racquet Club – a Cali-esque watering hole with high arched windows and pops of green. Cocktail lovers are sure to be impressed with their choice of 13 creative and unique creations to sink after work or over the weekend. There are also a number of margarita, beer and wine options available if you’re feeling something a little different. Open Thursday to Sunday from afternoon until late – Malibu Racquet Club is a clear winner when it comes to sinking a few in Burleigh heads.

Malibu Racquet Club