The Gold Coast is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and electrifying entertainment, making it the perfect destination for an epic night out. Whether you’re looking for rooftop bars with breathtaking views, lively nightclubs, or top-tier restaurants, the Gold Coast has something to offer. Here’s a breakdown of the best spots for drinks, food, and fun.

Where to Start: Pre-Game at the Best Bars

Before hitting the clubs or live entertainment venues, kick off the night with a few drinks at some of the best bars in town.

1. The Island Rooftop – Surfers Paradise

🌍 Location: 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
🔗 Website

As the Gold Coast's largest open-air rooftop bar, The Island Rooftop offers panoramic views of Surfers Paradise and the Main Beach coastline. It offers stunning skyline views, tropical cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. The lively atmosphere is complemented by a diverse drinks menu featuring creative cocktails like the "Mac Daddy" and "Mango Unchained", which can be enjoyed while enjoying live DJ sets.

2. Mr. PP’s Rooftop & Laneway – Southport

🌍 Location: 43 Nerang St, Southport
🔗 Website

Situated in Southport, Mr. PP’s combines a cozy laneway vibe with live music, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back evening. The laneway bar also serves delicious woodfired pizzas, making it an excellent spot to fuel up before the night really gets going. Enjoy a wide array of gins, crafted cocktail jugs, craft beers and delectable dishes such as cheese boards, truffle fries, and pizzas.

3. The Cambus Wallace – Nobby Beach

🌍 Location: 4/2237 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
🔗 Website

A rum and whiskey bar with a nautical theme, The Cambus Wallace is known for its laid-back vibes and quality drinks. Perfect for those who appreciate dark spirits and expertly crafted cocktails. Known for its inventive cocktails, The Cambus Wallace offers unique drinks like the "Spiced Pumpkin Margarita," blending tequila, Aperol, spiced pumpkin, chili, sumac, lime, and agave syrup.

4. Nineteen at The Star – Broadbeach

🌍 Location: The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach Island
🔗 Website

For a high-end experience, Nineteen at The Star offers luxurious cocktails, premium spirits, and unbeatable views from its penthouse-level lounge atop The Star Gold Coast hotel. Dress up for this one - it's a spot where style matters. Guests can indulge in specialty cocktails such as the "Chilli Coconut Martini" and "Spiced Old Fashion," all while enjoying stunning views.

Where to Eat: Restaurants for a Pre-Party Feast

A great night out needs a solid meal beforehand. Here are some top-notch restaurants serving up delicious food and buzzing atmospheres.

1. Hanks – Coolangatta

🌍 Location: 58 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
🔗 Website

This modern 100-seater bistro serves an eclectic mix of dishes that are perfect for sharing and is part of the area's revitalization, bringing new energy to the coastal strip. Their cocktail list is also impressive, making it a great place to start your night.

2. Cora – Broadbeach

🌍 Location: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
🔗 Website

Replacing the former Miss Moneypenny's and offering Mediterranean-inspired Australian cuisine, Cora is a vibrant spot for groups looking to enjoy delicious food in a stylish setting. Expect a mix of seafood, grilled meats, and share plates. The venue emphasizes casual, shared dining, making it perfect for groups looking to enjoy a variety of dishes in a lively setting.

3. Juju – Nobby Beach

🌍 Location: 2243 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
🔗 Website

If you want a restaurant-bar hybrid with great music, Juju is the spot. Juju is a European-inspired bar and restaurant catering to patrons seeking a lively night out without the typical nightclub scene. The menu features modern Australian cuisine with influences from Croatia, Spain, and Mexico, offering dishes like tomahawks, sashimi, steak tartare, and duck.

4. Moo Moo Wine Bar + Grill – Broadbeach

🌍 Location: 2685 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach
🔗 Website

If you’re in the mood for a steakhouse experience, Moo Moo is the place to go. Their premium Australian Wagyu steaks and extensive wine selection make this a favourite for meat lovers.

Where to Party: Best Clubs & Late-Night Spots

Once you've warmed up with food and drinks, it's time to hit the clubs and late-night venues. Now is the time to consider hiring Gold Coast topless waitresses or maybe a stripper! Here are the best places to dance, drink, and party in the Gold Coast.

1. Cocktails Nightclub – Surfers Paradise

🌍 Location: 19 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
🔗 Website

A legendary Gold Coast nightclub with high-energy DJs, affordable drinks, and a wild crowd. If you're looking for a classic clubbing experience, this is it.

2. Elsewhere – Surfers Paradise

🌍 Location: 1/23 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise
🔗 Website

If you prefer house, techno, and alternative beats, Elsewhere is a boutique nightclub with a cool, intimate vibe. Perfect for music lovers who want a break from mainstream clubbing.

3. Tempo Nightclub – Surfers Paradise

🌍 Location: 22 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise
🔗 Website

Formerly SinCity, Tempo is a Las Vegas-style nightclub known for its huge dancefloor, VIP bottle service, and international DJs. If you're looking to go all out, this is the place.

4. The Pink Flamingo – Broadbeach

🌍 Location: 88 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
🔗 Website

Not just a nightclub - The Pink Flamingo is an immersive entertainment venue featuring burlesque, cabaret, and dance performances before turning into a club later in the night.

Where to End the Night: Late-Night Eats & Chill Spots

After a big night out, you’ll need something to satisfy the late-night munchies.

1. Brooklyn Depot – Surfers Paradise

🌍 Location: 4217 Surfers Paradise Blvd
🔗 Website

Known for its New York-style burgers, Brooklyn Depot is open late and serves greasy, delicious comfort food - exactly what you need after a long night of partying.

2. The NightOwl – Broadbeach

🌍 Location: 15 Victoria Ave, Broadbeach
🔗 Website

A 24-hour convenience store that sells snacks, drinks, and coffee - perfect for refuelling before heading home.

3. Pie Face – Surfers Paradise

🌍 Location: 3179 Surfers Paradise Blvd
🔗 Website

Australia’s famous late-night pie shop, serving meat pies, sausage rolls, and coffee for those craving something hearty.

So whether you’re bar-hopping, clubbing, or enjoying a steak dinner with drinks, the Gold Coast has it all. A night out here is an unforgettable experience, with options ranging from luxury rooftop bars to wild nightclubs and quirky entertainment venues.

For the ultimate night out, start at The Island Rooftop, grab dinner at Cora, and dance the night away at SinCity or Elsewhere. And, of course, end the night with a late-night burger or meat pie.

Photo by Eva Rinaldi, used under CC BY-SA 2.0.