A Nightlife Guide to Gold Coast
Often feted for its sandy beaches and numerous surfing spots, the Gold Coast is easily every beach bum’s paradise. While its pristine waters and unspoiled nature are typically best explored during daylight, when evening rolls over, its wide range of nightlife enclaves takes the spotlight. From local taverns to surf clubs to the hottest venues for dancing and partying, there’s always a place for every night owl in this coastal city.
In Surfer’s Paradise up north, you’ll be treated to some of the most popular pubs and clubs where you can dance the night away. Broadbeach, on the other hand, invites you to the finest dining experience imaginable amongst its sophisticated wine bars. Alternatively, Burleigh Heads, Nobby Beach, and Coolangatta boast hidden speakeasies and boutique distilleries for a relaxed evening in the south.
What are you waiting for? Treat yourself to a mix of local culture, handcrafted beverages, and great entertainment for a night like no other. Here are some of the best places to drink, party, and hang out with your best mates on the Gold Coast:
- Surfers Paradise Beer Garden
- SinCity Nightclub
- Vinnies Dive Bar
- Star Gold Coast’s bars
- NAAMi
- Unveil the Gold Coast’s Nightlife Treasure at Main Beach After Dark
- Discover Coolangatta’s Ultimate Nightlife Fusion at Scoop Alley
- Step Right Up to The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub for an Extraordinary Night
- Peaceful Kayaking by Moonlight
- Groove by the Sea: Greenmount Beach Club’s Laid-Back Coolangatta Nightlife
- Unleash Your Nightlife Adventure at Hollywood Showgirls
Gold Coast After Dark: Where the Party Never End
Known for being the heart and soul of the Surfers Paradise community, Beer Garden brings people together with its great atmosphere, mouthwatering fare, and live sports entertainment.
Its interiors are heavily inspired by the relaxed, easygoing local culture making it a charming meeting place for friends in the area.
Munch on a wide selection of pub classics from vegetarian meals to fish and chips to perfectly cooked steaks best paired with an ice-cold beer.
To keep the conversations going, opt for some cocktails and shooters by the deck.
If there’s anything you’re leaving with after your time here, it’s definitely a buzz and perhaps a stuffed belly.
Opening hours: Open daily, 10am to 5pm
Address: Cnr Cavill &, Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia (map)
Step into Gold Coast’s premiere nightclub SinCity, home to energetic crowds, bass-boosted music, and handcrafted cocktails.
This flashy late-night spot features state-of-the-art interiors and decor modelled after the crème de la crème of Vegas bars.
Apart from its main dance floor, it also houses exquisitely designed mezzanine-style levels featuring private booths.
However, the star of the show has to be its VIP bottle service provided by scantily clad servers.
Are you the type to get low and frisky to R&B and hip-hop beats? SinCity has everything you need to keep going all night long.
Opening hours: Thurs to Sat: 9pm to 3am. Closed on Mon, Tues, Weds, & Sun.
Address: 3173 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia (map)
Of course, catching live musical performances is an absolute must-do on your night out at Gold Coast.
Your best bet? Vinnies Dive Bar in Southport, no doubt.
What this small pub lacks in size, it makes up for in atmosphere and vibe.
Thanks to its worn-in furniture, walls plastered with rock posters, and relatively cheap drinks, it certainly lives up to its name.
While Vinnie’s often features a lineup of local bands and artists, it also hosts tons of touring acts from across the globe.
Seriously, what’s not to love?
Address: 44A Nerang St, Southport QLD 4215, Australia (map)
Fancy a luxurious night in Gold Coast? Treat yourself to The Star’s signature restaurants and bars serving up a sumptuous setting and seasonal cocktails crafted by a highly skilled team of mixologists.
For a taste of oriental flavours, Kiyomi Bar features an extensive beverage menu comprising Japanese whiskies, sake, and shochu cocktails.
For al fresco dining, head to the Garden Kitchen & Bar where lush greenery abound. And for a cosy intimate ambience, kick back and relax at the Atrium Bar while listening to live music.
The best part? Thanks to The Star’s strategic location in Broadbeach, you’re minutes away from exploring other cultural sights and attractions in the city.
Address: 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach QLD 4218, Australia (map)
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A somewhat hidden speakeasy right at the centre of Burleigh Heads, NAAmi instantly transports you to the busy backstreets of Hanoi, Vietnam.
Apart from its freshly prepped Bahn mi being the ultimate crowd-pleaser, its bespoke cocktail menu is worthy of your attention. Not only do the drinks taste divine, but it surprisingly appeases all the other senses – from aroma to aesthetics to textures.
Ultimately, NAAMi takes drinking culture to a whole new level all while letting you in on the art of booze making. There’s nothing else quite like this late-night hangout spot in the coastal city.
Bonus: For a full day of boozy touring, visit Gold Coast’s local distilleries and wineries. Here, you can get behind the bar and fully immerse yourself in the craft and science of liquor-making or simply indulge in a cocktail and tasting flight.
Opening hours: Fri & Sat: 6pm to 12am
Address: 47 James St, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220, Australia (map)
Main Beach at the Gold Coast’s nightlife scene is like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered after sunset.
Just imagine: you’re at the Southport Yacht Club, enjoying cocktails with friends while gazing at the twinkling waters – it’s pure magic!
And if you wander down Tedder Avenue, you’ll find it buzzing with excitement as bars and restaurants come alive. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner or just want to sip a delicious cocktail, Tedder Avenue has you covered.
Now, when it’s time to dance, you’re just a hop, skip, and jump away from the vibrant nightclubs of Surfers Paradise, where the party never stops.
But Main Beach offers a more upscale and chill vibe for those who like their nightlife with a touch of class.
So, when you’re in Main Beach, the fun doesn’t end with the sunset – it’s when the real adventure begins!
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Address: Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, Gold Coast Area Queensland 4217 (map)
Hey there, ever heard of Scoop Alley? It’s not your run-of-the-mill nightclub – it’s like a nightlife fusion in Coolangatta’s Strand Shopping Centre on the Gold Coast, and a place where good food, live music, and a friendly, fun vibe come together.
It’s the kind of spot where you and your pals can kick back and have a blast.
And guess what? They’ve got live music acts that just add to the whole charm. So, if you’re up for some tasty bites, drinks, and tunes, Scoop Alley is where the party’s at for a lively night out in Coolangatta!
Get ready for an unforgettable night of excitement at The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub, nestled right in the vibrant heart of the Broadbeach, Gold Coast!
This place is like a spectacular circus of Gold Coast nightlife, where the ordinary is simply not invited. It’s the spot where cabaret, music, and fine dining come together to create an evening that’s truly out of this world.
But hold on tight, because The Pink Flamingo doesn’t just put on a show; it’s a non-stop, high-energy party featuring burlesque, comedy, and music that’ll have you in stitches, gasping in awe, and clapping like there’s no tomorrow.
And let’s not forget the incredible food and cocktails that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance!
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, romancing, or just in the mood for some wild fun, The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub is your one-stop destination for a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Timings: Tues, 6pm to 9:30pm, Fri, 6pm to 12am, Sat, 11:30am to 12am
Address: Corner of 88 Surf Parade &, Victoria Ave, Broadbeach QLD 4218, Australia (map)
During the day, the Gold Coast is a water sports paradise, with kayaking being a top pick.
But when the sun sets, kayaking takes on a whole new vibe. Picture this: a serene hush blankets the scene, and the water sparkles with city lights and stars above.
It’s like stepping into a dream.
Get ready for an epic guided kayak adventure through tranquil coves and bays under the night sky.
With the moon as your guiding light, you’ll witness the Gold Coast’s shimmering skyline in all its nocturnal glory.
Here’s the best part: many of these night kayaking tours come with added perks like drinks, snacks, or a pitstop on a secluded starlit beach.
Check out Seaway Kayaking Tours in Biggera Waters or Tangatours over at Moreton Island for a taste of this magical experience.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just looking for a unique night out, night kayaking on the Gold Coast is a must-try!
Greenmount Beach Club, nestled in Coolangatta on the Gold Coast, is your ultimate laid-back Coolangatta nightclub experience.
It may not wear the nightclub crown, but it’s got a vibe all its own.
A beachside paradise where live music is the star of the show, setting the stage for a delightful night out.
With the ocean’s rhythmic melody in the background, you can sip on drinks, groove to tunes, and let your cares melt away.
The bonus? Jaw-dropping ocean views and a relaxed vibe make Greenmount Beach Club the ultimate spot for an epic seaside night out to chill and groove with your friends and family.
Opening hours: Open daily, 10am to 10pm
Address: Marine Parade, Coolangatta QLD 4225, Australia (map)
Get ready for a wild night at Hollywood Showgirls, the Gold Coast’s famous gentlemen’s club right in the heart of Surfers Paradise nightlife!
This place is all about an adult-oriented, over-the-top nightlife adventure. You’ll find exotic dancers, themed shows, and a party atmosphere like no other.
Hollywood Showgirls isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re up for an adventurous night out, this is the spot!
They frequently host events, have private VIP areas, and create an electrifying vibe that’s perfect for those seeking something different in Gold Coast’s Surfers Paradise nightlife.
Just remember, like any adult entertainment venue, be sure to know the local laws and use your judgment when deciding to step into this exciting world of entertainment!
Timings: Open daily, 9pm – 5am
Address: 19 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia (map)
Other Boozy Ways To Have Fun on the Gold Coast
Embark on a Rum Runner Cruise and Husk Distillery Tasting Tour for a delightful journey through waterways and spirits, exploring the art of rum-making in a picturesque setting.
Join the Native Botanicals Gin Masterclass for a taste of gin-craft wizardry. Blend native botanicals, sip extraordinary gins, and uncover the art of flavour magic. It’s an educational adventure that’ll make your taste buds dance!
Explore the winery’s beautiful grounds, learn about winemaking, and savour a selection of their finest wines. Then, indulge in a gourmet meal that perfectly complements the wine experience.
Wrapping Up
The Gold Coast’s nightlife is a vibrant tapestry of entertainment, offering something for everyone.
From the lively clubs of Surfers Paradise to the chic lounges of Main Beach the cultural events scattered throughout this coastal city truly come alive after sunset.
Whether you seek dancing, live music, delectable cuisine, or a relaxed beachfront ambience, the Gold Coast delivers. So, embrace the night and create lasting memories in this glittering Australian paradise.
Commonly Asked Questions
Are there age restrictions for entry to nightclubs on the Gold Coast?
Yes, most nightclubs have age restrictions, typically 18 and above.
What is the dress code for Gold Coast nightclubs?
Dress codes vary, but smart-casual attire is usually a safe bet. Avoid flip-flops and beachwear.
What time do Gold Coast nightclubs typically close?
Closing times vary, but many clubs close around 3-4 AM.
Are there any LGBTQ+ friendly nightclubs in Gold Coast?
Yes, venues like Rise and Escape Bar cater to LGBTQ+ crowds.
Do I need to make reservations for nightclub entry?
It’s not always necessary, but reservations can be a good idea for larger groups or on busy nights.
