Image: Driftwood Social

Queensland’s Gold Coast is blessed with watering holes with great views and bartenders working their magic. We’ve found some of the best spots to enjoy a tipple. Not surprisingly in a place with an average of 300 sunny days each year, many are rooftops bars or alfresco terraces. Just remember, any time of day is the right time for a cocktail, but most people reserve this little luxury until Happy Hour or at least until after lunch!  

The Exhibitionist Bar, Surfers Paradise

One of the best rooftop experiences can be had at HOTA (Home of the Arts), the arrival of which has taken the Gold Coast art scene up a few notches. The Exhibitionist Bar has panoramic views and is the perfect spot for a sundowner. The cocktails here are creative, and when we say creative we mean very creative – think drinks like Raspberry Beret (vodka, Rosé vermouth, watermelon, raspberry and pepperberry) or Funiculì, Funiculà (pisco, Riesling, kombucha, grilled peach, carbonated).

Many of the cocktails are inspired by HOTA exhibitions, so you’ll always find something new and inventive.

Burleigh Pavilion, Burleigh

It’s not one of the most elevated bars but its beachside location ensures that Burleigh Pavilion boasts killer views over the ocean and the Broadbeach skyline. This sophisticated local hotspot sits right on the beach and has an exciting cocktail menu with drinks such as The Glen Coco (coconut tequila, pineapple, lime and pickled green chilli) and You Can’t Sip With Us (Ink gin, violet liqueur, elderflower, lemon and soda).

Order a jug of Pimm’s and some freshly shucked oysters, or settle in with tapas and/or a woodfired pizza.

Frida Sol, Palm Beach

Dripping with cool, Mexican bar & taqueria Frida Sol has a great range of sangrias, margaritas, and other signature cocktails. An ode to artist Frida Kahlo, whose image graces the hacienda-style rooftop bar, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy sunset drinks and ocean views. Cacti, bougainvillea, and palm fronds add to the Cabo San Lucas vibe, something you’ll appreciate while enjoying tacos ($5 on Thursdays) and a cooling watermelon margarita.

The Collective, Palm Beach

On the old Palm Beach post office site, The Collective has provided a new lease of life with bustling restaurants and bars festooned with twinkling lights, wall murals and long communal tables. Be seduced by the Asian, Mediterranean, and Mexican food on offer at the various venues, and while you’re waiting for it to arrive, kick back with a delicious cocktail.

Choose from a huge range of timeless classics, margaritas, spritzes, sangria, mocktails, and signature cocktails like Tiki Boom (Bacardi spiced, Midori, Kiwi syrup, lemon and egg white) and Red Sky At Night (Bombay Dry, Campari, pineapple juice, lime juice and agave syrup). 

Driftwood Social, Surfers Paradise

With its riverfront location, poolside cabanas and indoor/outdoor seating, Driftwood Social brings a relaxing pool club feel to the Vibe Gold Coast. Choose your zone and wind down with a retro cocktail from the surf-themed bar or chill out with a glass of Champagne or a classic cocktail when the sun goes down.

Listen to cool beats, catch the famous Gold Coast sunset and enjoy the relaxed tropical vibe. Our favourite cocktail: the Driftwood Mary.

There's a Great Vibe on the Gold Coast

And, when the drinking is done at Driftwood Social, head upstairs to your room at Vibe Hotel Gold Coast for a side of R&R and some spectacular views!

**Peace of mind when you stay with us. Introducing Clean Touch. Note: Some activities listed may be affected by Covid restrictions.