The Gold Coast has long been known as one of the most awe-inspiring coastal cities in the world. Set on over 30 kilometres of sparkling golden beaches, we’ve created a thriving culture around the surf, the sun, and the sand - along with the allure of a cold beer at the end of a long, hot day that is.
By Kirra Smith
Until recently, there has not been a place where locals or visitors could laze under an umbrella with a bar only a few steps away and a sparkly body of water even closer. But all that has changed since the ever-popular beach club has arisen in our midst.
Over the last few years our social media feeds have been filled with friends and family frolicking in the Mediterranean. Lazing on sun loungers, cocktail in hand, soaking up that sweltering European sun. Which is lovely for them but jealousy-inducing for the rest of us. At least it was until umbrella-laden beach clubs began popping up across some of our favourite beaches - becoming the perfect addition to a city centred around a salty lifestyle.
Surfers’ Cali Beach Club is perched four stories above Surfers Paradise Blvd and is Australia’s largest rooftop restaurant and bar encapsulating everything a good beach bar should. There are four pools to choose from, luxe VIP cabanas with daybeds, countless sun loungers, two incredible restaurants, several bars, a beach volleyball sandpit, and an outdoor cinema. Just a stone’s throw from the heart of Surfers Paradise, Cali Beach Club is the ultimate day/night poolside experience. Open Fridays from 5pm to 1am and Saturday, Sunday from 12pm to 1am.
In late 2022, La Luna Beach Club opened its doors and became Australia’s first floating, luxury beach club. And luxurious it is, set within the Gold Coast’s stunning Marina Mirage and flanked by swaying palm trees and a vast collection of shiny superyachts. It’s as close as you’ll find to a beachside Greek island club - but with a little something special you won’t find anywhere else.
You’ll find yourself kicking back beneath a white umbrella or on a daybed or cabana with a choice of two heavenly pools, separated by a runway no less and multi-million-dollar views. The impressive space is the brainchild of Gold Coast hospitality royalty Patrik Gennari and The Gennari Group, so you know every single detail has been accounted for. Once you’ve had your fill of basking in the sun, cocktail in hand you’re invited to head next door for a fine dining feast at the poolside’s sister restaurant MĀRE. All in all, a visit to La Luna Beach Club is one you certainly won’t forget.
Open Wednesday to Sunday, from 11am to late.
QT Gold Coast also offers a beach club-style experience at The Spring in the form of private, poolside cabana rental with optional package extras like seasonal fruit platters, a trio of dips and bottles of sparkling wine or champagne. There are also cocktails, an à la carte menu, and a dash of Palm Springs style on offer, and you’re welcome to indulge in all the above whether you’re a guest at QT Gold Coast or not.
The Spring is open from 7am daily with the restaurant and bar open from 12pm to 6pm Monday to Friday and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
Isoletto Pool Club can be found on the leisure deck at The Star Gold Coast’s new 53 storey tower boasting uninterrupted views of the Gold Coast skyline and the ocean beyond. Exclusive to guests of The Star Grand, The Darling and Dorsett Gold Coast and The Star Residences, Isoletto offers a casual dining experience with everything from freshly rolled sushi to mouth-watering burgers and of course, a cocktail menu packed with perfect poolside sips. If you’re feeling fancy, choose to book a cabana package inclusive of a bottle of champagne, signature cocktails, seasonal fruit platters and complimentary sunscreen. It’s the ultimate in sky-high luxury.
Open daily from 11am until 5pm.
With a steamy Gold Coast summer upon us, a beach club is the perfect place to perch by the water with a frosty beverage in hand. Swim, sip, and repeat, what more could you want?