Burleigh Pavilion

Burleigh Pavilion is a beachfront building at the southern corner of Burleigh Beach, on Goodwin Terrace, with wide views over the sand and the surf. It is less a single bar than a cluster of spaces under one roof, which is why it works at almost any time of day: a kiosk for coffee after a surf, a beach bar and deck for afternoon drinks, and separate rooms for lunch, sunset and dinner. The official Gold Coast tourism organisation describes it as the ultimate destination by the ocean.

The spaces each have their own role. The Kiosk is a beachside counter aimed at starting the day after a surf. The PAV focuses on lunch and drinks overlooking the ocean, while The Tropic is the place for sunset and dinner; both have their own websites with menus and bookings. Outside, the Beach Deck and outdoor beach bar, shaded by umbrellas, are where most people gather for cold beers and casual food, with dishes such as fish tacos and fresh prawns on ice.

The venue suits groups of friends, couples and families, and it is listed as family friendly and suitable for wheelchair users, with options for people with allergies and intolerances. It is also set up for functions, with both the Pavilion and The Tropic promoted as private event spaces. If you want a table in one of the dining areas, book ahead through the reservations page on the website, and use the contact form for event enquiries.

Late afternoon is a good time to visit, as The Tropic is set up for sunset drinks and dinner and the deck faces straight out over Burleigh Beach. Gift cards and a small shop are available through the website, along with a contact form for general enquiries.

The Pavilion shares its Goodwin Terrace address with Rick Shores, so you can easily combine a drink here with dinner next door. Burleigh Head National Park and its coastal walking track are a short walk south along the beach, making a headland walk followed by a drink on the deck one of the easiest and most enjoyable outings in Burleigh Heads.