Burleigh Brewing Taphouse

Burleigh Brewing Company has been brewing independently in Queensland since 2006, and its taphouse at the brewery on Ern Harley Drive in Burleigh Heads is the place to drink its beer at the source. It is a relaxed venue and a good alternative to the beachfront bars if you are more interested in what is in the glass than in the view.

The core range covers easy-drinking beers suited to the climate. Bighead No Carb Lager and its mid-strength version lead the list, and the line-up includes the Twisted Palm Tropical Pale Ale, the Mid Tide Pale Ale, Golden Point Slow Brewed Lager and a Mexican-style Cerveza lager, alongside darker or more distinctive styles such as Japan Black and Czech Mates. Limited releases appear from time to time, so ask what is new on tap when you arrive.

Food is served under the Burleigh Bites banner, so you can make an afternoon or early evening of it rather than just stopping for a pint. For anyone curious about how the beer is made, the brewery offers a tour called Backstage with the Brewmaster; check the website for current dates, inclusions and booking details.

The taphouse opens from 3pm to 9pm on Fridays, from midday to 9pm on Saturdays and from midday to 6pm on Sundays, and bookings are not required, which makes it easy to drop in. It suits beer lovers, groups of friends and visitors wanting a casual, local experience, and it can be a good stop after a morning on the beach or before dinner in Burleigh Heads.

If you are drinking, leave the car behind and use a taxi, rideshare or public transport. The brewery's beers are also sold through its website, where you can see the full current range and limited releases, and the site lists the food menu, tour information and taphouse hours, which are worth checking before a visit as the taphouse only trades from Friday to Sunday. The brewery's location in Burleigh Heads makes it easy to combine with a swim at Burleigh Beach or a walk in Burleigh Head National Park earlier in the day.