10 Gold Coast restaurants with a killer view of the water

You came for the view: panoramic ocean frontage. You stayed for the burrata, pasta smothered in mussels and garlic white wine sauce, and tropical-inspired cocktails. This 240-seater coastal beauty brings the drama with an open kitchen, breezy interiors, and a Mediterranean-style menu made to share.

Our tip: Nab a table right on the edge to soak up that ocean drama.

Good to know: Right next door at Burleigh Pavilion, you’ll get the same dreamy view with a casual menu – perfect if you’re rocking swimmers under your linen.

Rick Shores

Front-row seats to the surf, with a menu that goes hard on flavour and finesse. Rick Shores is a Burleigh institution for a reason: pan-Asian plates like charred chilli pork curry and that famous Moreton Bay bug roll land as waves crash metres away.

Must-order: The bug roll is iconic.  

Good to know: Book early or take your chances with walk-ins on the patio (the view’s still top-notch).

Sticking around? Burleigh Heads is a foodie paradise.

Surfers Paradise restaurants

Hyde Paradiso

Sunset spritzes, Euro-disco vibes, and DJs spinning beachside beats. Hyde Paradiso is where the Med meets Miami, right in the heart of Surfers. Think bottomless brunch, pastel decor, and cocktails that deserve their own photoshoot.

Must-order: Portuguese roast chicken or Wagyu flank with chimichurri.

Our tip: Arrive hungry and linger long. The vibe peaks at golden hour and rolls into the night.

Seascape Restaurant + Bar

Three levels of seafood heaven, all wrapped in uninterrupted ocean views. The bistro slings fish tacos and cocktails, the upstairs restaurant brings polished glass and fine-line seafood finesse, and the Seascape Bar is your casual go-to for drinks with a sea breeze.

Perfect for: Date night with serious wow-factor.

Good to know: The rooftop bar opens for private events during warmer months. Think exclusive sunset parties, not your average function room.

Surfers Pavilion

Laidback but lively, this riverside hotspot serves up frosé, waterfront and hinterland views, and pub-style classics. Think seafood platters, parmies and burgers, with a cocktail list that leans heavily into spritzes and sunny-day sipping.

Pro tip: Arrive at dusk and grab a deck seat for those hinterland hues.

Don’t miss: Oyster Hour, with half-price oysters Mon–Fri from 4pm–6pm.

BMD Northcliffe Surf Club

It’s a local legend for a reason. Sitting right on the sand, this surf club nails the classics: cold beers, schnitzels, seafood. And pours tank-fresh Balter XPA straight from the source.

Perfect for: Laidback beach hangs with no dress code and million-dollar views.

Good to know: Open from 7am with barista-made coffee and breakfast overlooking the beach.

Edgewater Dining, Isle of Capri

With its floor-to-ceiling windows, skyline views and alfresco seating options, Edgewater feels like a mini escape. Italian-chic styling and a killer wine list will transport you straight to the Riviera. 

Must-order: Caviar bumps and the show-stopping prawn and bug risotto. Fancy, but fun.

Aperitivo hour: Ideal for a knock-off cocktail or pre-sunset sip, drop in Mon–Fri, 3:30–5:30pm. 

Still hungry? Here are the best Gold Coast restaurants by precinct. 

Main Beach restaurants

Glass Dining & Lounge Bar

Superyachts out front, sunsets behind, and every plate worthy of its own paparazzi. This Marina Mirage fave mixes luxe with laidback, serving seafood-rich dishes in a slick setting.

Best time to book: Sunset. Trust us.

Our tip: Start with oysters and ride the tide into a Moreton Bay bug surf 'n' turf.

Staying on the north end of the Gold Coast? Here’s where to stay, play and eat here.

Southern Gold Coast restaurants

Currumbin Beach Vikings SLSC

Built on the beach (literally), this surf club is a thongs-accepted classic. Hearty feeds meet million-dollar views and a super chill vibe. Just brush off the sand and come on in.

Perfect for: Post-swim feeds and unbeatable beachfront brekkies.

Good to know: Live music every Sunday afternoon. Bring your mates and catch the sunset with a schooner in hand.

Can't beat a casual beachfront bite? Check out more of the best surf clubs across Queensland.

Siblings, Kirra