No matter what time of year it is, the Gold Coast is BUSY. For locals, if the crowds feel overwhelming, take the opportunity to get out of town and explore one of the more quiet postcodes in and around the region. And what better way to get to know a place than by visiting its pub? These are five of the best regional pubs near the Gold Coast.
Old meets new at the Canungra Hotel, just a 40-minute drive from the Gold Coast in the (literal) Scenic Rim. Whether you visit for a quick bite during a day trip or you decide to extend your stay for a night or two, the Canungra Hotel offers it all. It was established in 1937 and has stayed true to its roots, both in terms of old school country hospitality and its charming original features.
Hotel Brunswick proves you don’t need to sacrifice your proximity to the beach to find one of the best regional pubs near the Gold Coast. This venue is beloved by locals (not just in Brunswick Heads, but in the wider area, too) for its leafy beer garden and live music offering. Interesting fun fact: the Bruns was built in 1940 by Jim Cavill, the architect behind early Surfers Paradise. Maybe that’s why Gold Coasters love it so much?
We’ll admit that there aren’t many reasons you’d visit Eltham (about 30 minutes west of Lennox Head) – other than, of course, checking out the Eltham Pub. And we promise, that’s reason enough. It’s a classic country pub in every sense of the word, with classic pub fare, live music and a wrap-around verandah to boot. There’s even a gatekeeper’s cottage on-site that was built to accommodate staff in 1984.
There are so many reasons to love Murwillumbah’s Imperial Hotel. For one, it’s pink. It’s also been refurbished relatively recently, offering modern comforts (like clean, cosy hotel rooms) while maintaining all the charm of a small town pub. Most afternoons, the ‘Impy’ will be heaving with locals who have gathered for a knock off drink and a pub meal. It’s a must-visit if you’re near Murwillumbah – click here for our full guide.
This pub is the indisputable heart of Mullumbimby – not only because it’s centred in the middle of town (hence the name), but also because it’s such an important meeting place for locals and tourists alike. If you’re spending the night in Mullumbimby, you’re stopping in at the Middle Pub. It oozes small town charm with a sticky bar, classic pub menu and seldom empty pokies room. We just love it.
What do you think the best regional pubs near the Gold Coast are? Let us know by sending us an Instagram DM.
