Gold Coast Hinterland Pubs: 5 Must-Visit Spots for Beer Lovers 🍻

Why You Should Care About These Pubs (And Why I’m Telling You)

Let’s cut the fluff. If you’re reading this, you’re either:

Planning a pub crawl that’s less “I’ve had one too many” and more “I’ve had six and still don’t get it”
Trying to avoid the tourist traps that charge $20 for a lager and call it “craft”
Curious why the Gold Coast Hinterland has pubs that’ll make you forget you ever liked wine

Fair. Either way, we’re here to solve a problem. The problem is: you need beer. The solution is: these five pubs. Let’s dive in.

1. Fern Tree Hotel – Nerang’s ‘I Know You’re Here for the Beer’ Spot

Address: 242 Gold Coast Highway, Nerang

Why it’s a banger: This place is like your cool uncle who always has a six-pack in the fridge. It’s got a laid-back vibe, a massive outdoor deck, and a rotating selection of craft beers that’ll make you question why you ever bought pre-mixed stuff.

Pro tip: Ask for the “Surf & Turf” burger. It’s like a steak and lobster love child. Or it’s just a really expensive sandwich. Either way, it’s worth it.

Want your own beer like this? Check out our Make Your Own Beer guide.

2. The Old Museum Inn – Coolangatta’s ‘I’m Not a Museum, I’m a Pub’ Gem

Address: 892 Gold Coast Highway, Coolangatta

Why it’s a banger: This pub is like a time machine to the 90s, minus the Tamagotchis. It’s a local haunt with a killer dartboard and a menu that makes you question your life choices after the third pint.

Special shoutout to their “Cold Plank” platter – it’s not a cold plank (though they might sell those too), it’s a seafood feast that’ll make you forget you’re in Australia.

Looking to grow your pub’s business? Our strategies can help.

3. The Tangerine Hotel – Robina’s ‘I’m Too Cool for My Own Good’ Pub

Address: 379 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina

Why it’s a banger: This place is for the people who order wine with their burger but still want to feel like they’re in a “real” pub. The Tangerine Hotel has a trendy vibe, a rooftop bar that’s basically a Instagram filter waiting to happen, and a beer list that’ll make you feel fancy.

Fun fact: They host live music every Friday. It’s either amazing or a karaoke night. You never know which. Bring earplugs. And a friend who can dance like they’re in a music video.

4. The Royal Hotel – Surfers Paradise’s ‘I Just Want to Be Normal’ Escape

Address: 212 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise

Why it’s a banger: If you’re tired of the tourist traps on Cavill Avenue, this pub is your saving grace. It’s got a retro vibe, a massive sports screen that’s always showing a game you don’t care about, and a staff that’s seen it all.

Pro tip: Order the “Surf’s Up” burger. It’s got bacon, cheese, and a side of regret. In the best way possible.

5. The Golden Fleece – Currumbin’s ‘I’m a Pub, But I Don’t Do Drama’ Spot

Address: 1395 Nerang Road, Currumbin

Why it’s a banger: This place is for the people who want to feel like they’re in a pub without the pub. It’s got a quirky, artsy vibe, a menu that’s 70% “why not,” and a beer list that’ll make you feel like you’re in a Wes Anderson movie.

Special shoutout to their “Golden Fleece” beer – it’s like a liquid gold that’ll make you question if you’re still on the Gold Coast or if you’ve been teleported to a Nordic legend.

5 Tips for Surviving a Pub Crawl (Without Becoming a Cliché)

Hydrate like a pro. For every beer, drink a glass of water. Or just drink three beers and call it a day. We don’t judge.
Bring a buddy. Not just for the obvious reasons. Someone needs to take photos for the stories. And someone needs to tell you when you’ve hit rock bottom.
Know your limits. Or don’t. But if you do, you’ll be the one who remembers the entire night.
Tip well. Bartenders are the unsung heroes of the pub world. Support them.
Use public transport. Unless you’re a wizard and can drive like you’ve never had a drink. In which case, good luck, and we hope you’re immortal.

FAQs: Your Pub Crawl Questions Answered

Q: Are these pubs actually any good?
A: Yes. And no. It depends on how much you’ve had to drink. But we’re pretty sure they’re good.

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Only if your dog is a bartender. Or a really good drinker.

Q: What if I get lost?
A: That’s the point. Pub crawls are just fancy adult scavenger hunts.

Final Call to Action: Get Out There and Party (Responsibly)

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a mate, a six-pack (or two), and start exploring these pubs. And if you’re a pub owner reading this, hit us up for tips on how to make your pub the next big thing.

And if you’re looking to sell your beer online? Dropt.beer has your back. Let’s get this beer to the people.

Conclusion: Cheers to the Gold Coast Hinterland

Pub-hopping isn’t just about the beer. It’s about the stories, the friends, and the inevitable regret that comes with them. So go out there, find your local, and remember: the best pubs aren’t just places to drink. They’re places to live, laugh, and occasionally cry into your pint.

Cheers, mates. And may your pub crawl be legendary.