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Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2025 on the Gold Coast

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Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2025 on the Gold Coast

3, 2, 1... Happy New Year! Well, let's not get ahead of ourselves (we're still months away from the big day). But if you're anything like us, once it gets to the final quarter of the year, nothing can stop you from planning an incredible New Year's Eve party – especially if you’re considering partying on the Gold Coast.

If you’re on the prowl for beyond-breathtaking NYE ideas, New Year’s Eve on the Gold Coast ticks every box. We’ve got glittering beachfront fireworks, spectacular rooftop bars, lively party spots and family-friendly celebrations all along the sun-soaked coastline. 

Here’s your ultimate guide to celebrating New Year’s Eve Gold Coast 2025, with all the fun, sparkle and style you could wish for.

*Disclaimer: We recommend checking with individual venues’ websites closer to December 31st for accurate New Year’s Eve party and event information. 

Why the Gold Coast is Perfect for New Year’s Eve

The Gold Coast is synonymous with sunshine, surf and after-dark fun, making it the perfect backdrop for a New Year’s Eve adventure. Its expansive beaches, buzzing entertainment precincts, and vibrant nightlife provide something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a glamorous NYE party Gold Coast, a romantic night under the stars, or new years eve Gold Coast family events for the little ones.

The city’s infrastructure ensures easy access to premium restaurants, bars and entertainment, while coastal parks and waterfront areas create the perfect setting for watching fireworks. Combine that with stylish accommodation, world-class dining, and a laidback yet energetic vibe, and it’s easy to see why locals and visitors alike flock to the Gold Coast to welcome the New Year.

Where Are the Best Spots to Watch the NYE Fireworks?

A past NYE fireworks show at Kurrawa Beach

Credit: Kurrawa Surf Club

One of the highlights of Gold Coast New Years is, of course, the fireworks. From early displays for families to the grand midnight spectacle, here’s where to catch the magic:

Broadbeach

For a blend of sophistication and family-friendly fun, head to Broadbeach – which is easy if you’re staying with us. With the backdrop of boutique shopping and fine dining, you can watch the fireworks from Kurrawa Park (right across the road from Dorsett Gold Coast!) while enjoying the lively atmosphere and vibrant precinct energy. 

Kurrawa Park usually has great New Year’s Eve Gold Coast family events throughout the day, too. You can head out on foot from your hotel room to enjoy the day’s activities and grab a perfect beachfront spot for the evening fireworks.

Surfers Paradise Beach

The quintessential Gold Coast NYE fireworks destination. Surfers Paradise offers a family-friendly fireworks Gold Coast display at 8:00pm and the dazzling midnight show. Arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy live entertainment on the foreshore, street performers and food trucks.

Burleigh Heads

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, Burleigh Heads is the place to be. Locals flock here for the scenic setting, especially from the iconic Burleigh Hill lookout point.

Watch the evening and/or midnight fireworks over sparkling ocean waters framed by the iconic Burleigh Headland, perfect for a chilled NYE celebration. The hillside will be packed from midday onwards (or even earlier), so if you’re planning on going to this spot for your Gold Coast New Years celebrations, we recommend arriving early.

Southport Spit

Escape the crowds at Southport Spit, a great option for parents with younger children. Spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy the pyrotechnics reflected in the tranquil waters. This slightly quieter setting is ideal for those seeking a serene but still spectacular New Year’s Eve Gold Coast experience.

Dining and Nightlife for New Year’s Eve

People watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks from The Star Gold Coast

Credit: Inside Gold Coast via The Star Gold Coast

No Gold Coast New Years celebration is complete without incredible food and drinks. Whether you’re after cocktails with a view, a gourmet dinner, or live music and DJs, the city’s venues deliver.

Rooftop bars with spectacular views

You’re spoiled for choice with the Gold Coast’s premium selection of rooftop bars. A few of our favourites include:

  • Nineteen at The Star: Sip on expertly crafted cocktails while watching the city and fireworks light up the night.

  • The Exhibitionist at HOTA: This rooftop bar combines artistic flair with panoramic views for an unforgettable evening.

  • Justin Lane Rooftop Bar: Cool vibes, inventive drinks, and sweeping cityscapes make this spot perfect for a stylish NYE party.

Explore more: They may not be rooftop, but these other Gold Coast bars are must-visits during your New Years festivities.

Best restaurants for New Year’s Eve dinners

The Gold Coast dining scene is the perfect blend of fresh, sophisticated, and NYE-style fun. It’s all the glitz and glamour of an after-dark party scene without compromising on delicious quality and impeccable service. Some of our top restaurants for New Years celebrations include:

Live music, DJs and entertainment

What’s a NYE party on the Gold Coast without some live music? Luckily, we’re surrounded by some of the biggest and best nightlife venues in the city, most of which offer food and drinks, too. Keep an eye out for special New Years events or packages at these iconic spots:

Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Activities

The Gold Coast doesn’t forget families when it comes to New Year’s Eve Gold Coast family events. Many precincts host early fireworks, community gatherings, and activities designed for all ages.

  • Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta: Enjoy early and midnight fireworks in family-friendly areas with live entertainment, food trucks, jumping castles, and face painting.

  • Broadwater Parklands & Paradise Point: Free community events often include live music, picnic areas, and spectacular views of the fireworks.

New Year’s Eve cruises for families

Take to the water for one of the most unique and breathtaking New Year’s Eve Gold Coast family events. Spirit of Gold Coast offers family-friendly NYE cruises along the Broadwater, giving you 360º views of the fireworks displays right on the water.

The 24-meter super catamaran has indoor and outdoor decks, comfortable seating, a licensed bar and spacious facilities, perfect for watching the magic from the water. Book now, because these spots will fill up faster than the NYE final countdown!

Further reading: Check out more fun things to do on the Gold Coast with kids this summer.

Tips for Planning New Year’s Eve on the Gold Coast

People wait at a Gold Coast G:link stop as a light rail goes past

Credit: Gold Coast Australia

Get the most out of your New Year’s Eve Gold Coast experience by being organised, planning ahead, and doing a little research into transport. 

Remember, the Gold Coast (especially Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise) are busy at the best of times – add in one of the biggest celebrations of the year, and it can be tricky to navigate with ease! But don’t worry; we’ve got you sorted with these tips from our concierge and local team:

  • Book (and arrive) early: An absolute must for any live shows, dinners, or paid events. NYE on the Gold Coast is popular, and spots fill fast, so secure your dining reservations and accommodation in advance (aka, right now!). If you want a good spot for NYE fireworks Gold Coast, we also recommend arriving at the beach or parkland early in the day.

  • Getting around: The G:link light rail connects many hotspots, while rideshare and taxis provide easy alternatives for late-night travel. We recommend sticking to the light rail wherever possible, as Ubers will be in hot demand on the night (and may not be guaranteed).

  • Start the night in style: Set the tone for the most dazzling Gold Coast New Years to ensure it’s a night for the books. Begin with sunset drinks and canapés at Dorsett Gold Coast’s Executive Lounge on Level 19, enjoying panoramic views of Broadbeach. All you need to do is upgrade to an Executive Suite and you’ve got instant access to this elevated lounge area in the hotel. 

Recovery Ideas for New Year’s Day

A couple lounges in Isoletto Pool Club with cocktails

After the excitement of New Year’s Eve on the Gold Coast, the first day of 2026 is all about treating yourself to a little indulgence (or, rather, some much-needed R & R). Here’s our round-up of the best ways to spend New Year’s Day with us in the heart of Broadbeach:

Start with a lazy brunch

Forget rushing; linger over a leisurely breakfast or brunch at one of Broadbeach’s many cafés. Fuel your post-party self with a fluffy stack of pancakes, the quintessential smashed avocado on artisanal sourdough, fresh acai bowls, and of course, plenty of great coffee. 

Brekky, brunch or lunch, there’s nothing like a relaxed meal to perk you up and set the tone for a calm yet indulgent day by the beach.

Soak in the sun at Isoletto Pool Club

Located at Dorsett Gold Coast and a key part of The Star Gold Coast, the stunning Isoletto Pool Club is the perfect place to wake up the senses. Lounge in a comfy cabana, soak up some sunshine, and let the sparkling waters rejuvenate you after your NYE celebrations. The 12-meter-long viewing wall gives you a front-row seat to Broadbeach’s beautiful coastline while you unwind.

Soothe and restore at Soak Bathhouse

Elevate your recovery with a spa session at Soak Bathhouse, one of the GC’s best day spas and just minutes from Dorsett Gold Coast. Indulge in hydrotherapy pools, relaxation lounges and hot and cold experiences to invigorate the body. Soak is a blissful way to refresh and reset for the year ahead.

Enjoy a breezy beach walk

Stretch your legs and breathe in the ocean air with a stroll along Kurrawa Beach, right opposite Dorsett Gold Coast. Early morning or late afternoon, the soft sand and gentle waves create the perfect setting for reflection, family time, or simply enjoying the serenity of the Gold Coast after the fireworks have faded.

Keen to explore more? There are more than enough beaches along the GC coastline and beyond to occupy your entire New Years Day, so go for it!

Indulge in a little retail therapy

If a slower day isn’t your style, take advantage of nearby Pacific Fair Shopping Centre or Oasis Shopping Centre for a dose of shopping, people-watching, and maybe a sweet treat or two. Soak up the cool, quiet calm of luxury boutiques, perfect for post-party summer days on the GC.

Wrap up with an early sunset dinner

Finish your New Year’s Day on a high note with an intimate dinner at one of Broadbeach’s premier restaurants, or by catching the sunset in one of the best GC spots. Whether you’re after a relaxed meal, a DIY picnic, or something a little more upscale, a chilled sunset evening is the perfect way to celebrate 2026 in style.

Dorsett Gold Coast: Your Base for NYE Celebrations

When it comes to New Year’s Eve Gold Coast 2025, Dorsett Gold Coast is the ultimate accommodation hub. Stylish rooms, premium amenities, and a central Broadbeach location put you just steps away from the action while offering a quiet retreat to recharge.

  • Connected to The Star Gold Coast: Enjoy instant access to world-class Gold Coast venues, dining, bars and entertainment without leaving the precinct.

  • Stylish accommodation: Choose from Standard, Deluxe, Executive or Accessible rooms, with connecting options for families or group bookings.

  • Recovery and relaxation: Post-NYE, unwind at the Isoletto Pool Club, enjoy a spa treatment, or simply soak up the coastal views from your room.

Dorsett Gold Coast isn’t just a place to stay; it’s your launchpad for unforgettable NYE celebrations, combining convenience, comfort, and style in one vibrant package. Book your stay now and get ready for the best New Year’s Eve Gold Coast getaway!