Finn McCool’s, Surfers Paradise: After taking over the former Fiddler’s Green space in Surfers Paradise in late 2018, Finn McCool’s has firmly planted its feet as one of the coast’s most popular Irish pubs. Here it’s ideal for long lunches, quick bites, sips at the bar, hearty Irish feasts and, of course, after-dinner dancing. Try the Kilkenny-infused pulled-lamb stew, or the traditional Irish breakfast with black pudding.

D’Arcy Arms, Surfers Paradise: This little piece of Ireland has been nestled along the Gold Coast Highway for decades. In winter, D’Arcy Arms is renowned as the ultimate spot for a warming beef stew and a few ales by the open fire, while in summer you can enjoy the restaurant’s air-conditioned comfort or have a Guinness outside and watch the world go by.

Harrigan’s Irish Pub, Jacobs Well: Often bustling with stout-sipping locals and families, Harrigan’s is a go-to destination for hearty Irish fare on the northern Gold Coast. Here you’ll find a traditional Irish vibe, authentic pub fare and charming Irish hospitality. There’s live music on weekends, stunning water views over Calypso Bay and an outdoor area to soak up the sunshine.

Molly Malone’s, Broadbeach: Here you’ll find tasty Irish fare like corned beef and cabbage with white sauce, and slow-cooked lamb with colcannon mash and gravy, alongside less-traditional pub favourites. Molly’s boasts a fun and bustling atmosphere, and proves to be a popular day-and-night watering hole, with a decent series of Irish and international beers on pour.

Dublin Docks Tavern, Biggera Waters: With a family-friendly atmosphere, live music, ice-cold beers and a convivial Irish vibe, Dublin Docks is a popular spot for northern locals looking for a pub-style feed and a few Kilkennys by the water’s edge. There’s an extensive menu to suit all tastes, as well as classic Irish eats like butter-crusted beef and Guinness pies with minted peas, and a rich Irish stew with braised potatoes.

Waxy’s Irish Pub, Surfers Paradise: Loaded with Irish charm, Waxy’s is a top-notch spot for traditional pub fare, live music and ice-cold beers. Tuck into the Irish pork sausages with mushy peas or the tender lamb stew – there’s plenty of Guinness and Kilkenny on tap to wash it down with.

Kitty O’Shea’s, Surfers Paradise: Perched in the thick of the action in Cavill Avenue and just 50 metres from the ocean, watering hole Kitty O’Shea’s is where you can soak up Irish vibes while enjoying the sea air. You’ll find your go-to pub-style fare here, with a few Irish dishes like hearty Guinness pie available daily.

Honourable mention: this one goes to The Scottish Prince in Palm Beach. Yes yes, we’re well aware this is a round-up of Irish pubs. And while there’s much debate about whether the Irish or Scottish accent sounds better, The Scottish Prince is a whisk(e)y bar that gives a very respectful nod to its closest neighbour with a killer selection of Irish whiskies on pour – plus, it throws a killer St Patrick’s Day party each year.