Introduction to Kid Friendly Pubs With Playgrounds
As parents, we’re always on the lookout for somewhere to grab a bite to eat and keep the kids from rioting, and we know full well the battle to find somewhere that ensures the nippers are not only happy but are also in your line of vision.
So, without further ado, let’s get into seven great pubs across the southern Gold Coast. They all have playgrounds, space to roam, and menus with something for everyone.
From Mermaid Beach to Burleigh and beyond, these are our top picks for a relaxed meal where the kids can run wild and you can kick back for a moment. Here’s where to go.
RELATED: 5 Best Kid Friendly Pubs With Playgrounds – Northern Gold Coast
Varsity Lakes Tavern – Burleigh Waters
Varsity Lakes Tavern
2 Santa Maria Ct, Burleigh Waters
If you’re local to the Burleigh area and you haven’t come across the Varsity Lakes Tavern, we think you’ll enjoy this relaxed, no-fuss pub. There is plenty of space, and the team puts a big focus on making sure that they provide family-friendly dining. There is a fully fenced and visible playground and an outdoor dining area in proximity, so you can enjoy your surf n turf in peace while the kids clamber about to their heart’s content.
The casual bistro menu has all tastes covered with everything from classic pub mains to several lighter options and international flavours. The kids’ menu features all the classics too, think nuggets, spaghetti, fish and chips – $10–$13, with a drink and ice cream included. The staff are known for their friendly manner, and there’s always a local or two keen to shoot the breeze.
Hot tip: Head down for lunch on weekends — it’s quieter, and parking is easy.
Features:
• Playground: Yes (outdoor, fenced)
• Kids’ menu: Yes
• Highchairs: Yes
• Change table: Yes
• Shade: Yes
• Parking: On-site and free
• Booking needed: No
• Pet friendly: No
• Standout: Huge play area in full view of the tables
Hotel CBD – Varsity Lakes
Hotel CDB
15/21 Lake St, Varsity Lakes
Now, although we’re all for a kid-friendly setting, we don’t want to feel like we’re sitting in a soft-play centre. If you’re similarly minded, Hotel CBD has nailed the balance between modern and family-friendly. The trendy vibe is set with sleek interiors, so we can all feel like adults, while the play zone and casual bistro seating mean that you can easily keep an eye out while also sipping a well-deserved cold one.
With both indoor and outdoor dining and shaded spots, this is the perfect choice for a lunch date with friends or lazy early dinners. Let the kids tear around the play area while you kick back with a pizza or steak and a cheeky glass of wine. The kids’ menu is great value ($10–$12), and all meals come with chips, a drink, and a scoop of ice cream.
They also host occasional family events – like face painting, kids’ discos, and more.
Features:
• Playground: Yes (outdoor)
• Kids’ menu: Yes
• Highchairs: Yes
• Change table: Yes
• Shade: Yes
• Parking: On-site, free
• Booking needed: Recommended weekends
• Pet friendly: No
• Standout: Stylish feel without being stuffy
Dog and Parrot Tavern – Robina
Dog and Parrot Tavern
2 Scottsdale Dr, Robina
The Dog and Parrot has a loyal following of locals, and you’ll soon see why when you pay them a visit. It feels welcoming, spacious, and the kids’ area is a winner. With the playground conveniently located right next to the dining section, you don’t need to keep jumping up to keep an eye on the troops. For those with older kids, there are also arcade games inside, so make sure to bring a stash of coins!
The menu is hearty and classic with pub-style offerings that come in generous portions. Think burgers, schnitzels, and parmies; you’ve got the right idea. There are also plenty of veggie options too. Mains are priced at $20–$30 while the kids’ menu is roughly $10–$14 and features the usual suspects you know and love, plus a drink and dessert.
Bonus: It’s also a great rainy-day option thanks to the partially covered play area.
Features:
• Playground: Yes (partly covered outdoor)
• Kids’ menu: Yes
• Highchairs: Yes
• Change table: Yes
• Shade: Yes
• Parking: Ample, on-site
• Booking needed: No
• Pet friendly: No
• Standout: Great if you’ve got kids with a wide range of ages with both outdoor and arcade options
Burleigh Town Hotel – West Burleigh
Burleigh Town Hotel
Tsipura Dr, Burleigh Heads
This recently made-over hotspot is MASSIVE and super family-friendly. The Burleigh Town Hotel has one of the biggest playgrounds of any pub on the Gold Coast. It’s fully fenced, colourful, and designed with younger kids in mind from toddlers through to early primary.
There is outdoor seating by the bucket load, and much of it is shaded. Plus, it is right next to the play space. Double win. You’ll find classic pub fare on the menu, although brought up to date with a modern and somewhat international twist. Brisket burgers, Buddha bowls, snazzy salads, and sharing platters will surely grab your attention. Mains are $22–$34. The kids’ menu has the classics and a couple of more imaginative items and is well-priced ($13).
We think you’ll love their Sunday shenanigans; they really are special here. With live music, a happy crew and clientele, and plenty of space for the kids to roam while you laze away a few hours.
Features:
• Playground: Yes (large outdoor, fenced)
• Kids’ menu: Yes
• Highchairs: Yes
• Change table: Yes
• Shade: Yes
• Parking: Ample, all on-site
• Booking needed: Recommended weekends
• Pet friendly: Outdoor areas only
• Standout: Massive modern playground and seriously chilled Sunday vibes
Mermaid Beach Surf Club – Mermaid Beach
Mermaid Beach Surf Club
172 Hedges Ave, Mermaid Beach
In this relaxed spot, you’re right on the beach and right in amongst the action. The Mermaid Beach Surf Club is one of those rare places that hits the spot for everyone. With a beachy bistro feel and epic ocean views, you’ll love the energy of this place. It features an indoor kids’ room with a playground and games.
Inside, it’s as you’d expect from a surf club: breezy and casual. It is definitely the kind of spot you’d feel comfortable rolling straight in from the beach. There’s a kids’ pack that comes with a colouring kit, and the surprisingly varied menu includes smaller meals from $10, plus drink and dessert options. If that hasn’t grabbed your attention, on Mondays, a kids’ meal gets thrown in for free for every full-price main purchase!
Best bet: Head here early evening when the sea breeze kicks in and the beach crowd thins out.
Features:
• Playground: Yes (Indoor kids’ room)
• Kids’ menu: Yes
• Highchairs: Yes
• Change table: Yes
• Shade: Yes
• Parking: Both on-site and street
• Booking needed: Recommended for lunch and dinner
• Pet friendly: No
• Standout: Beachfront access and breezy vibe
Mermaid Beach Tavern – Mermaid Beach
Mermaid Beach Tavern
2500 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Boasting a great outdoor area and a neat little kids’ zone tucked away in the bistro section, the Mermaid Beach Tavern is a popular local choice. The kids’ zone is not huge, but it’s enough to keep little legs busy while you enjoy a meal. Once the little legs have run out of steam, there’s even a screen playing cartoons if they need some downtime.
A classic Aussie pub with some modern touches is the flavour here, featuring dishes like fish tacos, burgers, pizzas, and big salads. Prices for mains are typically $20–$30, and the kids’ meals come with ice cream and a drink for around $12.
We think this is a good option if you’re out for midweek dinner or a casual lunch, especially if you’re in the area for shopping or errands.
Features:
• Playground: Yes (small indoor/outdoor combo)
• Kids’ menu: Yes
• Highchairs: Yes
• Change table: No
• Shade: Yes
• Parking: Free, street + small lot
• Booking needed: No
• Pet friendly: Outdoor areas only
• Standout: Cosy kids’ corner and chill vibe
Mermaid Waters Hotel – Mermaid Waters
Mermaid Waters Hotel
Cnr Markeri & Sunshine Blvd, Mermaid Waters
This big, family-focused venue has plenty of seating and a kids’ playroom that means business! It’s indoors, air-conditioned, and full of climbing frames, slides, and interactive games. We love it for rainy days or those too hot to move afternoons.
The indoor dining is located close to the play area, so you can keep an eye out while you enjoy a pub meal in peace. You can expect typical tavern fare on the menu with big portions (mains $20–$30). There is a very well stocked bar, and a great value kids’ menu ($10–$13 with extras).
Bonus: They often host school holiday activities and family nights — check out their socials for up-to-date info.
Features:
• Playground: Yes (indoor play centre style)
• Kids’ menu: Yes
• Highchairs: Yes
• Change table: Yes
• Shade: N/A (indoors)
• Parking: Ample, on-site
• Booking needed: Recommended Friday–Sunday
• Pet friendly: No
• Standout: Fully air-conditioned indoor play area
Wrap Up
So, there you have it! Whether you’re after a lazy Sunday lunch with some drinks and merriment or a midweek dinner with minimal mess and max chill, we think these family-friendly pubs on the southern Gold Coast offer something for everyone. From massive playgrounds to beachy vibes and indoor play zones, there’s something here for every kind and size of family outing.
Save this list for your next “where should we go?” moment — and share it with your mum crew!
