13 December 2024
35 mins Read
Australia’s best rooftop bars are all about good vibes. I mean, what could be better than chilling out with a cool drink while enjoying a bird’s-eye view of an Australian city over summer? From open-air bars in Melbourne to undercover terraces in Brisbane, we crisscross the country to find Australia’s best rooftop bars that will see us sitting happily, high above the bustle, with our heads in the clouds. Let’s go. It’s your shout.
Unwind at this stunning rooftop oasis. (Image: Steven Woodburn)
Hugged by the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth‘s iconic curved brick structure, Wentworth Bar is one of the city’s most stylish new additions. The all-weather, leafy terrace is outfitted with casual low-slung chairs for relaxed evenings and high-top tables perfect for quick drinks. Sip on inventive cocktails like the ‘Fifth Floor Fizz’ with Tanqueray gin, rhubi mistelle, green tea, green apple cordial, and prosecco or opt for one of the ‘cocktail explosions’, which serve up to 10 people.
Enjoy snacks prepared by the adjacent restaurant Delta Rue which serves Vietnamese-French fare in the form of oyster mushroom spring rolls, Vietnamese beef tartare, or the hearty Wentworth cheeseburger and fries.
Address: Level 5. Sofitel Sydney Wentworth 61–101 Phillip Street, Sydney
Enjoy cocktails and bar bites on offer. (Image: Steven Woodburn)
It’s a great Sydney tradition to spend the entire year chasing the sunshine, regardless of the season. That probably explains the renaissance of the rooftop bar as the city starts to look up and honour its many architectural delights as a valid view.
The Rooftop Bar at The Sussex Hotel is a top spot for an inner-city knees-up. Find a sun-splashed spot under an umbrella amid the olive trees and pergolas clad in grapevines to enjoy this oasis away from the crowds and chaos of the CBD. Time your visit to coincide with sunset over small mezze plates of crispy squid, falafel, and salted cod fritters.
Address: 20 Sussex St, Sydney
Eat your way through the vibrant Asian-inspired menu.
Sydney’s largest rooftop bar is now open and it’s located atop The Governor Hotel in Macquarie Park, a longtime favourite of locals. It’s worth taking the Macquarie Park Metro to The Gov Rooftop so you can sip on a few vibrant Asian-inspired cocktails such as The Hills or the Pornstar Martini while hanging on the top-tier 650 square-metre rooftop.
The drinks list devised by group bar manager Luke Redington also includes mocktails, ciders and seltzers. Accompany your order with head chef Roon Park’s build-a-bao buns and skewers hot off the grill. Or order a round of Korean fried chicken and fried dumplings for the table.
Address: 109 Wicks Road, Macquarie Park
Enjoy an intimate drink with your beloved.
Blu Bar on 36 at the Shangri-La Sydney feels a world away from the bustling streets below. It’s like stepping into a postcard. Regarded as one of the most iconic rooftop bars in Sydney, Blu Bar on 36 offers dazzling views of the sapphire blue sea and sky with both the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House in the frame.
Blu Bar on 36 has uninterrupted views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House.
Whether you’re a guest staying at the hotel or a Sydneysider looking for a staycay, there’s no better perch from which to get a perspective of the city. Indulge in signature cocktails such as the Rhapsody on a Breezy Night, or the American Shang. Or sign up for a private cocktail class to learn how to muddle up the classics. The bar bites at Blu Bar are also elevated: think duck leg croquettes, lamb terrine and Yamba prawns. Feel the full romance and get a room.
Address: Level 36, 176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, Sydney
Neon nights at Jacksons on George.
Escape from the hurly-burly of the main drag of George St and climb to the third level of Jacksons on George, which has been designed by Studio Hollenstein to resemble the hull of a ship, shimmering flashes of Sydney Harbour and the humble Australian pub tile. We’re so glad the architects had such lofty ambitions. She’s a beaut.
Enjoy share plates of fresh seafood. Image: Jason Loucas
The rooftop bar is surrounded by examples of the city’s diverse architecture. Fall into the regular rhythm of the Sydney Place precinct at the bar, which is inspired by the great rooftops of the world but is quintessential Sydney. Expect the seasonal bellinis to be plentiful and the menu curated by hatted chef Steven Sinclair, of Jacksons on George to be exceptional.
Bars under the stars are now considered prime real estate in Sydney. Especially for a summer sojourn. Wait until the sky is blushing crimson before ascending the stairs to the Sweethearts Rooftop bar. The rooftop bar above the cray-cray that can be Kings Cross transforms into a Mexican cantina from Wednesday to Sunday.
It’s all hanging greenery and thinly gilded sunlight in the early evening with diners elbow-deep in good times. Finding this bar is quite thrilling. When you do, kick back over pollo tostadas and pimento palomas with your spiky-haired punkette friend with piercings who is made to feel right at home here.
Address: 33-35 Darlinghurst Rd, Potts Point
Leave the terra firma of touristy Circular Quay behind and look up. Next, follow the steps that have seen foot traffic for more than a century to The Glenmore until you reach the top for a hallowed photo opportunity.
The rooftop beer garden is full of smiling, happy people, the corners of their mouths clownishly upturned at the joy of Acoustic Sundays at The Glenmore. Loosen your inhibitions with a Matcha Maker or Cherry Ripe Espresso. And best wear the pants that have lost some of their elastic to indulge in elevated pub grub at the Glennie.
Address: 96 Cumberland St, The Rocks
This rooftop terrace at 25 Martin Place has freed up a hunk of prime Sydney real estate. Close your eyes and imagine a bar honeycombed in sunlight with lounge chairs on a terrace offering views of Sydney’s busy, buzzing Martin Place. That’s the Cabana Bar.
Van lifers who decided to renunciate their belongings might find their home away from home here on a road-trip around Australia. The wait staff at Cabana Bar have an encyclopaedic knowledge of the menu so take their recommendation for the spiced sweetcorn ribs, karaage popcorn chicken and pulled beef tacos. Cabana Bar also does a killer bottomless brunch.
Address: 25 Martin Place
The iconic bar is housed in the modern Barangaroo House. (Image: Cole Bennetts)
Barangaroo House looked like it could have been designed by Dr Seuss. The tri-level venue is embellished with greenery and is one of the most striking structures in Sydney. Smoke House is its crowning glory and its off-kilter shape absolutely iconic.
Smoke Bar, which sits atop Rekodo and House Bar, excels at botanical beverages, with quirky sips like the Above the Clouds and Dorothy going down a treat alongside bar snacks such as crispy chicken with sweetcorn hot sauce or the calamari fritti with yuzu mayo.
Address: 35 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
The city shines brightest above the Sofitel Darling Harbour.
The views from Lumière on Thirty Five are reason enough to visit the famed Sofitel Darling Harbour bar, which is open to the public from 8.30pm. The swanky bar on level 35 feels like it could be on the prow of a cruise ship thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows and water views.
While there’s plenty of eye candy to keep you entertained courtesy of the glittering cityscape, there are also a lot of Instagram opps inside. Flip your phone to portrait mode to capture the sweet and savoury small bites such as the Native Flowerpot dessert. Lumière means light. Slide into one of the booths and order signature cocktails such as the Candle Tealight or The Lighthouse.
Address: Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, 12 Darling Drive
Catch up with your friends at the new Panorama Bar.
Hip, happening, hot. That’s the new Panorama Bar on the top floor of multi-venue destination The International in Sydney’s CBD, which also includes The Wine Bar and The Grill. Nowhere is the optimism surrounding Sydney’s glittering CBD more apparent than at this new drinking and dining destination led by acclaimed culinary director Joel Bickford and group bars director Josh Reynolds.
The Panorama Bar does what it says on the tin offering a unique perspective of the NSW capital. The glamorous new bar comprises garden terraces that follow Seidler’s famous curves in the towering modernist building and iconic MLC Centre tower it overlooks. Lob for a popcorn lobster roll with togarashi and a chilled glass of chablis.
Address: 25 Martin Place, Sydney
A kasbah is typically a fortress built on high ground above a city. Cue the Kasbah, a magic bar that rocks the Moroccan vibes atop the transformed Strand Hotel. Expect crowds as colourful as the carpets at the bar, which is within a few blocks of the iconic Coca-Cola sign in Kings Cross.
The drinks list here was curated by the acclaimed Maybe Sammy team and the menu conceived by Clayton Wells. The rooftop bar has a retractable roof that has separate sections designed to please both sun worshippers and those who want to avoid UV exposure. The grazing menu is designed to share: think tiger prawns served in a bright ginger and turmeric marinade, chicken liver parfait and yellowfin tuna crudo.
Address: 99 William St, Darlinghurst
Harper has a beach club vibe. (Image: Dexter Kim)
Harper Rooftop Bar atop the Kimpton Margot Sydney is one of the best rooftop bars in Sydney. It’s an elegant addition to the revamped Art Deco hotel and in prime position to enjoy a cold drink with a stunning cityscape view.
An excursion skyward at the inner CBD hotel is both pleasurable and playful. There are premium cocktails and sinful slushies on offer as well as an extensive range of wines available both by the glass and bottle. The bar has a beach club vibe with a shimmering pool. There’s no better place to ‘gram the city skyline.
Address: Level 7/339 Pitt St, Sydney
The Hyatt Regency Sydney is one of Sydney’s top spots for a stay-cay. Celebrate the bounty of the East Coast with dinner at Sailmaker before arriving at rooftop bar Zephyr Sky Bar along with the whisper of a summer breeze.
Live the high life at Zephyr Sky Bar.
The rooftop bar on Level 12 and is a sophisticated standout on the Sydney waterfront. Live the high life this summer with the brand-new Moët & Chandon experience which has launched alongside a seasonal menu. Expect DJs on the decks on Thursday to Saturday evenings, and one of Sydney’s most extensive selections of rum, gin and whisk(e)y. Book the Moët & Chandon Sky Lounge for bragging rights.
Reach for the stars at Zephyr Sky Bar atop the Hyatt Regency Sydney.
Address: Level 12/161 Sussex St, Sydney
Wine and dine at The Tocky Terrace.
The Toxteth Hotel, or Tocky as it’s affectionately known, has expanded to include a rooftop bar with some seriously spesh views. By day, the Inner West pub’s rooftop bar is a sun-splashed spot for breakfast, lunch or brunch; by night, when the city lights wink on, the Tocky Terrace becomes one of the best rooftop bars in Sydney.
The reimagined Glebe local features micro cement bars and booths with terrazzo tiling and has a retractable roof to make it an all-weather destination.
Address: 345 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe
Take in incredible views of the city skyline at Aster Bar. (Image: InterContinental Sydney)
The refurbishment of InterContinental Sydney in 2022 was big news, giving visitors and locals even more reason to want to stay a night at the iconic hotel. The $120 million makeover extended all the way up to the rooftop bar, Aster, on level 32 which is now open to the public.
The rooftop bar has some of the best views in Sydney of Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Gardens and sitting here, on the terrace, serves as a reminder that Sydney is one of the best cities in the world. Feel on top of the world at the bar which draws from a colour palette of warm green and blue hues.
Address: Level 32/117 Macquarie St, Sydney
The Terrace raises the bar in Darling Square.
It’s impossible not to be in high spirits when you hit The Terrace at the Pumphouse Sydney. Okay, it’s hardly a sky-scraping joint. But the covered terrace is in prime position overlooking the revitalised Darling Square. The Terrace has so much green foliage it feels like an elegant, exclusive oasis.
The Terrace also focuses on local gins spiked with native botanicals. The rooftop bar has a range of great bar snacks on the menu including pecorino croquettes and Greek saganaki with spiced honey and lavender. There are also lamingtons with coconut sponge soaked in Benriach whisky and salted caramel.
Address: 17 Little Pier St, Darling Harbour
Share plates overflowing with delicious options are the way to go at Martinez Terrace, (Image: Jason Loucas)
Martinez Terrace is a top spot to enjoy a cold drink and bar bites with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Tucked into a pocket of the Quay Quarter Tower and an extension of the adjacent restaurant, Martinez is a hub for corporates who work in office towers upstairs.
Framed by neatly manicured potted plants, the bar is best as day becomes night and the lights of the CBD wink on. Catch the sun setting over Circular Quay with a cheeky cocktail in hand such as the Spritz Tropique or Homme Pasteque. Executive chef Alex Wong recommends ordering a mix of share plates such as whipped roe with bottarga or Ortiz anchovies with a seaweed persillade butter and Grana bakery baguette.
Address: Young Street, Ground Lobby/50 Bridge St, Sydney NSW 2000
W is for ‘welcome’ at the new W Sydney Hotel in Sydney.
You won’t need to follow any signposts to get to W Sydney: just look to the skyline in Darling Harbour to find Sydney’s newest landmark building and one of Australia’s best rooftop bars. From there, get on up to 29/30 where you should follow the team of waiters brandishing Aperol spritzes to the top floor of the two-storey rooftop bar at W Sydney to drink in views across Darling Harbour.
29/30 is perfectly positioned to drink in sunset aperitivos or wine and cocktails over a Basque-inspired tapas menu. The bar’s upper tier on level 30 also offers fancy cocktails and vintage Champagne by the glass. Want to use the pool? Check in to check it out.
Address: 31 Wheat Road, Sydney
Indulge in the exquisite cocktail menu. (Image: Trent Van der Jagt)
Zeta Bar takes full advantage of its enviable aspect looking out over Sydney’s iconic Queen Victoria Building. Congregate with friends on the wide terrace to make the most out of the magnificent view, which gives ‘holiday in Europe’ vibes year-round. The bar has recently been reimagined with a new cocktail menu designed by international mixologist Grant Collins.
The new-look bar, which ranks as one of the Top 50 Bars in the World, is all old-world glamour dotted with blue and red velvet lounges and playful furnishings. The bar, popular with A-listers, has taken its entertainment to the next level with international DJs and flame-haired burlesque dancers making Zeta the idyllic escape for after-work drinks with your A-list entourage. Hot tip: the high tea here is also one of the best in Sydney.
Address: Hilton Sydny, 488 George Street, Sydney
Arturo’s Rooftop Bar is for cocktail freaks, craft brew geeks and show ponies alike. The Woolly Bay Hotel is also a beacon for visitors exploring Woolloomooloo. The glass-enclosed rooftop bar and outdoor terrace is a local favourite for its views of the city skyline, iconic finger wharf and Andrew Boy Charlton pool.
Arturo’s offers stunning views over Woolloomooloo and beyond.
Cocktails are a serious business here: tell the bartender your preference and let him muddle up something tailored to your taste. The rooftop menu features Mediterranean-inspired snacks and small plates including Arturo’s signature lobster roll, calamari fritti, burrata with fennel and fig jam, cheese plates and a stellar limoncello tiramisu.
Expect Mediterranean-inspired dining in Arturo’s Restaurant and Rooftop.
Address: Level 2/2 Bourke St, Woolloomooloo
Raise your cocktail glasses backdropped with Sydney’s best harbourside views.
The YHA Sydney Harbour Rooftop Bar is one of the best hangs for backpackers in Sydney. It’s also available to all YHA members – not just guests – and has one of Sydney’s best harbourside views.
The recently renovated property has an a la carte menu available with crowd-pleasing favourites like pizza, fish and chips, burgers and charcuterie boards. Head here on Tuesdays for the two tacos for $5 deal.
Address: 110 Cumberland Street, Sydney
Untied is a modern oasis tucked in the buzzing Barangaroo precinct.
The warmer weather rouses Sydneysiders to flock to waterfront venues to catch a breeze. Settle in at one of the tables at Untied overlook Darling Harbour in the buzzing Barangaroo precinct which draws inspiration from the lush environs of Tropical North Queensland. The dress code at Untied is relaxed. Think pretty, summery dresses with spaghetti straps and wedges. Euro-chic jorts and jandals. Loosey goosey.
Untied has a dedicated lolly wall to pretty up your frosé with pops of candy colour. There are also snack-sized serves of hanger steak tacos, grilled pig toasties and popcorn chicken. Or more substantial mains such as burgers and chicken schnitzel.
Address: Exchange Place, 400 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo
Sip on the regal King Arthur’s Gimlet.
Dean & Nancy’s on 22 is not the place for a raucous rooftop party. But it’s a top spot to watch the warm hues of a Sydney sunset wash over the surrounding buildings alongside fellow Sydney sophisticates. The A by Adina Sydney hotel bar is giving Bright Lights Big City with its mid-century detail, high drama and decadence from that 360-degree glittering skyscape.
It’s worth a soft-shoe shuffle up the curved brass staircase to the Level 22 bar to see the city come alive from your intimate table. Restaurant and bar manager Stefano Filardi has curated the cocktail list which includes creative concoctions such as the Ayahuasca Daisy, which comes complete with 3D glasses.
Address: Level 22, A by Adina Sydney, 2 Hunter St, Sydney
Above 319 is an urban oasis atop the floor of Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour.
Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour is one of Sydney’s most vibing urban retreats. And the playful rooftop bar is one of the many reasons the hotel is one of the best places to stay in Darling Harbour.
The rooftop bar has lots of floral decorations and pops of neon.
By claiming a piece of sky-high real estate, bars such as Above 319 are helping to shape the urban landscape for the better. As well as being perfectly positioned for exploring Darling Harbour, the open-air bar on level 14 of the Vibe Hotel has innovative cocktails as well as a happy hour between 4.30 and 6.30pm every Wednesday to Sunday.
Address: Rooftop, 319-325 Sussex St, Sydney
Admire breathtaking views of the city at Romberg’s Newcastle.
Crystalbrook Collection drove the refurb of the landmark Newcastle City Council building to deliver Newcastle’s first five-star hotel: Crystalbrook Kingsley. The luxury hotel then ensured the city remained on the up and up with Romberg’s Bar, named in honour of the building’s architect Frederick Romberg.
Enjoy the panoramic views alongside snacks such as the signature crumbed Yamba prawn sando and a round of cocktails before heading into The Roundhouse for dinner. The only way is up at Romberg’s, one of the top bars in Newcastle to try right now.
Address: Level 9/282 King St, Newcastle
Fresh gyoza and Japanese whisky make a good pair at this izakaya.
Enjoy views over the Steel City’s iconic coastline from the ninth story of the QT Newcastle from the Rooftop at QT in the reimagined David Jones building. Today, the city with the industrial heritage is more glam than grunge.
Get to know Newy’s dazzling side over fresh gyoza and a snifter of Japanese whisky at Rooftop at QT, where the ceiling of the izakaya is festooned with pretty pendant lights. Hotel restaurant, Jana, is one of many Newcastle restaurants to put on your radar. Head here to enjoy Amalfi-inspired cuisine prepared with care by executive chef Ryan Crothers (ex-Merivale and Passeggiata).
Address: 185 Hunter St, Newcastle
Feast on the overflowing menu at the Rooftop at QT Melbourne.
Rooftop at QT Melbourne has had a makeover, which makes it a cool option to enjoy a cocktail over summer. Hit number 11 in the elevator to reach this sky-high stylish rooftop bar and let the revelry begin.
The reimagined rooftop includes intimate alcoves with booths and a private lounge and outdoor bar from which to enjoy QT’s statement cocktails alongside cult dishes such as the fried mortadella sando. Expect the customised spaces to contain QT quirks that will provide fodder for your social media feed.
Address: 11/133 Russell St, Melbourne
Sit down for an afternoon drink at Beverly.
Beverly is not in postcode 90210, Hollywood. Rather, it’s in 3141 South Yarra. But this rooftop bar sitting pretty in Chapel St looks to Southern California in the mid-century for inspiration for its interiors.
Perched atop Goldfields House, the sun-splashed terrace is all terrazzo tiles, acres of glass and Art Deco furnishings in subdued hues. Ask your boss to do you a solid and give you the arvo off so you can make it to golden hour. Feeling like a girl dinner? Order a simple plate of sashimi and a glass of something funky.
Address: Level 24/627 Chapel St, South Yarra, Melbourne
Pair your jalapeno margarita with Cabra tacos. (Image: Leigh Griffiths)
Dust the sand off your feet after a day at the beach before heading to La Cabra, which has the only rooftop bar in Mordialloc, Melbourne. The heritage-listed building seats 120 people in the restaurant and outdoor courtyard and 60 on the rooftop.
The Mexican vibes are palpable at this, the ninth venue for the brand, where everything from the old-fashioned service to the $10 margaritas and $5 tacos are sure to charm. Sink into one of the plush lounge chairs for a jalapeno margarita with a round of La Cabra tacos for a sunset session.
Address: 515 Main St, Mordialloc, Melbourne
Settle into the open-air terrace for some booze. (Image: Michael Pham)
Boozy nights filled with pumping beats and killer sunset views best reflect what’s going down at Mirror Mirror Rooftop Lounge. The reimagined rooftop bar atop The Clarendon Restaurant lets in swathes of brilliant Australian sky thanks to its retractable roof.
Owner Tiffy Sze has a fondness for fables and she’s brought a bit of magic to Melbourne tables with seasonal bar snacks by chef Ryan Spurrell known for his wizardry at Vue de Monde and two Michelin-starred The Ledbury, London. Sit amid the sky-high rooftop bar to enjoy uninterrupted views of Melbourne’s city skyline and a DJ every Saturday night.
Address: Level 3/209 Clarendon St, South Melbourne
Fill your tummy with delish offerings at HER Rooftop. (Image: Parker Blain)
Reach for the stars at HER Rooftop in hip and happening Lonsdale St. The colourful HER Rooftop is the icing on the cake for the vertical laneway venue known as HER.
The multi-tiered venue also contains the Euro-leaning HER Bar, Thai canteen BKK, and vinyl and whisky bar Music Room. Slow things down here sipping sundowners such as the Sawadee Kha! or go for the lounge package which includes BKK bites such as eggplant with sesame crackers, mushroom spring rolls and chicken curry puffs.
Address: 270 Lonsdale St, Melbourne
Sit next to breathtaking vistas atop Vibe Hotel Melbourne.
Fleet has sweeping views from its position some 68 metres above Melbourne’s iconic Flinders St. Located on level 22 of Vibe Hotel Melbourne, Fleet is all about the vibe. You can count on a well-made cocktail like the Fleet Espresso Martini with a drop of salted caramel syrup. Or the Alta Margarita which balances the kick of jalapeno heat with a lick of sweet mango sorbet.
Expect old-fashioned hospitality and a touch of theatre when the martini trolley is rolled out for mixologists to create a custom cocktail at your table. Chef Asish Kumar’s menu is a tight selection that complements the drinks: think freshly shucked oysters, mushroom arancini and braised pork cheek croquettes.
Address: Vibe Hotel Melbourne, 1 Queen St, Melbourne
Lounge next to the bustling metropolis while sipping afternoon cocktails.
So you think you know Melbourne? Think again. While you weren’t watching, the bustling metropolis quietly underwent a revolution with a plethora of new rooftop bars offering a new perspective on the Victorian capital’s persona. Perched high above Flinders Lane, the sister venue to the Salted Egg in the Quincy Hotel affords visitors views all the way to Phillip Bay and beyond.
Enter The Q through the golden chainmail archway to find a whimsical wonderland of velvet lounges and gleaming mirrors reflecting the light of the glittering high rises all around. Small plates here also raise the bar: think crispy soft-shell crab babo, crispy chicken ribs and char sui pork fries with sriracha. Feeling thirsty? Order the signature pandan and coconut margarita.
Address: Level 28, 509 Flinders Lane
Dine on tacos and more at MAYA Mexican. (Image: Dean Swindell)
Make sure your plans for visiting Queensland’s capital include a stop-off at MAYA Mexican, one of Brisbane’s best rooftop bars. The bar is like a happy marriage between Mexico City’s high-brow Coyoacan and hedonistic Cancun.
Maya has got the best of both tribes’ vibes – think discos and DJs, tequila and tacos and a classy cantina. Take refuge at the bueno bar or in the courtyard, which is like a posh palapa (Mexican shelter) fringed with potted cacti.
Address: 757 Ann St, Fortitude Valley
Sip cocktails by the Brisbane River.
Crystalbrook Collection is helping to change our city skylines one carefully considered hotel at a time.
Crystalbrook Vincent is a case in point with its fine example of a rooftop bar in Fiume, which means river in Italian and is one of many venues that have added bling to the Brisbane River.
As one of Brisbane’s best rooftop bars, Fiume offers stellar views of the Story Bridge and serpentine river, has an infinity pool and day beds, and cocktails full of punch such as the Periwinkle, that pull it all together.
Address: Level 3/5 Boundary St, Brisbane
It’s fair to say the Iris atop Hotel X has the X factor. The bar draws more inspiration from the coastal charm of Ibiza or Tulum rather than the Bris Vegas CBD. Head upstairs to find the bar, which is crushing the game with its sun loungers and rooftop pool.
The space draws a mix of crypto bros in town doing business, those seeking to impress a hot date by booking a cabana or influencers aiming to get a shot of the impressive view for Instagram. Seasonal libations include the breezy, bubbly Iberian Dream or the fruity and herbaceous Costa Verde. The tequila and Mezcal selection is top-notch. Those here for the food should plump for paella de marisco with Australian bay lobster, shellfish, chicken and chorizo.
Address: Atop Hotel X, 458 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley
Feel the breeze with a wine in hand at WET Deck.
Summer in Brisbane is the perfect time to enjoy a spicy pineapple margarita with a view. Feel the breeze and watch the honey hues wash over the buildings from the open-air Wet Deck at W Brisbane, an open-air terrace that comes into its own amid the shimmering lights of the Bris Vegas CBD.
If you’re feeling a bit salty about the summer heat, book a room or spacious suite, which will give you access to the pool. Otherwise, keep your sunshiney state of mind with a refreshing cocktail.
Address: Level 4/81 N Quay, Brisbane
The Star Brisbane’s rooftop bar is a great spot for sunset drinks.
Briz Vegas is reaching for the stars with its SkyDeck soaring some 100 metres above the city laid out below. The Star Brisbane’s rooftop runway has become somewhat of a bucket list place to visit in Brisbane. And its rooftop bar Cicada Blu is now one of the best places in Brisbane to raise a glass.
The open-air bar on Level 23 takes bar bites to new heights with its bespoke menu of snacks designed to appeal either pre or post-dinner at Aloria.
Address: Level 23, 33 William Street, Brisbane City
The city is shimmering atop Iris at Hotel X. (Image: Markus Ravik)
Keep your head in the clouds at Iris Rooftop Bar and Restaurant, an opulent oasis in the heart of Fortitude Valley. There’s a shady courtyard and soaring views over the Brisbane skyline and beyond at this poolside bar designed to celebrate the sunshine state.
Taste your way through tapas on the terrace or sip on the extensive range of cocktails and craft beers from the comfort of your private cabana. It’s best at sundown while looking out over the shimmering lights of the city. The pool is open to the public Tuesdays from 4pm to late and from Wednesday to Sunday 11.30am to late.
Address: 458 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley
Strike a pose with panoramic city views as your backdrop at The Rooftop Bar, Maroochydore.
Grab a perch at Rooftop Bar in Maroochydore to watch waves of colour ripple across the horizon at dusk. The sea views have been Instagrammed so many times you could just stay at home and search for the hashtag.
But what’s the fun in that? Get out of that scroll hole and take a hop, skip and lift to the wraparound bar. It’s one of the Queensland’s most romantic rooftop bars.
Address: 8 Maroochydore Rd, Maroochydore
Soak up panoramic city views at Rocco Cairns.
Crystalbrook Riley has given visitors to Tropical North Queensland a different vantage point over Cairns and the Coral Sea. Rocco offers 270-degree panoramic views, which makes it the city’s highest rooftop bar.
Order off an inspired drinks menu with cocktails such as the Marrakesh mule and Middle Eastern and Mediterranean bites. The compact size of Cairns is part of its charm. Crystalbrook Riley is only minutes away from some of the city’s best attractions.
Address: Crystalbrook Riley, Level 12, Tower, 131/141 Esplanade
Drink while admiring views at Whiskey and Wine Cairns.
You will find Whiskey and Wine along the Esplanade at Crystalbrook Flynn. It’s a prime platform from which to admire views over the Coral Sea and East Trinity.
As the name suggests, there’s a diverse offering of local and imported whisk(e)ys and wines. There are also standout drinks such as the WMS (watermelon, soda and prosecco). Order alongside an array of small share plates.
Address: Level 2/85 Esplanade, Cairns
Pick from QT Perth’s creative cocktails list.
The Rooftop at QT Perth offers some of the hotel chain’s signature sparkle at its rooftop bar on the 18th floor. A thoughtfully designed cocktail list enhances the guest’s experience at the sky-high bar, which draws inspiration from the turquoise seas and red desert sands so synonymous with WA.
Expect your excitement to rise as the city lights wink on with snacks that really sing such as suckling pig croquettes and fried mortadella sandos. This is a benchmark bar in WA, one that complements the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Address: QT Perth, Level 18/133 Murray St, Perth
Wind down for the evening at Songbird at the Ritz-Carlton Perth.
In the words of singer-songwriter Bernard Fanning: “Songbird, you got tales to tell.” Ask the concierge which button to push to get to Songbird, the storied terrace bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, which looks out over the flight path of the city’s winged residents.
If only the walls could talk at this enchanting indoor and outdoor space at the Marriott Bonvoy Asia hotel; it’s one of the top spots to perch in Perth’s Elizabeth Quay for bumps of caviar and champagne.
Address: Ritz-Carlton Perth, Level 5/1 Barrack St, Perth
There’s nothing low-key about the immersive cinematic experience on offer at Rooftop Movies in Perth. You can count on a chilled glass of wine, cocktail or beer at the open-air rooftop cinema all the while savouring the hottest blockbusters or timeless classics such as Mean Girls, Barbie and Priscilla Queen of the Desert.
Expect themed dance parties at the venue overlooking the Northbridge skyline and cranes elbowing the sky. Nab a purple beanbag to enjoy burgers, popcorn and beers and you’ll have one of the best seats in town.
Address: 68 Roe St, Perth
The bar interior looks sophisticated.
Want to drink in the skyline at one of Perth’s best rooftop bars? The sprawling space atop the Vibe Hotel in Subiaco is a scene that continues to gather steam. The place is generally mobbed with a good-looking creative crowd and is a most tasteful place to sit and chill as the sun sets.
Fancy something light? Go for the freshly shucked oysters and duck liver parfait. The pan-fried gnocchi and black Onyx beer brioche sliders are more substantial.
Address: 9 Alvan St, Subiaco
Howzat? 2KW Bar and Kitchen is prime real estate for cricket tragics in the South Australian summer. The rooftop bar sits atop the historically significant Westpac building. It looks out across the river to Adelaide Oval and the Torrens River. The terrace bar features festoon lighting and is a great option for an after-work drink or Sunday session.
Get the best view at Sôl Rooftop.
Elevate your evening plans while in Adelaide by visiting one of the best rooftop bars in Australia. SkyCity’s award-winning head sommelier Jimmy Parham has crafted a dynamic list of cocktails at Sôl Rooftop such as the signature Purple Haze, featuring Kangaroo Island Spirits Mulberry Gin, and the Sol Spritz.
Start with SA oyster shooters, followed by wagyu tartare and SA king prawns with a yuzu chilli dressing and daikon. Sôl Rooftop captures the energy of Adelaide.
Address: SkyCity Adelaide, 125 North Terrace, Adelaide
Hit the strobe! Merrymaker Rooftop Bar is not just a cocktail destination in Adelaide; it’s one of the city’s most raucous and colourful bars and one of Australia’s best rooftop bars. The fun and vibrant venue is near the city’s magical markets. For that reason alone, it is an absolute humdinger on a hump day.
Expect a playlist of summer bangers and sensational views over the surrounding streets from the breezy terrace. The fit-out pops with primary colours and is divided into cosy booths, communal lounges and intimate alcoves.
Address: Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets, an IHG Hotel, 23-29 Market St, Adelaide
Sample specialty cocktails at Aura Hobart.
Get high at Aura Hobart overlooking the Derwent River and kunanyi/Mt Wellington. There’s an abbreviated menu of share plates. The wine and beer list celebrates the best wines from Tassie and around the world. And cocktails are a serious business.
Either order what you fancy or tell them what you like and leave it up to them to muddle through it. Fluff your Aura with a Flora Dora (gin, lime and ginger ale).
Address: Level 12/110 Liverpool St, Hobart
People flock to the Telegraph Hotel to have a good time.
Head to the heart of Nipaluna/Hobart to find the brand-new rooftop on the Telegraph Hotel. The bar has stunning views over Sullivan’s Cove, and the combination of a party vibe and produce-led pub grub presents a poised sort of comfort.
Everyone is here for the same thing: a good time. The rooftop bar is a community hub with elevated options for steak night, parmi Tuesdays and drag trivia. Beer-battered Tasmanian pink ling is the thing. Good one, Hobart.
Address: 19 Morrison St, Hobart
Clink your glasses at The Deck.
Don loafers and linen and level up at The Deck. The rooftop bar sits atop the Crowne Plaza Hobart, one of the best places to stay in the state capital. The bar sources local produce to serve atop pizzas cooked under a good whack of heat from the wood-fired grill.
It also takes the familiar bright and breezy rooftop template and overlays it with a pumping soundtrack. It seems only fitting to order the Cosmopolitan.
Address: Level 4/110 Liverpool St, Hobart
Curl up on the couch with a gin in hand. (Image: Charlies of Darwin)
Charlie’s of Darwin captures the essence of Darwin’s eccentricities and is therefore considered one of Australia’s best rooftop bars. The eclectic space has an industrial aesthetic framed by greenery in Darwin’s CBD.
Count on a well-crafted cocktail at Charlie’s established by Rebecca Bullen, founder of Stone House Darwin. Charlie’s has its own working gin distillery and serves cooling snacks like sorbet. Grab your tribe: it’s all about the vibe.
Address: Austin Lane, Darwin
Zen Rooftop Bar features glorious views of the city skyline.
The dress code in Darwin/Garramilla is tropi-cool casual. During summer in Darwin, it makes sense for the city to make the most of every square inch of al fresco space. You will be feeling a Buddha-like calm when the breeze kicks in at the Zen Rooftop Bar on level 16 of the Ramada Zen Quarter Hotel.
The whimsical wraparound balcony is bedecked in greenery and offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Darwin. It’s a top-tier spot to soak in one of the Top End’s legendary sunsets or watch a storm roll in over Mindil Beach, tropical spritz in hand. The colourful bar is family-friendly, too.
Address: 6 Carey St, Darwin
The Reserve is hard to resist. From the perspective of a first-time visitor to the Top End, it is great for a group of gal pals, or a first date as it’s in the perfect location for watching the sun set. Expect a rotating roster of DJs and a cocktail list that leans into the tropical location.
The indoor-outdoor oasis in the heart of Darwin’s CBD has the rooftop requisite of sweeping views and laid-back vibes. Check Instagram to keep abreast of the bar’s happy hours, trivia nights, DJ sets and Latin dance parties. Dishes on the food menu include chicken parmy and steak sangas.
Address: 22 Smith St, Darwin
Slink into the dimly lit bar.
Summer arvos are well spent if you can score a seat at Epilogue Lounge in Alice Springs. Arrive early to enjoy cool boozy concoctions such as the Cool A.F. featuring Tanqueray gin, elderflower liquor, cucumber and lime. Or the refreshing Lychee Southside with gin, lychee liquor, lime and mint.
Epilogue Lounge has an urban-retro vibe and is known for tapas plates such as crumbed calamari and sweet potato fries. The Red Centre rooftop bar is also one of the best places in Alice Springs to enjoy live music. It’s worth tapping into the offering of craft beers, too.
Address: 1/58 Todd St, Alice Springs
Grab a chair to get the best view of the nation’s capital.
Many Canberrans have fond memories of drinking cocktails and snacking on tapas at Leyla Bar. The rooftop bar is one of the top places for a tipple in Canberra. Do you like your martini shaken or stirred? This is one of the toughest questions confronting Canberrans at the end of the working week.
Take your place on the terrace as the sun streaks in through the floor-to-ceiling windows which open up on a bright and breezy summer’s day. Leyla Bar is a top spot to see the nation’s capital from on high from the rooftop of the Burbury Hotel in Barton, which boasts brilliant views over Lake Burleigh Griffin.
Address: 1 Burbury Cl, Barton
Catch the sunset atop Canberra Rex Hotel.
It seems altitude comes with a bit of attitude at The Howling Moon. Take the elevator to the top floor of the Canberra Rex Hotel to enjoy cocktails under the stars at this vibrant rooftop bar. Find your prime perch at one of the communal lounges, glass of beer in hand, or sipping on Pumping Pommy cocktails under the twinkling fairy lights.
Arrive early so you can get better survey the vast cityscape at your feet and take it all in while the sun sets. Enjoy the breeze ruffling your collar from this rooftop wonderland while drinking and snacking and bopping to the house DJs.
Address: Canberra Rex Hotel, Level 6/150 Northbourne Ave, Braddon
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