Top 7 Bundaberg Pubs & Bars For a Drink

Bundaberg is practically synonymous with alcohol. Don’t pass through without stopping for a drink!

Bundaberg is the rum capital of Australia, home to the famous Bundaberg Rum distillery that produces a range of spirits and liquors that have been studded with awards and prizes. However, Rum isn’t the only thing the town produces. There’s top-notch Gin from Kalki Moon Distilling, great local wineries and delicious craft beer over at Ballistic Bargara.

In a town that is practically synonymous with alcohol, sampling a drink in Bundaberg is an absolute must. With some of the country’s finest alcohol in close proximity, there are lots of local products to stock in Bundaberg’s pubs and bars. Whether you prefer kicking back with a beer, nursing a spirit or sipping on a glass of wine, one of these bars will have the perfect drink for you. Check out our favourite Bundaberg pubs and bars to grab a drink.

1. The Spotted Dog Tavern @ Railway Hotel

It seems like just about every Aussie town has a ‘Railway Hotel’. But don’t be fooled— this local favourite is no generic pub . You can grab a drink at multiple bars across the venue, whether you prefer chilling at the sports bar or hanging out at the well-appointed cocktail bar.

There’s a refreshing range of beers and ciders on tap, as well as a well-stocked range of wines and spirits. We’ve written about the Spotted Dog in our round-up of the best restaurants in Bundaberg, so you know you’ll be in the company of great food should you feel peckish.

The cherry on top is that dogs are welcome here. So if you’re travelling with a four-legged family member, you can bring them along, too.

Cocktail lounge at Spotted Dog Tavern, Bundaberg — Pick from the array of wines and spirits on offer at The Spotted Dog Tavern.

2. Ballistic Bargara – The Brewhouse

Sample some craft beers down at The Brewhouse . This popular spot encapsulates Bundaberg’s quintessential laid-back energy, with friendly bar staff that will be more than happy to help you pick out the perfect drink (whether that’s ‘Thirsty Turtle’ ‘Rusty Roo’ or another one of their exciting releases).

If you can’t decide, you can always opt for a tasting paddle to sample the flavours. There are also great pizzas to nibble on, and if you’re in luck, there’s live music to set the vibe.

Local craft beers at Ballistic Bargara — Sink a cold pint of Ballistic Bargara’s local brews.

3. Bundaberg Distillery Bar

Smack-bang in the middle of sugarcane country, it’s little wonder why Bundaberg produces some of the best Rum in the country. If you’re a Rum aficionado, chances are you’ll be making a beeline for the Bundaberg Rum Distillery .

If you’re interested in the ins and outs of the distillery process, you can take a tour of the factory. Or, if you’d prefer to simply sample the goods, head to the bar area where you can try a range of Bundaberg rums. Knowledgeable bar staff will be happy to advise you and chat with you about all things rum.

Bundaberg Rum Distillery — Have a drink at the iconic Bundaberg distillery. (Image: Andrew S/Flickr)

4. Bert’s

Bert’s is a relatively new addition to Bundaberg’s restaurant scene, injecting plenty of style and elegance into the CBD. Walking into this beautiful Art-Deco-themed bar and restaurant will make you feel like you’ve taken a step back in time. The establishment is beautifully appointed, complete with vintage-style furnishings.

The drink menu oozes opulence, with an exquisite range of cocktails presented beautifully in antique-inspired glasses. The food offerings here are just as fantastic, making Bert’s a great option for grabbing a drink and a bite to eat at an upscale location.

Cocktails at Bert's in Bundaberg — Order up a cocktail at Bundaberg’s Art Deco-inspired bar and restaurant Bert’s.

5. The Library Bar

Initially, The Library Bar was set up as a trendy coffee shop for locals to enjoy a great brew and a book. But since, the establishment has expanded to include a whisky and cocktail bar with a theme set around books. (There’s even a book-swap library!). With a great drinks menu, a warm vibe and a well-stocked spirits shelf, The Library Bar is a place you definitely want to bookmark for a time when you’re in the mood for a drink.

Fun speakesy bar with hidden bookshelves in Bundaberg — Sip your favourite cocktail while you read at The Library Bar.

6. The Melbourne

While you’re in the Rum capital of Australia, you might as well go all out and sample a few different types of Rum. The Melbourne has incredibly well-stocked liquor shelves– and with over 200 different rums to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. But if you have trouble making up your mind, don’t hesitate to ask the stellar staff for some suggestions. At the Melbourne, you’re bound to find great Bundaberg hospitality, a great selection of drunks and classic Aussie pub grub.

Menu at The Melbourne in Bundaberg — Treat yourself to a delicious meal with some bubbly at The Melbourne.

7. The Old Bundy Tavern

The Old Bundy Tavern is one of Australia’s most historic pubs that has been quenching the thirst of visitors for more than a century. Like most country pubs, the Old Bundy Tavern retains a strong character and an even stronger community. Retaining its original charm and some Federation-era architectural details, it is the perfect place to head for a taste of rural Australiana and an ice-cold brew.

Headed to Bundaberg? We’ve also created a guide to accommodation in Bundaberg, rounded up the best things to do, and listed the best beaches to visit nearby.

This new, family-friendly Hamilton Island resort embraces life in the slow lane.

White sand beaches, gentle waves and getting on ‘island time’ have always made Hamilton Island the first spot that comes to mind when thinking of Queensland’s Whitsundays. Always a place to recharge and relax, modern wellness travel here means so much more than a spa treatment or green juice. And a new kind of tropical island stay has now arrived on Hamilton Island.

pool at The Sundays Hamilton Island — Learn to slow down and rejuvinate. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

The Sundays reimagines laid-back luxury, combining boutique, beachfront accommodation with an encouragement to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures so every day feels like Sunday.

Laid-back luxury

The Sundays is nestled into the picturesque gardens on the northern end of Catseye Beach. Despite a feeling of being away from it all, the resort is a conveniently short walk from Hamilton Island’s main resort centre and restaurants, so guests can have the best of both worlds.

This new boutique stay is all about savouring the now. From complimentary sunrise yoga to moonlight movies for kids and a daily sundae ritual by the beachside pool, it makes a compelling case for doing less, better.

Even the architecture is designed to harmonise with the surrounding tropical landscape, pairing soft curves with a grounded coastal style that shows off the panoramic Coral Sea views and adds to the hotel’s calm aesthetic.

Plus, with direct flights to Hamilton Island from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in under two and a half hours, as well as complimentary hotel transfers from the airport or marina, getting here is as easy as the vacation itself.

balcony view from room at The Sundays — Enjoy fantastic views from your balcony or terrace. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Perfectly designed rooms with amazing views

Every small detail has been considered in the creation of the 59 guest rooms and suites, from in-room amenities by LEIF to walls adorned with custom artworks by First Nations andHungarian artist Tiarna Herczeg. There’s even a signature in-room scent by The Raconteur.

Designed by Hamilton Island’s own designer, Carrie Williams, the result is relaxed Australian style using natural textures and soft hues to lull guests into a mellow state. This soothing palette runs throughout the resort, from its sun lounges to the shaded cabanas.

Every room and suite has been built with a balcony or terrace, perfectly framing postcard-perfect views of the surrounding reef and lush greenery.

inside a room at The Sundays — Stylish rooms feature natural, soothing tones. (Image: Sharyn Cairns)

Excellent activities and amenities

Each day has been planned with a relaxed structure, so guests can get involved in as much or as little as they wish.

Greet each day with morning yoga, pilates and island walks. Recharge with daily (and deliciously complimentary) sundaes by the pool. Wind down with moonlight movies twice a week and take advantage of family-focused features.

Guests have complimentary access to a range of water sports – from stand-up paddle boards to catamarans – so they can get their blood pumping before relaxing by the resort pool.

Or take a few extra steps to set up for a day on the sand without any crowds at the exclusive, guest-only beach. Settle in with a poolside aperitif for a front-row view of the stunning Catseye Bay.

aerial shot of The Sundays pool and catseye beach — Find picturesque Catseye Beach on your doorstep. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Delectable dining

What is rejuvenation if not a hearty choice of fresh, delectable dishes? That’s what guests will discover at The Sundays’s onsite restaurant, Catseye Pool Club .

Open all day for hotel guests and lunch and dinner for island diners, this relaxed yet elevated menu was created by acclaimed culinary duo, Josh and Julie Niland. It celebrates that community feeling of mealtimes while championing seasonal Australian produce.

“The vision behind [Catseye Pool Club] reflects so much of what I value – bringing people together to create memories in beautiful surroundings,” explains Josh.

table spread including a lobster dish from Catseye Pool Club, The Sundays — Enjoy classic Aussie meals with a twist at Catseye Pool Club. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Based on elevated versions of classic Aussie family dinners, expect refined simplicity. Think roasted Sun Farms Sommerlad chicken with sides like chicken fat roast potatoes, gravy and tomato and grilled bread salad, or barbecued line-caught Bowen coral trout with garlic saltbush and Warrigal greens.

A day spent by the pool can be complemented by a dedicated poolside menu, featuring wood-fired souvas. Don’t want to leave the room? Kick back and soak in the views with tasty treats delivered straight to your door, whether you’re after a full breakfast or late night snack.

view from catseye pool club at The Sundays hamilton island — Enjoy dinner and a view. (Image: Kara Rosenlund)

Exploring the island

While daily life at The Sundays is very much about the art of staying still, guests who seek more can explore the island with ease.

Take a day trip to the striking Whitehaven Beach, or see the iconic Heart Reef from above on a helicopter tour. Pop over to Hamilton Island’s championship golf course for a hit, or explore over 12 kilometres of the island’s stunning nature and wildlife. Later, slow the pace back down with a visit to Spa wumurdaylin .

Looking for more tasty treats? Visit one of the island’s restaurants – there are more than 20 to choose from.

Hikers on passage peak hike on hamilton island — Take on the beautiful hikes of Hamilton Island. (Image: Nick Leary)

Book your stay at The Sundays through hamiltonisland.com.au.

7 of the best pubs and bars in Bundaberg to grab a drink