Sweet escapes: The 13 best desserts on the Gold Coast

Find the cherry on top of your Queensland adventure with our list of the best desserts on the Gold Coast.

They say you can’t buy happiness — but you can buy dessert, and that’s kind of the same thing. The Gold Coast wholeheartedly agrees, boasting a vast landscape of goodies that cater to the sweetest of tooths. From a boozy hot chocolate and TikTok-famous Dubai chocolate to crispy bubble waffles and skillet-filled hot cookies, creativity runs rife in delectable shapes and forms. Here, our hand-sampled pick of the best desserts on the Gold Coast to sweeten every new adventure.

1. Dipcro Pastry

croissants at Dipcro Pastry, Gold Coast dessert — Dipcro Pastry is renowned for its dippable cup-like croissants.

Bringing TikTok’s hottest sugar trend to its already spectacular patisserie range, Dipcro Pastry knows how to create a stir. Renowned for its dippable cup-like croissants, filling three-day aged pastry with the likes of liquid Biscoff and vanilla custard, the Gold Coast dessert haven now offers a Pistachio Dubai Chocolate Tart, crafting pure excellence out of social media’s favourite crunchy, nutty chocolate. Australian Traveller devoured the new May 2025 menu item which also incorporates chocolate ganache, homemade pistachio butter and crispy kataifi pastry. Gazing into the glass-walled bakery in Dipcro’s Chevron Island location, we’re in awe of how the team manage to keep their hands off all the irresistible gooey ingredients that surround them. If you can’t grab one of the few tables inside, there are another four or so on the street, while the Main Beach location is larger if you’re prepared to drive another 10 minutes’ north.

Address: 55 Thomas Dr, Chevron Island and 27 Tedder Ave, Main Beach

2. 5B2F Ciabatta

Southport welcomed 5B2F Ciabatta in December 2024, a little sister to the suburb’s long-adored 5B2F Bakehouse that seriously stepped up the northern Gold Coast’s desserts scene. Run by an ex-Hyatt chef from South Korea, Moonsun Yoo, the shop presents its delicately crafted sweets in a display cabinet that dazzles every time you visit. Posh pastries, almost too pretty to eat, include the popular ‘Earl Grey’ double-baked marble sponge slice, danishes topped with seasonal fruits, a ‘Paris Brest’ with choux pastry, cream and hazelnuts, and the signature Mont Blanc, which layers honey sponge, chocolate and mascarpone cream.

Address: 29 Davenport St, Southport

3. Ze Pickle

oreogazm dessert at Ze Pickle, Gold Coast — Deep-fried Oreos in doughnut batter with ice cream and liquid Nutella at Ze Pickle.

A Burleigh Heads institution better known for its burgers, Ze Pickle is renowned locally for its sweet chasers. The home of deep-fried dessert innovation, these guys roll out the ‘Oreogazm’, topping deep-fried Oreos in doughnut batter with ice cream and Nutella, plus the ‘Darrell Lee’s Dead’, a baked chocolate chip brownie in a skillet with Dulce de Leche sauce. The main event, however, has got to be the cheeky #WhoTheF***WasMaxBrenner, another skillet filled with a caramel M&Ms and choc-chip cookie and drizzled with marshmallow “gravy". Grab a table outside on the street corner to ensure you score the drooling-onlooker reaction every creation deserves.

Address: 1/37 Connor St, Burleigh Heads

4. Waffle & Bean Dessert Bar

Golden waffle bites topped with crushed Oreo, Kinder Bueno, toasted marshmallow, biscuits, custard, coconut, whipped cream and mixed berries – it’s just the tip of the iceberg at Waffle & Bean Dessert Bar . On paper, the Burleigh Heads nirvana (the team have since opened a second store down south) serves as a speciality dessert bar, but in reality, the decadence of this place is hard to put into words. Alongside their dreamy Belgian-born line-up (a bacon waffle sandwich, perhaps?), there’s freshly baked cookie pies, Mars and Snickers slices, Dubai chocolate brownies (there it is again) and over-the-top milkshakes including ‘I Want Candy’, mixing bubble-gum syrup, milk and ice cream before bringing on the chaos with whipped cream, coloured popcorn and sprinkles. It hits the spot, we promise.

Address: 6/1837 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads and 11/118 Griffith St, Coolangatta

5. Bam Bam Bakehouse

a strawberry tart at Bam Bam Bakehouse, Gold Coast — You can’t go wrong with special strawberry tarts at Bam Bam Bakehouse. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

No ‘best desserts on the Gold Coast’ list can overlook the fabulous Bam Bam Bakehouse , a cult sweet spot that pulls relentless crowds in Mermaid Beach. While the focus sits firmly on refined pastry techniques (but also serving a breakfast menu that dances the line between nasi goreng and karaage chicken-stuffed croissants), Bam Bam is the Gold Coast equivalent of your favourite Parisian boulangerie. Pop in for one of their famed twice-baked almond croissants but don’t be surprised if you’re heading out with a dulce de leche twice-baked version or a Nutella cruffin with almond frangipane, too. What you can be certain of, however, is getting there early because the heavy hitters tend to sell out within just a few hours.

Address: 2519 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach

6. Gemelli Broadbeach

tiramisu at Gemelli Broadbeach, Gold Coast dessert — Treat yourself to a tried-and-true tiramisu at Gemelli Broadbeach.

Gemelli brings Little Italy to the Gold Coast – giving you the chance to taste local, truly Italian specialties across various Glitter Strip locations. Our favourite outpost is the original, the Broadbeach eatery, which still nails its famed Nutella Bomba to this day. A deep-fried Sicilian calzone, the standout Gold Coast dessert features a crispy outer layer with a soft inner filling that oozes Nutella goodness and vanilla gelato before quickly melting in your mouth. Bellissimo.

Address: 2/2685 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach

7. Janus Deli

the doughnut variants at Janus Deli, Gold Coast dessert — Get swept up in doughnut goodness. (Image: Supplied)

For those who consider the art of doughnuts a competitive sport, you’re probably familiar with Janus Deli . The doughy connoisseurs offer staple creations, like plain cinnamon and vanilla-glazed, but it’s way more fun leaning into their innovative concoctions including the apple fritter, crème brulee, Dubai chocolate and Biscoff varieties. All this and some pretty amazing branded merch spanning t-shirts, tumblers, caps and more.

Address: Shop 14/458 Olsen Ave, Molendinar

8. The Paddock Bakery

desserts at Paddock Bakery, Gold Coast — Stop by the much-adored Paddock Bakery for sweet treats. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

We defy anybody to visit The Paddock Bakery and leave without a sweet treat in tow. Yes, it’s a killer brunch spot, easily one of the best cafes on the Gold Coast, but their sweet treats are pure soul food, sliding smiles upon dials with just one glance at the crammed glass cabinet by the registers. The sourdough doughnuts are a popular pick, available in salted caramel and pretzel cookie crumb, Biscoff cheesecake and other mouth-watering varieties, but don’t neglect the strawberry and Lindt white chocolate muffin or strawberry glazed tart or gooey chunky cookies or itty-bitty carrot cakes or… well, we could go on. Expect to line up around the corner of the building no matter when you arrive but the wait is always worth it.

Address: 20 Hibiscus Haven, Burleigh Heads

9. Little Sweet Cafe

With unicorns on the wall and traditional Hong Kong crispy bubble waffles on the menu, it’s hard to say no to a sugar fix from Little Sweet Cafe . You’ll also find pastry puffs with vanilla custard, souffle pancakes, as well as many flavours of bingsu (a Korean shaved-ice dessert) including tropical, super brownie, matcha, and green tea. And to quench your thirst? Pearl teas and matcha lattes should do the trick.

Address: 10/2 Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise

10. Franquette

Raspberry & Pistachio Danish at Franquette, Gold Coast dessert — The irresistible Raspberry & Pistachio Danish at Franquette.

A bustling bakery found along Tamborine Mountain’s charming Gallery Walk, Franquette whips up standout sourdough and baguettes — but the stars of the show are its sweets. Paying homage to traditional French patisseries, edible art includes raspberry and pistachio danishes, croissant loaves, tiramisu, lemon curd cruffins and delicious associates. Additionally, there’s plenty of table space across two storefronts that sprawl onto the pavement with further seating, and the staff are warm and chatty, happy to share their favourites if you’re struggling to select.

Address: 155/157 Long Rd, Tamborine Mountain

11. The Gelato Shop

gelato cups at The Gelato Shop, Gold Coast dessert — Save room for gelato. (Image: The Gelato Shop)

Aptly voted as the Gold Coast’s favourite gelato, The Gelato Shop in Broadbeach makes its hero dessert in-store daily, using the finest Italian and Australian ingredients. Scoop your favourite flavour (Kinder Surprise, Baileys Irish Cream and Ferrero Rocher are never bad ideas) into a cup or cone, or go all out with a Rocky Road sundae topped with whipped cream, melted chocolate, marshmallows and nuts.

Address: Shop 8 Aria Building, Cnr Surf Parade & Albert Ave, Broadbeach

12. Quince

Prefer savoury to sweet? We hear you. Quince is an exceptional place to raid, located in the trendy Cornerstone Stores and appearing as a boutique wine shop at first glance. Step inside the tiny shopfront to discover its creamy charms, including incredible cave-aged cheddar from the United Kingdom, housed securely inside a temperature-controlled fromagerie. The team is armed with expert wine pairing advice, ensuring guests leave plenty prepped for a dessert hit sans refined sugar.

Address: Shop 5/570 Gold Coast Hwy, Tugun

Originally written by Natasha Gamra with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

Discover the best things to do on the Gold Coast

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.