The Rooftop Lodge

Overview

If you're going to set up a rooftop beach club anywhere in southeast Queensland, then the Gold Coast is certainly the place for it. And, as first announced in 2020, the sunny tourist spot did indeed become home to once such sprawling venue in 2021. But what happens when things get wintry, even in a city known for its warm climes? From Friday, June 24 through till the end of August, the snow — and a brand-new alpine makeover — will set in at Cali Beach instead.

Yes, the 5000-square-metre space venue on a fourth-floor rooftop on Surfers Paradise Boulevard is being transformed into a rooftop lodge. It's renaming itself The Rooftop Lodge, in fact. And, it's taking the concept seriously, with more than 60 snow-topped trees, fire pits and even fake snow falling across the site.

Expect big alpine energy as you wander through a snowy forest the size of a tennis court, complete with a toboggan slide — and when you hit up the huge dome igloo bar within it. The winter oasis will also turn its Saké Sisters restaurant into an après-ski lodge, spanning both its fitout and its menu. As for the Cali shop, it'll become a chalet bar with fire pits and blankets. And, instead of hopping in the pool, you'll take a splash in two hot tubs. Between dips, there'll be ice hockey as well — because why not?

Cali Beach's VIP cabanas are all being decked out as luxury alpine lodges, too, with facades that look the part, more fire pits and ski village-style cosy furniture. So, gathering the gang and hanging out in your own space is still on the agenda — just in a frosty-themed setup, rather than going beachy.

Food-wise, the menu will include plenty of winter go-tos, such as charcuterie boards, fondue and marshmallows that you can roast by the fire. Or, sip wintry cocktails and indulge in a shotski, which'll see you downing shots off of a snow ski.

The venue's entertainment lineup will also switch to fit the pop-up, including winter costumes — and entry will be free, although you'll be paying to eat and drink.