Gelato lovers, rejoice – from creamy Italian classics to inventive seasonal creations, the Gold Coast delivers some of the best chilled treats this side of summer. Whether you’re wandering Cavill Avenue, beach-hopping from Coolangatta to Palm Beach, or lingering after dinner in Burleigh, there’s always a reason to stop for gelato. Here’s some of our top picks for a scoop (or three).
Al Baccio Gelato Naturale, Burleigh Heads
A little slice of Italy arrived late last year on the lower Gold Coast Highway, and it’s serving happiness by the scoop. Al Bacio Gelato Naturale – the name meaning ‘as good as a kiss’ – is the new Burleigh Heads gelato shop from husband-and-wife duo Bek and Craig Heininger alongside their daughter Jaime, offering handcrafted gelato made the traditional Italian way – from scratch, with nothing but pure ingredients and a whole lot of heart. Classics like stracciatella and piemonte hazelnut sit alongside rotating sorbets that capture local fruit in peak form, making it an essential stop after a stroll through town or a dip at the beach.
La Macelleria, Mermaid Waters
Inspired by the gelato traditions of Bologna and made fresh on site with premium, natural ingredients and no artificial colourants or preservatives, each scoop here is rich, dense and elegantly simple, the kind that tastes of real milk and real technique rather than pre-mixes and gimmicks. Beyond classic flavours, the menu often features seasonal twists and mouth-watering cannoli that pairs beautifully with an espresso. La Macelleria also offers gelato tubs to take home and even workshops for anyone curious about the craft behind the churn.
Luna’s Deli, Coolangatta
Luna’s isn’t just about excellent focaccia and coffee (although it delivers both with serious pedigree) – Luna’s Deli’s gelato has quietly become a highlight in its own right. Made in small batches on site, the gelato balances creamy richness with thoughtful flavour layering, the kind that feels just right after lunch or a post-swim pause. Expect profiles that lean classic but with gentle twists such as silky vanilla that tastes of real cream, sorbets crafted with local fruit and seasonal specials that reflect Coolangatta’s laid-back energy.
Gelato Gemelli, Nobby Beach
From the team behind some of the Gold Coast’s most respected Italian kitchens (Gemelli Broadbeach and James Street Brisbane, Gemellini in Nobby Beach, Roy’s by Gemelli in Sorrento and Papa Rolly’s in Carrara) Gelato Gemelli focuses on small-batch gelato made with care, restraint and quality ingredients. Classic flavours are rich and well balanced, while seasonal specials keep things interesting without straying from tradition. The gelato cakes have also become a firm favourite with flavours such as Pistacchina, GG Rocher and Strawbella.
Gelato Messina, Surfers Paradise
Gelato Messina is where creativity meets consistency. Regulars flock for the rich, silky texture and ever-evolving flavour list that pairs favourites with seasonal experiments. The menu board is anything but predictable, alongside crowd favourites like salted caramel and pistachio, you’ll find limited-run specials that change regularly, often inspired by produce, nostalgia or a bit of playful imagination. It’s busy, buzzy and unapologetically bold, making it a go-to for anyone who likes their gelato classic, but never boring.
Burleigh Gelato Co., Burleigh Heads and Palm Beach
Born in Burleigh and proudly family owned, Burleigh Gelato Co. is all about doing the classics properly, with a few thoughtful twists along the way. Its artisan Italian gelato is made fresh daily using quality ingredients sourced locally where possible. The result is gelato that’s lush, flavour-forward and indulgent, whether you’re reaching for a traditional pistachio or something a little more playful.
My Gelato, Broadbeach
Broadbeach locals swear by My Gelato for its reliably smooth texture and broad flavour range, from Italian staples like fior di latte to bright, tropical fruit sorbets that feel tailor-made for hot days. Behind the counter are Italian owners Davide and Giordana, who moved from Rome to Australia in 2009 with a clear goal in mind – to open a top-class gelato shop grounded in traditional Italian methods. Everything here is made in house, with a focus on quality ingredients and careful technique, including a solid selection of dairy-free options. It’s a popular stop along Oracle Boulevard for good reason, satisfying both purists chasing classic flavours and anyone after something fresh and refreshing.
Ciccio’s Pizza & Gelato, Broadbeach
Part pizza favourite, part gelato destination, Ciccio’s makes dessert an easy afterthought you’re glad you had. Its gelato arrives creamy and classic alongside wood-fired pizzas, offering smooth texture and reliable flavours that pair perfectly with a post-meal espresso or seaside stroll. It’s a casual, family-friendly stop in Broadbeach where great pizza meets satisfying scoops every time.
Ottimo Gelato & Coffee, Coolangatta
More than just a post-surf pit stop, Ottimo Gelato & Coffee pairs excellent coffee with velvety gelato that leans into both classic Italian profiles and inventive seasonal flavours. The gelato is made fresh on site each day using quality milk and natural ingredients, staying true to traditional Italian technique and avoiding preservatives or artificial colours. Ottimo is the second entry on the list from husband-and-wife duo Davide and Giordana, the same team behind My Gelato in Broadbeach, bringing a shared passion for authentic Italian gelato to Coolangatta’s Marine Parade.
Scoop Gelati, Burleigh Heads
Small-batch and expertly made, Scoop Gelati is the kind of place locals recommend without hesitation. Gelato is made fresh daily, with seasonal flavours celebrating local produce alongside creamy, well-balanced classics. Easygoing and beach-adjacent, it’s a reliable stop for cooling off after a surf or weekend wander.
Of course, this is just the tip of the ice-cream cone! We truly are spoilt for choice when it comes to sensational scoops on the coast. Be sure to also check out Shiro Gelato & Snack in Southport, Gelatissimo (multiple locations), Gelato Wonderland in Labrador, Creamy Italiano Gelato & Ice Cream in Surfers Paradise. Heading south, there’s Golden Gelato in Tugun, Tango Gelato in Palm Beach and Gold Coast Gelato in Coolangatta.
Dining and Cooking