Celebrating Coffs Coast’s Creative Cocktails

Whether you’re sipping a Princess Spritz at an elevated beach club’s bottomless brunch, grooving to live music with a fun and fanciful Bubblegum Martini, or savouring a sophisticated Negroni Remix at a beloved neighbourhood bar, the Coffs Coast is getting creative with its cocktails. So gather a group of friends, and get ready to feel more fabulous than a rainbow unicorn – we’re visiting three venues redefining what celebratory drinks are all about.

With stunning beachside views best enjoyed with a cool drink or three, Aanuka Beach House is quickly Coffs Coast’s hottest destination to relax with family and friends. Combining the laid-back charm of a beach club plus the sophistication of a well-curated menu and interior to match instantly transports you to a tropical escape that feels a world away.

Bursting onto the Coffs Coast hospitality scene in 2024, Aanuka Beach House has created a menu of Cocktails that truly capture the essence of Summer. “We’ve got mango and coconut daiquiris flying out the door—everyone wants something blended when it’s hot and summery outside,” says General Manager Sharni. The team will soon introduce daiquiris and piña coladas served in pineapples or coconuts—ideal for those picture-perfect beach vibes. These ‘fishbowl’ style cocktails will be shareable and promise to elevate the summer experience.

The menu also balances classics with creative twists. Sharni’s favourites include Spicy Margaritas, Coconut Aperol Margaritas, and the indulgent “Killer Tiramisu,” a dessert-style espresso martini crafted with Baileys, Kahlua, and tequila. Seasonal highlights like the Princess Spritz (Elderflower Aperol, sparkling wine, and citrus) round out the menu, with drinks rotating based on popularity.

And if you get hungry, you are covered. Designed to complement the cocktails, the locally inspired food menu At Aanuka Beach House is so vibrant and fun. “You can snack on freshly shucked oysters or try the crispy mushroom arancini. The gourmet Chicken Club Burger is a crowd-pleaser, and our market fish changes weekly. It’s about showcasing the best local produce,” Sharni explains. “And while we do food, we’re not a restaurant; we’re more of a relaxed beach club. You can come for drinks, food, or just to hang out,” she adds.

Whether you’re gathering with friends for a bottomless brunch or soaking up the live music on a Sunday afternoon, this venue offers something for everyone – the perfect setting for a laid-back yet vibrant summer experience.

Mixologist’s magical tip: Book ahead to secure a spot—this beachside hotspot is already a summer favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Take me there: Aanuka Beach House is at Aanuka Beach Resort – 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour.

Mirroring its eclectic interior, creativity and tradition collide to deliver a cocktail experience like no other at this iconic beachside establishment. Whether you’re into classic concoctions or experimental drinks with a theatrical flair, The Hoey Moey’s cocktail menu is as diverse as its rolling lineup of live music.

Classics like margaritas and old-fashioned remain staples, while the new offerings take creativity to the next level. Think smoky whiskey cocktails and Bubblegum Martinis topped with sour straps and fairy floss; these are aesthetically stunning drinks. “We wanted to elevate the cocktail experience,” cocktail guru/manager Jesse shares. “From the classic favourites to more creative options, there’s something here for everyone—whether you love a smoky old-fashioned or a sweet martini.”

The Hoey Moey is also committed to supporting local distillers and showcasing the best of Australian spirits. From Tassie’s Hellyers Road whiskey to Cape Byron’s craft gins, the bar’s carefully selected range adds a regional twist to its cocktails. “We’re proud to feature local spirits on our menu,” Jesse explains. “It’s about highlighting what makes our regions special while giving people something new and exciting to try.”

And while the creativity in the menu is worth a visit, the welcoming vibe at The Hoey Moey is why you will return. “The Hoey is all about versatility,” Jesse says. “Whether you want a quiet catch-up over a cocktail or a fun night out, we’ve got something for you.”

Mixologist’s magical tip: Cocktail lovers on a budget can take advantage of The Hoey’s daily Happy Hour deals, including a range of pre-mixed cocktails on tap. “We batch our cocktails fresh midweek, so everything’s ready to go,” Jesse notes. “It’s part of making sure every drink we serve is top quality.” Specials rotate regularly, so there’s always something new to sip. For members, exclusive pricing makes the experience even sweeter. Ask the friendly bar crew about how you can jump on that.

Take me there: The Hoey Moey is at 84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour.

Located in the heart of Sawtell’s First Avenue between popular cafes, bustling restaurants and one of the best small-town theatres, you will find The Athletic Club. Like its namesake, the Detroit Athletic Club, this venue is loved by locals and visitors, Quickly Becoming Sawtell’s Favourite Spot To Meet With Friends.

Speaking to one of the owners, it’s clear that The Athletic Club is a true neighbourhood bar for the community, by the community. “Like any great bar, the identity and story of our venue has been taking shape and developed over the past three and a half years by our amazing loyal regular customers and the patrons who are visiting Sawtell and happen to stop in one drink, and end up staying for the night then come back the next night for more.”

The menu changes with the seasons to use the freshest, most in-season produce available. Key events throughout the year, such as St Patrick’s Day, the Sawtell Chilli Fest and Christmas, inspire extra-special inclusions. “Our Christmas menu is about to drop, and the very popular “Nan’s Pav” is back again. It tastes just like the Pavlova nan would whip up for Chrissy lunch, just a bit boozier.

Besides pouring one of the best pints of Guinness in the land, this Summer’s cocktail menu features some mouth-watering signature drinks created by a talented bar team. “Sawtell always turns it on in Summer, and with our new alfresco street-side seating, we expect plenty of the same. Think sunkissed, sandy feet, straight from the beach to an Aperol Spritz or Margarita in hand in a few minutes“. Could it get any better than this?

Mixologist’s magical tip: Happy Hour runs from open until 6 Pm every day of the eeek; this includes $12 Margaritas, $12 Aperol Spritz, $15 Negronis, $8 Prosecco or a $7 tinny.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect bar to grab a pre/post-dinner drink or a comfy spot to settle in for a late-night whiskey or amaro, then The Athletic Club is where to meet.

Take me there: The Athletic Club at 16 First Ave, Sawtell

Located at the Coffs Harbour Promenade, with uninterrupted views of Coffs Creek, Stef&Co invites you to connect with nature as you indulge in delicious cocktails and authentic Italian cuisine in an unforgettable and serene setting.

Split over two levels, Stef&Co is a bakery/cafe upstairs that transforms into a restaurant at night, with an underground bar below. “Here, the focus is on good music, good drinks, and good food,” shares Roberto (Rob), bartender/cofounder whose charm lights up the entire venue. “Where live music, DJs, events and indoor/outdoor dining combine to create a unique atmosphere,” he adds.

Stef&Co’s cocktail menu strikes the perfect balance between creativity and tradition. Choose from six signature creations or timeless classics, all crafted with precision and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Standouts include Who’s Charlie, a playful twist on the Charlie Chaplin, featuring Byron Bay sloe gin, French apricot brandy, and house-made rhubarb syrup. Or, for a more adventurous sip, try the Yuzu Fusion, blending Chilean Pisco, Japanese yuzu sake, fresh grapefruit, and lime.

While this is a cocktail blog, the curated beer selection on the menu deserves a mention. Local collaborations with King Tide in Coffs and Woopi Brewery in Woolgoolga will surely wet your whistle. Wine lovers will rejoice with a clever selection of sparkling, champagne, chilled red, organic and natural wine from Australia and Europe. There are also some Italian soft drinks you cannot find anywhere else on the coast.

This eclectic hospitality concept is the brainchild of three close friends—Stef, Vito, and Rob—Stef&Co was born from their shared love of food, drink, and bringing people together. “We’ve always cherished the adventure of friendship and work,” shares Rob. “Our goal is to create a space where everyone feels welcome and can have fun.”

Mixologist’s magical tip: Happy hour runs from open until 2 – 5 pm every day of the week; this includes $15 classic cocktails, $7 Peronis, and $9 house wines.

Whether you’re here for a handcrafted cocktail, a slice of perfectly made pizza, or to catch live music under the stars, Stef&Co is a destination where everything comes together in perfect harmony.

Take me there: Stef&Co is at 319-321 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour.