Officially called the ‘The Cudgen Surf Club Bar & Bistro’, but affectionately know as ‘The Surf Club Kingscliff Bar & Bistro’ this poker-machine free, family-friendly club boasts the best beach view in town … and it certainly delivers. Set right on the beach with ocean views as far as the eye can see, the balcony and the grassy area of the Kingy Surf Club certainly set the tone for a relaxing meal.
When I say family-friendly I mean it. This is a family club through and through, even our, um … ‘spirited’ toddler was welcomed and had plenty of space to burn off some toddler-steam without getting underfoot. There were families dining there who had clearly just popped in after a swim – so sandy-butt families are welcome too, which makes it the perfect choice for lunch on a Kingscliff day-trip.
Food
| Value for money | 5 |
| Variety of kids menu | 5 |
| Portion sizes | 5 |
| Food quality | 5 |
| Special dietary options | 5 |
| How likely are you to recommend venue? | 5 |
On a scale of 5-Excellent to 1-Poor
I have been dreaming about the crab-pasta bake I ordered off the specials board since our visit. The food was great. The kids’ menu had a variety of choices – including a kid-sized steak. All kid’s meals came with an ice-cream and a drink PLUS, on Monday nights KIDS EAT FREE! The bistro also offered up kids entertainment packs full of stickers, crayons and colouring in activities with a surf life-saving theme to keep them occupied during the short wait for the food to come out.
Service
| Staff Friendliness | 5 |
| Willingness to accommodate kids | 5 |
| Prompt delivery of meals | 5 |
| Additional services like child care | N/A |
On a scale of 5-Excellent to 1-Poor
The staff were super helpful and friendly. One of my kids had a little spluttering cough attack as we arrived, and the lovely lady behind the counter at the bistro raced over to our table with a glass of water for him. Emma the club manager also told us all about the Kingscliff Lantern Markets that are on the first Friday night of every month in the park next to the club. That is definitely on our bucket-list now too, if only so that I can pop back into the club and get that crab pasta again.
Facilities
| High chairs and change tables | 5 |
| Room for prams and strollers | 5 |
| Dedicated play area | 5 |
| Can parents see into play space | 5 |
| Caters to all age groups | 5 |
| Is safely fenced and away from bar | 5 |
| Is there adequate parking? | 5 |
On a scale of 5-Excellent to 1-Poor
Plenty of parking. There was a lift to get upstairs if you had a pram, and a change table was available in the bathroom. The fenced downstairs grass area allows you clear vision to watch the children play, and the surfers beyond.
Atmosphere
Very relaxed, beachy atmosphere in this surf club. It has a real sense of community and family about it. We certainly felt very welcomed and very comfortable. Tonnes of live entertainment advertised, including a one-Sunday-a-month barefoot bar downstairs on the grass with a live band.
Highlights
Did I mention that crab pasta? Also the neighbourhood itself would have to be a highlight. Kingscliff is a slice of paradise. There’s some great shopping, great swimming, great fishing and more to be had in this little coastal town. Perfect day-trip and holiday destination.
The staff and vibe at The Surf Club Kingscliff Bar & Bistro make it a must-stop-in venue when in town.
Issues
If you are thinking those views mean up-market and posh, think again. Not that this was an issue for us, but if you are after ‘fancy’ this is not the place for you.
