Police say there were a number of patrons present when a man entered the dining area of the Miami hotel about 6.10pm, approached the bar and demanded money from staff while threatening them with the weapon.

Staff handed him cash and he fled on foot.

Police arrested a 25-year-old man nearby a short time later.

He has been charged with armed robbery and is scheduled to appear in Southport Magistrates Court on April 15.

Police at the scene said no hotel staff or members of the public were injured.