Top reasons to visit Gold Coast
- Stunning Beaches: The Gold Coast boasts beautiful golden beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
- Thrilling Theme Parks: Experience excitement at renowned theme parks, offering fun for the whole family.
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore picturesque nature reserves and engage in various outdoor activities.
- Vibrant City Life: Enjoy a lively atmosphere with shopping, dining, and a dynamic live music scene.
- Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from a range of family-friendly hotels and luxury resorts for a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in Gold Coast
Discover the ideal accommodation for your getaway to the stunning Gold Coast, Queensland. Whether you prefer a modern hotel or a luxurious resort, you'll find family-friendly options with a range of amenities. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and thrilling adventures that this vibrant destination has to offer. Explore hotel reviews and holiday rentals to make the most of your stay in this picturesque coastal paradise.
- Novotel Surfers Paradise: A 4.5-star hotel that emphasizes a family-friendly beach vacation experience. Featuring direct beach access, the Novotel offers a range of amenities designed for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. Guests have rated this hotel an 8.0 out of 10, appreciating its spacious accommodations and convenient location. Amenities include a First Aid Kit, a Pool Gate for safety, and complimentary cribs for younger guests, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a relaxing beach getaway.
- Voco Gold Coast: Also rated 4.5 stars with an impressive guest rating of 8.6, Voco Gold Coast combines modern luxury with a warm, inviting atmosphere. This property offers direct access to the beach and boasts amenities tailored for families, including toys for both children and babies. Guests can enjoy a range of services, including a First Aid Kit and a Pool Gate for added safety. With its vibrant décor and emphasis on comfort, Voco Gold Coast is an ideal destination for families wanting to enjoy a fun-filled beach vacation.
- Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences: This 5-star resort, rated 8.6 by guests, is perfect for those looking for an upscale family vacation experience. With direct beach access, the Hilton offers various amenities for children, including babysitting services, shared playgrounds, and safe swimming pools. The luxurious accommodations and high-end facilities create a sophisticated yet family-oriented atmosphere. Guests appreciate the blend of elegance and comfort, making it a standout option for travelers seeking a premium stay on the Gold Coast.
Where to stay in Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is a vibrant city perfect for family vacations, romantic getaways, or a relaxing beach retreat. Visitors can enjoy stunning golden beaches, explore family-friendly attractions, and unwind in welcoming neighborhoods. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to soak up the sun, the Gold Coast offers a delightful blend of experiences, from beautiful accommodations to charming local vibes. Don't miss the chance to discover the breathtaking coastal scenery and friendly atmosphere that make this destination so special.
- Main Beach: A vibrant suburb located along the Gold Coast, Main Beach offers a unique blend of family-friendly activities and urban charm. The area is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Visitors flock here for a city-themed experience, enjoying the local resorts and shopping areas. Major attractions include the nearby theme parks, where families can create unforgettable memories. The peak travel seasons in September and from December to January make it a lively spot to visit.
- South Stradbroke Island: An idyllic island just off the coast, South Stradbroke Island is a nature lover's paradise. Known for its outdoor adventures and picturesque scenery, this suburb allows travelers to immerse themselves in natural beauty. Popular activities include hiking through the national park and enjoying the pristine beaches. Golf enthusiasts can also take advantage of the local golf courses. While visitor numbers peak in September and December to January, the island offers a serene escape year-round for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
- Elanora: Nestled within the Gold Coast, Elanora is a charming suburb that captures the essence of beach life and city amenities. Families are drawn to its inviting beaches and local shopping centers, making it a great place to relax and explore. The area boasts a variety of educational facilities and access to stunning bays perfect for picnicking or leisurely strolls. With peak travel times in April, July, and September, Elanora provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors looking to enjoy both beach and urban experiences.
Things to do near Gold Coast
Shopping
In Gold Coast, visit Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, known for its blend of high-end stores and casual boutiques. If you're up for a drive, Harbour Town Outlet Shopping Centre, about 21km away, features discounted fashion brands and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for casual shopping.
Recreation
At the Gold Coast Wellness Retreat, you can unwind with yoga sessions overlooking the ocean, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, and explore nutritious culinary workshops. For a blend of relaxation and adventure, visit the tranquil Healing Waters Spa, offering soothing therapies amidst lush tropical gardens.
Adventure
Experience the thrill at Thunderbird Park, located 27km from Gold Coast, where you can soar through the trees on an exhilarating zipline and navigate the challenging Ropes Course. Enjoy the lush surroundings and the excitement of outdoor adventure in this vibrant setting.
Nightlife
The Gold Coast nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring venues like the iconic Surfers Paradise, where you can enjoy lively beach clubs and bars. For a more upscale experience, check out The Star Gold Coast, offering casinos and fine dining options to elevate your night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gold Coast
To save money on your Gold Coast vacation, visit during the cheaper months of February, June, and August, avoiding the pricier April and December to January periods. Utilize free attractions like Cavill Avenue and Surfers Paradise Beach. For transportation, consider using buses and trams for affordable travel. Book your hotel about a month in advance, ideally on a Tuesday for the best rates. Use Expedia to compare prices, and look for package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Gold Coast are February, June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Gold Coast about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Gold Coast is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Gold Coast is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Gold Coast hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Gold Coast
The Gold Coast, Queensland, is perfect for family vacations, offering a mix of stunning beaches, thrilling theme parks, and beautiful nature reserves. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures and relaxation at the famous Gold Coast beach, along with a variety of attractions that cater to both beach lovers and thrill-seekers. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, the Gold Coast provides an ideal setting for an unforgettable getaway.
- Warner Bros. Movie World: Step into the realm of movies at this exciting theme park, where you can enjoy thrilling rides, live performances, and meet beloved characters. The park’s family-friendly atmosphere ensures a day filled with fun and entertainment, making it ideal for visitors of all ages.
- Currumbin Alley Beach: This picturesque family beach is renowned for its calm waters, making it a fantastic spot for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on the sand. The vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views create a perfect setting for a leisurely day by the sea.
- Point Danger: Experience breathtaking scenery at this scenic cliff, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Point Danger is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with walking trails and opportunities for adventure, including whale watching during migration season.
Best time to go to Gold Coast
The best time to visit Gold Coast is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Gold Coast
Flying into Gold Coast, Queensland, can be done through three major airports. Gold Coast Airport (OOL-Coolangatta) is the closest, located 19km away, with nearby hotels like Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach and The Langham, Gold Coast. Brisbane Airport (BNE) is 76km away, offering luxury stays at Pullman Brisbane Airport and InterContinental Brisbane. For those considering Maroochydore Airport (MCY-Sunshine Coast), it's 161km away, with options like Bli Bli House Riverside Retreat and Mercure Sunshine Coast Kawana Waters. Each airport provides various transportation services to these hotels, ensuring seamless access for travelers.