Gold Coast
Search the best hotels in Gold Coast
About Gold Coast
If you’re keen to combine golden sands with glittering high rises and all the buzz of a lively seaside city, then the Gold Coast is for you. Just over an hour south of Brisbane, this glitzy coastal metropolis is brilliant for bustling beach breaks, with top-notch nightlife, designer boutiques and luxury hotels aplenty. The best places to stay on the Gold Coast certainly reflect the city, with swish contemporary properties housed in skyscrapers, as well as hip hotels fusing laid-back surf vibes with all the mod-cons.
There are an astonishing 35 long, flat, golden beaches along this stretch of sun-drenched coastline, promising some of the best surf in Queensland — and perhaps across Australia. Many top breaks are clustered around trendy favourite Surfers Paradise, a fun-filled neighbourhood where you’ll also find brilliant hotels, bars, clubs and eateries. Head towards the southern end of the city for more relaxed, understated charm. Take the time to discover the best of both worlds if you can — and don’t miss the theme parks and casino!
Venture inland to wind your way through the Lamington National Park’s lush rainforests and deep, dramatic valleys on foot or by bicycle, or to marvel at the ancient volcano of the Springbrook National Park. There are pretty historic towns, vast farms and tranquil lakes to see in this part of Queensland, too. Return to your pick of the best places to stay on the Gold Coast for glamorous evenings overlooking the ocean.
The Best Places to Stay on the Gold Coast
For Playful Surfers & Partygoers
- QT Gold Coast is a playful, sea-facing hotel with funky, architect-designed interiors in Surfers Paradise. Airy rooms boast stunning ocean and mountain views, with black-and-white striped textiles and bright orange chairs, whilst cabins have more earthy charcoal and terracotta tones. Expect a fantastic spa, buzzy eateries and regular live music nights at Stingray Bar. Super sociable.
- voco Gold Coast is decorated in white, dark blue and bright bursts of banana-yellow. Fresh and youthful, this surf and party-focused hotel has two swimming pools, various event spaces and three convivial eateries. The best suites have kitchenettes and big tubs for long soaks after a day out on the waves of Surfers Paradise Beach.
- The Island, Gold Coast has 98 minimalist rooms and suites boasting chalet-like wood panelled walls, crisp white linens and grey and charcoal accents. Think industrial-chic rooms, and retro-inspired shared spaces including a laid-back bistro, games room, swimming pool with striped parasols, and a rooftop bar with lively DJ nights. Very good fun for partygoers.
For Families
- Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast is a rare five-star offering in Gold Coast. Set right on the beach, this beautiful contemporary resort has multiple swimming pools, a serene spa, hip event spaces and two terrific restauraunts. Families will love the abundance of water sports, the children's pool, manicured gardens and flexible room options. A real treat.
- Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise rises 77 floors, promising dazzling views from its Surfers Paradise boulevard setting. Think chic white and cream apartments wth floor-to-ceiling windows, refreshing rooftop swimming pools and a lively Mediterranean lounge-bar with kids' menus. The boulevard is ideal for cycling and strolling as a family.
- Peppers Broadbeach, made up of two high-rise towers, offers a collection of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, perfect for family holidays. The children's play area, swimming pools, garden, cinema room and pool table will be a huge hit. Apartments are well-equipped, but shared BBQ spaces are great for relaxed evenings outside.
For a Resort with a Golf Course
- Royal Pines Resort rises from amidst verdant surroundings, slightly inland of the city's coastal hotspots. Contemporary rooms & suites overlook the 27-hole golf course, which offers three nine-hole options for keen golfers. A gym, spa, tennis courts and lagoon pool area with water slides makes this a top spot for couples as well as families.
- Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove sits in a 1940s homestead on the banks of the Coomera River marina. Smart suites are large and light, and there are also five tennis courts, lagoon pools and multiple restaurants. Once again, the golf offerings are a hands-down highlight: The Pines and The Palms are both championship courses.
For Glamorous Luxury
- Imperial Hotel Gold Coast is unlike any other property in the city. Huge and immensely opulent, the hotel has glitzy white and gold interiors, a 90-berth marina and big swimming pools surrounded with four-poster sun loungers. Expect parquet flooring, glittering chandeliers and indulgent shared spaces. Romantic yet also family friendly.
- The Star has become a Gold Coast landmark, with more than 500 chic contemporary guest rooms on tiny Broadbeach Island. Whilst furnishings are cream, with blue and grey, bold patterned carpets add a sense of colour. Expect impeccable service at the fitness centre, rejuvenating spa, multiple restaurants and 2000-seat theatre. Lively and luxurious.
- Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa sits on 2.5 acres of verdant grounds on the northern shores of Surfers Paradise. Warm teal rugs accessorise rooms clad in white linens, with big spa tubs, ocean views and a real sense of sophisticated style. A luxury choice with live music events, a tennis court, spa, pools, a private marina & gourmet fare.
- The Darling at The Star Gold Coast is made up of 56 swanky suites, set within the trendy Star Entertainment Complex. Sumptuous spaces are bedecked in glittering chandeliers, with jewel-toned velvet upholstery and big soaking tubs. Next-level glamour for well-heeled romantics.
For Great Value
- Meriton Suites Southport is a collection of modern suites with up to three minimal, white and charcoal bedrooms. The high-rise building means that suites have superb city and sea views, and sitting rooms and kitchens make the property ideal for long stays. There are indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and rates are very reasonable.
- Meriton Suites Broadbeach, another of the group's properties, also has studios and multi-bedroom suites, this time in the south of the city. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer lots of light and panoramic views, and understated interiors have charcoal sofas, modern kitchens and crisp white linens. Cool off in the indoor and outdoor swimming pools on hot days.
FOR A Holiday APARTMENT
- If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.
Travel Information
- Fly to Gold Coast Airport, south of the city, and travel to your hotel by bus or taxi. You can also arrive by train from Brisbane under 1.5 hours. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport or railway station pick up in advance.
- Queensland is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
- Like much of Queensland, the Gold Coast has two seasons: the warm, dry season — from April to September — and the hot, wet season, between October and March. Visit during the warm, dry season if you can, avoiding the school holidays for great hotel deals.
STILL NOT SURE?
- Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Brisbane.
- Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Queensland.
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
Weather
Monthly Weather in Gold Coast
Best Hotels in Gold Coast
-
Meriton Suites Southport Gold Coast (Queensland) 208 rooms from $115
Business meetings - A Gold Coast business trip favourite, with one-bedroom suites offering kitchens, work tables & sitting areas for longer staysFamilies - Modern suites with up to three bedrooms, plus sitting rooms and kitchens, are ideal for family holidaysValue chic - Sleek modern apartments with great views and in a top location at very affordable ratesSurfing - Hire boards to hone your surf skills at the beach, either independently or with an instructorA collection of smart modern suites with up to three bedrooms in a Gold Coast high-rise. Expect stunning coastal & city views from white & charcoal bedrooms, sitting rooms & kitchens. There are indoor & outdoors swimming pools, too. A stylish urban base with great rates in a lively part of the city. See More
-
Meriton Suites Broadbeach Gold Coast (Queensland) 588 rooms from $128
Groups - Groups can share spacious apartments, cook together in well-equipped kitchens and walk to restaurants, bars & a casinoFamilies - Multi-bedroom suites and swimming pools are ideal for families, who will love the central locationSights nearby - Take the whole family to a nearby theme park, such as Movie World, Seaworld or Dreamworld, for an adrenaline-filled day outGreat walks - Follow superb hiking trails in the Burleigh Heads National Park, aiming to spot whales from Tumgum Lookout in seasonAn apartment hotel with studios & suites of up to three bedrooms. Airy, contemporary spaces feature balconies offering sea & city views, sitting rooms with charcoal sofas, modern kitchens & crisp white linens on big beds. Guests share access to indoor & outdoor pools at this family-friendly spot. See More
-
QT Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 297 rooms from $131
Surfing - The Gold Coast is a surfer's dream, so don't miss the chance to borrow boards and join locals out on the wavesFamilies - Families will adore the fun atmosphere, extra beds in larger suites, and opportunities to swim, cycle & surfCity Style - A seriously cool, architect-designed hotel with a funky, playful sense of style in swish rooms & suitesHotel Entertainment - Live music and DJ nights at Stingray bar from Thursday to Saturday are ideal for sociable partygoersRecommended by - Tablet, Fodors, Mr & Mrs SmithA playful sea-facing hotel with vibrant retro decor, matching its lively central location in the heart of Surfers Paradise. With the beach just a stone's throw away, bright, airy rooms have spectacular ocean views, whilst cosy cabins have a more earthy feel. Fantastic spa & buzzy eateries, too. See More
-
voco Gold Coast Gold Coast (Queensland) 382 rooms from $135
Close to nightlife - Just steps from the shops, dining and buzzy nightlife of Cavill Avenue, perfect for an evening out on the townGroups - Great for sociable groups of friends who can book big bedrooms, gather in realxed eateries & hit the poolValue chic - An appealingly affordable Gold Coast base, with trendy interiors, good food and a sociable vibeRestaurant - Feast on steak at Clifford's Grill & Lounge, an expansive buffet at Waves, or gather for light bites & coffee at Social HouseA trendy high-rise hotel with white, yellow and blue interiors. Stylish rooms & suites are warm and inviting, with dazzling sea views & a fresh, youthful feel. Some have kitchenettes & big tubs. There are three convivial eateries, plus two refreshing pools, a gym & event spaces. Fun & affordable. See More
-
Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 295 rooms from $176
City Style - A stylish spot in the heart of Surfers Paradise in Gold Coast, perfect for big business events, meeting and celebrationsBeach Life - Beachfront bliss for fans of contemporary luxury, with swimming pool & manicured gardens leading to the beautiful beachTheatre - Catch a performance at the nearby Home of the Arts, a Gold Coast highlight with a fantastic events programmeWatersports - Head out on the water for surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing and moreA beautiful beachfront hotel promising five-star style in Gold Coast's Surfers Paradise. White-clad rooms & suites have ocean or garden views & chic, modern decor. There are numerous swimming pools, a serene spa, fitness centre and ample events spaces. Fresh seafood & craft cocktails are a delight. See More
-
Royal Pines Resort Gold Coast (Australia) 331 rooms from $186
Families - A family favourite with a superb pool area offering slides and a playground for little ones, plus two-bedroom family suitesGolf - Choose from three ‘nines’, including the Green & Gold nines which make up the 6734-metre championship courseTennis - Play a game or take lessons on the two undercover and three outdoor tennis courtsActive Holiday - A fabulous choice for keen golfers, who can hone their skills out on the courseClose to Surfers Paradise Beach, this high-rise resort has spacious double rooms & two-bedroom suites, a soothing spa, gym and tennis courts. There's a superb lagoon pool area with slides for kids, whilst the 27-hole golf course is superb, with three nine-hole options for keen golfers. See More
-
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Gold Coast (Australia) 251 rooms from $195
Other Activities - Take the whole family to fun-filled Dreamworld & Warner Bros Movieworld, just a 15-minute drive awayWeddings - A gorgeous wedding venue, with multiple events spaces, gourmet fare & exceptional manicured gardensGolf - Play a round of golf on each of the two championship courses: The Pines and The PalmsActive Holiday - A fabulous resort for keen golfers, tennis players andA luxurious resort set in a 1940s homestead on the banks of the Coomera River marina. Elegant rooms & suites are large and light, with timber beds, wooden floors & cream textiles. The acclaimed golf courses, tennis courts, lagoon pools and multiple gourmet eateries complete the picture. See More
-
Peppers Broadbeach Gold Coast (Queensland) 205 rooms from $215
Great walks - Take a restful stroll through the Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens or wander along the bustling beachfront as a familyGroups - Great for groups of friends seeking the independence of apartment living, with shared swimming pools and BBQ areasFamilies - Families will adore the children's play area, pool table, cinema room & spacious suitesHotel Entertainment - Enjoy relaxing movie nights with the whole family at the hotel's private cinemaTwo high-rise towers, each housing a collection of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, many boasting expansive sea views. Smart yet simple modern interiors feature crisp, clean lines and neutral grey, white & black tones. Shared spaces include swimming pools, a sauna, BBQ facilities & a garden. See More
-
The Island Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 98 rooms from $225
Groups - A lively, youthful hotel for sociable groups of friends, with resident DJs, regular foodie events & big twin roomsWeddings - A spectacular wedding venue with cracking food & drink, two striking penthouse rooms, a terrace and The GlasshouseHotel Entertainment - Rooftop pizza nights on Thursdays, bottomless Sunday brunches and lively parties with resident DJs at the hotelSurfing - Head to the beach to join fellow surfers in riding the waves at this superb surf hotspotA lively urban hotel with 98 comfortable, minimalist rooms & suites in bustling Surfers Paradise. Interiors are decorated in white & grey with pale wood and retro touches. Buzzy shared spaces include a rooftop bar with regular DJ nights, a relaxed bistro, swimming pool & games room. Youthful & fun. See More
-
The Star, Gold Coast Gold Coast (Broadbeach QLD 4218) 596 rooms from $188
Local exploring - The Star is conveniently close to the terminus of the Gold Coast tram service which runs north to Surfers Paradise and beyondBeach Life - Set on the small Broadbeach Island, with a patrolled surf beach just under a mile (1 km) awaySpa breaks - With a luxurious fully-serviced spa, massage and beauty treatmentsOpulent - Reception is hung with giant silver chandeliers over a dramatic black-and-white carpet, with potted orchids adding opulenceGlamourous luxury hotel set on the tiny Broadbeach Island. Funky rooms are decorated with boldly patterned carpets, crisp white linen and plush headboards. Offering impeccable service, an indulgent spa and an outdoor pool. Find a choice of bars and restaurants and many beaches to explore nearby. See More
-
Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise Gold Coast (Queensland) 334 rooms from $243
Families - Multi-bedroom apartments, swimming pools — including a children's pool — and kids' menus make this a family favouriteCycling - Hire bicycles to zip along the beachfront path on two wheels, soaking up the sunshine and the Gold Coast viewsRomantic Break - A swish, contemporary choice for a romantic break, with superb sea views & sleek designRestaurant - Buzzy Paradiso is a lively waterfront lounge with trendy decoration and superb Mediterranean fareRising 77 floors into bright blue Gold Coast skies, this chic hotel boasts breathtaking sea views & a top location near Surfers Paradise boulevard. Expect spacious multi-room apartments with contemporary white & cream interiors, plus a lively lounge-bar & refreshing swimming pools. A crowd-pleaser! See More
-
Imperial Hotel Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 200 rooms from $279
Sailing - The hotel has a private 90-berth marina, perfect for keen sailors or watersports enthusiasts eager to explore the Gold CoastWeddings - A beautiful events venue for glamorous weddings, offering gourmet fare & space for 450 in the opulent Valenza BallroomDesigner Shopping - Pick up pieces by iconic Australian designers and international brands at Marina Mirage and Pacific FairFamilies - Families will adore the generous suites, apartments & access to the theme parks of the Gold CoastAn enormously opulent waterfront hotel with glitzy white & gold interiors, parquet floors & big bathrooms with soaking tubs. Rooms & suites are set around refreshing pools with stylish four-poster sun loungers. A great restaurant, terrific high teas & a chic water salon add to the indulgent appeal. See More
-
Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa Gold Coast (Queensland) 238 rooms from $391
Families - A fabulous family-friendly hotel with myriad activities, generous suites and multiple dining optionsWeddings - An extravagant wedding venue, perfect for big celebrations in chic contemporary spacesRestaurant - Dine on exceptional European-inspired fare a Ciritque, or delicious Japanese cuisine at MisonoSailing - The hotel boasts a private marina on the Nerang River, perfect for keen sailorsA hugely indulgent resort around a lagoon pool on 2.5 acres of lush grounds on the north shores of Surfers Paradise. Inspired by Australia's hinterland, designer interiors feature beds topped with crisp white linens, warm teal green tones & earthy, natural materials. A glamorous family favourite. See More
-
The Darling at The Star Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 56 rooms from $479
Designer Shopping - Shop at the designer boutiques of the Gold Coast's largest mall, Pacific Fair, which is just a few hundred metres awayHotel Entertainment - Part of the Star complex, offering access to multiple bars and restaurants, as well as the glitzy casinoRomantic Break - A chic, indulgent hotel choice with sink-into bathtubs, swanky guest rooms & glamour guaranteedCity Style - A glitzy city hotel with a boutique feel and access to all the facilities of a resortA chic collection of 56 sumptuous suites in the Star Entertainment Complex, offering access to bars & restaurants, a casino & theatre. Swanky interiors feature glittering contemporary chandeliers, sleek cream and jewel-toned upholstery & big bathtubs. A romantic and indulgent city bolthole. See More