Home ยป Blog ยป Oceania ยป Australia Travel Guide ยป Where to Stay in the Gold Coast, Australia: Ultimate Guide

Where to Stay in the Gold Coast, Australia: Ultimate Guide

Australia's Gold Coast has something for everyone, no matter where you're coming from or what your budget is.

You might have seen and read many amazing things about this part of the world, from the beautiful beaches to wildlife to the welcoming people, and you are ready to experience all of that firsthand – and so you should be.

Surfers Paradise Hotels
Gold Coast Apartments

After having lived on the Gold Coast for 6 years, I am here to help you figure out where to stay in the Gold Coast with all my local knowledge, including what there is to see, do and where to eat.

Where to stay in the Gold Coast – Quick tips:

  1. (My top pick!) Where to stay in the Gold Coast for your first time: Broadbeach
  2. Best area to stay in the Gold Coast for nightlife & backpackers: Surfers Paradise
  3. Best place to stay in the Gold Coast for surfers: Coolangatta & Kirra Beach
  4. Where to stay in Gold Coast for luxury stays & theme parks: Main Beach
  5. Best place to stay on the Gold Coast for families: Palm Beach & Currumbin
  6. Where to stay on the Gold Coast for foodies: Burleigh Heads
  7. Where to stay on the Gold Coast for a romantic getaway & outdoor enthusiasts: Gold Coast Hinterland

Best areas to stay in the Gold Coast

Each neighborhood on the Gold Coast offers something unique and special. This is why you need to strategically choose a neighborhood that offers most of the things you’re looking for on your trip. The only issue might be that you have absolutely no idea where to stay on the Gold Coast, and it is actually bigger than you might think!

You can find a good hotel just about anywhere, but that doesn't mean the location is ideal for seeing the sights and exploring the area, or that you're staying on a beach that is friendly for surfing and swimming.

Whether you are looking for budget accommodation on the Gold Coast, family resorts or boutique hotels on the Gold Coast, I’ve got you covered with my extensive list of all the best places to stay on the Gold Coast.

Gold Coast Hotels

1. Where to Stay in the Gold Coast for your first time: Broadbeach

For your very first visit, you will want to find accommodation in Broadbeach, Gold Coast. This is one of the best neighborhoods you will find, and it's also my favorite of any of the neighborhoods, earning the first spot on my list as my all-time top pick.

I live just around the corner from Broadbeach and love the central location and many things that are going on around here.

Broadbeach is located south of Surfers Paradise. The vibe here is pretty laid-back and relaxed. The neighbourhood has tons of different things to see and do, which makes it a great place for first-time visitors who are looking for some attractions and as well as a beautiful beach destination.

Things To Do & See in Broadbeach

The local Kurrawa Beach is stunning and far less crowded than many other beaches on The GC, they have some great nightlife, kick it off at The Loose Moose Tap and Grill House, which offers a great array of drinks to start the night.

Some other favourites of mine are:

  • Social Eating House, for a fine dining experience
  • Miss Moneypenny’s is great for drinks and a Mediterranean-inspired menu
  • Gemelli Italian, the name says it already, great Italian cuisine
  • Hideaway Kitchen and Bar, my favourite Asian-fusion cuisine of all times
  • Mamasan Kitchen, one of the best restaurants in Broadbeach serves Asian with a twist

Broadbeach has some great public parks, many of which have local markets on the weekends with amazing fresh products, beautifully handcrafted artisan goods, and tons of great restaurants and cafes right at the doorstep.

Check out Pacific Fair, one of the major shopping centers on the Gold Coast with over 400 stores and restaurants.

The Oasis shopping center also offers some more shopping and food options. Or head to The Star Hotel and Casino across the road, which offers a 24-hour casino with entertainment.

Best hotels in Broadbeach

Here are some of the best places to stay if you choose to stay in the center of luxury.

Luxury: The Darling at The Star Gold Coast

This 5-star hotel offers gorgeous views from every room and even boasts a casino at the bottom. If you need to exchange money, their front desk offers a 24-hour currency exchange.

The Darling is one of the newest hotels in Broadbeach and offers a sauna, rooftop pool and a terrace with a wonderful breakfast buffet.

Located close to the beach, shops and restaurants of Broadbeach, Mermaid Beach, and adjacent to The Star Gold Coast. It's a fantastic location that is close to pretty much everything, including the Gold Coast airport!

If hotels aren't really your thing, or you plan to stay a bit longer, then check out some of the below Gold Coast apartments and resorts that Broadbeach has to offer.

Check availability & best rates

The Darling at The Star Gold Coast

Luxury: Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach

If you’re looking for where to stay in the Gold Coast, then check out the Sofitel Broadbeach.

Located in the very center of the cosmopolitan neighborhood of Broadbeach, their guest rooms are beautifully furnished, and every single one comes with a private balcony that has a breathtaking view of the ocean or river, marble bathrooms, and modern amenities.

Check availability & best rates

Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach

Modern Self-Contained Apartments: The Wave Resort

One of the great Gold Coast resorts is the Wave Resort. The building looks like a wave from the outside, hence the name.

These luxury Broadbeach apartments all offer 1-3 bedrooms with private balconies with beautiful views.

The resort has an infinity pool and a rooftop spa, and it is only a 4-minute walk from the casino, shopping centres and dining locations, and the beach. It also includes free Wi-Fi.

Check availability & best rates

The Wave Resort

Beachfront Apartments: ULTIQA Air On Broadbeach

These apartments are located directly on the beachfront, so you can pretty much walk out of your room and into the ocean!

All apartments come with balconies overlooking the ocean and even have a washing machine, so you have clean clothes for your entire holiday.

A no-brainer for families traveling!

The famous theme parks are only a short drive away, and Pacific Fair shopping center is within walking distance!

Check availability & best rates

ULTIQA Air On Broadbeach

Affordable Apartments: Oracle Resort Broadbeach

The Oracle Resort offers beautiful privately owned apartments. These include fully equipped kitchens, access to the swimming pool, air conditioning throughout, and big, private bathrooms of course. All apartments come with breathtaking views and beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows.

The Oracle is also centrally located to enjoy the Broadbeach lifestyle. The Pacific Fair Shopping Center is within walking distance. It is also walking distance from all the main restaurants, cafes, parks, as well as the beach!

Pro Tip: Ask for the beach side of Tower 1 for your accommodation, if they have availability, you can even see whales (in season) from your balcony's beautiful beach view!

Check availability & best rates

Oracle Resort Broadbeach

Budget: Meriton Suites Broadbeach

From these apartments, you can walk to the beach in 5 minutes!

Meriton offers a full set of equipped accommodations, including a sauna and multiple pools. As an added bonus, guests have free unlimited Wi-Fi.

Check availability & best rates

Meriton Suites Broadbeach

2. Where to stay in the Gold Coast for nightlife & backpackers: Surfers Paradise

There are tons of options for Surfers Paradise accommodation.

Short-named ‘Surfers' by the locals, it is a popular destination for young people because of the vibrant nightlife and inexpensive lodging for backpackers on a budget.

Things to do & see in Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is surely the best place to stay after dark, with shopping, clubs, and the largest Indoor Family Entertainment center in the country.

On Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday there is a beachfront market with over 100 stalls in Surfers Paradise.

Other attractions include:

  • SkyPoint Observation Deck for a birds-eye of the Gold Coast, you can even climb the outside of the tower if you fancy
  • iFly Indoor Skydiving, for a thrill ride
  • Gold Coast Wax Museum
  • Holy Moley Indoor Golf
  • Visit HOTA, Home of the Arts, featuring an outdoor amphitheater, contemporary art exhibitions, live performances, concerts and a full calendar of cultural events

Best hotels in Surfers Paradise

Here are some of the best places to stay if you choose to stay in the most touristy spot on the Gold Coast. Surfers Paradise has some of the most budget-friendly accommodation options on the Gold Coast.

5-Star Hotel: QT Gold Coast

This designer hotel offers tons of great amenities with ocean-view balconies. The beach is only 200 meters away, so it’s perfect for everyone who wants a little fun in the sun and enjoys being away from the busy inner city center while still being within walking distance.

It is also a 5-minute walk from the nearest Surfers Paradise tram stop and a 10-minute walk from Cavill Avenue. Their front desk is always happy to make arrangements for day trips and activities.

Make sure you eat at their amazing in-house restaurant called Bazaar, absolutely delicious!

Check availability & best rates

QT Gold Coast

Luxury: Hilton Surfers Paradise

To club like a true Kardashian, check out the nicest of all the Surfers Paradise hotels. With floor-to-ceiling windows offering gorgeous views, guests will be living in luxury.

This hotel is located right next to the famous Surfers Paradise main street and nightlife found in Cavill Ave Mall. 

It’s a convenient location for anyone interested in theme parks, nightlife, and beaches.

Check availability & best rates

Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & Residences

Best Boutique Hotel: The Island Gold Coast

I love a good staycation, and so I booked a night at The Island, located in the heart of Surfer’s Paradise.

The hotel rooms are super modern with a cosy feel. There's also a popular rooftop bar for the evening and each room has a balcony view over the city skyline and some with ocean glimpses. It is within walking distance of the main street Cavill Avenue as well as the beach.

Check availability & best rates

The Island Gold Coast

Mid-Range: Vibe Hotel Gold Coast

If more rustic views are your thing, then check out the Vibe Hotel, which overlooks the Nerang River instead of the beach.

The accommodations are freshly renovated and therefore very modern, and the beach is a 5-minute walk.

The Vibe Hotel is located in the midst of the beaches, nightlife, and entertainment. It’s also less than 30 minutes from the major theme parks and the Gold Coast Airport.

Check availability & best rates

Vibe Hotel Gold Coast

Budget: Bunk Surfers Paradise

This is a great destination for backpackers. Bunk hostel is extremely popular among young travelers.

The beds are private, but you can still meet your fellow travelers in the shared en-suite rooms. The hostel boasts a free breakfast and an outdoor pool while it is within walking distance of all the nightlife, shopping, and beach.

Check availability & best rates

Bunk Surfers Paradise International Backpacker Hostel

3. Where to stay in the Gold Coast for Surfers: Coolangatta & Kirra Beach

If you’re looking to catch some serious waves, then Coolangatta is where to stay in the Gold Coast.

This is a close neighborhood to the Gold Coast Airport, so it has the widest range of affordable hotels in Gold Coast, Australia.

This relaxed neighborhood is full of laidback beach vibes with some beautiful, calm waters for surfing! 

Holiday Apartments Gold Coast

Things to do & see in Coolangatta & Kirra

Coolangatta is full of beachy activities and things to do, such as:

  • Visit the rocky outcrop of Snapper Rocks and walk along Point Danger to watch the surfers and famous Gold Coast Skyline
  • Stop by the Coolangatta Surf Club
  • Eat at Baskk, a bar and grill with great cocktails
  • Franc Jrs is a must for hands down the best pizza on the Gold Coast
  • Walk the coastal walk to Greenmount Beach, which is great for beginner surfers and further on to Snapper Rocks, which is more for advanced riders
  • Visit the Sunday markets on the Esplanade (every 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month)

Best hotels in Coolangatta & Kirra

Here are some of the best places to stay if you choose to stay in the surfy-part of the Gold Coast

Luxury Apartments: Iconic Kirra Beach Resort

For luxury accommodation Gold Coast style, choose the Iconic Kirra Beach Resort. It's 300 feet from Kirra Beach and offers tons of great amenities, including big balconies and a sun terrace and pool.

Greenmount Beach is just over half a mile away if Kirra is crowded, and it's less than 1.5 miles from the airport.

Check availability & best rates

Iconic Kirra Beach Resort

Family-Friendly Resort: Nirvana By The Sea

This beautiful resort is one of the best hotels on the Gold Coast. It is located on Kirra Beach, so you can walk out of your hotel and onto the beach.

Featuring panoramic beach views from the rooms and a sculpted Zen garden, this place is just beautiful. It offers a private cinema and plenty of shopping and dining close by.

Check availability & best rates

Nirvana By The Sea

Beachfront Holiday Apartments: Blue C Coolangatta

Blue C offers some of the best holiday apartments on the Gold Coast. These beachfront apartments offer private balconies with breathtaking views of Coolangatta Beach.

These are some of the best-serviced apartments on the Gold Coast, thanks to the free Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen, and laundry facilities. Perfect for families, couples or a group of friends traveling together. The nightlife in Surfers Paradise is still only a 30-minute drive away.

Check availability & best rates

Blue C Coolangatta

Best Boutique Accommodation: The Pink Hotel

For fun accommodation on a budget, check out the Pink Hotel. This unique hotel is a 1950s themed in décor with wall art and bright colors.

It's situated across the road from the beach and offers a beachfront rooftop bar. Eddie's Grub House, their on-site restaurant, has won multiple awards for its food, live music, and whiskey bar.

Check availability & best rates

The Pink Hotel Coolangatta

Budget: Oaks Calypso Plaza

For mid-range options, check out the Oaks. This hotel is located in the heart of Coolangatta and features a free-form lagoon pool with landscaped tropical gardens.

This is a 4-star rated beachfront resort with beach-style décor.

Check availability & best rates

Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites

Affordable Apartments: Mantra Coolangatta Beach

Overlooking Kirra, Greenmount, and Rainbow Bay surf beaches, Mantra Coolangatta Beach offers self-catered apartments with ocean views, equipped with air conditioning, cable TV, and Wi-Fi.

Enjoy all the leisure facilities including a heated pool, spa, sauna, exercise room, and tennis court, all within a short stroll from beachfront restaurants, cafés, and shopping, while being conveniently located near Gold Coast Airport.

Check availability & best rates

Mantra Coolangatta Beach

4. Where to stay on the Gold Coast for luxury resorts & theme parks: Main Beach

Main Beach, which I will also include Marina Mirage and parts of Southport in this article, has a handful of fantastic luxury hotels and holiday apartments.

Located in the north of the Gold Coast, Main Beach offers easy access to a lot of great attractions, including Sea World theme park and Mariner's Cove Marina, which is great if you're into boating.

Surrounded by greenery, canals and suburban areas, it’s just that little bit quieter than next doors Surfers Paradise.

Along the beaches of the Gold Coast, you can also catch amazing sunrise views.

Things to do & see in Main Beach

There is plenty of relaxation in Main Beach, but if you want to wander out and indulge or have some fun, I got you covered:

  • Marina Mirage, a mall right at the harbourside with high-end boutiques, cozy cafes and great restaurants
  • Sea World, is one of the many theme parks for a day out with the whole family
  • The Spit, the tip of Main Beach with a jetty, small cafes, and walking paths or take a surf lesson, go parasailing or jet skiing around the Broadwater
Family Resorts Gold Coast

Best hotels in Main Beach

Here are some of the best places to stay if you choose to indulge and opt for luxury accommodation on the Gold Coast.

Beachfront Luxury: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort

Another one of the amazing Southport hotels in Gold Coast is the Sheraton. With a health spa and direct access to the beach, this property is a fabulous option.

It's got lush tropical gardens, award-winning restaurants, and views of either the sparkling lagoon or the ocean from every room. It's only a 30-minute drive to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Check availability & best rates

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast

Luxury: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa

Nestled in Surfers Paradise, the 28-story JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa offers a luxurious retreat with a private saltwater lagoon, sandy beaches, and an artificial reef.

Boasting panoramic views, on-site dining options, a fitness center, and a private marina on the Nerang River, the resort provides a diverse array of experiences, from Teppanyaki dining at Misono Japanese to high tea at Citrique Restaurant, and rejuvenating spa treatments at Spa by JW.

Check availability & best rates

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa

Best Family-Friendly Resort: Sea World Resort

For a truly kid-friendly resort in Gold Coast, you can't go wrong with Sea World. This resort offers a monorail trip to Sea World and kids will love the aquatic playground!

The resort features award-winning restaurants and an evening light show, as well as a Sponge Bob Splash Bash for kids! Public beaches are all less than a few minutes walk away.

Check availability & best rates

Sea World Resort

1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments: The Waterford

For a great mid-range option, try The Waterford. This is probably the most breathtaking apartment accommodation in Main Beach, that the Gold Coast has to offer

It is set along both the beach and their heated swimming pool even includes a waterfall.  They're 3 minutes from Tedder Avenue shops and restaurants, and less than 5 minutes from SeaWorld and Marina Mirage.

Check availability & best rates

The Waterford on Main Beach

Affordable Apartments: Golden Sands on the Beach

For beautiful 3-bedroom apartments in Gold Coast, check out Golden Sands on the Beach.

This beachfront property offers gorgeous ocean views from every window of every apartment. It is within walking distance of several restaurants and shopping places along Tedder Avenue.

Check availability & best rates

Golden Sands on the Beach

5. Where to stay in the Gold Coast for families: Palm Beach, Tallebudgera and Currumbin

Some of the best family accommodations in Gold Coast can be found in Currumbin.

All three areas from Tallebudgera, Palm Beach down to Currumbin are great for families with kids.

Things to do & see 

The beach is less crowded and the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers some great fun learning about local wildlife.

It's a little off the main tourist track, so families can enjoy a quieter time together, but still offers several safe beaches as well as Tallebudgera Creek, which is shallow and has some wonderful coves to bathe and play in the sand.

Eat at Elephant Rock Café or The Collective and grab a coffee or brunch at The Salt Mill or Barefoot Barista Café.

Best hotels in Palm Beach, Tallebudgera and Currumbin

Here are some of the best places to stay if you choose to stay in one of the most family-friendly areas of the Gold Coast.

19th Avenue on the Beach

This beachfront resort allows you to walk right over to the beach from your room. It features a 50-foot rooftop pool and you can also book in for lessons on surfing and scuba diving.

You can watch the whales right from your apartment’s private balcony when they are in season! 19th Avenue also offers multiple apartment choices with various bed- and bathrooms and the facilities include a game room and library.

Check availability & best rates

19th Avenue on the Beach

The Hill Apartments

The Hill Apartments are right across the road from Currumbin Beach and offer beautiful panoramic ocean views over the ocean.

The fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities will make you feel right at home. You are close to the mouth of Currumbin Creek too, which offers great fishing and has a couple of good surf breaks close by.

Check availability & best rates

The Hill Apartments Currumbin Beach

Sandcastles on Currumbin

With beachfront access and a massive swimming pool, this Gold Coast accommodation offers plenty of fun even before you tour the tropical gardens.

Every apartment offers a beautiful view from their private balconies. This resort is also located right next to a large park, and only a 2-minute walk from the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary.

Check availability & best rates

Sandcastles On Currumbin Beach

Little Cove Currumbin

Located less than a 2-minute walk from the beach, Little Cove is a great place to stay in Currumbin. All the apartments offer full-sized kitchens and large balconies. It is a 15-minute walk to the Bird Sanctuary and a 5-minute drive from The Pines Shopping Center in Elanora.

Pro Tip: If you are traveling in the height of summer and need air conditioning, ask for it. Only some apartments include it.

Check availability & best rates

Little Cove Currumbin

BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park

If you're more interested in RV parks and caravan holiday parks than Gold Coast hotels, there's a fantastic one near Tallebudgera Creek in Palm Beach.

The campground is very popular, as it is on the edge of an estuary that offers great fishing and swimming. Nestled between Burleigh Heads National Park and Palm Beach, this place does offer some waterfront villas and budget lodging as well as campgrounds.

Check availability & best rates

BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park

6. Where to stay on the Gold Coast for trendy restaurants & foodies: Burleigh Heads

If you’re looking for the best neighborhood to café hop, then stay in Burleigh. This place is a foodie’s paradise!

Things to do & see in Burleigh Heads 

It has tons of great weekend markets, beautiful coastline walks around the Burleigh National Park, and trendy cafes and restaurants.

Burleigh Heads also offers one of the most beautiful sunsets on the Gold Coast, which is best watched from the famous Burleigh Hill over a picnic.

It's a little more populated than other areas, but that's because the beaches, parks, and restaurants are all amazing. Here are some of my favourites:

  • Rick Shores, beachfront with great cocktails and the bug roll cannot be missed
  • Mr Hizola’s, my personal Asian-fusion choice in Burleigh, is so good!
  • Ostaria del Mare, great home-made Italian food
  • Burleigh Pavillion, for a sunset drink and snack
  • Light Years, will take you on a culinary journey through Southeast Asia with its vibrant and innovative menu, combining bold flavors and a chic atmosphere (located a little away from James Street)

Best hotels in Burleigh Heads

Boardwalk Burleigh Beach

This is a great location for couples and foodies. It’s got tons of local cafes and bars nearby.

It is also located close to the Gold Coast Airport TransLink, so you can just hop on a bus from the resort straight to the airport at the end of your stay.

It’s located less than 5 miles from the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and less than 8 miles from Metricon Stadium. Robina Town Center is only 4 miles away and boasts tons of great food and shopping opportunities.

Check availability & best rates

Boardwalk Burleigh Beach

ULTIQA Burleigh Mediterranean Resort

This resort is tucked along the Burleigh Esplanade next to an award-winning surf beach and offers direct access to North Burleigh Beach and tons of trendy restaurants, some cool hole-in-the-wall cafes and shopping at nearby James Street.

The resort features a spa, sauna, and multiple pools as well as a rooftop barbecue area.

Check availability & best rates

ULTIQA Burleigh Mediterranean Resort

Gemini Court Holiday Apartments

Situated across from Burleigh Beach, you'll find self-contained accommodations with full kitchens, private laundry, and spacious living areas, each boasting a private balcony with stunning ocean views.

The property features amenities like a heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, tennis court, and a beachfront barbecue area while providing convenient access to the beach, beachfront cafes, Burleigh Head National Park, and Gold Coast's theme parks within a 30-minute drive.

Check availability & best rates

Gemini Court Holiday Apartments

Outrigger Burleigh

This resort is located less than a 2-minute walk from North Burleigh Beach. It offers affordable rooms with private balconies.

Being on the border of the Miami neighborhood, it's a great place for foodies to stay when they'd rather spend their money on great food than luxury resort rooms.

Check availability & best rates

Outrigger Burleigh

7. Where to stay on the Gold Coast for a romantic getaway and outdoor enthusiasts: Gold Coast Hinterland

The Gold Coast Hinterland offers some of the best places to stay if you want to get away from the crowds or get close to nature at the below-featured Gold Coast Hinterland accommodations.

Things to do & see in the Gold Coast Hinterland

If the beach isn't your scene, you will love the gorgeous rainforests, walking trails, and waterfalls in this inland region. Fancy some bushwalking, eco-tourism attractions, and gorgeous mountain ranges for hiking the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk, this area of the Gold Coast is certainly for you!

Visit Springbrook or Lamington National Park, stop by the beautiful Tamborine Mountain village with its charming shops and cafes, or go winery hopping.

Here are some of the best places to stay if you choose to opt for a romantic stay in the Gold Coast Hinterland.

Pethers Rainforest Retreat

This property is for adults only, so if you're trying to find a peaceful haven, then this is your spot. It's located in Mount Tamborine and features gorgeous gardens and a nice restaurant.

It's still within 30 minutes of the beach if you're interested in spending a day there, but the true draw is the lush forestation and peace out here.

Check availability & best rates

where to stay in the Gold Coast

The Castle on Tamborine

If you want to treat yourselves to a romantic getaway that truly makes you feel like royalty, why not stay in a castle? The luxury apartments available in this Scottish castle are private and feature intricate deluxe furnishings.

Guests can enjoy the day spa or relax in the courtyard gardens. Back in the apartment, there is a hidden projector and cinema screen for romantic nights. It's less than 3 miles from Tamborine National Park and 7 minutes from the Tamborine Mountain Golf Club.

Check availability & best rates

The Castle on Tamborine

Witches Falls Cottage

For another adults-only getaway, check out these gorgeous, intimate cottages. Each of these beautiful cottages is nestled within luscious flower gardens, ensuring privacy. They feature glass roofs for stargazing from the double spa baths.

The bathroom opens up to a private garden and breakfast hampers are delivered to your cottage every morning. It's located 15 minutes away from the cafes and restaurants in North Tamborine, and you will get a gorgeous private vacation.

Check availability & best rates

Witches Falls Cottages

O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat

This beautiful retreat is located inside Lamington National Park and offers views that overlook the mountains and rainforests.

The retreat offers complimentary guided bird walks every day and free access to the Tree Top Walk. Their restaurant specializes in hearty and rustic Australian cuisine, including lamb shanks and pork belly. The bar has an extensive list of Australian wines with sweeping mountain views.

Check availability & best rates

O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat

Where to stay in the Gold Coast – Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Should I stay in Broadbeach or Surfers Paradise?

Broadbeach offers a more relaxed atmosphere with excellent dining and shopping options with Pacific Fair, Gold Coast's biggest shopping centre with over 400+ shops. Surfers Paradise is known for its vibrant nightlife, iconic beach, and lively entertainment scene. It attracts a younger crowd and has more budget-friendly accommodation options whereas Broadbeach hotels are more on the luxury end.

📅 How many days is enough to see the Gold Coast?

To fully experience the Gold Coast, most people typically stay 5 to 7 days. This will allow enough time to explore its iconic beaches, vibrant theme parks, lush hinterland, and indulge in the diverse entertainment and dining offerings. But even a long weekend is a great amount of time to see one area of the Gold Coast.

❓ Should I choose to stay in the Gold Coast or Byron Bay?

Choosing between the Gold Coast and Byron Bay depends on your preferred atmosphere; the Gold Coast offers a lively urban environment with shopping centres, theme parks and a bustling nightlife while staying in Byron Bay provides a more laid-back, bohemian coastal experience with pristine beaches, beautiful nature and a relaxed ambiance with nightlife being much tamer and more concentrated around the main street.

☀️ When is the best time to visit the Gold Coast?

The best time to visit the Gold Coast is during the dry and mild months between April to November, offering pleasant weather for beach activities, outdoor adventures, and exploration of the vibrant neighbourhoods and weekend markets. However, if you prefer the liveliness of the peak summer season and don't mind occasional rainfall or a summer storm, December to February is also popular and I personally really love the Gold Coast's energetic atmosphere in summer.

Where to stay in the Gold Coast – Final words

Whether you’re visiting the Gold Coast for its golden beaches, the many foodie options, or the nightlife, there’s a perfect neighborhood for your stay.

Bring the kids for a fun time at the local beaches and theme parks or leave them behind and travel inland for romantic and intimate getaways in the luscious and private rainforests of the Gold Coast Hinterland.

Love this? Pin to save on Pinterest.

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!

Related Articles