Search the best hotels in Gold Coast
About Gold Coast
If you don't mind your beaches backed by glittering high rises with a touch of Vegas sparkle, then the Gold Coast is for you. The best places to stay in the Gold Coast range in style in a similar way to the beach towns themselves. The glitziest are closest to the fun mecca of Surfers Paradise and here you can expect five-star luxury and all the trimmings that come with it. For something more stylish, boutique options radiate south into the lush green hills behind the coast.
There are 35 long, flat, golden beaches along this stretch of sunny coast, offering some of the best surfing in Australia for both beginners and experts alike. Some of the beaches, like those around Surfers Paradise, are backed by bars, clubs, cafes, hotels and theme parks, while those towards the southern end have more of a laid-back charm and significantly fewer parking maids in gold bikinis. Several big surf competitions are held here annually, so you might even catch the pros at work.
Behind the Gold Coast's perfect stretches of sand is a subtropical band of national parks, dotted with waterfalls, mountains and viewpoints with spectacular panoramas of the surrounding countryside. So, while most people are here for the beaches, there's actually a lot more to explore. Lamington National Park is famous for rainforests huddling in deep valleys, ripe for exploring, while the Springbrook National Park covers an ancient volcano.
Our pick of the best places to stay in the Gold Coast range from the great value to the truly OTT and we recommend booking well in advance, as hotels do get booked up fast.
For a chic beach break
- What could be chicer than a hotel designed by Italian fashion house Versace? The Palazzo Versace offers just that in the Main Beach area. This luxurious hotel has decor from the Versace home collection, a private marina, huge rooms and Australia's only water salon.
- QT Gold Coast is a jazzy hotel in Surfers Paradise where the decor is vibrant and retro. The sea-facing rooms have great ocean views - you're just a stone's throw from the beach - and the rooms on the other side of the hotel face the mountains.
For a relaxing retreat
- The Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast is, surprisingly, the Gold Coast's only five star hotel. A spacious, stylish retreat right on the beach with sea views and a great seafood buffet.
- Back from the beach, surrounded by greenery, you'll find Peppers Ruffles Lodge and Spa, a luxurious collection of suites and villas offering magnificent views over the ocean and Tambourine Mountain. There's an infinity pool, luxurious spa and several acres of garden to relax in.
- The Star is another good option for a relaxing break. This glamorous property is set on tiny Broadbeach Island, and it boasts smart contemporary rooms and suites plus an indulgent spa, outdoor pool and good range of bars and restaurants.
For golfers
- Book the Royal Pines Resort if you prefer golf to surfing. Here you'll find a golf course and driving range, plus a range of other facilities including gym, spa and tennis courts.
- Another good pick for golfers is the Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove. Again there's a course on site, plus lagoon style pool, four restaurants and spa.
For an Apartment or Villa
- If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner booking.com.
Travel Information
- The Gold Coast has an airport, the Gold Coast Airport, at the southern end of the about 25kms outside Surfers Paradise. However, Brisbane Airport is larger and connected to a greater number of international destinations.
- If you want to hire a car - which we highly recommend if you’re staying on the Gold Coast and you want to see more of Queensland - we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
- People love to visit the Gold Coast during the summer, but it’s really, really hot and humid, and it can be quite rainy. If you prefer warm, sunny weather over sky-rocketing temperatures then the best time to visit is between April and May, which is also outside of the school holidays so relatively inexpensive.
Still not sure?
- Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Brisbane?
- Or all 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
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Meriton Suites Southport Gold Coast (Queensland) 208 rooms from CA$152
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 instructor
Check AvailabilityA 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
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Meriton Suites Broadbeach Gold Coast (Queensland) 588 rooms from CA$169
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 season
Check AvailabilityAn 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
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QT Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 297 rooms from CA$172
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 partygoers
Recommended by - Tablet, Fodors, Mr & Mrs SmithCheck AvailabilityA 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
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voco Gold Coast Gold Coast (Queensland) 382 rooms from CA$177
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 House
Check AvailabilityA 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
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Sheraton Mirage Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 295 rooms from CA$231
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 more
Check AvailabilityA 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
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Royal Pines Resort Gold Coast (Australia) 331 rooms from CA$244
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 course
Check AvailabilityClose 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
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InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Gold Coast (Australia) 251 rooms from CA$256
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 and
Check AvailabilityA 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
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Peppers Broadbeach Gold Coast (Queensland) 205 rooms from CA$283
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 cinema
Check AvailabilityTwo 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
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The Island Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 98 rooms from CA$297
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 hotspot
Check AvailabilityA 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
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The Star, Gold Coast Gold Coast (Broadbeach QLD 4218) 596 rooms from CA$247
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 opulence
Check AvailabilityGlamourous 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
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Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise Gold Coast (Queensland) 334 rooms from CA$320
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 fare
Check AvailabilityRising 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
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Imperial Hotel Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 200 rooms from CA$368
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 Coast
Check AvailabilityAn 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
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Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa Gold Coast (Queensland) 238 rooms from CA$514
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 sailors
Check AvailabilityA 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
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The Darling at The Star Gold Coast Gold Coast (Australia) 56 rooms from CA$631
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 resort
Check AvailabilityA 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
