Hotels in Gold Coast

Endless Horizons: Dive into the Gold Coast's Coastal Wonderland

Discover the Gold Coast, Queensland, a vibrant paradise where sun-soaked beaches meet thrilling adventures! Renowned for its iconic Surfers Paradise, this coastal gem boasts golden sands, rolling waves, and a stunning city skyline. Dive into excitement at world-class theme parks or explore the lush Currumbin Sanctuary, home to exotic wildlife. Whether you're lounging on Main Beach, surfing the Pacific Ocean swells, or indulging in luxury dining, the Gold Coast offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Embrace the laid-back lifestyle and vibrant culture of this breathtaking destination that captures the heart of Australia’s coastal charm! For the best hotel rates in Gold Coast, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Gold Coast

Some of the best places to stay in Gold Coast are Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Coolangatta. The Gold Coast offers vibrant destinations like Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Coolangatta, each with unique charm. Surfers Paradise is ideal for first-time visitors, boasting lively nightlife and stunning beaches. Broadbeach features a more relaxed vibe with excellent dining options, while Coolangatta is perfect for those seeking tranquility and beautiful surf spots. Accommodations in these areas range from luxury resorts to cozy hotels, ensuring a variety of choices to suit every traveler's needs for a memorable stay on the Gold Coast. Here are some of the best hotels in Gold Coast that our travelers love:

1. Surfers ParadiseOpens in a new window: Surfers Paradise is a vibrant destination known for its stunning beaches, nightlife, and entertainment options. This area is perfect for beach lovers and those seeking a lively atmosphere. Key attractions include The Star Gold Coast casino, Cavill Avenue for shopping and dining, and the pristine Surfers Paradise Beach. For accommodation, consider The Langham, Gold Coast and Jewel ResidencesOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel with direct beach access and a full spa. Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel & ResidencesOpens in a new window is another excellent choice, catering to adventure seekers and business travelers, offering various recreational activities. Additionally, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & SpaOpens in a new window provides business amenities along with adventure sports opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
2. BroadbeachOpens in a new window: Broadbeach combines a relaxed beach vibe with urban conveniences. It boasts attractions like The Star Gold Coast casino and the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers. Sofitel Gold Coast BroadbeachOpens in a new window is a luxurious option with direct beach access and adventure activities nearby. The Star Grand at The Star Gold CoastOpens in a new window caters to families and adventure enthusiasts, providing various amenities for children and adults alike. For a more upscale experience, The Darling at The Star Gold CoastOpens in a new window offers spa services and business facilities, perfect for those looking to unwind or conduct business.
3. CoolangattaOpens in a new window: Coolangatta is a laid-back coastal town known for its breathtaking beaches, including Kirra Beach, Coolangatta Beach, and Snapper Rocks. This area is ideal for beachgoers and families looking for a relaxing getaway. Kirra Surf ApartmentsOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel with direct beach access and adventure activities like snorkeling and kayaking. For families, Ocean Plaza ResortOpens in a new window offers child-friendly amenities and golf experiences, while Points North ApartmentsOpens in a new window provides a family-centric atmosphere with arcade games and pools designed for children, ensuring a fun-filled vacation for all.

Things to do in Gold Coast for first time

A three-day getaway to the Gold Coast offers the perfect blend of stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant city life. Enjoy thrilling theme parks, relaxing beach days, and outdoor activities like hiking and boating, all while soaking in breathtaking ocean views and the iconic skyline. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Gold Coast:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Broadbeach Beach, where you can relax on the golden sands and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. After soaking up the sun, take a leisurely stroll to Mermaid Beach, known for its idyllic scenery and laid-back vibe. Conclude your day at Rainbow Bay, a perfect spot for swimming and watching the sunset, offering stunning coastal views that will leave you mesmerized.
• Day 2: Kick off your exploration at Nobby Beach, a fantastic spot for a morning coffee or breakfast with a view. Afterward, head to Tugun Beach, where you can enjoy the surf and maybe even catch some waves yourself. Wrap up the day with a visit to Tweed City, a shopping haven where you can find souvenirs, enjoy a meal, or simply relax in the vibrant atmosphere.
• Day 3: Start your day at Kurrawa Beach, a family-friendly beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Next, visit Burleigh Beach, which offers breathtaking scenery and a great place to unwind. For a unique experience, take a trip to the Glow Worm Caves in the evening, where you can marvel at the enchanting glow of these fascinating creatures, creating a magical end to your Gold Coast adventure.

5 tips to find a great Gold Coast hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Gold Coast are February, May, and June, when hotel prices are more affordable. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least 2 months in advance to secure great value for money. Domestic travelers should aim to book at least 8 months ahead for the best fares. A stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, including the stunning beaches and exciting theme parks.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discovering last-minute deals to the Gold Coast can lead to fantastic savings on your next getaway. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find great rates on hotels close to your travel date. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you maximize your chances of snagging an incredible deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Gold Coast.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in the Gold Coast is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transport options like a car, bus, tram, train, or bike to explore the area and likely save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Gold Coast and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Gold Coast

Here are some popular dishes in Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia:

• Fish and Chips: A quintessential Australian dish, fish and chips typically features fresh, locally caught fish, lightly battered and fried to golden perfection. Served with crispy chips, this meal is often enjoyed at beachfront cafes, making it a perfect choice for a casual seaside dining experience.
• Meat Pies: A beloved Australian classic, meat pies are savory pastries filled with minced meat, gravy, and sometimes vegetables. These handheld delights are perfect for a quick bite on the go, often enjoyed at local bakeries or during sporting events, reflecting the laid-back culture of the Gold Coast.
• Pavlova: This light and airy dessert, adorned with fresh fruits and whipped cream, is a popular sweet treat in Australia. Named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, it’s a staple at gatherings and celebrations, embodying the region's love for fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Best time to go to Gold Coast

Gold Coast experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 61.2°F (16.2°C), while January is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 75.7°F (24.3°C). January tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Gold Coast are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, February, May, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.