Hotels in Gold Coast

Sunny and fabulous Gold Coast City is one of Australia’s most famous travel destinations -- and for good reason. The city has something for everyone, with its diverse sights and attractions. The lively city has highrises, amusement parks, and natural parks to explore. Its most popular draw is the beach at its edge, the aptly named Surfers Paradise.

Gold Coast is a city for the young with swimsuit-clad surfers looking to party and a thriving culinary and art scene. But at the same time, the city is sentimental and laid-back with retro sights and closeness to nature. It’s no wonder Gold Coast is a consistent favorite.

How to Get There

Travelling to Gold Coast is easy. Coming from another country, you can book a flight to Brisbane, which is the nearest international airport from the city. From the airport, it’s a fuss-free one-hour shuttle ride to the Gold Coast. The shuttle can be booked in advance online and can be fixed depending on your needs.

If you’re coming from elsewhere in Australia, you can also look at domestic flights to Gold Coast Airport. From there, it’s around 20 minutes by cab to the city centre.

Getting Around

There are plenty of ways to get around the Gold Coast but the most convenient for visitors is probably by bus. If you’re looking to see all of the city and its theme parks, the Freedom Pass offered to tourists is well worth it. The pass allows you to ride on the Gold Coast Tourist Shuttle that travels to and from the airport and theme parks in the city, plus rides on the city’s public bus options. But for those looking to save money, a pass isn’t necessary for taking the city’s public buses, which traverse the city.

Top Things to Do

There are many exciting and interesting spots to visit on the Gold Coast. Don’t miss Surfers Paradise -- a three-kilometre stretch of golden sand, surfing, music, food, parties, and everything that makes the city great. Put on your favorite bikini (or swim shorts) and enjoy the sea and sun. For those not quite into partying, Gold Coast’s long shoreline is a good choice for long walks and self-reflection. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, you can take the big leap at Gold Coast Skydive.

Next, hit one or all of the Gold Coast’s theme parks. The most popular include Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, Seaworld, and Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast. Those looking for a thrill will find roller coasters, insane drops, and more at Dreamworld and Warner Bros. Movie World, which will please the movie junkies as well. Seaworld is great for families and animal lovers with its animal attractions and shows which are not only fun but educational. The young and young-at-heart can enjoy Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast, where they can get blasted out of slides at high speeds with a huge splash.

For the nature junkies and animal lovers, there are plenty of things to do in Gold Coast. Put on your hiking boots and check out Lamington National Park, a dense rainforest with ancient trees and waterfalls. Animal lovers will enjoy a day at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary which has 27-hectares of open animal enclosures. Here, you can cross off cuddling a koala from your bucket list.

What to Eat

Some will argue that the Gold Coast is Australia’s food capital and for good reason; the city is always coming up with new ideas. For the health-conscious, Gold Coast serves hearty smoothie bowls, salads, and vegans will rejoice at the restaurant options available.

The city also does great fusion food. Along the city’s streets, travellers can enjoy dumplings, poke bowls, ramen, pitas, tacos, and everything under the sun with a Gold Coast twist. For the complete experience, try interesting dishes from the many food trucks around the city.

Nightlife

If you’re looking to party, the Gold Coast is the place to be. At Surfers Paradise, you can drink and dance from club to club until the early hours. The bars at Broadbeach also often have live music and are a good choice for a chill night out. For those who want to try their luck, there is also The Star Gold Coast Casino at Broadbeach. If the prices of drinks at clubs are a bit daunting, check out the bar at your accommodation. Hostel bars are especially affordable.

Where to Stay

Hotels in Gold Coast are varied from swanky hotels to quirky hostels. If you need of pampering or travelling with children and looking to avoid any form of hassle, hotels are the way to go. Backpackers and those on a budget can check out hostels, which are also great for meeting potential travel buddies.

Gold Coast hotels are all over the city but where to stay depends on what you’re after. Broadbeach is the top choice for many, with its close proximity to the beach and relaxed vibe. It’s also near many attractions, making it a convenient stay. If you’re after the city’s nightlife, then Surfers Paradise is the place to be. With all the clubs in the area, it’s best that your accommodation is only a short (tipsy) walk away.

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