Global Major Cities Guide

Details about short-term lodging options, such as hotels, motels, and serviced apartments for visitors.

Sections

Temporary Accommodation Guide for Gold Coast, Australia

The Gold Coast is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, theme parks, and laid-back lifestyle. If you're planning a short-term stay, there are plenty of temporary accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate your options.

1. Types of Temporary Accommodation

a. Hotels

Overview: Hotels are a popular choice for short-term stays, offering comfort, amenities, and proximity to key attractions.
Cost Range:
- Budget hotels: AUD 80–150 per night
- Mid-range hotels: AUD 150–300 per night
- Luxury hotels: AUD 300–800+ per night
Popular Areas:
- Surfers Paradise: Central, close to beaches, nightlife, and shopping.
- Broadbeach: Quieter, family-friendly, near Pacific Fair Shopping Centre and The Star Casino.
- Coolangatta: Close to the airport and quieter beaches.
Booking Tips:
- Use platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or Agoda.
- Book early during peak seasons (December–February and school holidays).
- Look for deals on hotel websites or through loyalty programs.

b. Serviced Apartments

Overview: Ideal for families or longer stays, serviced apartments offer kitchen facilities and more space.
Cost Range:
- Studio apartments: AUD 120–200 per night
- 1-2 bedroom apartments: AUD 200–400 per night
Popular Areas:
- Surfers Paradise: High-rise apartments with ocean views.
- Broadbeach: Family-friendly, quieter atmosphere.
Booking Tips:
- Check platforms like Airbnb, Stayz, or corporate housing websites.
- Look for discounts on weekly or monthly stays.

c. Hostels

Overview: Budget-friendly option for solo travelers or backpackers.
Cost Range:
- Dormitory beds: AUD 25–50 per night
- Private rooms: AUD 70–120 per night
Popular Hostels:
- Bunk Surfers Paradise: Modern facilities, central location.
- Aquarius Gold Coast: Social atmosphere, close to public transport.
- Coolangatta YHA: Near the airport and beaches.
Booking Tips:
- Use Hostelworld or Hostelbookers for reviews and availability.
- Book early for peak seasons.

d. Holiday Parks and Campgrounds

Overview: Great for budget-conscious travelers or those who enjoy outdoor living.
Cost Range:
- Powered campsites: AUD 40–70 per night
- Cabins: AUD 100–200 per night
Popular Options:
- BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park: Near theme parks, family-friendly.
- Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park: Beachfront location.
- Burleigh Beach Tourist Park: Close to Burleigh Heads National Park.
Booking Tips:
- Book directly through the holiday park’s website.
- Check for discounts on longer stays.

e. Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb, Stayz)

Overview: Offers flexibility and a home-like experience.
Cost Range:
- Private rooms: AUD 70–150 per night
- Entire homes/apartments: AUD 150–400 per night
Popular Areas:
- Burleigh Heads: Trendy, relaxed vibe.
- Palm Beach: Quiet, family-friendly.
- Southport: Affordable, close to public transport and Griffith University.
Booking Tips:
- Use filters to find properties with amenities like Wi-Fi, parking, or a kitchen.
- Read reviews carefully to ensure quality.

f. Student Accommodation (Short-Term Options)

Overview: Some student housing providers offer short-term stays during university breaks.
Cost Range:
- Shared rooms: AUD 150–250 per week
- Private rooms: AUD 250–400 per week
Popular Providers:
- Student One: Located in Southport, close to Griffith University.
- UniLodge: Offers short-term stays in some locations.
Booking Tips:
- Contact providers directly to inquire about availability.

2. Proximity to Key Locations

Surfers Paradise: Central hub for beaches, nightlife, and shopping.
Broadbeach: Close to Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, The Star Casino, and Gold Coast Convention Centre.
Southport: Affordable, near Griffith University and Gold Coast University Hospital.
Coolangatta: Close to Gold Coast Airport and quieter beaches.
Theme Parks: Stay in Coomera or Helensvale for easy access to Dreamworld, Movie World, and Wet’n’Wild.

3. Booking Procedures

Online Booking:
- Use reputable platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, or Agoda.
- Compare prices across multiple platforms to find the best deal.
Direct Booking:
- Many hotels and holiday parks offer discounts for direct bookings.
- Call or email the property to inquire about special rates.
Last-Minute Deals:
- Apps like HotelTonight or Lastminute.com can offer discounts for same-day bookings.
Cancellation Policies:
- Check cancellation policies carefully, especially during peak seasons.

4. Additional Tips for Temporary Accommodation

Peak Season Considerations:
- The Gold Coast is busiest during summer (December–February), school holidays, and major events like the Gold Coast 500 (October).
- Book well in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.
Public Transport Access:
- Look for accommodation near the G:link tram line or bus routes for easy travel.
- Key tram stops: Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach South, Southport.
Airport Proximity:
- If you’re arriving late or leaving early, consider staying near Gold Coast Airport (Coolangatta).
Wi-Fi and Parking:
- Check if Wi-Fi and parking are included in the price, as some properties charge extra.
Local Discounts:
- Some accommodations offer discounts for longer stays or partnerships with local attractions.

5. Estimated Costs for a 1-Week Stay

| Type of Accommodation | Budget (AUD) | Mid-Range (AUD) | Luxury (AUD) | |----------------------------|------------------|---------------------|------------------| | Hotels | 560–1,050 | 1,050–2,100 | 2,100+ | | Serviced Apartments | 840–1,400 | 1,400–2,800 | 2,800+ | | Hostels | 175–350 | 490–840 | N/A | | Holiday Parks/Campgrounds | 280–490 | 700–1,400 | N/A | | Short-Term Rentals | 490–1,050 | 1,050–2,800 | 2,800+ |

6. Cultural and Practical Considerations

Check-In/Check-Out Times:
- Standard check-in is around 2 PM, and check-out is 10 AM. Confirm with your accommodation.
Payment Methods:
- Most places accept credit cards, but some budget options may require cash.
Noise Levels:
- Surfers Paradise can be noisy due to nightlife. Opt for Broadbeach or Southport for quieter stays.
Local Etiquette:
- Australians are generally friendly and laid-back. Respect local rules, such as no smoking in public areas.

By considering your budget, preferred location, and travel needs, you can find the perfect temporary accommodation in the Gold Coast. If you need further assistance or recommendations, feel free to ask!