The Gold Coast has a reputation. And for the most part, the stereotypes and cliches ring true.
Yet for the few that make some Queenslanders cringe, there are ten times more that have us on the edge of our seat itching to purchase a beachfront property. You can go surfing in the morning, grab an early flat white with a delicious brunch and then follow it up with a waterfall hike, spotting Australian wildlife along the way.
From the golden sand beaches, the towering skyscrapers and the rustling sounds of the hinterland, Airbnbs on the Gold Coast are varied in design but common in functionality and comfort. The toughest choice will be choosing between the sounds of the waves gently rolling in or the chirping birds and whispering winds among Australian fauna.
Here’s our round up of some of the best Gold Coast Airbnbs to suit a range of tastes and needs. Book yourself in for a night or a week – this is by far the best way to see all that the Gold Coast has to offer.
EAST SIDE | GOLD COAST ACCOMMODATION
About Airbnb
Airbnb has revolutionised the way that people travel and experience a place away from home.
If you’re looking for a place to rest your weary body after a day of exploring, Airbnb offers a variety of accommodation options to suit a diverse range of travellers.
Finding the right Airbnb, Gold Coast Australia
If you’re looking for a place to stay on the Gold Coast, we trust that you don’t mind sand between your toes, the rushing sound of rolling ocean waves and the warmth of the Southern Hemisphere prickling your skin.
Perhaps you’re looking for an Aussie boho beach shack or maybe it’s a sprawling retreat in the Hinterland. It could be a sleek family-friendly home or a tropical villa oasis to seek a moment of peace from the glitter strip.
The Gold Coast has an abundance of Airbnbs, no matter your budget or tastes. Skip the Gold Coast hotels and support local Gold Coast accommodation. We round up a vast selection covering aspects including location, cost, design and function. We think we’ve got you covered, so come take a peek at these Airbnbs on the Gold Coast.
*Prices stated are indicative and valid as at December 2020
The Pool House
Mermaid Waters
This sleek guest house strikes the perfect contrast of black and white and exudes minimalism perfectly, speaking straight to Jasmine’s design aesthetic. The airy space is perfect for a couples getaway where one can plop down on the king bed and sink amongst the pillows after a day out on the Gold Coast.
A fully equipped kitchen means you can whip up your own meals and sit outside in the sun by the tranquil pool, while the exquisite rain shower head means that you can scrub up nicely following a dip in the ocean.
Free parking on the premises is a bonus so you’re not fighting for a street park on the busy suburban streets.
Details
- Amenities: Self check-in, Pool, Coffee Maker, Wi-Fi, Free Parking
- Sleeps: 2
- 1 night from AU$130
Beachfront Duplex
Bilinga
The split level house sits on the edge of the beach and is the perfect spot for barbecue dinners on balmy, summer nights. Two bedrooms sleep 5 people comfortably with palm frond cushion covers and retro decor touches.
High ceilings and French doors on the upper level is ideally set up for entertaining where the chefs in the kitchen can keep an eye on the stove whilst pouring a glass of wine for guests on the deck. Downstairs, there is plenty of space in the family room where the back sliding doors lead out onto a lower patio and a fenced grassy area for littles ones to run amok as the sea breeze drifts in from afar.
Wake up to the sound of the gentle waves caressing the shore before stretching your legs on the wide sandy expanse before taking your cup of tea out on the porch and curling up with a good book, the warm sunshine enveloping you as your drift off into an afternoon siesta.
Details
- Amenities: Pool, Coffee maker, bathtub, Wi-Fi, Free Parking
- Sleeps: 5
- 1 night from AU$
Tree House Studio
Burleigh Heads
Tucked away amongst the trees, this space is the epitome of tranquility. Elements of nature filter through to the inside, from the pine green feature wall above the kitchen, small posies of wild foliage and flora in vases and tree trunks holding up the small high table.
Sit on the small balcony in the morning with a cup of coffee overlooking Tallebudgera Creek and listen to the birdsong welcoming a new day. The James Street precinct and nearby Burleigh Heads National Park is approximately 25 minutes walk or 5 minutes drive from the Tree House.
The tiny yet comfortable space is ideal for couples who adore exploring the coastline and its ever-happening entertainment scene but would also be happy to roll down the projector screen and enjoy a movie night-in.
Details
- Amenities: Air-conditioning, balcony, projector and screen
- Sleeps: 2
- 1 night from AU$278
Hideaway in the Hinterland
Bonogin
Rustic glamour can be found in the Gold Coast Hinterland at this cabin in the woods which wouldn’t go astray in a Hollywood romantic rom-com or a horror movie – we somehow can’t decide.
Two queen beds provide space for a group of 4 to engage in rambling walks down to the creek or meandering strolls to the paddocks before returning to the cabin to play the piano by the fire with a few bottles of vino. The clawfoot bathtub adds a wonderful nostalgic touch, these antique elements rarely seen inside homely places such as this one.
The interior is bathed in an abundance of natural light, providing a coziness during rare dreary days, encouraging the stressed and tired folk to find some peace or allowing creatives to find inspiration in the hinterland.
Being tucked away in the bush, visits from serpent friends or insect critters are to be expected. Check these details with the hosts.
Details
- Amenities: Indoor fireplace, piano, board games, clawfoot bathtub
- Sleeps: 4
- 1 night from AU$266
Safari in the Clouds
Beechmont
Soar into the Gold Coast Hinterland with a getaway at this cosy tent where you can kip out under the stars with all the luxuries of home.
Spend a day outdoors, hiking the nature trails and exploring the area around Killarney Glen, the renowned heart shaped waterfall. Then, sink into the glorious deep bathtub and let the hot water soak your muscles as you sip on a glass of bubbly and the crickets chirp out of sync as dusk falls.
Greet a new day out on the balcony and sit out in the sunshine listening to the birdsong with your breakfast and a cup of coffee. This is the spot where you can really detach from the modern world with no wi-fi provided. So bring your beverage of choice, select a DVD for an old-school movie night and kick back in the four poster bed.
Details
- Amenities: Bathtub, Breakfast provided, Coffee Maker
- Sleeps: 2
- 1 night from AU$287
WOODEN RETREAT
mermaid waters
Settle into this homey private room for a blissful stay only metres from the beachfront.
Wooden panelled walls hold memorabilia and trinkets reminiscent of the sea. The room includes a Queen bed, velvety grey sofas and desk and comes with a private bathroom and kitchenette. A seriously stocked bookshelf means that you can wile away hours thumbing through titles out on the private patio or even as you laze in the clawfoot bathtub.
The addition of black-out curtains means that you can book in the type of deep sleep that you and your significant other deserve, especially on a holiday.
Details
- Amenities: Air-conditioning, Netflix, black-out blinds, private patio
- Sleeps: 2
- 1 night from AU$83
Breezy, Bali-inspired Studio
Broadbeach Waters
This Airbnb on the Gold Coast at Broadbeach has elephants and buddhas watching over you in this breezy, Bali-inspired studio suitable for two people.
The bottom level of this apartment is all yours with sleek, minimal yet modern interiors allowing for plenty of natural light to filter through. Take your breakfast around the white table before taking a stroll around the local canals.
A shared recreation area includes a BBQ grill and beanbags for you to laze around the pool on a floaty with a beer in hand on those scorching summer days.
Details
- Amenities: Air-conditioning, BBQ grill, pool
- Sleeps: 2
- 1 night from AU$110
River View Apartment
Surfers Paradise
Floor to ceiling windows illuminate this sleek, sophisticated apartment located in the northern Gold Coast.
The airy living area accommodates an eclectic mix of furniture which doesn’t follow a colour palette yet seems to work in the spacious abode. A fully equipped kitchen means that guests are able to whip up their own meals to their hearts’ content and enjoy at the high bench table or outside on the private patio.
The ensuite leads into a soaking tub but you’re also able to enjoy the building’s common areas and amenities with access to the outdoor swimming pool, gym and sauna. Of course, Surfers Paradise beach is just a short walk away too.
Details
- Amenities: Full kitchen, patio, outdoor common area including access to pool, gym and sauna
- Sleeps: 4
- 1 night from AU$292
Rainforest Retreat
Springbrook
This luxurious escape is the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in the glorious smells and sounds of a heritage national park.
Start your morning with a cup of coffee at the secluded lookout with expansive views over the rainforest and waterfalls that stretch towards the Gold Coast. Strap on your hiking boots and take advantage of the nature trails right on your doorstep. In the wintertime, curl up with a bottle of your favourite red vintage and your loved one in front of the indoor fireplace.
It’s a place where you’ll come for romance and inner peace. A place to slow down, breathe in fresh mountain air and rest.
Details
- Amenities: Full kitchen, laundry, patio, air-conditioning, indoor fireplace
- Sleeps: 4
- 1 night from AU$293
Beach Condo
Mermaid Beach
With a hop, skip and a jump and you’ll be at the beach!
This fresh, modern condo is situated only 50 metres from Nobby Beach and very close to one of our favourite cafes on the Gold Coast, Forreal Kitchen. It’s a suitable base for a pair who are keen to enjoy the sun, surf and sand by day and then chill out in the outdoor area on balmy evenings.
A full kitchen is available if you’d rather eat in and washing facilities are handy if you’re planning a longer stay. Free parking on the premises is definitely a bonus as street parking in the area can be hard to come by.
Details
- Amenities: Air-conditioning, black-out curtains, shared pool, full kitchen
- Sleeps: 3
- 1 night from AU$215
1960s Weekender
Mermaid Beach
From the outside, this Airbnb is reminiscent of its motel heyday in the 1960s. But step inside, and you’re thrust forward into contemporary, 21st century style.
The owner has done a magnificent job in renovating this townhouse, the perfect spot for a young family or a group of friends that don’t mind bunking together. Replete with timber flooring, a full kitchen and funky outdoor furniture, the space is perfect for chillaxing if you need a bit of respite from the Queensland sun.
Our favourite thing is the beach wagon available to borrow if you’re taking a full kit down to the beach – just make sure you’re not caught pushing it back up a hill!
Details
- Amenities: Private outdoor patio, BBQ grill, full kitchen, laundry, beach wagon
- Sleeps: 5
- 1 night from AU$249
Seascape Unit
Palm Beach
This clean, modern ground-floor unit is the ideal hub for a group of four who are keen beachgoers and cafe lovers.
Decked out with two bedrooms, a full kitchen and dining area, visitors can mix things up with home cooked meals or dining out at some of the Gold Coast’s top eateries. White linen-look curtains frame the doorways creating light, ambient space and the patio faces the tennis court, the perfect spectator seats.
The beach is only a 2 minute walk away meaning you can duck out for an early morning surf and long strolls along the sand, frolicking close to the dog beach. Air-conditioning, ceiling fans and access to the complex pool means that you’ll never stay hot for long.
Details
- Amenities: ir-conditioning, Pay TV, Shared hot tub, BBQ grill, access to tennis court
- Sleeps: 4
- 1 night from AU$150
Tropical Villa
Palm Beach
Escape to this two bedroom villa in Palm Beach which boasts an open-living area in neutral greys and masterfully placed pops of colour.
We think that this retreat would suit two couples travelling together and neither pair would need to fight too hard for the best bedroom as each one is kitted out with a generous Queen bed with adjoining terrace.
Start the morning off with a dip in the private pool before lounging around the kitchen and breakfast bar munching on goodies before heading to the beach – because that’s the real reason you visited the Gold Coast, right?
Details
- Amenities: Private entrance, swimming pool, full kitchen, rain shower, breakfast bar
- Sleeps: 4
- 1 night from AU$237
Skyhaven Sanctuary
Tallebudgera Valley
This is glamping at its finest.
The eye-popping vistas over the Gold Coast Hinterland, stretching from Burleigh Heads and all the way to North Stradbroke Island is all the entertainment you’ll need. Unzip the tent and wake to breathtaking sunrises the colour of soft apricots. At the end of the day, pour yourself a glass of vino and sink back in the camping chairs in front of the fire. Delight as dusk falls and the twinkling stars appear in the night sky. Be patient because you very well may catch sight of a shooting star.
Relaxing in nature has never been more comfortable and luxurious. A stay here is guaranteed to be peaceful, with the possibility of being punctured by nearby roaming chickens and brother alpacas!
Details
- Amenities: Incredible vistas, separate bathroom facilities, plush armchairs, double hammock, campfire
- Sleeps: 2
- 1 night from AU$246
Hinterland Luxury
Mount Nathan
For the large group celebrations or big family gatherings, this Gold Coast Hinterland villa will be right up your alley.
Nestled on a 10 acre property, the outdoor area and hospitality are the top-rated elements of this Airbnb. It’s likely that you’ll spend the majority of your time in the 25m infinity pool or outdoor spa on the patio. An eclectic mix of indoor furniture and decor shows personality and radiates warmth, ensuring that you’ll have a pleasant, comfortable stay.
A bonus factor is that pets are allowed on this expansive property and visitors are permitted to come up close with the on-site horses (do check with the host before approaching!).
Details
- Amenities: Infinity pool, jacuzzi, foosball table, wi-fi, horses on property, pets allowed
- Sleeps: 10
- 1 night from AU$439
Indigo Charlee
Palm Beach
This tropical villa is the type of private luxury one might come across in a Balinese jungle.
Perfectly suited to a couple who have a distinct appreciation for thoughtfully curated design and luxury residences, it’s fortunate that the pair do not need to travel to Indonesia to experience elegant comfort.
Featuring an island bench kitchen, lush king bed, private garden and entertaining deck, it’s an oasis where one can find calm. The added bonus is the Airbnb is only 2 minutes walk to the beach and thriving restaurant and cafe district. Currumbin Beach is also right next door.
Details
- Amenities: Self check-in, private garden, luxurious design, wi-fi, free parking on premises
- Sleeps: 2
- 1 night from AU$364
Treehouse Chalet
Currumbin Valley
Set on a hilltop with panoramic views of Currumbin Valley, this magnificent glass villa is your gateway to privacy and tranquility.
This magnificent property sleeps 6 but could easily accommodate more so cabin fever will certainly not be an issue. The Eco Village is nestled on 7,000 sqm of private land, leading you along ambling nature trails and down to beautiful waterfalls.
The expansive indoor space seamlessly transitions into the outdoors. From the verandas, you’re likely to come up close and personal with native wildlife including kangaroos, koalas, echidnas and birdlife.
Details
- Amenities: Free parking on property, Balinese style pool and huts, full kitchen, expansive verandas
- Sleeps: 6
- 1 night from AU$964
What to see and do
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HOW TO GET TO THE GOLD COAST
- By Plane
- The closest airports to get you to the Gold Coast:
- Gold Coast Airport (OOL) - it has both domestic and international terminals at Coolangatta, the southern end of the Gold Coast. From the airport, you can organise a shuttle service, catch a bus or rent a car.
- Brisbane Airport (BNE) - caters to domestic and international visitors and is situated approximately 1 - 1.5 hours drive north of the Gold Coast. From Brisbane, you can travel to the Gold Coast by train (AirTrain up to Varsity Lakes), by premium coach service or renting a car.
- By Bus
- Greyhound and Premier Coaches offer daily shuttle services from Brisbane to the Gold Coast.
- Many Greyhound services stop via Brisbane Domestic Airport. Tickets start from AUD $44 one way but early bird rates are available if you’re an advance planner.
- Check timetables and prices for Greyhound Bus Services here.
- Premier Motor Service operates bus services up and down Australia’s East Coast.
- Check timetables and prices for Premier Motor Services here.
- By Car
-
Brisbane to Gold Coast
Driving south from Brisbane, the journey is 70 - 100 kilometres and will take around 1 - 1.5 hours, depending on your destination. Follow the M1 southbound. -
Byron Bay to Gold Coast
Driving north from Byron Bay, the car ride will take approximately 1 - 1.5 hours. Follow the M1 northbound. - Getting around
- Local bus services are operated by Translink. You will need a goCard to travel on public transport. Your goCard can be purchased at the airport or local newsagents and can be topped up at train stations, bus terminals and tram stops.
- The Gold Coast Light Rail stretches from Broadbeach South to Gold Coast University Hospital (Helensvale). There are 19 stops altogether. Paper tickets can be purchased at each tram station, however, these are more expensive than using a goCard. The cost of a trip is dependent on how many zones you travel in; cost also varies during peak hour and off-peak. Services run every 7.5mins - 15mins.
- Check Translink timetables and ticket prices here.
WHERE TO EAT ON THE GOLD COAST
You know we can’t go past a delectable, lip-smacking brunch and we always reward ourselves after a sunrise photo mission.
We’ve done the hard work of eating at all of these places so now you just need to pick one that tickles your tastebuds! Here are the Best Cafes on the Gold Coast for brunch, breakfast and coffee.
Looking for Gold Coast accommodation?
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