JamesA

We are looking into using Air Asia X from KL to Gold Coast Airport.
Am I right that this is near/same as Coolangatta ?
I know that I could search for this but does anyone know if they have services right from the airport along the coast, maybe Surfers, ( Sunbus type bus service ). We will get a rental when we need but I don't like renting a vehicle after a flight as I don't think it's wise ( tired etc ) so any tips appreciated.
Also, should we pehaps just spend first night closer in Coolangatta area ( I know the trip along the coast won't be that long but with a family after 2 flights etc I like to get somewhere quick ). Then we could just get a rental next morning and drive along the coast.

JamesA

It's ok on transport, found Con-X-ion who offer AU$ 45 for a 'family' fare to Surfers which sounds more than reasonable to me (?) and travel time is short.
We did Surfers before and perhaps were not so adventurous, interested therefore in perhaps any local tips along the coast perhaps a little quiter but still enough for a family trip.

Bokhara2

James,
Gold Coast airport is in Coolangatta.
Yes, there are shuttle bus services along the coast.

I agree - get a shuttle to your accommodation for the first night, then hire a vehicle next day.

Bokhara2

Hi James,
Take a drive up to Mt. Tamborine
http://www.tamborinemountain.net/
It's only 30 mins or so. Lots for everyone to enjoy.

On the beach side, try a drive south - there are some lovely beaches & quieter towns/villages.

You don't mention # or ages of your family, but the $45 transfer seems like a good deal to me, too.

stormbird

Hi James,

Everybody has their favourite beach down the Gold Coast but we always like Coolangatta beach.

Northern New South Wales would provide some lovely destinations for you as day trips or overnighters.

The Gold Coast hinterland is beautiful it really depends on what your interests are.

Can you tell us how old your children are etc so we could perhaps be of a little more assistance?

Orlando_Vic

JamesA-
This might be the Coolangatta-Gold Coast shuttle you need:

<http://www.surfside.com.au/shuttle_transferserv.htm>

skittle

A taxi would cost almost the same. My daughter and 2 friends flew to Coolangatta last year and the taxi fare worked out cheaper when divided by 3. Do a search,there is a web site that gives an estimated taxi fare that is quite accurate.

JamesA

Many thanks for your help. It will be interesting trying Air Asia X as they plan on more long haul flights this year. I think we will try Coolangatta for a few days, a lot of the places we have looked at are 'high rise', would appreciate any tips for 'low rise' places. We don't like the tall tower type places, hoping to find family syle apartment/unit with a pool. Hopefully in the AUD 120-150 range.

JamesA

ttt - any other suggestions

stormbird

Hi James,

Perhaps you could try this website http://www.coolangatta.net/accommodation/index.html

There is a motel listed there but am not sure if it's your cup of tea. Rainbay Bay is mentioned and it feels like part of Coolangatta - both are great beaches - so perhaps extend your search to include Rainbay Bay.(Not to be confused with Rainbow Beach on the Sunshine Coast). I'll keep thinking in the meantime.

Smeagol

James
Under 2 hours away (if that) is the GORGEOUS Byron Bay in NSW all very lowrise and has a fantastic feel about the place. We even remarked that it would be easy to fly to the GC and then drive down there (we did it the other way round)

Smeagol