12 Best Hotels in The Gold Coast, Queensland

Gwinganna means lookout in the local Yugambeh language, and true to its name, this 500-acre property sits high on a plateau in the Tallebudgera Valley, with views out to the ocean—just 60 minutes from Brisbane Airport. The focus here is health and wellness, but accommodation in this ecotourism certified retreat is far from spartan; all rooms are light, comfortable, and airy and many have private decks, some with ocean views and plunge pools. Meals are served communally, with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients, many of which are grown on-site. The Spa Sanctuary offers and enticing array of treatments in a serene setting; all the facilities, from two infinity-edge pools, yoga and activity studios, and a gym—where part-owner Hugh Jackman has trained in the lead-up to his movies—are world class. Packages are all-inclusive, with a two-night minimum stay.

The epitome of luxury and elegance, this new five-star for Surfers Paradise offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline, providing a perfect blend of coastal charm and urban sophistication. Guests can indulge in world-class amenities, including a state-of-the-art wellness spa, exquisite dining options featuring locally sourced ingredients, and opulent rooms and suites designed for both relaxation and productivity. There's also an infinity pool overlooking the beach, which gives it a luxurious retreat feel.

With its central location right on Cavill Avenue and across the road from a patrolled beach, the 77-story Peppers Soul offers some of the most stunning views on the Gold Coast. One- to three-bedroom luxury apartments are stylish yet home-y, all with full kitchen and laundry facilities, spa bath, private balcony, and uninterrupted ocean views. Some also have a private plunge pool. Facilities include 24-hour room service, an outdoor pool, a 25-meter indoor lap pool, state-of-the-art gymnasium, and free parking. The award-winning Seaduction restaurant offers seasonal fine-dining menus for lunch and dinner, and an above-average breakfast—all with ocean views.

One thousand meters (3,280 feet) above sea level and immersed in the subtropical rain forests of World Heritage–listed Lamington National Park, the eco-certified O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat boasts a range of accommodation options, from simple garden- and mountain-view rooms, to one- and two-bedroom canopy suites, and luxury, multiroom mountain villas (complete with balcony Jacuzzis). Daily activities include wildlife presentations, bird-watching walks, Segway tours, and the famous after-dark glowworm walk. Packages are available, which include breakfast, morning and afternoon tea, and a free wine tasting at the property's nearby vineyard.

This boutique hotel located known for its stunning ocean views and serene vibe has 94 luxury apartments offering one-, two-, and three-bedrooms. Guests can also enjoy the rooftop lap pool, Jacuzzi, and gym. The location is the draw here, with direct access to the beach and close to Burleigh Head National Park and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Recently renovated and with a name change, there is a distinct Italian hotel feel to this place; rooms in low-rise wings surround the breezy lagoon area; some have Juliet balconies with views over Broadwater, others overlook the pool. Condos come with full kitchens and laundries, and some have private plunge pools, barbecues, and marina berths. There is an array of dining options, an indulgent day spa, an extensive gym and wellness center. The location is ideal for those visiting the nearby theme parks.

The Mysa Motel captures the essence of old-school quirk, a stroll away from white-sand beaches in Palm Beach on the southern Gold Coast. With just seven rooms, each themed around a color, the Mysa features a sparkling magnesium mineral pool and retro-recycled and salvaged materials throughout, giving it a distinct Slim Aarons aesthetic. Aiming for self-sufficiency, the motel is solar-powered, and has its own rainwater tanks. All rooms feature comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi and smart television, air con, and ceiling fans, and private courtyards—some come with your own barbecue.

Set on 12 acres of privately owned rain forest, this secluded, couples-only resort comprises 10 spacious tree houses with timber floors, French doors opening onto verandas, fireplaces, hot tubs, and open-plan interiors furnished with Asian antiques. Undercover walkways link each house with the main lodge: a stunning building with 16-foot-high glass walls affording rain-forest views. You can while away the hours in the library, enjoy a massage or facial under the trees, or hike through the surrounding forest trails, where you might even be lucky enough to spot wallabies and koalas.

One of Queensland's most popular destination hotels, this vibrant retro-meets-modern resort boasts 360-degree views of the beach and hinterland, on-site restaurants and bars, and enough quirk and energy to make it stand brightly apart. Just a few minutes from Surfers' main beach, QT has a range of ocean and mountain view rooms and suites, where colorful designer furniture is complemented by luxury fittings, and thoughtful local touches like beach bags and flip-flops. Dining options include marketplace-style Bazaar, Japanese eatery Yamagen, and the health-focused café Fixx. For an extra treat, head down to SpaQ on Level 1, where massage, facials, skin treatments, and a hammam sauna bring you to cloud nine.

This massive, glitzy resort in Broadbeach houses The Star Grand and The Darling hotels: the former offering tasteful rooms with a calming palette and the latter, spacious suites and penthouses designed with decadence in mind. There is a total of nine restaurants, including the award-winning Kiyomi, specializing in modern Japanese fare, the light-filled Garden Kitchen and Bar, and the rooftop Nineteen at The Star. Other treats include a luxury day spa, massage center, hair salon, tennis court, and gym (including free fitness classes for guests), and an oasis-style pool and Jacuzzi area, complete with private bungalows and cabanas.

A distinctive accommodation experience with eco-friendly tiny homes nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Woonoongoora in the heart of Lamington National Park. Each tiny house features a fully equipped kitchenette, including a small fridge, microwave, and air fryer. The spaces are thoughtfully designed for comfort, with queen-size beds, and incorporating modern amenities while promoting a minimalist lifestyle. Guests can enjoy serene natural surroundings, outdoor activities, and a chance to truly disconnect. 

This ultramodern high-rise apartment resort is one of Broadbeach's most luxurious. Its beachfront location translates into superb ocean or Gold Coast views (try whale-watching from your balcony!). Sleek, spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments and luxe subpenthouses (31st floor and above) all have private, furnished balconies designed to maximize the sweeping views. Each is well equipped, with a full kitchen, quality neutral-tone furnishings, flat-screen TVs (including one in the master bedroom), and firm beds. Those staying eight days or more get a mid-stay miniservice (daily servicing costs extra). There's a well-equipped gym, sauna, and steam room in the complex; a large infinity-edge pool, deckchairs, and a stainless-steel barbecue on level four. A guest lounge, heated "sky pool," Jacuzzi, and second barbecue area are on level 34.