3 Best Hotels in The Gold Coast, Queensland

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.

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.

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.