Check Into The Best Hotels On The Gold Coast

Level up the luxe on your Gold Coast stay at one of these top hotels.

From the northerly Surfers Paradise down to Coolangatta, the Gold Coast isn’t short of places to drop and flop. Whether you’re in town to party, play or just soak up the sunshine, there’s a luxe high-rise or a hip low-rise ready to welcome you. Pick your vibe and get packing with our round-up of the best hotels on the Gold Coast.

1. The Langham Gold Coast

Like a shimmering crystal obelisk set in the sand, The Langham Gold Coast is unobstructed beachfront luxury. With nothing but a public beachside path between you and the dazzling sea, you can’t get any more toes-in-sand than at this new-build, five-star gem.

two women admiring beach views from the balcony at The Langham Gold Coast — The Langham Gold Coast is just steps away from the shore. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

An Insta-worthy pool, destination Cantonese restaurant, T’Ang Court and serenity-inducing Chuan Spa are all listed among the many refined amenities here, leaving precious few reasons to venture further than the few steps forward to the shore. Oh, and that signature Langham scent as you enter the lobby – heavenly.

dining at The Langham Gold Coast — You’ll be spoilt for choice with dining options. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Address: 38 Old Burleigh Rd, Surfers Paradise

2. Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort

Main Beach-adjacent, this Gold Coast jewel unleashes holiday feelings the minute you flop onto a poolside sunbed and gaze up at the swaying palms. There are plenty of sunbeds to choose from in the sprawling Sheraton grounds lavished with six hectares of lagoon pools.

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort gold coast — Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort offers guests direct beach access.

Shopping and dining precinct, the yachty-chic Marina Mirage is just across the way providing easy access to whatever vacation supplies you may need, while guests also enjoy direct beach access. Two restaurants and two bars, including a swim-up bar, give way to days spent in a perpetual state of relaxation.

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort gold coast Ocean Premium King suite — Be in full holiday mode in the Ocean Premium King suite.

Address: 71 Sea World Drive, Main Beach

3. The Cheshire Cat Motel

A Gold Coast classic gets reimagined for modern times at this revision of a retro favourite. The Cheshire Cat Motel has kept its cool while leaning into its original surf motel energy.

the interior of The Cheshire Cat Motel — The Cheshire Cat Motel is a Gold Coast classic. (Image: ACG Creative Co.)

With six queen rooms and a two-bedroom bungalow, it’s a great spot for a takeover with a bunch of friends, perhaps for a special event.

the bedroom at The Cheshire Cat Motel — Stay overnight with friends at The Cheshire Cat Motel. (Image: Andy Macpherson)

Otherwise, come as a couple and plunge into the cooling terracotta-tiled pool, chill in the terrace area or explore the delights of Palm Beach – the GC’s quickest gentrifying suburb.

a pool with sun loungers at The Cheshire Cat Motel — Plunge into the refreshing terracotta-tiled pool. (Image: Andy Macpherson)

Address: 1005 Gold Coast Highway, Main Beach

4. The Pink Motel

It’s definitely pink. You won’t miss this flamingo-hued corner Cooli hotel (that’s local-speak for Coolangatta). An icon then as it is now, this retro-hip stay is right across from the beach and short steps to shops and restaurants, not to mention a very short skip to the airport. While amenities are minimal at the Pink Motel , you will find the grungy dive bar-esque Eddie’s Grub House onsite downstairs and a rooftop space where you can BYO food and drink to enjoy the rays. Breakfast in bed can be ordered through a QR code in your room from nearby local Ground Coolangatta.

Address: 171 Griffith Street, Coolangatta

5. Q1 Resort and Spa

For elevated apartment stays, the sky-piercing Q1 is your go-to. This is Australia’s highest residential tower and home to the shiny Q1 Resort and Spa . When you decide to come down to earth from your lofty digs, you’ll find the beach a 50-metre stroll away and the centre of Surfer’s Paradise within easy reach. But while inside the Gold Coast landmark, embark on a little self-care at Stephanies Wellness Spa or in the sauna and steam room. You might also ascend 230 metres to enjoy the 360-degree views and enjoy a drink at the SkyPoint bistro and bar, or slip into your choice of two lagoon pools. With one- to four-bedroom apartments and a presidential suite bookable, it’s a good option if you’re travelling with the brood.

an aerial view of the buildings by the beach at Q1 Resort and Spa — Elevate your Gold Coast stay at the towering Q1 Resort and Spa.

Address: 9 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise

6. JW Marriot

The only Australian outpost of the luxe JW Marriot brand can be found in Surfers Paradise. While this five-star, sleek and subtly designed hotel is all muted tones and luxe touches, it knows where it is.

the grand staircase at the lobby of JW Marriot, Gold Coast — Step into the grand lobby of the five-star JW Marriot Hotel.

It’s in one of the country’s most family-friendly destinations and so it welcomes them with a saltwater lagoon and freshwater pool with a slide, as well as actually interesting kids’ activities, such as a sushi-making class, family yoga, and herb-planting.

the bedroom at JW Marriot, Gold Coast — Refresh in one of the sleek and stylish suites.

For the adults, there’s the lavish Spa by JW, two restaurants and a bar, a fitness centre and a lounge.

beach views from the balcony of JW Marriot, Gold Coast — Breathe in the ocean air from your balcony.

Address: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise

7. Dorsett Gold Coast

Folded into the leisure precinct of The Star Gold Coast, Dorsett is definitively all Gold Coast in style. It’s twinkling lights and city nights here with entertainment right on your doorstep at The Star’s casino, restaurants and bars.

an aerial view of the Dorsett Gold Coast — The Dorsett is classic Gold Coast style. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

In the daylight hours, Kurrawa Beach is 500-metres away and shopping precinct Pacific Fair is across the road (albeit a big road). But you may find motivation lacking when it comes to shifting from your submerged sun lounge at the Isoletto Pool Club.

a couple relaxing in the balcony of their suite at Dorsett Gold Coast — Stay in one of Dorsett’s elegantly designed rooms. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Address: 5 The Darling Avenue, Broadbeach

8. The Darling

Also part of The Star precinct, The Darling may be set inside the glitzy, neon-lit adult’s playground but it has elevated boutique vibes.

the luxe living area at The Darling at The Star Gold Coast — The Darling at The Star Gold Coast embodies sophisticated luxury. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Luxe and indulgent with echoes of Art Deco style, The Darling is just 56 suites and penthouses all finessed with a considered aesthetic. When you’re not frocking up and flitting out, there’s a pool to chill by and the Azure Spa to zen at.

the billiards room at The Darling at The Star Gold Coast — There’s a dedicated billiards room to keep you entertained. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Address: 1 The Darling Ave, Broadbeach

9. Hilton Surfers Paradise

A box-ticker and reliable all-rounder from vacay to work stay, the Hilton Surfers Paradise places you in the middle of it all. Just a two-minute trot to the beach and right where the dining and nightlife action happens, you can be fairly confident all needs will be amply met in step with the hotel chain’s usual style.

a top view of the pool at Hilton Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast — Hilton Surfers Paradise is set in the middle of dining and nightlife action. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Onsite drinks take place at Ms Margot’s or the poolside Deck Bar, while Catch Restaurant starts your day right with a bountiful buffet breakfast. There are also four pools to divide your time between, as well as the eforea spa and a fitness centre.

a glass of cocktail by the pool at Hilton Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast — Sip cocktails by the pool. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Address: 6 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise

10. The Star Grand

Muted hues and classic hotel elegance set the tone for a refined stay when you check into the 592-room The Star Grand . Guests have The Star’s plentiful diversions at their fingertips from the casino to an array of restaurants, as well as the Azure Spa and hotel pool.

a couple facing each other inside one of the suites at The Star Grand, Gold Coast — Check into a classic and elegant suite at The Star Grand. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Address: 1 The Darling Ave, Broadbeach

11. Sofitel Gold Coast

The French hotel chain brings a little Parisian chic to sun-bleached Broadbeach with its signature style. The digs are an easy reach to the beach, as well as the nightlife of Surfers Paradise and shopping at Pacific Fair.

the building exterior of Sofitel Gold Coast — Stay in the heart of the Gold Coast at Sofitel.

Inside, it’s French Champagne on the pour at the two onsite bars, and in the family-friendly Bistro On3, located unsurprisingly on level 3. Occupying the same level is the rooftop pool deck, where many hours can be happily whittled away on a cocoon-shaped sun lounge.

the luxury ocean-view room at Sofitel Gold Coast — Take in panoramic ocean views from your suite.

Address: 81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach

12. InterContinental Sanctuary Cove

Is golf is your game? Then drive yourself toward this luxe hotel set amid the green at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove . When you’re not swinging it on the course, you might choose to soak up the rays at either the lagoon-like beach pool or the terrace pool and spa, or hit the Country Club to discuss golf-related topics.

the lagoon-like beach pool at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove, Gold Coast — InterContinental Sanctuary Cove boasts a lagoon-like beach pool. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Other activities for non-golfers might include a high tea experience, shopping at nearby Marine Village, or meeting the resident kangaroos. The resort is family-friendly and well-equipped to keep you within the grounds thanks to five restaurants ranging from casual to finer dining.

a room with balcony at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove, Gold Coast — Sleep in comfort and luxury at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove. (Image: Destination Gold Coast)

Address: Manor Circuit, Sanctuary Cove

13. Imperial Hotel

Yes, it looks familiar and that’s because this lavishly styled five-star hotel was once the Versace Hotel. It has new owners, but the gilt edges and opulence remain.

the front facade of Imperial Hotel, Gold Coast — The Imperial Hotel was once the Versace Hotel.

You can lean all the way into a White Lotus-esque fantasy here with the Imperial’s elaborate Italian architecture and waterfront location.

the pool at Imperial Hotel, Gold Coast — The gilt edges and opulence have been preserved.

There are 200 rooms and suites, and 72 condominiums for longer stays or larger groups. Unwind at the two restaurants or strap into your stilettos and click-clack to a poolside cabana at the Water Salon.

the lobby at Imperial Hotel, Gold Coast — Imperial Hotel boasts elaborate Italian architecture.

Address: 94 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach

Discover the best resorts on the Gold Coast.

Under wide-open outback skies, discover a fossicking gem that’s managed to slip under the radar.

While the name Clermont may feel new to even the most intrepid traveller, its gilded history stretches back centuries. You’ll find it just off the highway, humming quietly under the hazy veil of Queensland’s outback sun. It’s here, hemmed in by mountains and perched atop soil heavy with the earth’s treasures, that one of Australia’s most accessible outback adventures awaits.

Thanks to deposits of gold, copper and gemstones – souvenirs left by exploding supernovas and the heave of tectonic plates – Clermont became a centre point of Queensland’s Gold Rush. And now? Australia’s fossicking capital is yours to discover.

Getting there

car driving along Capricorn Way in queensland — Take a drive through Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. (Image: Sean Scott/ TEQ)

You’ll find Clermont in Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. To get here, it’s an easy three-hour drive over sealed roads from Mackay. Or, if you’re heading from the Sapphire Fields of Emerald, the drive will carve out just over an hour from your day.

Whether you’re road-tripping through outback Queensland or just tracing your way through all that Australia has to offer, Clermont is remote but easily accessible.

Best accommodation in Clermont

Theresa CreekDam in clermont — Camp by Theresa Creek Dam. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

All accommodation comes with a generous helping of country hospitality here. The choice is yours between modern hotels, parking up the camper or pitching a tent.

Theresa Creek Dam lies just outside town. Begin each day with crisp country air and bright outback sunrises. Spend the night under the sparkling country stars and your days out on the dam fishing or kayaking. Even if you aren’t camping, be sure to save space in your itinerary for an afternoon on the red dirt shore.

To stay closer to town, opt for a central hotel to base yourself between exploring and fossicking, like Smart Stayzzz Inn and Clermont Country Motor Inn .

Things to do in Clermont

three people on a tour with Golden Prospecting — Join a tour with Golden Prospecting.

One does not visit Clermont without trying their hand at fossicking. There are strict rules when it comes to fossicking, so stick to areas dedicated for general permission and make sure you obtain your license beforehand. Try your luck at McMasters , Four Mile , Town Desert, McDonald Flat and Flat Diggings . To increase your odds, sign on for a tour with the expert team at Golden Prospecting . They’ll give you access to exclusive plots and expert advice along the way.

Once you’ve tried your luck on the gold fields, head to the Clermont Township and Historical Museum . Each exhibit works like an archaeologist’s brush to dust away the layers of Clermont’s history. Like the steam engine that painstakingly relocated the entire town inch by inch to higher ground after it was decimated by flooding in 1916. See the tools that helped build the Blair Athol mine, historic fire engines, shearing sheds and all sorts of relics that make up Clermont’s story.

The historic Copperfield Chimney offers a change of pace. Legend has it that fossickers found a solid wall of copper here, over three metres high, kick-starting Queensland’s first-ever copper mine.

Bush Heli Services flying over clermont queensland — See Clermont from above with Bush Heli Services. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

For hiking, nearby Dysart is the best place to access Peak Range National Park. Here, mountainous horizons stretch across the outback as if plucked from another world. Set off for a scenic drive along the Peak Downs Highway for access to countless geological wonders. Like the slanting rockface of Wolfang Peak. Summit it, and you’ll find yourself looking out across a scene surely conjured up by Banjo Paterson. Dry scrub dancing in the warm breeze, grazing cattle, eucalypts and the gentle creak of windmills. Don’t miss visiting Gemini Peaks, either, for one of the park’s best vistas, and a blanket of wild flowers after rain.

Then, take to the skies with a scenic helicopter tour with Bush Heli-Services . Shift your perspective and cruise above all the sights from your trip. Spots like Lords Table Mountain and Campbell’s Peak are best viewed from the skies.

Before you head home, be sure to explore the neighbouring townships. Spend a lazy afternoon in the shade of Nebo Hotel’s wrap-around verandahs . The hotel’s 1900s dance hall has since been replaced with one of the area’s biggest rodeo arenas, so consider timing your trip to line up with a boot scootin’ rodeo. Or, stop by a ghost town. Mount Britton was once a thriving town during the 1880s Gold Rush. It’s been totally abandoned and now lies untouched, a perfect relic of the Gold Rush.

Best restaurants and cafes in Clermont

meal at Commercial Hotel — Stop into the Commercial Hotel Clermont.

Days spent fossicking, bushwalking and cramming on history call for excellent coffee and hearty country meals. Luckily, Clermont delivers in spades.

Lotta Lattes Cafe is beloved by locals for a reason. Start your days here for the best caffeine fix in town and an impeccable brunch menu.

For a real country meal, an icy cold beer and that famed country hospitality, head straight to the town’s iconic hotel: the Commercial Hotel (known endearingly to locals as ‘The Commie’). It’s been a staple in Clermont since 1877. The hotel even survived the flood of 1916 when it was sawn in two and moved to higher ground.

Naturally, time spent in the outback must include calling into the local bakery. For delicious pies and a tantalising array of sweet treats, make Bluemac Bakehouse your go-to while in town.

Discover more of The Mackay Isaac region, and start planning your trip at mackayisaac.com.

13 of the best hotels on the Gold Coast