9 heavenly places to go glamping on the Gold Coast

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Reconnect to nature in spectacular fashion with the best glamping on the Gold Coast.

High-rise hotels and sizable resorts offer pretty views, but nothing plunges you into all-consuming beauty quite like glamping on the Gold Coast. Lovebirds, adventure seekers and kid-heavy families are all catered for in luxuriously tented stays that offer instant access to natural wonders, unique foodie experiences and a level of comfort typically reserved for the Gold Coast’s most luxurious accommodation.

1. Tamborine Mountain Glades

a 4WD outside the glamping tent at Tamborine Mountain Glades, Gold Coast
The off-grid accommodation is nestled in the middle of nature. (Image: Tamborine Mountain Glades)

Where: Tamborine Mountain

Breathe in the dewy subtropical rainforest air of Tamborine Mountain’s resident glamping site, Tamborine Mountain Glades. Enveloped in lush bushland, the site is actually home to awesome Gold Coast tent and caravan camping, self-contained cabins and The Vistas, hotel-like stays that share a huge communal fire pit, but its Woodlands glamping is the star of the show.

Found over in a remote corner of the remarkable 114-hectare property, right next to a small creek that trickles out the front of all 11 spacious tents, the Gold Coast glamping experience starts simple with a king-size bed, flat-screen TV, ensuite with an open-air shower and underfloor heating, outdoor dining table, barbecue and bar fridge and private fire pit. Climbing up the scale a step is the Woodlands Luxe Tents, which add a private outdoor jacuzzi to the equation, before the Woodlands Family Tents drop a roomy bedding configuration for up to five guests and the mac daddy, the Woodlands Family Luxe Tent, offers a private three-metre plunge pool.

Natural textures and tones complement their bush surroundings, but the mood is luxe safari inside as fluffy bedding dial up the indulgence. Plus, there’s in-room dining if you’re good with antipasto platters, grazing boards and jam-packed hampers featuring ingredients plucked from the team’s kitchen garden.

There’s also the Rainforest Restaurant & Lounge Bar offering locally sourced meals, plus a range of activities at the adjacent Thunderbird Park (a kids’ ultimate playground) including ziplining, treetop challenges, crystal panning, mini golf, laser tag and more. If you’ve got a budding demolition expert in your family, don’t miss Dig IT, too, a mini excavator park that your little one will rave about for months, even years (speaking from experience) beyond exiting the grounds. Glamping starts from $349 per night.

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2. Reset Tallebudgera Valley

a luxe glamping tent at Reset Tallebudgera Valley, Gold Coast
Each glamping tent is complete with every creature comfort you need. (Image: Reset Tallebudgera Valley)

Where: Tallebudgera Valley

Like a spacecraft sent from another planet, Reset Tallebudgera Valley is a semi-transparent dome situated amid lush bushland right next to a freshwater creek. Even crazier, the interior is Instagram-perfect, styled with creams and timbers and dotted with green plants while a kitchenette, pristine bathroom, plush double bed, bathrobes, air-con, a dining area, coffee machine and curtains that close the transparent section of the dome, offer every creature comfort you could possibly expect from glamping.

There’s also an outdoor bathtub, fire pit and barbecue facilities to help you soak up the beauty that envelopes you, while an additional lounge setting, set right against the creek itself, provides prime real estate for indulging in scenic nothingness.

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3. Binna Burra Lodge

an aerial view of Binna Burra Lodge, Lamington National Park
Binna Burra Lodge is perched 800 metres above sea level. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: Binna Burra, Lamington National Park

Soaring high over mountain at 800 metres above sea level, Binna Burra Lodge is treated to some of the region’s dreamiest views. Its location, however, fell right in the path of destruction caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, so in June 2025, the hot spot was closed for repairs and renovations with a reopening date yet to be confirmed. When this Gold Coast glamping hot spot does get back on its feet, guests can definitely expect ultra-serene stays about an hour’s drive from Burleigh Heads.

Most of the original iterations featured private verandas, double beds, USB charging ports, dining tables and internal lighting — so they were very basic, to be fair — while the largest offered a private fire pit. Bathrooms and kitchen facilities were shared (watch this space on whether this key booking factor changes), plus you had to either bring your own linen or hire out a set. The price tag was the real MVP, offering overnights from under $100 per day.

When it’s time to eat, the on-site Binna Burra Tea House offers generous breakfast, lunch and dinner, and various barbecue packs filled with meat, veg and condiments should sort out every meal in between.

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4. Nightfall

a glamping tent in the middle of a forest at Nightfall, Lamington National Park
Hit reset in an exclusive eco-tent. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: Lamington National Park

Switch off and unwind at arguably the most exclusive glamping on the Gold Coast, Nightfall, located 90 minutes inland on the fringes of Lamington National Park. This is luxury immersed in astounding natural scenery, with just five tents situated within the entire property (it equates to no more than eight people staying on-site at once).

Ideal for couples, the 62-square-metre structures are fitted with timber flooring, vintage bathtubs, private fireplaces, kitchenettes stacked with snacks, rain-head showers, flushing toilets, and an abundance of plush boho-inspired bedding to keep you extra toasty in the cooler months.

The spoils just keep coming as all meals and beverages are catered for. Once the sun begins to sink, pre-dinner drinks are presented as cooks prepare organic meals utilising locally foraged ingredients and fresh produce from Brisbane, in a wood-fired oven housed within the camp kitchen. Best of all, dishes are completely customed to each guest’s particular tastes. Additionally, creek-side spa treatments can be arranged, as can private yoga sessions in the comfort of your tent. Phenomenal. Rates start from $985 per night.

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5. BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Where: Helensvale (near the Gold Coast theme parks)

Holidaying with the kids but keen to step up the fancy? BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park is the answer to family prayers, offering glamping on the Gold Coast accompanied by all the typical holiday park amenities children delight in. Located right near some of the Gold Coast’s best theme parks, the tents sleep up to six guests and feature kitchenettes, air-con, living and dining areas, private bathrooms and best of all, private decks with bathtubs overlooking a river.

When you step outside, extend your adventure at the insanely huge water park, swimming pool with daybeds, remote-control car track, frisbee golf, jumping pillow, licensed poolside cafe and more. Prices start from roughly $420 per night.

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6. Paradise Country Farmstay

a family arriving at Paradise Country Farmstay, Gold Coast
Paradise Country Farmstay offers a premium glamping experience for families. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Where: Oxenford

Make it a family holiday for the ages with a stay at Paradise Country Farmstay, offering eco tents from the team at Paradise Country, the coast’s epic Aussie farm experience. Glamping on the Gold Coast is rarely this kid-indulgent as full access to Paradise Country and its wildlife park is on offer, plus exclusive experiences like egg collecting, cow feeding and milking, campfire complete with marshmallow-topped twigs and unique animal encounters. The tents themselves, which also cater to couples, are beautifully appointed via polished timber furniture, deluxe bedding, private balconies and a refrigerator.

There’s also the Farmhouse Restaurant, a charming eatery housed within a converted shed, dishing up breakfast, pub favourites for lunch and a buffet dinner. The Burrow Café is also on hand for coffee and snacks. Glamping starts from $235 per night for couples and the price climbs for varied family options.

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7. NRMA Parks & Resorts’ Treasure Island Holiday Resort

Where: Biggera Waters

Another top-notch option for families hunting down kid-friendly activities is NRMA Parks & Resorts’ Treasure Island Holiday Resort, offering fun-filled glamping on the Gold Coast. Once again benefiting from holiday park facilities, including a massive splash zone, the park houses three playgrounds, four swimming pools with one featuring a waterslide, a giant bouncing pillow, daily kids’ club, go-kart and e-bike hire, a games arcade, mini golf and the Bear Grylls Survival Academy, which rivals the theme parks for thrills.

The tents themselves, which sleep up to four people, are great, offering large front verandas with dining tables and a barbecue, private bathrooms, kitchenette, lounge area and TV, and it’s extremely tidy and clean. Galleons Bistro, selling pizzas, burgers, and other hearty mains, is located right near the splash zone, so lunch and dinner are a cinch. Rates start from $166 per night.

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8. Ketchup’s Bank Glamping

the al fresco kitchen at Ketchup’s Bank Glamping, Gold Coast
Knapps Luxury eco-tents offer cosy lodgings with private al fresco kitchens. (Image: Supplied)

Where: Cannon Creek

Tucked high in the hills of the stunning Gold Coast hinterland, Ketchup’s Bank Glamping is a secluded oasis, 90 minutes from the Gold Coast, offering two glorious glamping tents. You’ll feel lightyears away from civilisation as views across the region’s lush rolling hills take your breath away and the sound of birds chirping and spectacular wildlife provide a soulful soundtrack.

Both the Ironbark Luxury and Knapps Luxury eco-tents offer comfortable, stylish lodgings with private al fresco kitchens stocked with utensils, plus private campfires, ensuites, internal bar fridges, dishwashers, Wi-Fi, and TVs. Various food hampers and charcuterie boards filled with seasonal produce can be purchased, providing romantics with the perfect accompaniments to sensational sunset gazing. Rates start from $319 per night.

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9. Southern Sky Glamping

Where: Mount Tamborine

Set in the lush tranquillity of Mount Tamborine, Southern Sky Glamping features luxury tents (including ones large enough to accommodate families up to five), each with its own flat-screen TV, dining table and private bathroom – not to mention a fully equipped kitchen so you can cook up your own meals.

You’ll have your own private seating area, but a large, heated pool (open outside of winter) and outdoor fire pit will likely draw you out of your cosy stay. Or, head a little further afield and discover the many hiking trails around this glamping experience on the Gold Coast.

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Tropical islands, good food & world-class shows: Your eventful guide to a holiday in Townsville

    Lee Mylne Lee Mylne
    Townsville is buzzing as the events capital of North Queensland, with a host of festivals, international sporting and arts events on offer.

    Perched between the Coral Sea, the towering pink monolith of Castle Hill, and fringed by ancient rainforest ranges, Townsville North Queensland is a genuine tropical playground.

    Here, find postcard-worthy landscapes all the way from nearby Magnetic Island to inland swimming holes and waterfalls – all dotted with an array of endemic wildlife. Get the heart racing with adrenaline water sports. Soak in a world-class arts scene. And take advantage of a culinary offering that punches well above its weight.

    And, then there’s the fact that Townsville has fast become the destination to an outstanding line-up of events – from live music to top-level sporting contests.

    Whether you have a weekend or weeks, there’s plenty here to fill your tropical getaway.

    Day 1: An eventful day

    Morning

    The Strand in townsville
    Explore The Strand.

    Daily flights offer easy connectivity from all capital cities to Townsville Airport, and within 10 minutes’ drive, you’re in the city centre. Start your stay by recharging with breakfast or coffee at the city’s newest spot, Botaniq Cafe, on the ground floor of the award-winning Bridgewater restaurant on the banks of Ross Creek.

    Start exploring on a breezy walk along the 2.5-kilometre foreshore of The Strand. Here, a waterfront path stretches all the way to the headland of Jezzine Barracks parklands. Admire more than 35 sculptures and artworks, as well as stunning views from the top of the park. Further along, Queens Gardens, established in 1870, offers a cool retreat and is Townsville’s oldest botanic garden.

    Stroll Gregory Street, off The Strand, for boutiques, homeware stores, cafes and restaurants, or follow a self-guided street art walking trail through the city centre, stopping to admire colourful works by big-name artists including Queenslander Fintan Magee.

    Afternoon

    concert in front of castle hill townsville events
    Time your trip for one of many Townsville events.

    For a casual lunch, stop in at Balabite for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired street food. Build your own pita with a choice of fillings, before enjoying a relaxing afternoon in preparation for one of Townsville’s big events.

    Whether it’s a concert from a big-name international band – think Foo Fighters or Guns ‘n’ Roses – or a night cheering on the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup, there’s plenty to entertain you.

    Time your visit for events like the Townsville Folk Festival (June 12-14), Supercars Townsville 500 (July 10-12), Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week (August 27-September 2), North Australian Festival of Arts (September 25 – October 11) or see the Wallabies in the Rugby World Cup (coming in 2027).

    Day 2: Island dreaming

    Morning

    Pilgrim Sailing magnetic island
    Take a lunchtime sailing trip with Pilgrim Sailing.

    Fuel up with breakfast at Cbar on The Strand, looking out to your destination for the day: Magnetic Island (or ‘Maggie’ to the locals). Catch a quick ferry to spend the day exploring walking trails through national park, choosing from 23 beaches and trying a hand at the island’s water sports.

    The Forts Walk is the best place to see wild koalas in Australia, and you’re likely to find friendly wallabies at the Nelly or Geoffrey Bay headlands. Try guided snorkelling with Aquascene Magnetic Island or Pleasure Divers, or take a land-based tour with MI Ride Discovery Tours to the secluded west coast of the island.

    Pilgrim Magnetic Island offers four-hour lunchtime sailing trips aboard a 58-foot luxury yacht, dropping in to some of Magnetic Island’s remote bays for snorkelling or swimming and including gourmet grazing platters, drinks and ocean views.

    Afternoon

    picnic bay on magnetic island
    Head to Picnic Bay for delicious dining.

    Refuel after a morning of adventure. Seasalt Arcade at Picnic Bay has several good options. Savour craft brews and Latin tapas at Maggie Island Brewery, opt for bagels and light bites at Lava Lava cafe or fine dining at Restaurant Elsie.

    Now, it’s time to choose your own adventure. Stay the whole day on Maggie, or return to Townsville, where there’s plenty more to discover.

    Head to The Docks at Flinders Street Wharves for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the beach or join Poseidon Adventures for water sport adventures.

    Evening

    Ardo's Rooftop townsville
    End your day watching the sunset from Ardo’s Rooftop.

    However your day looked, end it with cocktails and canapes at Townsville’s Ardo Rooftop. Find something more substantial at the hotel’s elegant but casual Chef-hatted Japanese restaurant Terasu, where each dish is a work of art.

    Day 3: Natural delights

    Morning

    couple holiding hands at the top of castle hill in townsville
    Join the locals for an early walk to the peak of Castle Hill. (Credit: My Colourful World)

    Join the local early morning pilgrimage to hike up Castle Hill for the best 360-degree views in town, before heading to breakfast at Spirited Goat for gourmet treats and locally brewed coffee.

    A trip to Townsville wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the outer Great Barrier Reef. For those with time, Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive runs full-day trips to the Museum of Underwater Art for snorkellers and divers to admire the reef’s stunning collection of submerged sculptures on John Brewer Reef, about two hours by boat from Townsville.

    Afternoon

    Shorehouse restaurant townsville
    Stop into the award-winning Shorehouse.

    Round off your Townsville getaway with lunch at Shorehouse, awarded Best Restaurant in the North Queensland People’s Choice Awards every year since 2023. Dine on the deck to catch the breeze and sample modern Asian cuisine as you watch the world go.

    Keen for something more to extend your stay? There are always more adventures –new, familiar and with a twist – in the events capital of the North.

    Plan your eventful visit to Townsville North Queensland at townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au.