The Best Beach Hotels to Book on Australia's Gold Coast

Ultiqa Air on Broadbeach is just one of the striking Gold Coast beach hotels and apartments that await
Ultiqa Air on Broadbeach is just one of the striking Gold Coast beach hotels and apartments that await | Courtesy of Ultiqa Air / Expedia
Nannette Holliday

Queensland’s Gold Coast is renowned worldwide as a beachfront hotspot. It’s home to long stretches of shimmering sands, ultra-relaxed vibes and the top three theme parks in Australia. Throw in popular rooftop bars and a renowned culinary scene and it’s easy to see why this is such a popular area. Naturally, there’s an array of striking Gold Coast beach hotels and apartments – check them out with Culture Trip’s list of the best beach hotels to make your home on this iconic strip, all bookable today.

1. Sky-home luxury at Peppers Broadbeach

Apartment

King bedroom with tufted headboard, tan carpeting and sliding doors to balcony with full ocean view
Courtesy of Peppers Broadbeach / Expedia

This luxury spot offers something to suit all your desires, from a one-bedroom suite to three-bedroom sky homes and penthouses. Whatever you choose, you’ll be enveloped in cutting-edge premium accommodation with unparalleled ocean views. Enjoy spa pampering or zone out in the resort’s theatrette, Zen garden, or tai chi lawn. Check out the charge-back arrangements they have with some dining establishments outside the resort.

2. Q1 Resort and Spa Surfers Paradise, for high-altitude breakfasts

Resort, Hotel, Apartment

Immense open-plan apartment with off-white leather couches, yellow armchairs and long row of floor-to-ceiling windows with ocean views
Courtesy of Q1 Resort and Spa / Expedia

Inspired by Sydney’s Olympic torch and Opera House, this was once Australia’s tallest residential tower. There’s nothing this iconic landmark doesn’t have, as it melds elite, elegant and modern full-sized apartments and penthouses with three swimming pools, a trophy-garnering day spa, gym, delectable gastronomic precincts with 360-degree views and family-friendly recreational facilities hidden amongst tropical landscaping. Days begin with breakfast in the observation deck on the 77th level, and the underground car park is complimentary – another rarity.

3. Family fun at Ultiqa Air on Broadbeach

Apartment

Large corner apartment with dark leather couch, tile floors, large dining table and floor-to-ceiling sliding doors to wraparound balcony with ocean views
Courtesy of Ultiqa Air on Broadbeach / Expedia

These ultra-modern boutique apartments are creating a new standard of beachfront luxury accommodation on Broadbeach. Get romantic in the cosy one-bedroom suites or celebrate with friends and family in a four-bedroom apartment with picturesque ocean views. All requirements are catered for – relax in the heated lap pool, heat up in the sauna and barbecue dinner in the dedicated area, then hit the gym to burn it all off.

5. Wine on your balcony at Avani Broadbeach Residences

Hotel

Snug modern bedroom with king bed, charcoal carpeting, bright artwork and floor-to-ceiling windows
Courtesy of Avani Broadbeach Residences / Expedia

Guests here will wake up to golden sunrises and ocean stardust from a premier ocean suite. This five-star spot is light, bright and airy with views stretching up and down the coastline as far as the eye can see. Take it all in while sipping a wine or coffee on your private balcony. Outside your door, you’ll find epic surf, 17km (11mi) of soft sandy beach, sensational dining options and no end of designer shops.

6. Voco Gold Coast, for eco-aware care

Chain Hotel

Voco Gold Coast marine-blue lobby with pendant lighting and polished tile floors
Courtesy of Voco Gold Coast / Expedia

This landmark property (former Watermark Hotel) in the heart of Surfers Paradise is unique. Mere steps from the beach – and the tram station – this spot has everything you need and more. Built on sustainability, the indulgent bedding is made of 100 percent recycled material, while aerated shower heads use less water but still invigorate. All bathroom amenities are from plant-friendly ingredients. The coffee brand is sustainable with compostable takeaway cups, and resident rooftop bees provide the signature honey and “welcome” lavender shortbread.

7. Shop 'til you drop at Qube Resort Broadbeach

Apartment, Hotel

Outdoor wooden deck with large jacuzzi, arch-shaped shower and views of city
Courtesy of Qube Resort Broadbeach / Expedia

Ideally suited for a weekend getaway or more extended family holiday, this beachside destination is where you dream of waking up when you’re working hard and knackered. Rising 40 floors, it has opulent apartment residences beginning at level five. Each is a cocoon of sumptuous comfort with sweeping coastline views, a secure underground car park and access to the residents’ recreation deck. It’s also home to a vibrant retail plaza and surrounded by many celebrated wining, dining and entertainment venues. Not enough for you? The tram stop is opposite, so you can easily go explore some more.

8. QT Gold Coast, for luxurious lounging

Hotel

QT Gold Coast lobby area with bright pops of colour hanging dome lights and pale wood floors
Courtesy of QT Gold Coast / Expedia

Distinctively different, this outpost of the QT hospitality brand had bold designer rooms that are rich in scenic coastal luxury, popping with colour and brimming with energy. The salty breezes are easy to inhale from your private balcony – even from your lavish king bed. Lather your body in Kevin Murphy bathroom amenities, check out the glistening seascape from your marble spa in a sub-penthouse or go to the max with a night or three in the double-storey penthouse, also with sprawling balconies and entertaining areas. Don’t forget to nourish the body and mind with a therapeutic or signature treatment at spaQ.

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