The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Surfers Paradise, Queensland

Your home away from home reaches 22 floors above the central stretch of this stunning carpet of golden coastline. From your private balcony and large comfy bed, absorb panoramic Pacific Ocean views – there are also glimpses of surrounding canals and glistening skyline lights at night. Need more than beach walks and surf swimming? You’ve come to the right place. Hit the health club and four spa tubs to soak away the last of your work-weary woes. And when you’re revivified, the foreshore boulevard, beachside shopping, restaurants, bars, clubs and beachfront markets (three days a week) are mere metres away.

Relax, stay and play: you’ve got it all at your fingertips, from classy Cavill Avenue shopping, dining and nightlife to full-on Surfers Paradise beach action. This wholly renovated boutique hotel pays homage to its surrounding township and hinterland splendour: native plants, open facades and warm hardwood timbers bring the outside city and verdant mountain views in. Its Island Rooftop is the coast’s biggest, hosting lively entertainment, along with crafted cocktails, delicious bistro bites and scintillating views, all blessed with a relaxing al fresco atmosphere.

This resort-style accommodation is consummate beachside living, giving you a backdrop of shimmering sands, ocean blues, sparkling night lights and peaceful leafy mountain slopes. Chill out in the 41st floor rooftop garden and dining terrace with more breathtaking coastline to contemplate – sunrises and horizons mesmerise as you pound the 27th-floor gym, and chill on the exclusive resident’s sun terrace (with lounge). The pool, spa and barbecue terrace conspire to keep you idle – unless you’re determined to explore. If so, board the tram. Just two stops away are all your Orchid Avenue nightlife, shopping and foodie prayers answered.

It’s overshadowed by soaring skyscrapers, but this enduringly lovely boutique inn hasn’t lost its friendly, distinctive Gold Coast flavour. Historic images throughout nudge you to relive the golden days of the area. You’ll enjoy tastefully decorated rooms and modern conveniences as well as all-round old-fashioned hospitality – you’re welcome to take your Guinness from the bar back to your room if you wish. It’s de rigueur to splash around in the pool and nearby surf. When you need a change of pace, jump on the tram and head to Star Casino, the Pacific Fair shops, the Convention and Exhibition Centre, Broadbeach or Southport. The chances of your being bored? Zero.

You’re spoilt for choice when picking your room here – there’s everything from stylish king-size spaces to yawningly grand two-bedroom apartments. The perfect holiday combination of privacy (there’s a separate spa bath) and communal home comforts, this place is tailor-made for families. Whether you’re snuggled up between soft sheets, on your cosy couch or with your feet up on the balcony, you’ll scent the fresh air off the sea, complementing those ocean views. When curiosity beats the need to laze, step out – there’s a tram stop right by the front door.

Centrally positioned, this 17-storey property has been in business for well over a decade; on offer: deluxe, contemporary-styled, self-contained apartments with enviable river, beach or hinterland views. Relax on the recreation deck or drift away poolside – also in the outdoor spa. When hunger pangs start to gnaw, you’re in seventh heaven: there are tasty Italian and zesty Indian plates among the international creations in the lobby bar, café and restaurant. Or DIY and barbecue for the gang al fresco. Mere metres from Surfers and all its activities, there are awesome 360-degree views to gawp at from Q1 Skypoint Observation Deck across the road.

This former mid-century motel has been completely renovated, with light, bright and breezy contemporary interiors – right down to mini-kitchenettes that cater to individuals, couples and families. This is a sociable set-up – you’ll encounter other guests and invited friends at the communal lounge, kitchen, barbecue and outdoor dining areas. In the heat of the day, there’s cool relief to be had in the sparkling pool; or walk 350m (1,150ft) to feel the sand and surf tickle your toes. With the tram stop right outside, neither kids nor parents can moan of boredom – take yourselves down the strip to discover incomparable food, shopping and nightlife pizzazz.