The Best Gold Coast Hotels for an Incredible Oceanfront Holiday

If you’ve got kids, the only thing they’d love more than a trip to a theme park would be staying in the theme park itself. This family-friendly resort is just next to all the fun and excitement of Sea World, but still retains all the style and facilities mum and dad need to also enjoy the break. Choose from six restaurants each night – including the award-winning Hatsuhana Japanese and waterfront Boatshed Grill.

Located in Surfers Paradise, QT combines the glitzy glam of the modern Gold Coast experience with the laidback surfer charm of days gone by. It’s a comfortable, stylish escape that greatly appeals to younger travellers who value quality design. QT is also home to dining options – Stingray Lounge, Bazaar Restaurant and FIXX Cafe – that have the food critics taking notice. Take full advantage of the on-site spa; the skin rescue package is perfect if you’ve spent a little too much time in the sun.

No hotel better embodies the Gold Coast attitude than Palazzo Versace. A favourite with holidaying celebrities and holidaymakers who long to be celebrities, this marble and glass palace oozes the very best in gaudy luxury. Slink away to the privacy of your own condo, complete with private plunge pool or hot tub. If you’re staying on the weekend, don’t miss the live music, including jazz and piano tunes from Cassidy Wilson.

A luxury escape in the Hinterland, Pethers is a collection of secluded tree houses surrounded by lush rainforest. Enjoy indulgent spa treatments under the leafy canopy on your private deck, or while away the hours in your hot tub. Organise a romantic picnic to enjoy under the avocado orchard with your other half, or watch the sunrise from a private hot air balloon ride. It’s no wonder this hotel is a favourite with couples.

If your holidays are all about the kids, treat them to the water park, ice rink, rock-climbing wall, adventure playground and countless other fun activities on site at this award-winning family resort. They’ve even got themed rooms with a colourful bunkhouse, ready for the kids to play mayhem in. Food offerings are very child friendly – from Jerry’s Burger Bar to Deb’s Pizza Shack. September to April also means poolside movie nights, complete with popcorn and treats.

The Star Gold Coast is one for the blackjack players and roulette-lovers, because this five-star hotel doubles up as one of Gold Coast’s largest casinos, with 70 tables and 1,400 slot machines. It’s more than a casino though, as the hotel has 596 luxury rooms with views over the beach or Hinterland. Unwind around the outdoor swimming pool and book in for a session at the Azure Spa & Fitness centre. There are five bars and five restaurants to choose from (it is a five-star hotel, after all).

Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise takes luxury beachfront living to another level, with high-rise apartments, ocean views and a superb location on the Esplanade. Apartments are all equipped with private balconies, but splash out on the penthouse suite and you’ll have your own private plunge pool high above Surfers Paradise. Prepare your own dinners in the apartment, or head down to Hyde Paradiso, the hotel’s own private beach club, where you can enjoy gourmet food and ice-cold cocktails.

The Island Boutique Hotel is a luxury establishment, inspired by the glorious outdoor nature of Queensland. Located just a few steps back from the Esplanade, The Island Boutique Hotel has 98 highly rated rooms, designed with Queensland hardwood timbers and offering expansive vistas from the balconies. The Island Rooftop bar and restaurant is bright and airy, lush with greenery and plants, while Goldie’s bistro serves up burgers, seafood and steaks, all sourced locally.

Voco Gold Coast is one for the upmarket surfers because this hotel radiates a laid-back luxury vibe across its 389 rooms and suites. Head to the Social House Cafe to mingle with fellow travellers while digging into their menu, packed with coffee and cocktails. Try the Decadent High Tea experience or book a table at Clifford’s Grill and Lounge for simple steak and seafood grills.

With one, two or three-bedroom luxury apartments, the Artique Resort is perfect for travellers looking for longer-term Gold Coast accommodation, just moments from the beach. Here, every apartment is fully equipped with in-room entertainment and cooking facilities, but it’s the three-bedroom penthouse with ocean views and marble floors that takes top spot. The resort features an outdoor pool, sauna and steam room, as well as outdoor electric barbecues.

The Darling Gold Coast is one for the spa-lovers because there are 11 massage rooms on site, along with a Moroccon-inspired hammam, unique Kinesis Wall and gym facilities, plus a pool, sauna and steam room. With just 56 luxury rooms, each one has its own sleek, modern design curated to promote wellbeing. The hotel is located within the Star complex, where you can find a casino, bars, shopping, Japanese restaurants and steakhouses.

Designed to help you recharge and relax, the staff at this Hinterland eco-resort will pamper you with massages, luxury spa treatments, organic dining and wellness seminars. The stunning views over the mountains will probably also help to restore your inner peace. Choose from two- to seven-night retreats while staying in one of the super chic Meditation Suites (with an in-house yoga mat and meditation cushion) or cosy Mimosa House with a pot belly stove for colder nights.