Are you planning a trip to the Gold Coast and seeking the perfect accommodation? Look no further! In this article, I’ve curated the ultimate list of the very best Gold Coast accommodation for families, making your decision-making process a breeze
Located in the south-east corner of Queensland the Gold Coast has outgrown its reputation of the glitter strip on the beach to a diverse haven for holidaymakers. Its diversity from golden sandy beaches to the lush tropical hinterland is what draws around 13 million visitors per year from all parts of Australia.
An undeniable attraction of the Gold Coast is the glorious weather that you can experience year-round. The balmy temperatures mean you can spend more time outside basking in the outdoors, which is also where you will find many of the fabulous activities and attractions.
If you landed on this page hoping to find family accommodation on the Gold Coast then you’re in the right place! Hotels, serviced apartments, rental homes, resorts, caravan and holiday parks – the types of accommodation are endless. With many choices, the task of selecting where to stay can become time-consuming and stressful, which is why I have created this list.
Continue reading to find my shortlist of the best holiday accommodation on the Gold Coast
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclaimer for more information.
This article was updated in April 2024
Featured Image © Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort and Spa Gold Coast
Table of Contents
Best Area to Stay in Gold Coast for Families
When searching for accommodation the Gold Coast has many neighbourhoods and choosing the best one is dependent on what you plan to see and do in the city.
If you have a preferred location and budget, you will be sure to find something on the Gold Coast to suit your needs.
Here is a breakdown of some popular neighbourhoods on the Gold Coast.
Surfers Paradise
Surfers Paradise is possibly the most recognised place on the Gold Coast if not in Queensland. A hot spot on the Gold Coast since the early 1900s the beachside location is where you will find many popular tourist attractions, dining outlets and an enthusiastic social scene.
The new foreshore that runs parallel to the beach is a brilliant place for a walk or scooter ride. Every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday the strip is transformed between 4.00 pm and 9.00 pm for the Surfers Paradise beach markets.
You will find an enormous amount of accommodation options in this area from Gold Coast accommodation apartments to luxurious hotels.
Broadbeach
Broadbeach or “Broadie” as it is affectionately known by locals is only 10 minutes south of Surfers Paradise and fast becoming the place to stay due to its location. Kurrawa Beach is a popular drawcard for families as it is framed by large green parks and is close to children’s playgrounds.
The Oasis Shopping Centre has specialty stores along with casual dining. Alternatively, take a short trip to Pacific Fair – Australia’s largest retail centre for some serious shopping, or to visit the cinemas.
Main Beach
North of Surfers Paradise is where you will find some of the Gold Coast’s luxurious accommodation options. Visit Marina Mirage the area’s exclusive shopping centre filled with boutique outlets and modern restaurants and cafes.
This is also where you’ll discover the renowned Sea World theme park. If you’re tempted by a barbecue along the Broadwater, head to the Southport Spit at the end of Sea World Drive
Mermaid Beach
Mermaid Beach is the quieter suburb compared to its next-door neighbour – Broadbeach. Primarily a residential neighbourhood, home to the exclusive millionaires’ row (Hedges Avenue). You will not go hungry when you are staying in Mermaid Beach with an array of dining options and many different cuisines to tantalise all taste buds.
Coolangatta
The Gold Coast’s most southern suburb is a popular beachside location with Greenmount, Snapper Rocks, and Rainbow Bay not only offering world-class surfing conditions but ideal swimming areas.
Coolangatta is a favourite location with families with lots of green spaces, walking trails and playgrounds dotted along the beachfront.
Continue reading to find where to stay on the Gold Coast with kids.
Which Booking Engine to Use for Gold Coast Accommodation
I’ve added Booking.com links in this article because it’s a trusted platform for online accommodation bookings. While there are numerous websites for booking accommodation, based on my experience, I recommend sticking to one or two.
Booking.com has a user-friendly interface, helpful guest reviews, and transparent policies that make booking easy and worry-free.
Accommodation Features to Consider
What’s important to you when looking for accommodation?
Consider the following list.
Price: Do you have a budget?
Before you start searching for accommodation, know your budget. This may, in turn, narrow down your options and prevent you from spending more than you want.
Accommodation type/size: How many guests are travelling and how many rooms do you require?
Some hotels and resorts offer accommodation for two adults and two children, allowing them to share existing bedding provided the children are below a certain age. However, if you have older children or prefer more space, an apartment might suit your preferences.
Facilities: How much time will you be spending at your accommodation?
Consider what facilities are important to you during your stay. The star rating serves as a useful indicator, with a four or five-star rating indicating that a property has a wide range of facilities and superior guest service.
Location: The locality of your accommodation can influence your experience and is a crucial factor to consider.
Will you have a form of transport on your trip or do you need to use public transport? Are you seeking accommodation within walking distance of attractions and dining options?
Dining: Are you foodies?
Do you like to dine out, eat on the run or prepare a home-cooked meal? Either way, research the dining options in the area where you will be staying.
Other: Do you need the convenience of Wi-Fi? Will you require car parking?
Check if there are extra costs associated with these options.
Summary of Gold Coast Family Accommodation
Don’t have time to read through the entire article right now? No worries! I’ve got you covered. Take a look at my shortlist below for some recommendations.s
Luxury Gold Coast Accommodation
- Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort and Spa: Beachfront 5 star Resort
- JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa: 5 star Hotel with Lagoon Pool
Mid-Range Accommodation
- Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise: Beachfront Apartments in Surfers Paradise
- RACV Royal Pines Resort: Family-Friendly Resort
Comparison Chart of the Best Family Resorts Gold Coast
Before I go into detail on hotels, apartments and the best gold coast resorts for families, the below table is a way to compare each of them and their important features.
The review rating was collected from Booking.com at the time of publication and is subject to change.
| Name | Location | Accommodation Type | Review Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meriton Suites Broadbeach | Broadbeach | Apartment / Hotel | 9.1 | Check Rates |
| RACV Royal Pines Resort | Benowa | Resort | 8.8 | Check Rates |
| Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise | Surfers Paradise | Apartment / Hotel | 8.7 | Check Rates |
| Rhapsody Resort | Surfers Paradise | Resort | 9 | Check Rates |
| Sea World Resort and Water Park | Main Beach | Resort | 8 | Check Rates |
| Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise | Surfers Paradise | Apartment / Hotel | 8.8 | Check Rates |
| Mercure Gold Coast Resort | Carrara | Hotel | 8.6 | Check Rates |
| Q1 Resort and Spa | Surfers Paradise | Resort | 8.5 | Check Rates |
| Mantra Circle on Cavill | Surfers Paradise | Apartment | 8.5 | Check Rates |
| Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort | Main Beach | Luxury Resort | 8.5 | Check Rates |
| JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa | Surfers Paradise | Luxury Hotel | 8.7 | Check Rates |
| InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort | Hope Island | Resort | 8.4 | Check Rates |
| BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park | Helensvale | Holiday Park | 8.6 | Check Rates |
Keep reading below for the full information on each property.
Best Place to Stay in Gold Coast for Families
Meriton Suites Broadbeach
The Meriton Suites Broadbeach are one of the most popular accommodation options in this area.
Ideally located opposite The Star Gold Coast and the Gold Coast’s major shopping centre – Pacific Fair. Just a quick 5-minute stroll in the other direction is the beach.
The Gold Coast light rail is directly in front of Pacific Fair Shopping Centre which gives you the option of travelling to other parts of the Gold Coast if you don’t have a vehicle.
The contemporary 1,2, or 3-bedroom suites are perfect for a family holiday and include all the modern essentials you would find in a luxury apartment.
After a day of sightseeing, you can opt for either their outdoor or indoor pool to relax and unwind.
- Location: Broadbeach
- Accommodation Type: Apartment / Hotel
- Swimming Pool: Yes – 1 outdoor and 1 indoor
- Dining Options: Restaurants within walking distance
- Car Parking: Yes – charges apply
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Fitness Centre, 24-hour front desk
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
RACV Royal Pines Resort
Experience the brilliance of a spacious and luxurious resort, conveniently located just 12 minutes to the west of popular beaches and Surfers Paradise. Nestled within landscaped gardens, RACV Royal Pines Resort offers amenities catering to every family member.
If you’re seeking a comprehensive resort experience, then RACV Royal Pines Resort might be the ideal choice.
Over the years RACV Royal Pines Resort has introduced amenities geared towards children’s entertainment, such as a covered playground featuring a massive jumping pillow, a lagoon pool complete with 3 water slides, and a kids’ splash zone.
- Location: Benowa
- Accommodation Type: Resort
- Swimming Pool: Yes – 2 outdoor plus splash park
- Dining Options: Restaurants onsite, including Japanese and Italian.
- Car Parking: Yes – free self car parking
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Day Spa, 24-hour front desk
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise
Located directly on the Surfers Paradise Esplanade is the award-winning 5-star Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise.
The 75-storey building is one of the Gold Coast’s newest accommodation venues. Thanks to its prime beachfront setting, many suites offer uninterrupted vistas of the beach and ocean.
Each suite has a full gourmet kitchen, laundry facilities, and unlimited free Wi-Fi.
The Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise is close to the dining and shopping precinct along Cavill Avenue, as well as public transport if you wish to explore further afield.
- Location: Surfers Paradise
- Accommodation Type: Apartment / Hotel
- Swimming Pool: Yes – 1 outdoor and 1 indoor
- Dining Options: Restaurants within walking distance
- Car Parking: Yes – charges apply
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Beachfront, 24-hour front desk, Fitness Centre
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Rhapsody Resort
Established in May 2016, Rhapsody Resort is only a short walk from the Surfers Paradise beaches.
Rhapsody Resort offers studio, 1, or 2-bedroom accommodation options. All rooms are self-contained and include a full kitchen and laundry facilities. If you prefer to leave the cooking and cleaning to when you get home Rhapsody Resort is a short stroll to the Surfers Paradise dining precinct.
This resort has been created with the Gold Coast weather in mind. Level 27 offers a lounge and an outdoor sun terrace complete with spectacular ocean views. The rooftop – level 41, is a unique sky deck with a communal market garden and private relaxation area.
The Rhapsody Resort includes a tour desk to help plan your activities and they provide airport shuttle service for your convenience.
- Location: Surfers Paradise
- Accommodation Type: Resort
- Swimming Pool: Yes – outdoor
- Dining Options: Restaurants within walking distance
- Car Parking: Yes – free self car parking
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Beachfront, Fitness Centre
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Sea World Resort
Sea World Resort has consistently been chosen as Australia’s top family resort by readers of Holidays with Kids Magazine.
The resort’s top drawcards would be its direct access to Sea World theme park and family-friendly facilities. The resort is located a short drive from beaches, shopping and dining outlets.
There are lots of fun kids’ activities at Sea World Resort including a SpongeBob light show and aqua play each evening near the water play playground. The kids can also meet their favourite Nickelodeon character during your stay.
If you plan to visit the Gold Coast theme parks, Sea World Resort offers special accommodation deals that include entry tickets.
- Location: Main Beach
- Accommodation Type: Resort
- Swimming Pool: Yes – outdoor plus splash park
- Dining Options: Restaurants onsite
- Car Parking: Yes – free self car parking
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Fitness Centre, 24-hour front desk, Day Spa
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise
There is no missing this beachfront accommodation venue when you are in Surfers Paradise. Located on the Surfers Paradise Esplanade the building rises 77 stories making it one of the Gold Coast’s tallest towers.
You will find stylish 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments flooded with natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Each of the apartments offers uninterrupted views over the ocean and hinterland, a fully equipped gourmet kitchen, and laundry facilities.
You can enjoy the outdoor pool and spa that overlooks the Surfers Paradise beach and take advantage of the barbeque facilities set in sub-tropical gardens.
- Location: Surfers Paradise
- Accommodation Type: Apartment / Hotel
- Swimming Pool: Yes – 1 outdoor and 1 indoor
- Dining Options: Restaurant onsite and others in walking distance
- Car Parking: Yes – charges apply
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Beachfront, Fitness Centre,
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Mercure Gold Coast Resort
The Mercure Gold Coast Resort is a hidden gem, perfectly suited if you want to escape the busy Gold Coast hot zones yet close enough to visit them at your leisure.
Set beside the picturesque Palm Meadows Golf Course, the resort is cocooned on 10 acres of open spaces, lush greenery, and tropical gardens which offer a sense of tranquillity within an exotic ambience.
You have the choice of doing as much or as little as you wish with a wide range of facilities available, including two outdoor pools and two full-size tennis courts.
The resort also has a large field area (The Green) near the tennis courts that can be utilised for your entertainment; kick a ball, throw a frisbee, take a picnic lunch down on the grass and let the kids run around.
Sports fans have the best opportunity when travelling to support their NRL and AFL teams with Cbus Super Stadium and Metricon Stadium just around the corner.
- Location: Carrara
- Accommodation Type: Hotel
- Swimming Pool: Yes – outdoor
- Dining Options: Restaurants onsite
- Car Parking: Yes – free self car parking
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Fitness Centre
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Q1 Resort and Spa
Enjoy the uninterrupted views in Australia’s tallest residential tower. Q1 Resort and Spa is ideally located within short walking distance of Surfers Paradise Beach, Cavill Avenue and many other attractions in Surfers Paradise.
Set amidst one hectare of tropical grounds, you can enjoy modern apartments and have access to world-class facilities. These facilities include a heated indoor lap pool, two lagoon swimming pools, a day spa, BBQ facilities, and a mini movie theatre.
For unsurpassed 360-degree views of the Gold Coast from north to south visit the Q1 Observation Deck on level 77 (fees apply).
- Location: Surfers Paradise
- Accommodation Type: Resort
- Swimming Pool: Yes – 2 outdoor and 1 indoor
- Dining Options: Restaurants onsite and within walking distance
- Car Parking: Yes – free self car parking
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Fitness Centre, Day Spa, Bar
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Mantra Circle on Cavill
One of the top choices for families on the Gold Coast due to the options of fully self-contained apartments, three outdoor pools, and a children’s playground. It is also conveniently located only 8 minutes (walk) from the beach.
Mantra Circle on Cavill offers contemporary apartments featuring balconies, fully furnished kitchens, dining spaces, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms equipped with spa baths.
Some apartments also provide stunning ocean views.
- Location: Surfers Paradise
- Accommodation Type: Apartment
- Swimming Pool: Yes – outdoor
- Dining Options: In walking distance
- Car Parking: Yes – Fees apply
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Fitness Centre
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast
The Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort is where you can choose to do as much or as little as you desire. Repeat guests would tell you it is more than a place to stay; it ispremier accommodation at its finest.
A blend of modern aesthetics with a tropical vibe, the resort is only a stone’s throw from the Marina Mirage shopping mall consisting of over 70 specialist shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Set amongst 6 hectares of tropical splendour, the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort offers spacious accommodation rooms that are surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons.
Located on Main Beach on the northern end of the Gold Coast it offers you direct access to a patrolled beach year-round. Watch the sunrise over the ocean, take a stroll along the golden sands or swim in the waves.
- Location: Main Beach
- Accommodation Type: 5-star Resort
- Swimming Pool: Yes – outdoor
- Dining Options: Restaurants onsite
- Car Parking: Yes – charges apply
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Beachfront, Fitness Centre, Bar
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa
As soon as you enter the front doors of the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort and Spa, you feel a sense of calm sophistication.
There are many beautiful features in the main area of the resort and the feeling of grandeur is spread throughout the property.
In need of respite after a day of sightseeing on the Gold Coast, the resort has five-star facilities to meet all your needs.
The saltwater lagoon is one of the highlights and a centrepiece of the resort. You will have the unique opportunity to swim and snorkel in a dedicated lagoon pool filled with over 300 tropical fish. The aquatic playground also includes an outdoor spa, a lazy river freshwater pool, a waterslide for the kids, and many places to relax poolside and watch the day fade away.
- Location: Surfers Paradise
- Accommodation Type: Luxury Hotel
- Swimming Pool: Yes – 2 outdoor
- Dining Options: Restaurants onsite
- Car Parking: Yes – charges apply
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Fitness Centre, Day Spa, Bar
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
This sophisticated 5-star Resort is nestled in picturesque surroundings. The Gold Coast theme parks, such as Dreamworld and Movie World are only a 15-minute drive away. Additionally, destinations like Mount Tamborine are easily reachable within 30 minutes.
The generously appointed hotel-style rooms offer either lush garden views or tranquil water vistas.
You have the option to unwind in the luxury of a saltwater beach lagoon pool or partake in a round of golf at one of the two world-class championship golf courses available.
For dining and shopping experiences, The Marine Village is located close by with over 80 restaurants, cafes, and boutique stores.
- Location: Hope Island
- Accommodation Type: Resort
- Swimming Pool: Yes – 2 outdoor
- Dining Options: Restaurants onsite
- Car Parking: Yes – free self car parking
- Other: Free Wi-Fi, Fitness Centre
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
Set over 32 acres of sub-tropical gardens the BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park is located across the road from Movie World, Wet’N’Wild, Outback Spectacular, Top Golf and only a 5-minute drive from Dreamworld.
A huge (literally!) attraction is the water park which includes 6 slides a tipping bucket and lots of fun! For something a little more low-key there is a resort-style heated pool with oversized day beds nearby. As this is a licenced area the adults can relax under the shady cabanas, order a beverage and watch the kids play.
For extra entertainment, there is a giant jumping pillow and lots of outdoor activities including frisbee golf, table tennis, bocce, and an outdoor basketball court. Take the kayaks or cast a line in Saltwater Creek that runs through the property.
The BIG4 is also pet-friendly and provides a large leash-free dog park, along with dog-washing services and dog-sitting.
- Location: Helensvale
- Accommodation Type: Holiday Park
- Swimming Pool: Yes – outdoor plus water park
- Dining Options: Restaurant onsite
- Car Parking: Yes – free self car parking
- Other: Free Wi-Fi
CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Note: Every effort has been taken to ensure the above information is accurate at the time of publication. The information on each property is subject to change. Images are supplied by the accommodation venue unless stated otherwise.
Top Things to do on the Gold Coast
To help you plan the perfect trip to the Gold Coast, here are 10 of the best things to do:
- Visit the glorious Gold Coast beaches.
- Take a day trip to the Scenic Rim and go for a hike, or visit the shops along Gallery Walk.
- Discover the unspoilt beauty of the Gold Coast National Parks.
- Have fun at the many playgrounds dotted around the city.
- Meet the cute, cuddly, scaly and feathered wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Stop in at one or all of the Gold Coast theme parks for a jam-packed fun day out!
- Pick up some fresh produce at one of the working farms on the Gold Coast.
- Visit the local attractions in Surfers Paradise such as Infinity, iFLY and Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
- Get a bird’s eye view of the Gold Coast from the SkyPoint observation deck.
- Shop up a storm at the local markets, shopping centres, and speciality boutiques.
Ready to Book your Stay?
I believe that the Gold Coast is one of the best destinations to visit in Australia.
As you have read there are many places to choose from when you visit the Gold Coast from holiday parks, apartments, hotels, and Gold Coast family resorts. Hopefully, with this list, your family will be able to find the perfect stay!
I hope you enjoyed the above accommodation guide! If you need further assistance with planning your Gold Coast holiday, make sure to check out the below articles as well.
Have a Question? Let me know in the comments below
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which may reward us with a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through them. Thanks for supporting the blog in this way as it allows me to continue sharing helpful content with you.
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