5 Best Locations for Families on the Gold Coast

Planning a getaway to Australia? When you’ve got little ones in tow, it can be tricky to know where to book so that you can relax and unwind whilst ensuring you’re staying somewhere safe and can easily get around with kids. If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Gold Coast for families then you’re in luck. From Surfers Paradise to Coolangatta, we’re unpacking 5 of our favourite destinations across the ditch, and the best Gold Coast hotels where you can create the ultimate family vacay. 

The Gold Coast plays host to Australia’s Theme Parks, as well as striking beaches, high-quality cuisine, world-class shopping and a more relaxed way of living that supports easy access to all the major attractions. The Gold Coast Airport sits down near Coolangatta, on the border between Queensland and New South Wales and is your gateway to a region that is perfect for family getaways. With a host of amazing beachfront suburbs to choose from for your holiday, and exceptional Gold Coast family accommodation on offer, this will quickly become a favourite destination for your whānau. Oh, and don’t worry, these accommodation choices all contain air conditioning so you can cool off after being out in the Aussie sun! 

Best for: Shopping, Nightlife and Beach Activities 

The picturesque shores of Broadbeach sit between Surfers Paradise and Mermaid Beach and offer a sophisticated and stylish scene for your family holiday. Think white sand beaches, lifeguard-patrolled beaches, and playgrounds set in stunning parks that line the foreshore. It also plays host to the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre - an internationally favoured shopping complex. Broadbeach has a vibrant nightlife and festival scene, playing host to events like the Broadbeach Jazz Festival. If you’re lucky enough to have older children, or grandparents, on the trip who can mind the younger ones, then it’s a great spot for a late night cocktail or romantic dinner for two. It’s not hard to see why Broadbeach is such a desirable location for families to stay. 

Stay locally at the beautiful Sofitel Gold Coast. Not only is it cost-effective for families, but it boasts French-style accommodation that is mere steps from the beach with an elegant interior. The Sofitel Gold Coast boasts a focus on exquisite dining as well, meaning that you’ll be eating well while you stay here.  

The Oceana on Broadbeach is another quality solution. Offering you absolute beach front access, with fully maintained and comfortable apartments, you’ll have a blissful retreat with this beach escape. World-class dining awaits you, as does ease of access to local attractions, shopping centres and the beach.  

For another option, consider the Surfers Chalet Holiday Apartments which are situated between Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise. These self-sufficient apartments could be just the ticket if you’re looking for something cost effective where you can drop your stuff and head out to explore.

Best for: Access to Theme Parks 

As far as access to the Theme Parks goes, Labrador is one of the better destinations. Sitting between the waterfront and the Theme Parks, it gives you the best of both worlds to explore the parks by day but still enjoy the beach. This destination is perfect if you’re planning on a high octane holiday set at Dreamworld, Movieworld, or one of the water parks like Wet ‘n Wild. Labrador accommodation tends to be a bit more modest than some of the neighbouring suburbs, however for a family on a budget who wants to put their money towards special experiences, this is a great spot to stay. 

The Grand Apartments Gold Coast is convenient, right next to the beach and is a comfortable choice for your holiday. Think well maintained, spacious and stylish apartments that have the necessities you need for a comfortable holiday. This accommodation is best for lock up and leave travellers, who just need somewhere comfortable to lay low for the evening.  

Crystal Bay on the Broadwater is in the south-end of Labrador and is great for families. Whether you’re looking to visit Wet ‘n Wild, Sea World or Movie World, it is well placed to give you ease of access to the parks. Plus, it’s close to the beach and offers great access to restaurants and local shops for if you have some time to spare. Crystal Bay on the Broadwater offers you spacious rooms, with comfortable beds and will help ensure you’re well rested for your daily excursions. 

If you’re budget conscious, then the Pacific Coast Motel could be the spot for you. It’s modest and has basic amenities, but is centrally located and is clean and tidy so is great for families who perhaps want to save their money for merchandise at the parks, or a special experience. 

Best for: Beaches and Vibes 

It’s all in the name, really. Surfers Paradise is a literal paradise situated in the middle of the Gold Coast. A gorgeous white-sand beach coastline that stretches as far as the eye can see, with the shimmering teal waters of the Pacific Ocean rolling in. Ideal for those who love a beach with more personality, this destination is great for families who love to play in the sea or who love to surf. Plus, Surfers Paradise is the perfect backdrop for photos and instagrammable shots to look back on once you’re back from holiday! 

Consider staying somewhere like Rhapsody Resort where you’ll awaken to stunning views from your high rise apartment. By day you can take the kids to the beach or to the swimming pools, have a romantic rooftop dinner (or cocktails) with a loved one or recline in the stunning rooftop gardens - which the kids are sure to love. This generous Gold Coast family accommodation is a true gem that will give you striking views of Australia’s tropical coastline. 

Paradise Resort is another top notch choice for families to stay at. It miraculously captures that island resort-level excitement and escapism, right in the heart of the city, and with a focus on family fun and comforts, you’ll be able to have an amazing holiday even if you don’t leave the resort! The lagoon style swimming pool has a waterpark around it, plus there’s an ice-skating rink, kids club, and miniature trains. It’s no surprise it was voted Australia’s Best Family Resort 13 years in a row! Quite literally heaven for kids, and paradise for parents! 

If you’re seeking something a bit more laid back for your getaway, and would like to be across the road from the beach then perhaps The Shore Holiday Apartments might be more your style. Centrally located, and also just down the road from Sea World resort, and the other Gold Coast theme parks, these self contained apartments are ideal for lock and leave exploration. You can relax in comfort by evening, peruse the local restaurants and shorefront stores, and awaken refreshed each morning for another day of discovery. 

Best for: Relaxing and Rejuvenating 

Set along the Gold Coast highway and Australia’s east coast, Mermaid Beach is another cherished location for its easy access to the beach, fashionably, family-friendly surroundings and easier swimming. Mermaid Beach is great if you want to experience the Surfers Paradise beachline but don’t want to deal with the throngs of visitors that occupy its waters. Plus, it has a host of delicious dining choices, and is well positioned to help you leap into the more dynamic neighbourhoods like Surfers Paradise. 

A cost-effective accommodation choice is the Montego Mermaid Beach Motel. A 2-minute walk from the beach, this motel has all the basic amenities needed for a comfortable holiday. You can take advantage of the on-site cafe if you’re planning a lazy day around the swimming pool, use the laundry facilities (so you can pack lighter and clean things as you go), or explore the neighbouring streets to track down things to do like the Mermaid Beach Putt Putt.  

Turtle Beach Resort is one of the best family accommodation options, although it can be on the pricier side. Boasting four swimming pools, amazing water slides, a 22-seat cinema, 15-hole putt-putt mini-golf and a floodlit tennis court - amongst a host of other amazing things - it’s the ticket to crafting unforgettable family holidays. This accommodation offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom family-friendly accommodation and is designed to keep the whole family entertained! It’s also a short walk from Mermaid Beach, so whilst not the closest, is still comfortably within reach if you’re after a chance to stretch the legs. 

Montana Palms resort is another great option, set near the beach, providing comfortable apartments for you to stay in. With private balconies, well appointed furnishings and all the amenities you need to cook, clean and relax, this a great spot for those who are keen to keep costs low. It has free secure basement car parking for if you’re renting a vehicle, a fully equipped kitchen and a large tv in the lounge - because let’s face it, even on holiday downtime is important! 

Best for: Surfing, Apartments and Family-Friendly Beaches 

Known as the ‘surfing capital of the Gold Coast’, Coolangatta is renowned for its glorious beaches, relaxed family-friendly atmosphere and world-class surf breaks. Even more attractive than Surfers Paradise, for world-class surfers, Coolangatta is also great for non-surfers, with its numerous beaches catering to swimmers and sunbathers alike! Plus, it’s super close to the Gold Coast airport, allowing you to extend your time spent at the beach before you have to leave. 

When it comes to accommodation, you’ll find a lot of options in Coolangatta. In the centre of the action, you’ll find the Iconic Kirra Beach Resort, which is nestled on the shoreline and offers you breathtaking, jaw dropping views out across the ocean. The apartments are architecturally-designed to maximise ocean views from all balconies, and will help you maximise your comfort whilst you’re visiting! With 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments on offer, you’re sure to find one that can occupy the family unit! Plus, the Iconic Kirra is located near delicious restaurants meaning you’ll dine well during your stay.  

Reflections Coolangatta Beach offers well appointed apartments that are designed around comfort and relaxation. Set on the boundary line between New South Wales and Queensland, these 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments, as well as luxurious 4-bedroom skyhomes, are on offer to help the entire family stay comfortable, and it’s centrally located across the road from Greenmount Beach. Enjoy a relaxed stroll down to The Strand shopping precinct, discover world-class flavours and shopping bargains, or take the kids to the on-site pool. 

Just 10 minutes from the airport, the Mantra Coolangatta Beach is another quality option for your family getaway. Offering stylish apartments, and located on Marine Parade, you can look out over the numerous world-class surf beaches. By day you can go explore along the beach, or through the vibrant shopping and dining precincts located nearby, and by night you can enjoy the on-site pool, spa, sauna and BBQ area.

So, ready to package up the ultimate Gold Coast accommodation for your family? Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline of Surfers Paradise, or the remote rejuvenation of Coolangatta, our Travel Experts are here to help you get the most out of your getaway. Get in touch with us today, and let’s get you on an Aussie getaway sooner!