Not going to lie, booking into a hotel is maybe my favourite way to pretend there aren't dishes in my sink and too much laundry to do. Check into one of the best hotels Gold Coast/Kombumerri is home to, and the hands are dusted of, well, the dusting. Not to mention the epic experiences that await.
At Urban List, myself and the team are big fans of hotel accommodation on the Gold Coast. There are a bunch of beachside digs with ocean views, lush hideaways for ultimate relaxation and iconic high rises ft. luxury retreats.
The Gold Coast is the ultimate weekender destination or staycay locale, so whether you're a local or just visiting, myself and the team have rounded up the perfect places to rest your head and bliss out at. Here are 20 of the best hotels on the Gold Coast to rest your head at in 2025.
The Best Gold Coast Hotels At A Glance
Best Luxury Gold Coast Hotels
Mondrian
3 First Ave, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220
Undoubtedly the newest luxury hotel on the Gold Coast, the grand statement that is the Mondrian in Burleigh is incredibly luxe. Overlooking the sea, this 208-room hotel is adorned in tasteful finishes like terracotta arimchairs, red-Sicilian marble benchtops and light oak finishings.
While you're mere moments from Burleigh Heads' renowned dining scene, this high-end hotel is home to casual Italian dining-meets-daytime cocktail joint, LiTO. As well as sunset bar, pool club, and restaurant Haven. Where modern interiors and seaside romances collide, be one of the first to lay your head at Modrian. Book here.
The Langham
38 Old Burleigh Rd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
The Langham is tallest of the three eye-catching Jewel Towers in Surfers Paradise. Boasting 17 different types of elegant rooms and suites, direct beachfront access, panoramic ocean views and stunning Hinterland views, The Langham, Gold Coast and Jewel Residences offers a 5-star stay.
The grand 339-room luxury destination is the first hotel with direct beachfront access to be built on the Gold Coast in more than 30 years. The Langham is home to grandeur facilities including one of the hotel’s star attractions, a huge lagoon-style beachfront pool with a swim-up pool bar and Chuan Spa, a 5,300-square-foot holistic wellness retreat set with indoor and outdoor pools. Plus, a world-class lineup of six dining and bar venues, including T’ang Court, a the Michelin-starred restaurant. Book here.
The Darling
1 The Darling Ave, Broadbeach QLD 4218
"This place worth saving your pennies for and treating a darling in your life," says Urban List Editor Isabel Croker. Find The Darling at the front of The Star Gold Coast, 17 stories high in the sky, right in the heart of Broadbeach. "Get this—the deluxe suites have the choice of billiard rooms, a karaoke room or a private gym plus a butler." Isabel continues, while setting the bar high on the next date night. As if you wouldn’t already be feeling pretty lucky to be staying here, there is a bridge adjoining the hotel to the casino.
The infinity pool is also worth a special mention because it juts out five metres from the side of the building and is 67 metres above the ground with spectacular views of the coastline. You won’t have to leave your perch in the sky with Nineteen at The Star proving a delight to your senses, and most importantly, those taste buds. Book here.
Sheraton Grand Mirage
71 Sea World Dr, Main Beach QLD 4217
A roundup of the Gold Coast’s best hotels must include the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. This distinctive tropical oasis is set amongst six hectares of sparkling lagoons and lush gardens. The hotel oozes luxury—from the modern design to the opulent furnishings to the compelling art pieces, everything has been carefully selected to set the grandiose tone. Home to four award-winning restaurants and bars, I always struggle to choose where to dine, but the good news is, there's no wrong choice. Pro tip: treat yourself to a cocktail in the Oasis Pool’s swim-up bar. Book here
Dorsett Gold Coast
5 The Darling Ave, Broadbeach QLD 4218
Dorsett Gold Coast is Australia’s first Dorsett hotel, so when it opened its doors back in December 2021, it made a splash. Located within The Star, the stylish Dorsett boasts 313 chic hotel rooms all decked out with top-of-the-range appliances, sweeping coastline, ocean and hinterland views and king beds in every room.
Bonus: a stay here means you’ll have exclusive access to Isoletto Pool Club, a heated 12-metre rooftop infinity pool, direct connection to The Star and all its venues and the hotel’s Level 19 Executive VIP Lounge. I love that all of the hotel’s impressive artworks are designed by Gold Coast locals. Book in at one of the Gold Coast’s best hotels and I can basically guarantee you’ll be back again…and again. Book here.
Encore Broadbeach
36 - 38 Britannia Ave, Broadbeach QLD 4218
The good folks at Encore Broadbeach know what's up when it comes to stunning interiors, impressive facilities and damn good views. This boutique Gold Coast hotel homes around 40 units adorned with tasteful fitouts and bathrooms that literally overlook the Gold Coast hinterland.
Want insider intell on what to expect during your stay? Urban List Contributor Danielle Read notes that, "showering with an uninterrupted view of the Gold Coast hinterland is a pretty epic experience at Encore. Not to mention their idylic pool and small yet mighty gym. I mean come on, they even have a reformer bed." While this hotel is a little further back from the main drag, it's still reasonably close to the tram line, Broadbeach nightlife and beach. It's my pick for one of the lesser known Gold Coast hotels that seriously deliver on style. Book here.
qtQT Cabins
7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
One of the Gold Coast's newer accommodation experience, qtQT is a one-of-a-kind stay experience; an open-air, rooftop urban oasis hidden in the heart of Surfers Paradise with six luxury cabins that are giving serious tropical santuary energy. Sounds mysterious? It is.
The intimate qtQT cabins each feature a private balcony, ultra-luxe amenities and can accommodate two guests, all set within a lush green oasis. qtQT sets itself leagues apart from other Gold Coast accommodation with its curated experiences—you're not just staying in a hotel, you're designing your dream stay. Your personal 'Curator of Sunshine' will help you design your perfect retreat, with bespoke activities including the likes of rooftop yoga, sushi making and whisky tasting at Yamagen, and an exclusive SpaQ package. Hands down my pick for the best Gold Coast hotel experience if you want to feel worlds away but be super close to the Surfers Paradise nightlife. Book here.
You Might Also Like:
The Island
3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
The Island is an iconic venue with a vibrant, spacious and modern style that radiates luxury and relaxation. AKA it feels like paradise. Immerse yourself in The Island experience and stay in one of the 98 luxurious boutique rooms and suites, each with stunning views across either the Surfers Paradise CBD or the Gold Coast Hinterland.
Originally the first ever Surfers Paradise resort constructed back in the 1970s, this unique stay plays to its heritage while delivering seriously fresh suites a block-and-a-half from the beach. "These hotel rooms are some of the biggest on the Gold Coast," remarks Urban List Contributor Danielle Read. "We opted to stay here on our wedding night and the whole party did too. Everyone raved about their stay and I dub it one of the best hotels on the Gold Coast for groups. The booking was super easy to navigate."
Home to the Gold Coast’s biggest rooftop bar and sprawling alfresco patio, The Island Rooftop is bringing the cool back to the tourist precinct’s after-dark scene with DJs, a retro-styled cocktail bar, ample seating, nooks and one of the best Sunday sessions on the Coast. Stop looking for one of the Gold Coast’s best hotels in 2025, ‘cause you’ve found it here. Book here.
Gwinganna
192 Syndicate Rd, Tallebudgera Valley QLD 4228
If you’ve been answering ‘busy’ every time someone asks how you are, it might be time to book into Gwinganna Retreat for some R&R. Although technically not a hotel, this luxury getaway is soothing for the soul and completely customiseable to you. Stays incorporate wonderful wellness ways of living like delicious organic produce, tips on how to reduce stress, movement, relaxation and how to enhance healthier ageing.
In a society of speed and instant gratification, I reckon nothing's more invigorating and rejuvenating than going slow. Activities range from yoga and Pilates, to creative dance, hikes and boxing. When it comes time to rest your head, there are endless options including luxurious villas, meditation suites and quaint houses. Book here.
Best Gold Coast Resorts
JW Marriott
158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
JW Marriott in Surfers Paradise undertook massive renovations in 2020—$35 million dollars' worth to be exact. So what does a $35 million-dollars refurbishment look like? Well, we’re talking a total refresh of the 223 rooms and suites, as well as the Marriott’s two original restaurants, the lobby lounge and bar and pool bar.
JW Marriott's signature teppanyaki restaurant, Misono, showcases Japanese-inspired dining experiences, including an intimate izakaya, tearoom, sushi bar and a Japanese whisky bar with a stunning outdoor terrace—I'm happy to personally confirm that sipping Japanese whiskey while staring out into a Surfers Paradise sunset never gets old. Citrique, the Marriott's main restaurant, now features an interactive show kitchen, placing locally-sourced produce and seafood at the heart of its sublime daily menu. Stop the search for one of the Gold Coast's best hotels for dining and dreaming, 'cause you've found it. Book here.
Q1 Resort & Spa
9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
If you’re going to holiday in Surfers, you might as well go big, and it doesn’t get much bigger than the iconic—and 230 metre high—Q1 Resort & Spa. Australia’s tallest residential tower boasts state-of-the-art, self-contained apartments, capturing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the sparkling lights of the city and the lush green of the hinterland.
Level up the luxury and unwind at one of their three swimming pools, or indulge at the award-winning day spa. Hungry? They’ve got you covered there too with Osaka Kaiten for high-end Japanese cuisine or the Seventy7 Cafe for memorable sky-high dining. If you’re feeling adventurous, conquer the Skypoint Observation Deck Climb, which is Australia’s highest external building climb and boasts 360-degree panoramic views from a staggering 270 metres above sea level. Book here.
QT Gold Coast
7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
This quirky hotel smack bang in the middle of Surfers, is the perfect place to rest your head in the Gold Coast's party playground. QT has everything you could possibly want so you may not even step a foot outside. For starters it homes some of the best dining on the Coast. Including the modern Japanese eatery Yamagen, cocktail haven Stingray Lounge, and a cute café for your morning coffee fix. They’ve got a stunning pool and spa, as well as complimentary use of the retro cruiser bike so you can explore Surfers Paradise. This is one Gold Coast hotel you won’t want a one-night stand with. Book here.
Mercure Resort
64 Palm Meadows Dr, Carrara QLD 4211
'Where beach meets the hinterland' is the Mercure's mantra and it couldn't be more accurate. Nestled among a picturesque green-belt of golf courses in Carrara, the Mercure definitely takes things at a slower pace, while still only being a 10 minute drive from most Gold Coast hotspots. Mercure Resort is my pick fo the best Gold coast hotel for conferences and events, with several sprawling outdoor spaces, plenty of parking and a dedicated event planning team. Book here.
Best Gold Coast Motels
Blue Water Motel
129 Kingscliff St, Kingscliff NSW 2487
Just steps from Kingscliff Beach, Blue Water Motel is a stunning new-look boutique motel which I quickly fell in love with. Inspired by the laid-back, relaxed vibe of Kingscliff and with just a touch of retro cool, this 60's style boutique motel is a like-luxury stay, without the premium price tag.
Home to 17 uniquely designed rooms, Blue Water Motel also boasts a saltwater swimming pool, bike hire and it's dog friendly, so no one has to miss out. According to Urban List Editor, Isabel Croker, "this re-imagined nostaglic motel is casual, cool, and is the exactly where you want to be for your next family getaway, romantic trip, or honestly, any holiday. Once you venture inside, you'll feel the relaxing vibes wash over you, and you might just never want to leave." Book here.
La Costa Motel
127 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga QLD 4225
Okay, okay this is technically a motel, not a hotel but La Costa Motel this is one of my favourite spots to spend a night (or a few) on the Gold Coast. La Costa Motel has a retro, nostalgic feel complete with a white picket fence and colourful deck chairs in the courtyard, while the rooms are beautifully simple, they have everything you need for a comfortable vacay (and yes they include a minibar if you forget to grab something for a nightcap).
Urban List Contributor Danielle Read is a big fan of the surrounds and recommends pairing your Spanish-inspired stay ('La Costa' translates to 'the coast') with Spanish etas. "Make the most of your stay with at least one long arvo of sips and bites at nearby Lucia Tapas. The Papas Bravas with hot tomato sauce and aioli, and the vego paella are my go-to faves to share with friends." And for drinks? "I'm guilty of ordering the Chai Chica with chai, soy milk, a splash of spiced run and triple sec more times than I can count. It's topped with cinamon sugar and is an elite drop." When in Tuegs, am I right? Book here.
The Pink Hotel
171 Griffith St, Coolangatta QLD 4225
If the 'gram-worthy factor rates highly on your list of pros when looking for accomodation, then I've found the ultimate digs for you. Located on uber-cool Cooly beach, you can't miss this candy-pink hue hotel. The Pink Hotel boasts 17 stunning rooms, six of which are luxury suites each with its own identity. They're a mix of rockstar and retro-chic with a subtle touch of Scandi. Expect bright pops of colour mixed with dusty jewel tones.
"The Medusa Room has a private balcony, perfect for soaking up the Gold Coast sun on sweet deck chairs," says Urban List Contributor Danielle Read. "It was the coolest surprise the first time I booked this room with my husband, the website didn't mention it! We just keep booking this room because it's such a dreamy spot."
There’s fur throws, velvet rugs, custom neon-lit poetry by Coco Loberg and Smeg fridges stocked with Young Henry’s beers. When you’re ready to catch some of those gorgeous GC rays, head on upstairs to the rooftop where cabana beds await you, oh and some of the most incredible views of the coastline. Thirsty? Their rooftop bar Santeria will keep you refreshed with cocktails aplenty. Hungry? Head to dive bar Eddie's Grubhouse for burgs and wings. My top pick for the Gold Coast’s most Instagrammable hotel. Book here.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels
Mantra Circle On Cavill
9 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
Location, location, location is what Mantra Circle on Cavill is all about. Centrally located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, Mantra Circle on Cavill should be your go-to accommodation on the Gold Coast if you want to easily commute to all of the Gold Coast's top tourist attractions. The hotel itself is 69 storeys high and boasts a 12-seat theatrette, two lagoon-style pools, an indoor heated pool, a full gym and onsite parking. Mantra gets my vote as one of the best family-friendly hotels on the Gold Coast for its facilities and memory-making location. Book here
Iconic Kirra
76 Musgrave St, Coolangatta QLD 4225
You couldn’t get any closer to the world-class surf break, Kirra Point if you tried, making Iconic Kirra the perfect escape when you want to enjoy the serenity minus the Surfers Paradise crowds. Featuring ocean views from all apartment balconies, minimal yet spacious rooms, a heated pool with mini lap pool, on-site gym, and surrounded by cute cafes and ridiculously good restaurants, it’s the perfect place to book your next stay.
Kirra is the under-stated little sister of Coolangatta, but in my opinion both are worth exploring especially due to the wide variety of eating options in the Southern seaside 'burbs of the Gold Coast. View the sunrise from your bed and soak up that salty sea breeze at one of the Gold Coast's best hotels. Book here.
InterContinental Hotel Sanctuary Cove
Sanctuary Cove, Manor Cir, Hope Island QLD 4212
Call me old-fashioned, but when I'm looking for the best family-friendly hotel on the Gold Coast, I am also looking to the staff's assistance. And when I stayed at the InterContinetal Hotel in Sanctuary Cove, waitresses literally insisted on holding my baby while I indulged in the buffet breakfast, so that is a massive tick in my books.
Sure, you can opt for room service, but with four dining locales on-site, including the Lagoon Beach Club which overlooks a dazzling lagoon beach pool, it's well-worth venturing out. Suites range from homestead to Queenslanders, manors to marina view stays. Check it out and check-into this hotel on the Northern end of the Gold Coast. Book here.
RACV Royal Pines Resort
Ross St, Benowa QLD 4217
It's got a golf course, a day spa and a mushroom that gushes with water and fills kiddos with glee. Need I say more? RACV Royal Pines Resort has built a serious rep for being a family-friendly hotspot for visitors and luxury-loving locals alike.
The two bedroom family studio sleeps an impressive five guests, includes a kitchenette and lounge area. Along with Mediterranean dishes at Amici, modern Japanese eatery Arakawa and high tea locale Videre located 21 storeys up, this is undoubtedly my pick for making memories as a family with everything conveniently located in the same place. Book here.
Looking For More? Check Out:
Image Credit: Dorsett, Langham, qtQT, JW Marriot, QT Hotels, Brooke Darling Photography, Hayley Williamson Photography & Gwinganna
Contributors: Isabel Croker, Danielle Read
Urban List Best Of: has our highest stamp of approval—curated lists of the very best recommendations for you to eat, do, see, buy or book, carefully chosen by our Editors.