Gold Coast vacation rentals

When you're on the Gold Coast, you're home

What would the world be without the magnificent Gold Coast in Queensland? One of the largest cities in the state and all of Australia, it's a major draw for its incredible weather, beautiful beaches, and laid-back spirit. Nature is equally significant, which you'll likely notice the moment you step outside your Gold Coast vacation rental. It's difficult to resist the spectacular beauty of the flowing waterfalls and lush rainforests further inland. There's a cozy, family-like vibe here that's evident from the many theme parks and the friendly locals.

So you say you're a theme park junkie

You've come to the right place if you love theme parks—the Gold Coast is brimming with top-level amusement parks. Wet ‘n' Wild is a must for water lovers, while Warner Bros Movie World offers kids the chance to meet and greet their favorite characters. The beloved Gold Coast City Gallery is a must-stop for art junkies, while the Gold Coast War Museum provides a fascinating glimpse at some of Australia's major military memorabilia. You can also dive into local history at the Gold Coast Hinterland Heritage Museum.

The thrill's the thing on the Gold Coast

Thrill seekers, the Gold Coast is for you. Try some skydiving and enjoy epic views from 12,000 feet as you free-fall, or take a multi-day Gold Coast Hinterland Grand Walk and explore the area on foot. You'll encounter everything from rainforests to breweries to volcanoes. If you're feeling a little swanky, you can make like a red-carpet star and hit one of the area's plush spas for a little R&R before heading back to your Gold Coast vacation rental. The Gold Coast is also an awesome area to watch for whales—book a tour or spend some time gazing waterside with your binoculars.

From sultry summers to warm winters, the Gold Coast sizzles

You'll feel hot, hot, hot when you arrive at your Gold Coast vacation rental. There's nothing but comfortable air here, although summer can be exceptionally humid at times. Highs hover in the mid-80s throughout summer, and it rains heavily throughout—you'll probably encounter a storm or two while there. Winter, meanwhile, stays practical at around 70 degrees and produces little to no precipitation. This delightful winter is part of the reason the Gold Coast is so renowned. You'll never need anything more than a light jacket here.

A golden paradise for surfers and animal lovers

The Gold Coast comes alive with forests located throughout the coastal city. There are distinctive rainforests, islands coated in mangroves and farm lands thick with fragrant trees. Another highlight is the Gold Coast Seaway, near the area where the Nerang River meets the Pacific Ocean. Perhaps most popular, though, are the fabulous beaches that make the Gold Coast such a surfer's paradise. Golden sands, craggy rocks, and even some sleepy bedroom communities characterize these charming beach areas. The Gold Coast is also home to some 600 native animals, from cute koalas to slithering snakes.

How to get to and around Gold Coast

The nearest airport is in Coolangatta Airport (OOL), located 11.6 mi (18.7 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into Brisbane Airport (BNE), which is 47.5 mi (76.4 km) away.

If you prefer to travel by train, Varsity Lakes Station, Helensvale Station and Gold Coast City Coomera Station are the main stations in the city. It's easy to get around Gold Coast by catching a ride on the metro at Florida Gardens station, Broadbeach South Light Rail Station or Robina Station.