In case you missed it — Australia’s doors have swung all the way open since February 2022!
If you need to wash away that pandemic fatigue, there’s no better place than the Gold Coast! Every day feels like a holiday with its long stretch of beaches, surf spots, theme parks, and awesome nightlife.
Start planning your getaway by taking note of the latest travel guidelines below. We’ve also included the best places to stay, places to eat, and things to do in the city!
COVID-19 Travel Guidelines
Restrictions are now eased for both domestic and international travellers entering the Gold Coast. Here are the current requirements, which also apply to the rest of Queensland.
Interstate Travellers
There are no longer restrictions for tourists coming from other states, vaccinated or not.
However, if you have been outside Australia in the last seven days before your arrival in Queensland, you will need to take a government-approved COVID-19 rapid antigen test and provide a negative result within 24 hours.
International Travellers
Regardless of vaccination status, international arrivals in the Gold Coast are now made easier without the need for mandatory quarantine. Take note of these requirements:
- Negative result of an approved COVID-19 rapid antigen test, taken within 24 hours of arrival
- Digital Passenger Declaration, to be accomplished between one week and 72 hours before departure
- Passport and tourist visa
As part of the testing requirement, here’s what you should do immediately upon arrival:
- From the airport, take an endorsed transport provider to take you directly to your accommodation.
- Take the rapid antigen test and self-isolate until you get a negative result.
Wearing of Face Masks
You can freely enjoy the Gold Coast without a face mask! Wearing masks is only required on the plane, at the airport, and in healthcare settings.
You can check the latest face mask restrictions and exceptions here.
Where to Stay in the Gold Coast
Needless to say — the best accommodations can be found close to the beach!
Peppers Soul Gold Coast
Besides what the name implies, Surfers Paradise is also a neighbourhood teeming with nightlife. And this hotel not only takes you close to the best of the area, but you also get unobstructed views of the ocean from your luxurious apartment accommodation.
Location: 8 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast Area, Queensland
Website: peppers.com.au/soul-surfers-paradise
QT Gold Coast
Located close to Surfers Paradise’s shopping, dining, and nightlife spots — but also housing its own — QT Gold Coast is a hip choice of hotel with a lot of personality. Of course, the views are a requisite, but you’ll also love the refreshing pops of colour and texture in its well-appointed rooms.
Location: 7 Staghorn Ave., Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland
Website: qthotels.com/gold-coast
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort
Located at the more laidback Main Beach, this resort accommodation is a worthwhile indulgence for its expansive oceanfront location, luxurious tropical design, and world-class amenities.
Location: 71 Seaworld Dr., Main Beach, Gold Coast, Queensland
Website: marriott.com
Where to Eat in the Gold Coast
From seafood to mouthwatering meats — here are the best places to dine in the Gold Coast!
Social Eating House + Bar
This award-winning restaurant is a must in Broadbeach. It specializes in modern Aussie flavours, served on plates that are meant to be shared.
Location: Shop 137/3 Oracle Bvd., Broadbeach, Gold Coast, Queensland
Facebook: Social Eating House + Bar
Charis Seafoods
It’s always a fresh seafood feast at Charis Seafoods, and people aren’t its only patrons. This restaurant is also famous for its daily pelican feeding, which you can catch every 1:30 p.m.
Location: 371 Marine Parade, Labrador, Gold Coast, Queensland
Facebook: Charis Seafoods
The Collective Palm Beach
Australian, Asian, or Greek? Inside, al-fresco, or rooftop? Never run out of options at this picture-perfect restaurant in Palm Beach!
Location: 1128 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach, Gold Coast, Queensland
Website: The Collective Palm Beach
What to Do in the Gold Coast
There are fantastic things to do other than hitting the beach!
Surfing
Make the most out of your vacation at Surfers Paradise by being a full-fledged surfie! Learn how to tame the waves in two hours with this beginner lesson.
Sightseeing at SkyPoint Observation Deck
Cover all the bases — at least with your eyes — by gazing at panoramic views of the Gold Coast from the highest point of the city. SkyPoint also offers an adrenaline-pumping climb via an external stairway to the building’s peak!
Skydiving
For the most exhilarating and unforgettable experience in the Gold Coast, go skydiving and see the city in ways others below can’t!
Theme Park Experience
As mentioned, the Gold Coast is also known for its penchant for theme parks. Meet animals, play in the water, and take exciting rides — check off all the experiences at these popular destinations!
Side Trip to the Great Barrier Reef
Gold Coast is also a great jumpoff point to the Great Barrier Reef, which takes no more than two hours to reach. Submerge underwater and witness the unparalleled beauty of one of the natural wonders of the world.
Ready for the ultimate holiday by the coast? Find more travel essentials and unique experiences you can book on KKday!
