Ahead of our appearance in the Sunshine State, we’ve thrown together a list of our fave places to stay in the Gold Coast, with options for every budget. For a less curated, more comprehensive list, you can also check out Destination Gold Coast. Accom options usually book out quickly when we’re in town, so don’t snooze on the hottest tickets in town (aside from your literal festival ticket).
HOTELS + BACKPACKERS
Broadwater Parklands is located in Southport, a short, 10 minute Uber or taxi ride from the heart of Surfers Paradise.
BUDGET
If you want to keep things cheap and cheerful, the following hostels and backpacker spots are just a short walk – like under 5 minutes walk – to some of the best beaches the Gold Coast has to offer. Tequila Sunrise, Mumma’s Hostel, Budds in Surfers and Backpackers in Paradise (which weirdly but also kinda helpfully specifies it’s exclusively for under 35s) are our top picks for a budget stay in (surfers) paradise.
MID-RANGE
Not living your best backpacker life? Try one of these mid-range options instead:
HOTEL STAY
If you’re looking to level up your festival accommodation, you could lock in something slightly more boujee. The chicest place you’ll ever walk sand through, QT Hotel is our go-to spot in the Gold Coast. QT has the best rooms in town, must-try cocktails, 24-hour room service and a spa onsite (recovery day, anyone?). It’s four stars of heaven with the festival just up the road. We’d also recommend the Meriton Suites Southport and Vibe Hotel for primo locations and comfort.
GET ME AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE
If an even shorter ride is more your vibe, check out Brighton Shores self-contained apartments. It’s a short stroll to Spilt Milk House Party.
APARTMENTS
If you’re looking to throw in with a few mates for shared accom, here’s a handful of the best apartment options in Surfers. These are all a sub-20 minute car ride from Spilt Milk House Party at the Broadwater Parklands.
AIRBNB
Keen for something a bit homier? Check into one of the local Airbnb spots.