The biggest, the best and the boujee.
The biggest, the best and the boujee.
We’re not out of touch, we know these Airbnbs are as grand as they get. But what’s life without a little indulgence from time to time? Sometimes, a moment or special occasion just calls for it. Maybe the ultimate family getaway, a glamorous weekend with friends or a special treat for you and your other half (with lots of bedrooms to choose from). Feel free to take your pick blindfolded, as any of these captivating Airbnbs will make for the perfect backdrop.
Here are six of our fave extravagant Gold Coast Airbnb abodes.
Luxury Living on Mermaid Beach
If a magazine-worthy coastal abode makes you swoon, then call off the search – this one’s for you. Lovingly restored to luxe beach perfection, this classic beach bungalow is a real-life oasis. It features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, and is located fittingly along the iconic Hedges Avenue. What’s its secret sauce you ask? This (not so) little beauty is built right on the edge of the sand, with direct private access to the beach. The simple and soothing colour pallet of whites, neutral tones, caramel leathers and white linen enhance the beach aesthetic, but with an air of refinement and coastal sophistication. The use of natural oak flooring works in tastefully with the neutral colour scheme, and the limestone tiles give just the right amount of wow factor. Offering the crème de la crème of alfresco living, with the indoors transitioning seamlessly to the outdoors, you can even pop upstairs to the private viewing deck for a sneaky sunset Aperol Spritz.
Where: Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast
Hang up your Hat at Hillview Stables
If watching a few too many episodes of Yellowstone has made you consider relocating to Wyoming, grab your buckskin cowboy hat and come with us. Welcome to Hillview Stables, the rustic country escape you’ve been craving, without the 23 hour plane ride. Tucked away in the Currumbin Valley, the newly restored stables sit upon a historic dairy farm overlooking a majestic mountain range. Their barn doors are open, ready for your arrival. The unique collection of luxury abodes, known as the ‘Stables’, is complete with smokey leather lounges, exposed beans, a 4 sided glass fireplace and country mountain views that ensure an authentic Wild West experience. When evening comes, put that woodfire pizza oven to work before relaxing by the outdoor fire pit under the stars. Perhaps a whiskey on the rocks? It would only be fitting.
Where: Currumbin Valley, Gold Coast
Rivermead Estate
This mega-magnificent Rivermead Estate is worthy of an airbnb-ovation, nestled in the mountains, among 55 acres of pristine hinterland. Side note and fun fact: George Clooney stayed here while filming 2022 rom-com Ticket to Paradise! Strolling in any direction will lead to adventure as you stumble upon cascading rock pools, secluded forests, and winding streams. Back at the house, enjoy an alfresco breakfast on the white-washed wrap-around veranda before stretching out on a sun-lounger by the pool or treat yourself to a spa treatment or sauna at the onsite spa facilities. If you seek a more energised pursuit, find their onsite tennis court and modern equine facilities. If all else fails, just book a helicopter tour of the nearby mountains and lakes.
Where: Tamborine Mountain/Gold Coast Hinterland
A Luxury Retreat on Your Own Mountain
If you ever wonder how the other half lives- we’re with you- and it’s our lucky stay! The luxe life awaits you behind this gated, 20-acre estate, hidden on a lush mountain just minutes from Dreamworld. The 360 panoramic views are inescapable, with the opportunity to lose your breath at every corner of this stunning home. Will it be a dive in the three-sided infinity edge pool, a hit on the full-sized tennis court, a recline in the 8-seater hot tub or night unleashing your inner chef in their gourmet kitchen? You’ll be stumped for choice, but you have the entire place to yourself, so consider this Airbnb your oyster.
Where: Upper Coomera, Gold Coast
Absolute Beachfront House in Palm Beach
Casa Sol is, indeed, absolute beachfront. Just take a few big steps from the living room, and you’ll be toes in the sand. This beautifully renovated coastal home is situated on Gold Coast’s most affluent Jeffersons Lane and in front of one of the best beaches in the world. With 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this adobe is the ideal family holiday or a fabulous friendcation! Not just close to the beach but also just moments from a line-up of cafes and restaurants to satisfy whatever your craving.
Where: Palm Beach, Gold Coast
Hillside Carool; a Tuscan-Style Farm Stay
We may be stretching the truth a little by including this on a Gold Coast list, but it’s only a short drive down the road and is too gorgeous skip over. If a Tuscan vineyard homestay sounds sweet, like grapes from a vine, then Hillside Carool is for you. What once was a winery has since been refurbished, where beautiful rows of grape vines remain. It’s as though this homestead was curated to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. The property, set upon rolling green hills, boasts a palm tree-lined lap pool, two outdoor fireplaces, and an old cellar door, making this a perfect cosy winter or stunning summer escape. Hire long tables for a picturesque lunch on the 30 m lawn, or pour a glass of wine to enjoy on the fairy-light-lit patio.
Where: Carool, NSW
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
We all see it, the surge of sleek apartment buildings and towering high-rises staking their claim on Gold Coast’s coveted coastline. While we’re all for fresh faces and new places in our beloved beach town, we can’t help but hold a special place in our hearts for Gold Coast’s gems with character.
Each of these boutique accommodations offers a distinct blend of retro flair and modern comfort, perfect for those looking to soak up the classic cool vibes of this iconic destination.
But don’t just take our word for it – experience the magic for yourself! There’s a nostalgic getaway waiting for everyone. Pack your bags and get ready to relive the past while enjoying the comforts of today!
The Cheshire Cat Motel
Catch just a sight of this boutique hotel; it will be enough to broaden your grin and make your tale quiver. What was old is once again new at this boutique hotel, refurbished for our delight. The six-room motel is like a mid-century memento, a nostalgic transport back in time, even just for a night. With a careful curation of genuine era furnishings and colour tones- tangerine oranges, teal blues and pistachio greens- this place feels more like a cosy museum than a hotel. Choose between the impressive Queen Room or Bungalow- visit either you like: they’re both mad! You can find the motel perched on the energised Palm Beach strip, yet hidden in plain sight. Not to worry! Look out for the tall neon sign and cacti-studded wall, and you will be on your way. Grab your Walkman, ladies; we’re headed to the pool deck. We’ll hit The Collective later.
Where: 1005 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
The Pink Hotel
You wouldn’t guess it, but this hotel is pink. Yep! Completely pink (with some white for contrast). We’re not exaggerating (at all) when we say it’s your childhood Barbie Dreamhouse- life-size edition. By all means eccentric, this hotel intrigues and excites. It’s fun, funky, and, surprisingly, a rich piece of Gold Coast history. Simply put, it’s impossible not to have a good time at this hotel. Between the rooftop bar (also the perfect place to watch the spectacular sunset), epic rooms, onsite food delivery (hello, burgers from Eddie’s Grub House) and endless surrounding activities, you will be entertained for your entire stay, and some. Just because we can never resist the siren call, we’ll be scoffing pizza at Franc Jrs.
Where: 171 Griffith St, Coolangatta
The Mysa Motel
Welcome to Palm Springs, California. Oops! Sorry, we meant The Mysa Motel. Gosh! Don’t they look alike? It’s no wonder we got confused. The Mysa Motel is a sustainable luxury motel in Palm Beach. Their modern-retro twist is a perfect blend of pastel palette and of-decade decor that conjures a feeling that could only be comparable to being gumball first into a Bubble O’ Bill while rollerblading. Whatever worries you had are long gone now- at the bottom of their outdoor magnesium pool, in fact. Their rooms are a delight, with options for each of your seven personalities. To flaunt a few, we have “Sky Blue’, she’s breezy. With two comfortable king-size beds and sky-blue walls, you’re in for a cool, calm and collected time. ‘The Merillo’- she loves to host. The two-bedroom double-story unit is lush but altogether paired back, to focus on simplicity and the sacred element of ‘space’. For nosh, Well Bread & Pastry is high on our list of recommendations, along with Balboa Italian– it’s buono.
Where: 1100 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Blue Heron Motel
Welcome to Blue Heron Motel; a stunning family-owned boutique hotel in Mermaid Beach’s heart. This understated stay provides a calm and quiet haven to escape the buzzing Gold Coast activity. With a recent spruce, the motel’s design reminds us of the golden days of the Gold Coast. Ahh, what a time! Overall, their bases are covered as both a sanctuary and a centre for activity and exploration. Take a plunge in their picturesque pool, or hire a bike to explore the famous Gold Coast oceanway. After all, you’re only a pedal away from local favourites and attractions, including Pacific Fair and Holliday Coffee.
Where: 2323 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
La Costa Motel
La Costa Motel is a slice of 60’s inspired paradise. A vintage-style vacation set in the southern Gold Coast suburb of Bilinga. Picture this; you’ve just pulled up in your Dodge Coronet Wagon, hard case luggage in the boot and polka dot togs in hand- ready for your family vacation. The exterior replicates the classic beach-side shack, with each ‘studio’ accommodating its own white picket fence. Behind it sits two vibrant patio chairs, a petite round table and a mini floral garden- the cutest garden we ever did see. Greet your neighbour’s next door before jumping on your cruiser bike en route to breaky! Delicious options await at Halycon Coffee House. As your day draws to a close, head back to your home away from home, pull up a deck chair and watch the sunset from your very own front yard. Well, it’s yours for a little while, anyway.
Where: 127 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga
Gold Coast Tree Houses
Retro might not be the right word for this remarkable bed and breakfast style accommodation, but it’s definitely unique. With self-contained cabins nestled amongst the trees…How about tree-ific? Choose from six unique and individually styled treehouses, and enjoy off-grid living at its finest. The luxurious eco-accommodation is surrounded by lush bushlands, providing the perfect setting for seeking solitude and connection alike. Stay in Treehouse One or Two to marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views from your bathtub! Suppose you can muster enough willpower to leave your new hideaway. In that case, we recommend trying Panchos Mexican, for a late lunch or dinner!
Where: Lot 1,123 Mount Nimmel Rd, Austinville
qtQT
Take things up a notch with the lavish boutique accommodation at qtQt. Designed for discerning creatures of comfort, their contemporary-style cabins are cosy by definition, hidden amongst a garden oasis. With luxurious local amenities and the option of curated experiences, it’s clear, qtQT doesn’t need lessons in laidback luxury. Unplug and unwind in a distraction-free zone. Whether you’re enjoying solo serenity or sharing space with a loved one, the options are endless. Enjoy barefoot indulgence in an outdoor oasis, free from the distraction of television. It’s all about comfort and connection. You’re in the centre of Surfers, steps away from the QT Gold Coast’s incredible restaurants and yet you feel a million miles away. It’s safe to say this hotel isn’t playing for a bronze medal.
Where: 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
With the midway point of the year fast approaching, we’re all ready for a languorous weekend of recharging ye olde batteries poolside. When it comes to strategically sprinkling the calendar with leisure-style luxuries, Bel Air on Broadbeach is a local gem always down to indulge us. Boasting perks a’plenty and a dream location in the heart of Broadbeach – that unmissable Mediterranean style facade is renowned for all things R&R. Whether it’s a much-needed girls weekend, romancing with your one and only or even a recommendation for your out-of-town-rello’s. When you’re looking for a Euro-inspired getaway without the 5-star price tag, Bel Air on Broadbeach should be your go-to.
Newly managed by StayCo, The Stay Company, this iconic Broadbeach leisure destination is welcoming a fresh new wave of Melbourne and Sydney holidaymakers wanting to treat themselves or the whole fam without the big bucks of a Bali holiday! But why should out of towners have all the fun?
Swimming with sprawling amenities and a world-class location, we needn’t concern ourselves (or our credit cards) with complications like planes and airfares to soak up some endless summer action. Bringing the vacay vibes to us, Bel Air boasts a spacious Mediterranean-style outdoor oasis, equipped with a sprawling pool and heated spa.
If you tire of swanning by the outdoor pool, a heated indoor pool and sauna are particularly irresistible additions that make Bel Air on Broadbeach the ideal choice for winter stays. No need to worry about the weather raining on your staycay parade – we’re talking maxo relaxo mode, 365 here folks!
Should you work up an appetite with all that poolside luxuriating, you have everything this burgeoning hub has to offer right at your fingertips, with Bel Air’s epic location on the beach side of Broadbeach. Simply mosy downstairs to the cosy, family run Little Beach Cafe to start your day with fresh-brewed coffee and treats, or take a leisurely stroll to the new No Name Lane Espresso just one block away.
If you’re in the mood for more, you’ll find Broadbeach’s array of esteemed eateries and picturesque beachfront both within an easy walk. Plus with Pac Fair’s premier shopping and dining precinct and the G:Link stop a mere stone’s throw away, the best the GC has to offer is all within reach.
Don’t be fooled as the sun sets on that jam-packed day of shopping, feasting, swimming and/or sunning yourself by the pool – Broadbeach is only just getting started. Venture back to partake in cocktails and seafood-studded eats while the strip’s nightlife hums to life – or with The Star Gold Coast, Dracula’s and The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub all at your doorstep, why not catch a show?
Of course, if you just want to cosy up for some quality time and a quiet night in, Bel Air on Broadbeach has got you. With 1, 2 or 3 bedroom configurations on offer, retreat to the very comfortable quarters of your own private beachside apartment and watch the sun sink low over the city. Or for an entirely different type of breathtaking, brave a moonlit dip in the heated spa, basking under the blue-hued ambience of the amenities at night.
Anybody else already mentally packing their overnighter? Leisure seekers, when you’re looking for a getaway that has it all, without breaking the bank, Bel Air on Broadbeach is the one for you. Head over to StayCo to book your winter staycay stat.
Where: Bel Air On Broadbeach, by StayCo – 2633 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
Words by Kellie Leader
STORY SPONSORED BY STAYCO, THE STAY COMPANY
Have you stayed at RACV Royal Pines Resort? Even if you have, you haven’t.
If that sounds entirely confusing, it does, but all will make sense once we spill the tea on this local legend’s luxe new look.
Synonymous with five star feels, authentic culinary experiences, and a championship golf course, RACV Royal Pines Resort was already an A-lister. But, to keep up with changing trends and maintain its position as one of our city’s finest, a chic makeover was in order, and this just speaks to us on SO many levels #CanRelate #CanWeHaveOneToo.
Recently undergoing some seriously sophisticated sprucing that would make any discerning resort-goer’s heart go #PadamPadam, RACV Royal Pines Resort 2.0 has arrived! Yes friends, we’re talking a refined refurb so on point, we’re dropping everything and booking a bougie staycay stat!
So, what’s changed? More like what hasn’t changed and no, we’re not trying to confuse you again. We’re talking lifts, lobbies, corridors, doors, room interiors, and holy glow-up Batman – this is legit The Full Monty. Inside each luxurious room and suite you’ll find a timelessly elegant and meticulous remodel, capturing the true essence of coastal glamour. Still paying homage to the resort’s rich heritage, it seamlessly blends legacy with on-trend colours, furnishings, and overall design. Boom!
It feels like the outside has been brought inside, and not in a ‘oops, I have mud on my shoes’ kinda way, but rather a perfectly conceptualized, styled, and beautifully executed mirroring of the resort grounds. And, being the pin-up for breathtaking landscape design with more decadent greenery than you can poke a perfectly pruned palm frond at (try saying that a few times), this was a power move from the resort’s interiors team.
The new colour palette is goals, featuring wood, brass, and stone finishes, paired with soothing earthy tones; sandy hues, cloudy greens and of course, ‘dem fresh foliage greens. Contrasted with crisp whites, the choice of hues is equal parts relaxing and Pinterest-board worthy #HomeRenoInspo.
The spacious King and Twin Rooms, Spa and Executive Rooms feel softer and more subdued, creating an ambiance of tranquility. Inviting us to retreat into the sanctuary of our room while feeling a connection to the natural world, our reply is a unanimous HECK YES. This is precisely what we want from a high calibre resort in 2023, signaling a new era for this GC institution.
With no less than seven exclusive eats and sips venue to experience, a 27-hole golf course, kids’ waterpark, and award-winning event venues, it’s an eleven-outta-ten. And don’t even get us started on OneSpa, the crème de la crème of day spas and cherry on top.
Come see for yourself how the gold standard of hospitality has been redefined with this remarkable transformation. To find out more and book your stay, go here.
As an extra special bonus RACV Royal Pines have a launch staycation $249* package, which includes accommodation, complimentary upgrade to a Superior room*, daily breakfast and late checkout.
Valid for stays now until 22 December, 2023.
Hurry, offer ends 31 August, 2023.
Book your staycation package here.
When: Now!
Where: Ross Street, Benowa
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY RACV ROYAL PINES RESORT.
