Experience the Gold Coast's classic cool.
Experience the Gold Coast's classic cool.
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
If you ask anyone what their numero uno ‘must have’ is when looking at staycays here in our beautiful city, chances an insta-worthy (or family-friendly) pool experience would take pole position. Okay, so a cosy spa is WAY more appealing right about now but let’s be real, winter lasts for a millisecond on the Gold Coast and before we know it, we’re back to sweating bullets and channelling poolside hangs.
So our point remains – a pool maketh the staycay, and we’re here to give the low-down on the best pools in town coz girls (and guys) just wanna have sun…and swims…and preferably with a cocktail in hand.
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
Awarded Australia’s Best Hotel Pool 2021, take a dip alongside tropical fish in the famous saltwater lagoon and sorry, it doesn’t get much cooler (literally) than this. Enjoy white sandy beaches, waterfalls, and a swim-up grotto. And, for small peeps, the freshwater pool with an epic waterslide will keep them entertained for hours while you chillax in a jacuzzi or poolside cabana #VIP.
Where: 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
Swim in the crystal blue water of the one-acre saltwater lagoon, float around on colourful beanbags, or relax on a sun lounger sipping on an InterContinental coconut! There’s also a 15-metre-long terrace swimming pool and spa, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, reclining sun loungers and plenty of space for family activities. Just like Adele, you’ll be rolling in the deep (end).
Where: Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circuit, Hope Island
The Star Gold Coast
The Star houses an all ages-friendly, glisteningly gorg pool side area decked out with cabanas, a relaxing water feature, spas, and plenty of sun lounges and seating. Or, if you’re really hamming it up at The Darling, it’s a case of “to infinity (pool) and beyond”! Situated on the nineteenth floor with breathtaking GC views, this elegant infinity pool is a showstopper.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Dorsett Gold Coast
Dorsett (located within The Star) doesn’t just have a pool, but its own super on-fleek Isoletto Pool Club #TooPoolForSchool! Experience the 12-metre-long viewing wall overlooking Broadbeach, delish light eats and drinks, comfy cabanas around the pool deck, as well as our fave ‘wet lounges’ built into the pool itself! They’ll even deliver your spritzers and cocktails straight to your cabana. Suns out, buns out we say!
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
The Langham Gold Coast
Whether you love a luxurious indoor pool, or prefer a five-star outdoor pool experience, The Langham has you covered. The 20-metre-long indoor pool is perfect for those channelling a (multi) million-dollar Pacific Ocean view with their workout. Meanwhile outside, another 20-metre-long outdoor pool awaits, with a highbrow swim-up pool bar, a sandy lagoon-style entrance, and plenty of swanky pool lounge chairs. Fancy feels for days!
Where: 38 Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Sea World Resort
Another one with its own water park, find us a kid who won’t go bonkers for this place! Whilst the pool and spa area may be closed until the 16th of August for remedial works, the ever-popular SpongeBob Splash Pads and Aqua Play will remain open. Once the maintenance and ‘shoosh-up’ are finished, create everlasting family memories with a 50-metre lagoon, complete with waterfall and soothing 12-seater spa. Bliss!
Where: Sea World Drive, Main Beach
Paradise Resort
Voted Australia’s Best Family Resort for the 11th year in a row, you just know this place gives a good pool! Heaven for kids and paradise for parents, it even has its own water park with a giant water playground, lagoon pool, large, heated spa and two enormous aqua play attractions. And, for mum and dad, stay tuned for the new Parents Retreat unveiled, featuring an adults-only (eee!) swimming pool and lounge bar #KidsWhatKids?
Where: 122 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast
Experience beachfront bliss and soak up ‘dem luxurious feels as you take in the vast pool surrounds – 6,727 square feet of them to be exact! Plus, there’s just something about a pool that’s a hop, skip and a jump away from the ocean! Oh and remember, it’s a rite of passage to treat yo’self to a cocktail or five (daily) at the swim-up bar… no judgement.
Where: 71 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach
Mantra Sun City
Aquaholics listen up coz good times and tan lines await at Mantra Sun City. With three swimming pools and a sauna, you can cool off and warm up on repeat or in the words of Dory, “just keep swimming just keep swimming”. The whipper snappers are well catered for here too, with several waterslides making their staycay an adventure they’ll always remember!
Where: 3400 Gold Coast Hwy, Surfers Paradise
Mantra Crown Towers
Relax poolside and get your zen on as you laze by the lush tropical lagoon pool at Mantra Crown Towers. There’s no “I’m bored mum” here, as the kids are too busy living their best life in the splashtastic children’s pool. With its own sandy beach, waterslide and pirate ship, they won’t want to leave – and neither will you!
Where: 19 Palm Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Palazzo Versace
We reckon we’ve seen at least 3 million poolside selfies here last year alone. An exotic poolside oasis, Palazzo Versace showcases an award-winning 63-metre pool with its very own white sandy beach and Australia’s first-ever Water Salon. The exclusive cabanas add a whole new dimension of luxe, with breezy sheers for more private poolside luxury.
Where: 94 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
Mantra Towers of Chevron
So much water, so little time! It’s an eternal case of pool hair, don’t care when you’re swimming in Mantra Towers of Chevron’s 600m2 lagoon style pool ‘Beaches in the Sky’. Proving that life looks better from a lounge chair, it’s pure #poolgoalz. For those keen to mix things up, there’s also an indoor pool to frolic in, because variety is the spice of life, no?
Where: 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Amid the whirlwind of life’s demands, we’re often struck by the sudden temptation to throw our most treasured possessions at a suitcase and start a new life somewhere exotic – though, thankfully the answer to what ails us need not be so extreme.
Escape the everyday hustle and bustle and schedule a #staycay stat – because the stunning surrounds of Cedar Creek Lodges await with the antidote our tired souls seek. A hinterland haven of R&R that’s been hiding in plain sight of our weary eyes all along.
Because let’s face it *gestures vaguely* with absolutely everything we need at our fingertips, Gold Coasters need not stray farther than our own backyards – and when it’s rest and recuperation we seek, we’d be hard-pressed to top the enchanting surrounds of Cedar Creek Lodges.
Offering up a slice of idyllic hinterland serenity, Cedar Creek Lodges has long been adored among locals and holidaymakers for some 25 years now – so it’s safe to say the crew has the art of rejuvenating, reinvigorating and reconnecting down to a fine art.
Set amongst 114 picturesque hectares of Scenic Rim subtropical rainforest and open woodlands, Cedar Creek Lodges captures that elusive feeling of being ‘a world away’ packed with mod-cons and perfectly poised for adventure or romance aplenty.
The sprawling rainforest property, which is also shared with Thunderbird Park, offers plenty of space to cater to caravans and campers for those those who prefer to BYO digs. While for families, the adjacent Park’s range of adventure activities (also available for day visitors) will be especially appealing – including fossicking for ancient thundereggs and crystal panning, the Tree Top Challenge & Canyon Flyer Zipline, Laser Skirmish in a rainforest battlefield and Championship Mini Golf.
Neighbouring Cedar Creek Falls, and nearby – Tamborine Mountain village and National Park are all waiting to be explored, meaning there’s no shortage of things to see, do or experience.
Though you can just as easily succumb to those calls to slow down, curl up beside your one and only and churn through a good book (or three).
If the latter sounds like your idea of heaven, might we suggest the Luxury Glamping tents, all perfectly poised to unplug and unwind with your beloved with your own private spa bath and fire, right on Cedar Creek. Which poises the conundrum: as blue skies beckon will it be a bush walk or a refreshing dip in the Falls to start your day? Trick question, the correct answer is of course c: both.
Alternatively, the brand new accommodation offering “The Vistas” offers the best of both worlds, cosy and chic modern mid-cen inspired suites surrounded by the sprawling treetop expanse beyond your private balcony. Which you’ll definitely be spending plenty of time perched upon, thanks to the inclusion of an inbuilt Teppanyaki cooking facility and plenty of downtime to work on those flips… itadakimasu, indeed.
Suddenly, it’s not hard to see why this choose-your-own-adventure style mountainside escape remains a perennial favourite among visitors of all ages, whether it be weary travellers, couples wanting to cosy up, or families seeking a fun-filled escape to wear out the little tykes (srsly tho, where do they get all that energy).
Where: Cnr Cedar Creek Falls & Tamborine Mountain Rds, Tamborine Mountain
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY CEDAR CREEK LODGES
Ahhh glamping. If it weren’t for you, many of us would recoil and chant “hells to the no” with even the slightest whiff of our man folk trying to coerce us into a tent like structure. But, chuck ‘glam’ at the beginning and we’re all for it! The soaring popularity of this genius concept is ever strong in these post pandemic times when the appeal of exploring our own backyard in all its raw glory is showing no signs of wavering. And now, the cooler weather is upon us which screams campfire, toasted marshmallows, red wine (especially red wine) and outback star gazing on a crisp wintery night.
Thanks to the La Niña rains of late, the rolling planes of red in outback Queensland are more vibrant than ever…and you won’t even need a filter because their a-la-natural beauty is that phenom #nofilter.
Here are seven spots in this ravishing region for you and your other half / gal pals to get your glamp on.
Rangelands Outback Camp
If you’re into epic burning sunsets with a generous dose of luxury, Rangelands Outback Camp ticks those boxes…and many more. Boasting six exclusive supersize tents, you’ll be treated to a king size bed (or king singles) with top designer comforts and air con to wind down after a day exploring the stunning cattle property. Located atop a jump-up on Rangelands Station, it’s a true-blue experience in comfort and style.
Where: Rangelands Station, Kennedy Development Road, Winton
Gilberton Outback Retreat
Want to get off the grid but in five-star luxury? As mildly anxiety-inducing as that may sound, a technology detox is the ultimate way to switch off (literally), unwind and chillax. This stunning retreat set on a working cattle station is one of Australia’s hidden jewels, with international celebs flocking to the retreat for some R&R. If it’s good enough for the rich and famous…
Where: Gilberton Road, Einasleigh
Undara Railway Carriage Accommodation
Return to yesteryear with a turn of the century camping vibe…but in a 2022 kinda way, with the creature comforts we’d rather not leave at home. Offering visitors a unique eco-friendly holiday experience with bygone era charm, you’ll be in awe of the famous Undara Volcanic National Park. From rolling savannah plains to ancient lava tubes and volcanic craters, it’s bucket-list natural beauty at its finest.
Where: Undara Road, Mount Surprise
Mitchell Grass Retreat
If you popped your must-have luxuries from home and an authentic outback experience into a blender, you’d get Michell Grass Retreat. Surrounded by vast grasslands and visiting sheep and cattle, guests are welcome to visit surrounding local properties to hear the DL on outback living. Immerse yourself in nature and spend quality time with your love or your posse, as the golden red sun goes down.
Where: Lot 162 Longreach Muttaburra Road, Longreach
Saltbush Retreat
Is it just us or is an outback soak in an exclusive outdoor bath terrace – complete with sunset canapes – the definition of #goals? Located within walking distance of the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum, Saltbush Retreat invites you to indulge in their luxury package for two, including two nights’ accommodation, breakfast baskets, BBQ and salad pack, pantry essentials, pamper pack, cheese and antipasto hamper and bottle of wine. We accept!
Where: 63-65 Ilfracombe Road, Longreach
The Staging Post
If a boutique heritage-themed stay with a rustic-luxe feel is your vibe, then pay attention! Situated in the heart of Longreach, The Staging Post draws inspo from the pioneer era with a unique outback experience enhanced with their lovingly crafted outback quirks. Kick your boots off after an adventure-filled day and immerse yourself in a unique rain-shower feature in your rustic ensuite.
Where: 128 Eagle Street, Longreach
Julia Creek Caravan Park
With six Artesian Bathhouses to help you unwind after frolicking in the outback, the therapeutic properties of water from the Great Artesian Basin will renew your mind, body and soul. Each bathhouse has two huge comfy claw-footed tubs with unparalleled views of the outback sunset. Then, nosh up with one of Julia Creek’s scrumptious award-winning bush dinners…and we’ve just described the perfect day.
Where: Julia Sreet, Old Normanton Rd, Julia Creek
Words by Bianca Trathen.
