Whether it’s surfing, swimming or sunbathing, Australia’s Gold Coast is the best place to make family memories while enjoying some of the country’s best beaches.
Known for its theme parks, dining and famous stretch of sand at Surfer’s Paradise, the Gold Coast is surrounded by things to do, so finding a great hotel that is near a majority of the attractions can be difficult. That is until I came across QT Gold Coast, an eclectic hotel, situated just metres from the sand with stunning ocean views and the best breakfast buffet I’ve ever had.
Hotel
In a place such as the Gold Coast, there are many options for accommodation from holiday homes to hotels, motels, and resorts. However, if you’re looking for that touch of luxury for the whole family, a place near the best attractions and fantastic ocean views, you can’t go past QT Gold Coast.
Upon entering, QT Gold Coast welcomes guests with a buzzing lobby that is as open and inviting as the outdoor pool terrace. Pay special attention to the staff who wear a mix of retro surfer chic jumpsuits and bathers (family appropriate) with visors.
It fits into the theme of the place, which is echoed in the life-size images in the elevators. I won’t spoil the surprise, but trust me, the elevators were a highlight of the hotel. Check-in is a breeze, and finding your room is made easy by signs.
The hotel also has many venue spaces and hosts several events all week long. Whether you need a meeting room with a creative breeze or a space for private dining, the hotel is capable of carrying out your desires. On your way to the elevator, be sure to check out the blackboard on the wall for happy hours, dinner deals, themed events and more. Lounge by the pool in a luxury cabana with a cocktail or two in hand, and bar bites on the way.
Room
Now is the perfect time to book a stay as QT Gold Coast have just finished revitalizing their suites to depict a royal-level of luxury and let’s not forget the ocean views. Wake up every morning to a glistening coastline and take in the salty breeze on your private balcony or through the sweeping window in the bedroom.
Falling asleep in the king-sized bed is no feat, especially when you have sounds of waves crashing in the background. You can even take the whole family, as there are rollaway beds available to sleep up to three. In the bathroom, enjoy the delights of Kevin Murphy amenities and a spacious standing glass shower.
Food
Who knew a hotel could be good at both hospitality and dining? On the ground floor, guests will find several dining options including Stingray, FIXX Café and Yamagen. Hitting you in the morning sweet spot, at FIXX Café your golden hour treats come served with a ray of sunshine. Stumble in post-sleep-in for a pick me up organic breakfast or in the afternoon for high tea and red velvet cake.
For those who are early risers, grab a table at Bazaar and let your taste buds run wild. The marketplace is served buffet style and includes breakfast favourites such as eggs, bacon, and sausage, but also has Middle Eastern Souk to Latin American cuisine. Did I mention you can press your own juice and make an acai bowl?
In the evening, put on your dancing shoes and head to Stingray, a stylish bar and lounge offering guests over 50-in-house tequilas and bites that you would expect to see in Baja California. Some nights the lounge becomes somewhat of a nightlife hotspot for locals and tourists, with DJ’s and the classic sun-kissed atmosphere the Gold Coast is famous for. Take note, the dress code is enforced, so dress to impress on the nights it’s required.
For a low-key but quality dinner, head to Yamagen, the Japanese restaurant that ignited my senses. It’s the first fine-dining modern Japanese restaurant in town and is well worth the wait. Treat yourself to omakase for a food adventure or opt-in for a la carte dishes. Whichever you decide, don’t forget to order the sashimi tacos. They’re life-changing.
In a nutshell
Expect an exciting stay full of vibrant, edgy art, luxury and a family-friendly atmosphere. Located in the heart of Surfer’s Paradise, Sea World, Movie World and other major attractions are within a 20-minute drive. Furthermore, the beach is right in front of you.
Even though you’re surrounded by great cuisine, don’t skip the breakfast buffet. You will regret it. For only $39.50/adult and $15/child, it’s a steal. If you have a family, opt-in for the suites as they are larger, and some of the guestrooms are smaller in size, but perfect for two. There are also cute retro blue bikes you can get from the lobby to ride around the esplanade.
Factbox
Rooms start from $199/night to around $874/night for the penthouse or $424/night for a King suite.
Address: 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
Phone: +61 (07) 5584 1200
Website: qthotels.com/gold-coast
