The Gold Coast is a family holiday paradise — with sun-soaked beaches, thrilling theme parks, and plenty of kid-friendly attractions. But with little ones in tow, getting from place to place can make or break your trip. Whether you’re heading to the beach, exploring hinterland waterfalls, or spending the day at a theme park, your choice of transport will determine how smooth (or stressful) your holiday is.
Here’s your complete guide to the best transport options for families visiting the Gold Coast.
1. Car Hire – The Top Choice for Families
When travelling with kids, flexibility is everything. Car hire is hands down the easiest and most convenient way to get around the Gold Coast.
Why Families Love It:
- Go at your own pace: No waiting for buses or trams. Pack up the car with beach gear and snacks and leave when you are ready.
- Room for everyone: Choose a spacious SUV or people mover to fit the whole family and all your luggage in comfort.
- Access hidden gems: Visit spots like Currumbin Valley or the waterfalls of Springbrook National Park that public transport doesn’t reach.
- Easy theme park trips: Drive straight to Sea World, Movie World, or Dreamworld without multiple transfers and drop-off points. You can even leave your belongings safely in the car rather than carrying them all day.
Tip: Book with a local provider like Alpha Car Hire Gold Coast Airport for competitive rates and a modern, family-friendly fleet.
Convenient Airport Service for Families
Alpha Car Hire has no branch at the airport but has a shuttle bus available. To make getting your rental car as smooth as possible, our Gold Coast Airport branch offers a free shuttle bus service directly from the terminal. Simply collect your luggage and give us a call on (07) 5619 8230 to arrange your pick-up. Our shuttle will take you on a short, stress-free trip to our nearby branch, where your vehicle and pre-booked child seats will be ready to go.
2. Public Transport – Budget-Friendly but Limited
The Gold Coast has a reliable G:link tram, buses, and trains that connect major areas.
Pros:
- Affordable daily passes: Visitors can purchase a
go explorecard for unlimited daily travel on the Gold Coast’s buses and trams. - Eco-friendly travel option: Great for those who are conscious about their carbon footprint.
- Great for trips within central areas: The G:link tram connects key hubs like Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Helensvale Station, making it perfect for short trips between beaches and shopping centres.
Cons for Families:
- Can be slow: Involves multiple transfers and waiting times, which isn’t ideal with young kids.
- Limited access: Doesn’t service many hinterland or remote attractions, so you will be restricted to the main coastal strip.
- Limited storage: It is a challenge to navigate with prams, beach bags, and luggage.
3. Rideshare & Taxis – Convenient for Short Trips
Services like Uber, DiDi, and local taxis are widely available.
Good for:
- Airport transfers when you don’t want to rent a car for your entire stay.
- Quick trips to nearby restaurants or attractions.
Not ideal for:
- Multiple daily outings (cost adds up fast).
- Long-distance day trips.
- Car seats: Finding a rideshare driver with the correct child seat can be difficult, especially at short notice. Taxis are generally a safer bet if you pre-book and request a child restraint.
4. Cycling & Walking – Fun for Short Distances
The Gold Coast is blessed with beautiful coastal paths perfect for walking or cycling.
- Best for: Morning beach strolls, short trips to the local café, or riding along the esplanade.
- Not great for: Theme park visits or trips with lots of gear.
Family Transport Cost Comparison
| Option | Cost Estimate (Per Day) | Best For |
| Car Hire | $45–$80 | All-round convenience & day trips |
| Public Transport | $10–$15 per adult | Budget inner-city travel |
| Rideshare/Taxi | $15–$50 per trip | Short, direct trips |
Insider Tip: Car hire becomes more cost-effective when travelling as a group, with fuel and other costs split between family members.
Insider Tips for Stress-Free Family Travel on the Gold Coast
- Book car hire early during school holidays to get the best rates and your preferred vehicle.
- Request child seats in advance when booking a hire car or a taxi. Our team at Alpha Car Hire can have them fitted and ready for you at a small additional fee.
- Plan theme park days to avoid peak-hour traffic. Heading to the theme parks early in the morning can save you time on the road and give you a head start on the rides.
- Be aware of tolls. The Gold Coast has a network of cashless toll roads, primarily on the M1 motorway. Our hire cars are equipped with an e-tag, so you don’t need to worry about paying on the spot — the tolls will be charged to you at the end of your rental.
- Mix transport types. You can walk or cycle locally, then drive for day trips to destinations like Mount Tamborine (approx. 50-minute drive) or Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (approx. 10-15-minute drive).
Final Verdict: Car Hire Wins for Families
While public transport works for solo travellers and couples, families get the most value and flexibility from hiring a car. You’ll save time, avoid the stress of juggling kids on buses or trams, and be free to explore the Gold Coast’s best attractions — from the beaches to the hinterland.
Ready to explore the Gold Coast stress-free? Book your family car hire with Alpha Car Hire today and enjoy a holiday with more fun and less fuss.
