Who says you need to board a plane for an incredible holiday? A Gold Coast staycation road trip is your chance to rediscover the beauty, diversity, and hidden treasures of your own city. From sparkling beaches and lush hinterland rainforests to buzzing food markets and family-friendly attractions, there’s a wealth of experiences waiting just outside your door.
By hiring a car rental in Gold Coast you gain the flexibility to explore beyond the obvious spots — uncovering secret lookouts, quaint towns, and foodie gems at your own pace. Whether you have just a day, a weekend, or a whole week, this guide will help you plan a road trip that balances relaxation, adventure, and discovery.
🌊 Coastal Cruising: Scenic Drives & Beachside Bliss
Few things capture the Gold Coast lifestyle better than a drive along the coastline. With your windows down and the ocean breeze flowing in, these scenic routes are a staycation must.
🚗 Southern Gold Coast Drive
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Burleigh Heads: Start your morning with a sunrise walk along Burleigh Headland National Park. From Tumgun Lookout, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Surfers Paradise to the north and Coolangatta to the south. Don’t miss the trendy James Street precinct with boutique shops and cafés.
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Currumbin Beach: A family favourite with calm waters perfect for kids. Drop into the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the Gold Coast’s top attractions (check out our blog on Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Guide for more tips).
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Snapper Rocks: A bucket-list destination for surfers, this world-class break hosts the World Surf League competitions.
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Coolangatta: Slow down in this relaxed seaside town. Try fish and chips on Griffith Street, or capture a fiery sunset from Point Danger Lookout.
🚗 Northern Gold Coast Drive
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Main Beach: Begin with breakfast at Tedder Avenue before heading to the luxury precinct of Marina Mirage.
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Broadwater Drive: Perfect for water lovers. Rent a kayak or jet ski along the Broadwater, or picnic at Southport Broadwater Parklands.
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Paradise Point: Stop for a coffee at a waterfront café or browse boutique shops.
🏖️ Beach Hopping Adventure
For those who can’t resist the ocean, design your beach-to-beach itinerary:
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Surfers Paradise: Wake early for a sunrise swim or surf session (read our Surfers Paradise Guide for more ideas).
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Tallebudgera Creek: Loved for its turquoise, family-friendly waters.
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South Stradbroke Island: Accessible by ferry, it’s a secluded paradise with golden sands and bushland.
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Sunset Dining: End your adventure with fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant like Rick Shores.
🌿 Hinterland Escapes: Rainforests & Mountain Views
When you need a change of scenery, the Gold Coast hinterland offers lush rainforests, waterfalls, and mountain-top villages that feel worlds away.
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Tamborine Mountain: Known for its wineries, craft shops, and rainforest walks.
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Lamington National Park: Home to the famous O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, treetop walks, and stunning hikes.
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Springbrook National Park: Visit Purling Brook Falls, Natural Bridge (with glow worms at night), and Best of All Lookout.
🍴 Foodie Trails: A Taste of the Gold Coast
A staycation isn’t complete without indulging in the local food scene.
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Craft Breweries & Distilleries: Visit Balter Brewing, Burleigh Brewing, or Granddad Jack’s for tastings.
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Markets: Don’t miss Miami Marketta or Carrara Markets for street eats and live music.
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Seafood: For the freshest catch, head to Gold Coast Fishermen’s Co-op or enjoy a sit-down meal at Seascape Restaurant.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Adventures
The Gold Coast is world-famous for its family attractions:
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Theme Parks: Movie World, Dreamworld, Sea World, and Wet’n’Wild.
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Wildlife: Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary or David Fleay Wildlife Park.
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Water Sports: Try kayaking at Tallebudgera Creek, or zip-lining at Treetops Adventure Park.
🗺️ Planning Your Staycation Road Trip
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Route Planning: Use Google Maps and the Destination Gold Coast website.
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Accommodation: Choose from resorts, rentals, glamping, or farm stays.
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Packing Essentials: Sunscreen, swimwear, walking shoes, snacks, and chargers.
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Budgeting Tips: Pack picnics, book theme park multi-passes, and travel off-peak.
✨ Conclusion: Adventure Awaits
A Gold Coast staycation road trip offers the best of both worlds — the excitement of discovery and the comfort of home. From surf breaks and seafood trails to rainforest hikes and theme parks, the region has something for everyone.
🗓️ Suggested 3-Day Gold Coast Staycation Itinerary
Not sure where to start? Here’s a sample 3-day road trip plan that combines beaches, hinterland escapes, foodie experiences, and family fun — all made easier with your Gold Coast car hire.
Day 1: Coastal Bliss & Beach Hopping
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Morning: Pick up your Gold Coast Airport car hire and head straight to Burleigh Heads. Enjoy a walk along Burleigh Headland for panoramic ocean views.
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Midday: Drive south to Currumbin Beach, where you can swim or paddle in calm waters. Stop by the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary for a unique local wildlife encounter.
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Afternoon: Continue your beach-hopping adventure to Snapper Rocks and Coolangatta. Grab fish and chips for a relaxed seaside lunch.
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Evening: Catch the sunset from Point Danger Lookout before heading back to Surfers Paradise for dinner at a beachfront restaurant.
Day 2: Hinterland Escapes & Nature Trails
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Morning: Drive up to Tamborine Mountain. Stroll through the Gallery Walk precinct for boutique shopping, art galleries, and coffee stops.
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Late Morning: Stretch your legs on the Curtis Falls track or experience the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk.
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Afternoon: Enjoy wine tasting at boutique wineries or stop for a farm-to-table lunch with scenic views.
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Evening: Head towards Springbrook National Park for a twilight walk to the Natural Bridge, where glow worms light up the night.
Day 3: Family Fun & Foodie Trails
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Morning: Start your day at one of the world-famous theme parks like Dreamworld or Movie World. If you’re short on time, try Sea World for marine life encounters.
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Afternoon: Take the family to Broadwater Parklands for kayaking or paddleboarding. If you’re after thrills, zip-line through the treetops at Treetops Adventure Park.
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Evening: Wrap up your staycation with a foodie finale at Miami Marketta, where live music and global street eats create the perfect night out.
✨ Ready to Explore?
This 3-day Gold Coast staycation itinerary is just the beginning. Whether you’re seeking beaches, hinterland escapes, family fun, or foodie adventures, having the right car gives you the freedom to discover it all.
Book your Gold Coast car hire with Alpha Car Hire today and turn your next weekend into an unforgettable local escape.
