Most tourists land on the Gold Coast, take a taxi to Surfers Paradise, and never leave the main strip. They miss the best parts of the region.
The Gold Coast is actually a massive, diverse stretch of coastline and mountains. To really see it—from the quiet southern breaks to the rainforest waterfalls—you need your own wheels.
Here is the perfect 3-day plan to make the most of your car hire Gold Coast vehicle and see the side of the coast the locals love.
Day 1: The Southern Beaches
Skip the crowds at Main Beach and point your car south. The stretch from Burleigh Heads to Coolangatta offers some of the best surf and sand in the country.
- Morning: Start with a walk around the Burleigh Heads National Park headland, then grab a coffee on James Street.
- Afternoon: Drive further south to Rainbow Bay or Snapper Rocks. The vibe here is laid-back, and the water is crystal clear.
- The Drive: It’s an easy cruise down the Gold Coast Highway. With your own car, you can stop at Tallebudgera Creek for a dip whenever you want without waiting for a bus.
Day 2: The Green Behind the Gold
Today, you’re swapping the surfboard for hiking boots. The Gold Coast Hinterland is world-class, and it’s only a 45-minute drive inland.
- The Destination: Mount Tamborine or Springbrook National Park.
- The Activity: Walk the Curtis Falls track or see the Glow Worm Caves. The air is cooler up here, and the rainforest scenery is spectacular.
- The Drive: The roads up the mountain are winding and steep in parts. This is where you’ll be glad you chose a quality car rental Gold Coast option. A solid SUV handles these corners with ease, making the drive just as fun as the destination.
Day 3: The Spit and The Seaway
Head north to the quieter end of the coast. The Spit offers acres of parkland, calm water on the Broadwater side, and open ocean on the other.
- Morning: Drive out to the end of The Spit for a walk along the sand pumping jetty. It’s a great spot to watch the trawlers head out to sea.
- Afternoon: Park the car and grab some fresh prawns from the trawlers at Peter’s Fish Market on your way back.
The Verdict
You can’t experience the real Gold Coast from a hotel balcony. You need to get out and drive it. Whether you need a compact car for beach hopping or a larger SUV for the mountain runs, we have the fleet to get you there.
