Important Information on Flights to the Gold Coast
Famed for its golden beaches, the Gold Coast is the gem of Queensland and delivers some of Australia's best sun, surf and sand. Add in a bustling nightlife, thrilling theme parks and great shopping centres, and it’s easy to see why flights to the Gold Coast are a no-brainer for many. Stretches of pristine coastline, a booming culinary scene and glamorous resorts sit waiting and ready to explore.
From the moment your flights to the Gold Coast land, you’ll likely be met with one of its 300 days of sunshine for the year. Feast your eyes on the famous Surfers Paradise, dive into the crystal blue waters of Currumbin and learn to surf like a pro in some beginner-friendly breaks. The Gold Coast is the city of early risers, so there’s always a specialty coffee cafe to explore and endless things to do from the moment you wake. Hit up The Village Markets in Burleigh, tackle the Broadbeach to Main Beach walk, or tour some local craft breweries.
The Gold Coast is surrounded by lush hinterland, with walking tracks that wind through rainforests and past waterfalls while showcasing a variety of wildlife. After a morning spent hiking, enjoy a scenic picnic in the R T Peak Memorial Park or extend your time outdoors with an overnight glamping stay. There’s no shortage of things to do at night on the Gold Coast, whether you prefer to spend it on the dancefloor at a nightclub or enjoy the theatrics of the Australian Outback Spectacular.
Located southeast of the CBD, the Gold Coast airport is quick to connect to the city’s best beaches and accommodation, so you can switch to holiday mode shortly after arriving. With sparkling bays, relaxed neighbourhoods and plenty of activities for kids, it's one of the most popular places to unwind for a reason. Find cheap flights to the Gold Coast today and get ready to relax.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to the Gold Coast
How long does it take to fly to the Gold Coast?
Journey times for flights to the Gold Coast vary depending on your departure location. Those flying from Sydney can expect a flight time of 1 hour and 20 minutes thanks to the close proximity, whereas travellers from other cities such as Melbourne, Hobart or Adelaide will have flight times closer to 2 hours. See below for further travel times for Gold Coast flights:
1 hour 20 mins from Sydney
2 hours 5 mins from Melbourne
2 hours 5 mins from Hobart
2 hours 5 mins from Cairns
2 hours 20 mins from Adelaide
4 hours 30 mins from Perth
6 hours 30 mins from Darwin
When is the cheapest time of year to fly to the Gold Coast?
You’ll find cheap flights to the Gold Coast during the quieter tourist periods of April to May and August to September. The shoulder seasons are generally the cheapest time to book flights to the Gold Coast; however, deals can be found year-round.
Which airlines offer direct flights to the Gold Coast?
Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia and Regional Express (Rex) are the main airlines providing direct flights to the Gold Coast. Availability will depend on your departure location. Use our Gold Coast flights search form to find the cheapest fares and airlines for your trip.
What is the airport code for flights to the Gold Coast?
Flights to Gold Coast Airport use the airport code OOL.
What terminal will I arrive in for domestic flights to the Gold Coast?
All Gold Coast flights operate from one main terminal, known as Terminal 1. Domestic flights from all airlines will land in Terminal 1.
What terminal will I arrive at for international flights to the Gold Coast?
International flights to Gold Coast Airport will land in Terminal 1.
What is the best time of year to book flights to the Gold Coast?
April to June is considered the best time of year to book flights to the Gold Coast. The weather is usually mild but sunny, and airfares are lower during this off-peak period. Travelling during the tail end of winter from July to September can also mean cheaper flights and is before the schoolies end of year celebrations. Whatever your travel dates, you’re more likely to score cheap Gold Coast flights and accommodation if you book in advance.
What cities can I fly to the Gold Coast from?
The Gold Coast welcomes flights from multiple cities across the globe. If you’re flying within Australia, Sydney, Cairns, Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart, Perth, and Darwin are popular locations to depart from.
How far is it from the airport in the Gold Coast to the CBD?
Gold Coast Airport (OOL) is located at the southern end of the city, in the suburb of Bilinga near Coolangatta. It’s approximately 27 km southeast of the Gold Coast CBD and 90 km south of Brisbane. There is ample parking, pick up, rideshare and car hire for those who wish to drive, as well as an integrated network of public transport options, including G:link trams, Surfside Buslines and Queensland Rail. Visit the journey planner to plan your travel.
What Are the Gold Coast's Top Attractions?
SkyPoint Climb
At 322 metres, the Q1 is Australia's tallest skyscraper and the highest external building walk. Not for the faint of heart, the SkyPoint Climb takes you on a 90-minute adventure atop the landmark, with epic views over the city. Book a sunset slot to experience the magic of golden hour and watch the day turn to dusk over Gold Coast's bustling metropolis.
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Go beyond the golden beaches of the Gold Coast and learn about the Indigenous culture and history of the local Yugambeh people. A visit to the Jellurgal Cultural Centre begins with a dance performance and ochre anointment, followed by a guided walk through the rainforest via traditional sites. Explore the magic of the “Dreaming Mountain”, uncover artefacts and embrace one of the more unique things to do on the Gold Coast.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to koalas, kangaroos and crocodiles, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best family activities on the Gold Coast. From the curious to the cuddly, learn about Australia’s native animals with live shows and feedings offering a hands-on experience.
Theme Parks
For the fun-seekers, the Gold Coast’s theme park offering is unmatched. Dreamworld, Wet ‘N Wild, Movie World and Sea World can all be found just outside the CBD, where you can spend entire days going from ride to ride. Choose your favourite or book a multi-pass that’ll grant you entry to a few throughout your stay.
Lost World Valley
The Lost World Valley is only a 30-minute drive from Surfers Paradise and boasts hidden waterfalls and private swimming holes. Visit Albert River and Christmas Creek as you trek through the hinterland of this World Heritage-listed rainforest and feel miles away from the highrises and busy crowds. If peace and quiet is your idea of heaven, make it more than just a day trip by booking one of the farm stay cottages or luxury glamping tents.
Learn How to Surf
People from all over the world book flights to the Gold Coast for the chance to ride some of the city's famous waves – so why not learn the ropes while you’re in paradise? From beginner to advanced, there are plenty of surf schools to be found by the beaches, with instructors that’ll have you standing and shredding in no time. You can also find Australia’s largest collection of surfboards at the Surf World Museum in Currumbin.
Seaside Dining
The Gold Coast’s incredible culinary scene is made even more enticing by the views at some of its top fine-dining restaurants. Enjoy a Moreton Bay bug roll as you look out over the crystal blue waters at Rick Shores or a rock lobster bolognese with a side of glittering coastline on the rooftop of Nineteen at the Star.
When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Gold Coast?
Thanks to its subtropical climate, the Gold Coast is a great holiday destination at any time of year. For those with flexible travel dates, consider booking your flights to the Gold Coast from April to June for sunny yet mild weather, fewer crowds and lower airfares. With average temperatures of 22°C to 25°C, it’s still warm enough to swim with a cool breeze in the evenings – ideal for making all kinds of unforgettable memories.
If you want to escape winter, the Gold Coast remains a sunny paradise from June to August, where temperatures range from 20°C to 23°C. Shake off the shiver from down south and embrace the outdoors with whale watching, surfing, and rainforest walks all on the agenda.
Or, for those who crave the heat, you can enjoy endless beach days with average temperatures of 25°C to 30°C in the summer months of December to February. On the odd days it does rain, you can seek refuge with indoor mini golf, escape rooms and more.
