Fun in the sun is a prerequisite for any Gold Coast holiday. Sand and surf make the Gold Coast an ideal destination for family holidays and keep locals and travellers alike content and chilled, but where do you turn if the surf’s flat? The hotel pool of course.
While almost a given for Gold Coat hotels, not all pools were created equal, and hotels on the Gold Coast have every type of pool you can imagine. With pools ranging from water parks to resort-style lagoons, and a coastline stretching from Surfer’s Paradise to Currumbin to Burleigh, we’ll help make a tough decision that little bit easier with a list of our top 20 hotels with incredible pools, compiled using the data from our 26 million Australian visitors to Hotels Combined each year.
Main Beach Hotels
Palazzo Versace Hotel Gold Coast
With a magnificent Romanesque facade, Palazzo Versace Hotel Gold Coast sets the scene for an unforgettable holiday the moment visitors arrive. This utterly luxurious hotel boasts one of the most elegant and Instagram-worthy pools on the Gold Coast. Known as a “water salon”, this 63-metre heated pool is lined with tall palm trees and curtained cabana oases with king-size loungers. The crystal-clear blue water even has its own white-sand beach.
Not to be outdone, the rooms at Palazzo Versace Hotel Gold Coast are brightly lit, offering Juliette balconies, marble bathrooms with spas, and elegantly furnishings right down to the bespoke throw pillows. Some of the condominiums also boast a private rooftop terrace overlooking the harbour.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: A$190 – A$1117
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: 94 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach, Gold Coast, Australia
Sea World Resort
It’s tough to compete with the rides and attractions at Sea World’s water park, but the actual resort gets very close with its pool offerings. A main lagoon-style pool complete with waterfall and year-round heating, and a 12-seater spa ranging from 35 to 37 degrees Celsius are the focal points for adults. There’s also a kid-friendly offering with the SpongeBob SplashBash aquatic playground with water shooters, giant tipping bucket and slides.
Guests at Sea World Resort also have exclusive access to character meet-and-greets, behind-the-scenes animal encounters and a free Dolphin Discovery presentation when guests stay two or more nights. Accommodation ranges from standard double rooms to executive spa suites on the beach.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$93 – A$397
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: Seaworld Dr, Main Beach, Gold Coast, Australia
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort is a glamorous beach resort with its own exclusive community of one hotel bar, two restaurants and an idyllic stretch of Queensland coast right out front. More than 300 rooms, suites and villas, which range from Spa Studios and Deluxe Ocean Suites to Rooftop Villas, are situated among lush tropical gardens and man-made lagoons.
These lagoons flow past some of the rooms, while the Oasis Pool is surrounded by luxe designer loungers and has its own poolside bar and a clear view of the ocean. The skybridge takes visitors directly from the resort to the Marina Mirage shopping centre for some retail therapy.
Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: A$156 – A$508
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 71 Sea World Drive, Main Beach, Gold Coast, Australia
Hotel Location
Broadbeach Hotels
Broadbeach Holiday Apartments
Perfect for those budget-savvy travellers who prefer to cook their own meals, Broadbeach Holiday Apartments offer a temporary one-bedroom home on the Gold Coast. The apartments are generously sized with modern lounge rooms, air-conditioning, balconies and a full-size kitchen. The Broadbeach neighbourhood lends its chilled-out beach vibe while placing guests close to Jupiters Casino, Pacific Fair shopping and numerous restaurants.
Unlike some self-catered accommodation, Broadbeach Holiday Apartments doesn’t skimp on the extra facilities. Along with a gym, sauna, games room and barbeque area, visitors also have access to not one, but two spectacular heated pools. The indoor pool has a separate spa and a louvred roof that allows ample sunlight or protection from the elements. The outdoor pool is encircled by lounge chairs and private cabanas.
Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: A$73 – A$287
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: 19/24 Queensland Avenue, Broadbeach, Gold Coast, Australia
Bel Air on Broadbeach
Bel Air is one of Broadbeach’s most family-friendly resorts. It caters to all types, starting with a variety of accommodation. Choose from one, two and three-bedroom self-contained apartments in three separate high-rise towers.
The resort also boasts three very different pools. The most magnificent, and the one guests spend most time at, is the two-tiered Romanesque resort pool, which is positively saturated in sunlight. A pillared archway separates the two levels and the pool is rich in tropical gardens. A separate wading pool keeps the little ones entertained, while a heated indoor lap pool is better suited to those seeking quiet or a workout.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$80 – A$373
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: 2633 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach, Gold Coast, Australia
Hotel Location
Mermaid Beach Hotels
Turtle Beach Resort
For those seeking out fun for the children, serenity for the adults and overall variety, Turtle Beach Resort is the place to go. The resort has four excellent pools along with the Splash Zone waterpark. The latter is an entertainment free-for-all with a huge splash bucket, twisting waterslide, racing waterslides and water cannons.
The four pools include a kid-friendly pool with another waterslide, mushroom water fountain, spa and adjoining playground. There’s also an expansive pool area that backs onto an all-day restaurant and bar. And one of the pools is an adults-only area that features another spa and lounge chairs. There’s even a lap pool for those interested in some holiday exercise, so every type of traveller is satisfied.
All of this is coupled with a tennis court, putt putt golf course, games room, cinema, sauna and a day spa. There are also modern holiday apartments that include as many as four bedrooms.
Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: A$78 – A$312
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: 2346 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast, Australia
Hotel Location
Coolangatta Hotels
Oaks Calypso Plaza
Better acquaint yourself with charming Coolangatta at this fashionable hotel complete with a gym, games room and sunlit apartments. These apartments range from studios to two-bedroom self-contained abodes. There are also two-level executive apartments boasting spa baths. Almost every room comes with a balcony overlooking the beach, hinterland or the gorgeous pool.
The Oaks Calypso’s pool is nothing but gorgeous. The lagoon-style design gives visitors multiple areas for relaxation, fun and frolicking. With waterslides, children’s wading pool, palm-fringed edges and wide umbrellas over lounge chairs, this is one spot visitors won’t want to relinquish during a family holiday. Unless, of course, visitors decide to visit the beach, which is right out front.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$77 – A$313
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: 99 Griffith St, Coolangatta, Gold Coast, Australia
Hotel Location
Surfers Paradise Hotels
Novotel Surfers Paradise
Positioned mere minutes from the rolling waves and soft sand of Surfers Paradise Beach, Novotel Surfers Paradise treats guests to a classic coast holiday. Starting out with comfortable Standard Twin Rooms and peaking with the exorbitant Premium King Room, this hotel’s lodgings include everything from ocean views and deep spa baths to private balconies and free Wi-Fi.
The hotel’s pool is a sun-drenched masterpiece with cushioned loungers, overhanging umbrellas and the perfect water temperature for cooling off those hot summer days. Once visitors have dried off, they can indulge in some fresh seafood at the onsite restaurant or explore the many attractions lining Cavill Avenue.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$116 – A$384
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: Cnr Surfers Paradise Boulevard and Hanlan Street, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Vibe Hotel Gold Coast
Vibe Hotel’s pool possesses one of the best river views of any other pool on the Gold Coast. Yes that’s right, river views. This tranquil spot provides a different atmosphere to the traditional waves and crowded beaches. Instead, guests can laze on their back with a cocktail from the pool bar, floating under a small bridge as the Nerang River flows past.
The stylish rooms also take advantage of the hotel’s river setting with private balconies overlooking the water. Families can book a two-bedroom interconnecting apartment, while couples might prefer the Deluxe King Suite with separate lounge room.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$54 – A$360
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: 42 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Mantra on View Hotel
Encircled by palm trees, white umbrellas and poolside dining, Mantra on View’s resort-style pool is a genuine tropical paradise. A walkway splits the two main swimming areas and allows for waiters to bring guests drinks and food no matter where they’re paddling. There’s also a dedicated children’s pool and a spa.
The hotel itself is highlighted by a very appealing collection of rooms, which includes ocean-view suites and spa suites among other offerings. Unwind with a variety of treatment packages at the Ocean Day Spa and indulge in exquisite Asian fare at the onsite restaurant, NOSH Pan Asian.
Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: A$70 – A$634
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: 22 View Ave, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Q1 Resort and Spa
Arguably one of the best-known hotels on the Gold Coast, Q1 Resort and Spa stands out on the skyline as Australia’s tallest residential tower. State-of-the-art apartments deliver self-contained living along with untold luxuries such as glass-enclosed balconies, deluxe spa baths and uninterrupted beach views. Guests at Q1 are also entitled to exclusive specials at Seventy7 Cafe & Bar, the Gold Coast’s most talked about restaurant situated 230 metres high with 360-degree views.
Far from being overshadowed, the pools at Q1 seem to complement everything else on offer. Two glamorous lagoon-style pools create two very distinct areas for play and relaxation. One pool comes with a tranquil waterfall, while the other links up with a gourmet burger restaurant and bar. There’s also a heated indoor pool and spa.
Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: A$59 – A$1010
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 9 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Mantra Towers of Chevron
Mantra Towers’ ‘Beaches in the Sky’ swimming pool brings the coast to every guest. This sprawling sub-tropical man-made beach includes sandy shorelines and room to lay out, lush gardens, and plenty of clear blue waters. Bring the beach ball, the bucket and shovel, or a book to read under a palm tree. Whatever ideal beach activity guests would like to indulge in, they can certainly enjoy it at Mantra’s outdoor leisure area.
Rainy days can still provide fun, thanks to the hotel’s private theatre, sauna and indoor heated pool. Cavill Avenue’s plethora of attractions, such as Ripley’s Believe it or Not! and Infinity fun house, are also nearby. A range of well-furnished apartments and sub penthouses provide the right amenities and ocean views for an unforgettable Gold Coast holiday.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$42 – A$908
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 23 Ferney Ave, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Mantra Legends Hotel Gold Coast
With palm trees on one side and an infinity edge on the other, the pool at Mantra Legends creates a dreamy environment for those lazy holiday moments. Float on the bright-blue surface listening to the water trickle over into a lower pond while soaking up the sun’s rays.
Other facilities at Mantra Legends include a sauna, steam room, fully-equipped gym with machines as well as free weights, and the Fables Restaurant, which serves up a delicious seafood buffet. Couples can splurge on a spa suite for a two-person spa bath and unfathomable ocean views, while families can enjoy refreshing separation with the interconnecting room options.
Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: A$47 – A$606
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 25 Laycock Street, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Alpha Sovereign Hotel
The two mid-rise towers at Alpha Sovereign immediately invoke a peaceful ambience with their front gardens and more intimate nature compared to larger hotels. Expect ample space and comfort in the range of suites including the Family Suite, which sleeps five and boasts a large lounge room.
The pool is certainly a place of relaxation, fitted out with numerous loungers and an undercover barbeque area. However, this tranquil spot with a rock waterfall and lagoon appeal also provides plenty of opportunities for fun. There’s even a pool table close to the water’s edge and an outdoor spa nearby. A games room and bar keep everyone entertained even after the sun sets.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$47 – A$322
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: 138 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Mantra Sun City
Visitors can take their pick between a heated indoor pool and spa for utter rejuvenation or the Aztec-inspired outdoor pool, where family fun is never hard to find. This outdoor entertainment area includes dual waterslides and an exceptional rock spa nestled in gardens. The gym and tennis court are ideal for active holidaymakers, while the on-site Koastal Kitchen plates up fresh steaks and seafood.
Just one block from the beach, the rooms at Mantra Sun City enjoy exceptional ocean views from private balconies. Choose from a range of one, two and three-bedroom apartments while enjoying those subtle conveniences such as a fully-equipped kitchen, in-house movies and a laundry.
Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: A$82 – A$1357
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 3400 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Paradise Resort Gold Coast
If anyone knows how to have fun, it’s the people behind Paradise Resort, which boasts not one, but two water parks. The main Z4K Water Park features numerous slides, climbing frames and cannons, along with a giant tipping bucket. A smaller water park keeps the younger kids entertained with a slide, cannons, another water bucket and a paddling pool with sandy beach.
A separate lagoon-style pool with a nearby spa ensures parents also have a place to unwind when they’re not enjoying the adults-only outdoor spa and bar area. This is only the tip of the iceberg at a resort that offers an ice-skating rink, giant chess board, games room, jungle gym and a kids’ club.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: A$97 – A$499
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address: 122 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa
Indulge in the heavenly ambience of Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa. Opulent rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows soak up the Gold Coast skyline and dark-blue ocean while surrounding guests with plush furnishings. Certain rooms also grant access to the Club Lounge, which includes complimentary food and drinks.
Centred on outdoor recreation, it’s no surprise the Marriott’s pool is one of its defining features. With intimate lagoons, white-sand beaches and cascading rock waterfalls, there are few reasons to ever leave this place. You can even enjoy a candlelit dinner by the water, making this one of the Gold Coast’s best hotels for couples.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: A$139 – A$1272
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel
Fit for a photo shoot, the main pool at Hilton Surfers Paradise is a stretching masterpiece of luxe lounge chairs, waterfalls, shaded couches and azure water. The pool’s generous length provides ample space for swimmers to relax, muck around or get in some laps. If the sun isn’t shining, visitors can also head indoors to a heated pool and spa.
The rooms at Hilton Surfers Paradise rival the outdoor areas with floor-to-ceiling windows, cloudy beds, LCD TVs and 24-hour guest services. However, the King Relaxation Room is our pick purely because of the uninterrupted beach views right from the bedroom.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: A$106 – A$1020
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 6 Orchid Ave, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Mantra Crown Towers
Only 100 metres from the beach, Mantra Crown Towers doubles up on the coastal delights with an expansive pool area. Low rock walls and lush tropical gardens provide separation between a wide pool with sandy beach and loungers, and a children’s pool that provides tonnes of fun with a pirate ship and waterslide. There’s also an outdoor spa to one side and another quieter swimming area on the other.
Choose between delicious Thai cuisine and seafood at the two onsite restaurants, or venture out to the many attractions, cafés and bars around Surfers Paradise. At the end of the day, it’s always nice coming back to one of Mantra’s self-sufficient apartments, which cater to solos, couples, friends and families.
Star Rating: 4.5*
Price: A$62 – A$626
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: 5-19 Palm Ave, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Peppers Soul Surfers Paradise
The pool at Peppers Soul can only have been inspired by a cinema. There’s no other way to explain this four-tiered pool-spa combination. What movie is showing? Why, its the crashing waves and golden sand of Surfers Paradise of course. There’s even a drinks waiter so guests can kick back on a cushioned lounger or in the spa while sipping on a cocktail.
Situated right on the beach, almost every room enjoys an unparalleled view of the ocean, while some even come with a private plunge pool. Seaduction Restaurant + Bar serves handcrafted meals, while the hotel’s spa lulls you into an almost comatose state of relaxation.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: A$168 – A$1017
Guest Rating: 9.4
Address: 8 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia
Hotel Location
5 Tips for the Perfect Family Holiday
Family holidays on the Gold Coast can be more unforgettable than most, but there are still a few tips you should know to ensure they’re memorable for all the right reasons. Here are five tips for ensuring a family holiday with more laughs and less tears.
1. Pack games and other activities for rainy days
Although the Gold Coast enjoys about 300 days of sunshine each year, visitors will still want to make sure there’s something to entertain the kids when that occasional rain dumps down. Colouring books, board games and a deck of cards often trump tablets and smartphones, which keep heads down and tuned out.
2. Pick a hotel with connecting rooms
It’s the holidays, so the kids are naturally going to want to stay up later than usual, while parents might prefer some uninterrupted sleep. Avoid picking a hotel with multiple beds in the same room. Instead, opt for a hotel with interconnecting rooms. This way there’s valued separation between parents and kids, letting everyone have exactly what they want.
3. Pack pool noodles and other pool games
You don’t need to pay extra for a hotel with its own water park. A simple rectangular pool can provide plenty of entertainment with the right pool toys. These can also come in handy when heading down to the beach.
4. Opt for a self-contained apartment if you’re on a budget
Self-contained apartments immediately invoke thoughts of high prices, but as travellers can see from this list, apartments are no more expensive, and sometimes even cheaper, than hotel rooms. They also give you more cooking capabilities, meaning less money spent on restaurants and cafés.
5. Pack plenty of snacks for the beach
Visitors to the Gold Coast are going to want to spend hours at the beach. Visitors don’t want to be forced to run back to the hotel or to some nearby shops to buy snacks or drinks. Pack a little picnic basket and pull something out whenever the kids are hungry or thirsty. With all the swimming and running around, the kids going to get mighty hungry.
You’re allowed to be greedy on the Gold Coast
Some might think there’s no point in having a hotel pool when they’ve got the stunning Gold Coast beaches so close. A fantastic pool or water park right outside your room, however, can provide so much more entertainment, simplicity and fun to a vacation day. While the kids are running around in their swimmers, adults can enjoy a pampering spa treatment or finish that book.
Other holidaymakers obviously agree. More than half of the hotels on this list also feature in our top 20 most-booked hotels on the Gold Coast. It’s not just Surfers Paradise either, with many popular hotels in other Gold Coast suburbs such as Broadbeach and Coolangatta. While there are plenty to choose from, it’s important to make sure the hotel pool suits your holiday style, whether it’s family-friendly fun, a couple’s alcove or a party atmosphere.
Have you got a favourite pool on the Gold Coast? Which hotel on our list has the perfect swimming spot for your holiday style?
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