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Getting Around Gold Coast, Australia

Globetrotter

14 May 2023 - 4 min read

If you're into surfing, there's no need to go abroad for a vacation. In Australia, you'll find numerous beaches across the country with waves perfect for surfing. One such destination is the Gold Coast, a paradise for surfers.

Don't miss out on the fascinating natural attractions here either. The Gold Coast boasts a well-connected transportation system that makes exploring the area convenient and enjoyable. You have various options available, such as renting bicycles or cars, as well as taking trains, buses, and trams.

If you prefer using public transportation, it's advisable to obtain a Go Card for hassle-free, cost-effective travel. Similar to other Australian states, paper tickets on the Gold Coast tend to be more expensive. You can purchase a Go Card at the airport counter, shops, or minimarkets, and easily top up the balance. The minimum balance required on this card is $20. To maximize savings, consider buying weekly tickets with the Go Card.

Curious about the specifics of transportation on the Gold Coast? You can get around using any or all of the following modes of transportation.

Transportation Recommendations in Gold Coast

1. SkyBus

General information: SkyBus provides the sole public transportation from Gold Coast Airport to the city center. This bus service runs a single route between the airport and downtown. So, when you arrive at the city center, you can continue your journey with other modes of transportation. Sky Bus is a luxury bus that is equipped with free WiFi. This bus is available every day, with arrivals every 30 minutes. The seats are very comfortable and have complete facilities.

Fares: 18 dollars per ride.

Tips: Check the schedule and route before boarding.

2. Public Buses

Transportation Recommendations in Gold Coast

Source: Unsplash

General information: The most easily accessible mode of public transportation on the Gold Coast is the bus. The buses on the Gold Coast are categorized into three types: TransLink, Surfside, and NightLink buses. NightLink is a service that operates from 19:00 until early morning. Meanwhile, TransLink and Surfside buses only run in the morning until noon.

Routes: The TransLink bus follows a loop route within the city and offers two routes: 626 and 627. The NightLink bus shares the same route as the TransLink bus. On the other hand, the Surfside bus operates along the beaches of the Gold Coast and is particularly popular among surfers due to its spacious storage compartment.

Fares: About 7 dollars one way. If you buy a ticket without a Go Card, the fare can be around 10 dollars.

Tips: Before boarding, make sure to check the bus schedule and route. Additionally, ensure that your Go Card has a sufficient balance to cover the fare.

3. G: Link Tram

Source: ridetheg.com.au

General information: Another mode of mass transportation available on the Gold Coast is the G:Link tram service, which operates exclusively within the city. There are two tram routes in this city, namely GLKN and GLKS, with public transit stops scattered throughout the city and close to popular attractions. There are 16 GLink stations spanning from Gold Coast University Hospital to Broadbeach South.

Fares: About 5 dollars to 7 dollars, depending on the distance.

Tips: Check the route and schedule in advance so you can adjust it to your itinerary.

4. Trans Link Trains

Source: Pixabay

General information: Trains on the Gold Coast offer services not only within the city but also from the airport. If you're looking to save money, you can opt for this mode of transportation. There are four train routes with 16 stations, operating nearly 24 hours a day. The trains arrive at a frequency of approximately 15-30 minutes.

Fares: About 5 dollars to 7 dollars, depending on the distance and station.

Tips: Check the train schedule and route first. Make sure you get on the right train so you don't get too far lost.

Also read: Getting Around Brisbane, Australia

5. Taxi

Source: Shutterstock

General information: Taxis are a convenient mode of transportation in Gold Coast, Australia. They provide services from the airport to the city center and are available throughout the city. While taxi fares in Gold Coast can be relatively pricey, they offer a reliable option for getting around the area.

Fares: The fare for a taxi ride from the airport to the city center is around 65 dollars. For travel within the city, fares are determined based on the distance traveled. Taxi fares in Gold Coast start at a minimum fare of AUD $4.5 and charge an additional AUD $2.5 per kilometer traveled.

Tips: To ensure safety and affordability, it is important to select an official taxi.

6. Bike Rental

Source: Shutterstock

General information: You can also go around the Gold Coast by bicycle. Bike paths on the Gold Coast are not only in the city. You can also cycle along the coastal paths. By cycling, you can be more relaxed and can enjoy the scenery. Moreover, bicycle rental is very easy to find. In fact, several hotels have equipped their facilities with bicycle rentals.

Rates: Calculated per hour, to rent for 6-8 hours, the rate starts from 25 dollars.

Tips: You can rent at the hotel where you are staying to make the rental price more affordable.

7. Car Rental

Source: Unsplash

General information: Renting a car on the Gold Coast can be an excellent transportation choice. With the availability of self-drive rental services, you have the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. By driving yourself, you can navigate the city more freely and conveniently.

How to rent a car: You can rent a car through Traveloka. To do so, simply open the Traveloka application and select the "Car Rental" menu. Specify the city where you plan to pick up or rent the car, set the desired rental time and duration, and choose a car that suits your needs.

Tips: It is recommended to make your booking at least one day in advance to secure availability. Please note that a deposit may be required.

Rent a Car Here

With so many transportation options on the Gold Coast, your vacation will be easier. You can choose one or combine all of these types of transportation. By combining them, you can have a more memorable holiday experience. Don't forget to book all your vacation needs at Traveloka!