Just landed at Gold Coast Airport and itching to start your holiday? We get it — no one flies into paradise to stand in a queue or wait around for a shuttle that’s “just 10 more minutes.”
Good news: the best of the Gold Coast is just minutes away. And if you’ve lined up a car hire at the airport, you can skip the waiting game and roll straight into holiday mode.
Here are the top spots you can hit immediately after touchdown — no delays, no detours, just good vibes from the get-go.
☀️ 1. Kirra Beach (5 mins away)
Craving salt air and a clear head after your flight? Head straight to Kirra Beach. It’s just a 5-minute drive from the terminal and known for its clean waves, chill crowd, and picture-perfect views. Locals love it for an early swim, surf or simply sitting on the sand with a coffee in hand.
🚗 With your own car, you’ll be toes-in-the-sand before most people have even sorted their bags.
🥐 2. Coolangatta for Coffee and a Bite (7 mins)
Hungry after a red-eye or early flight? Cooly is your next stop. Park up and treat yourself to breakfast by the beach. Faves include Basked on Kirra, Boardriders Café, or the iconic Coolangatta Pie Shop if you’re feeling low-key.
📍 Pro tip: Parking is easy near the esplanade, and you can stretch your legs along the beachfront before moving on.
🌿 3. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary or Rock Pools (10–25 mins)
Travelling with kids? Or just want to kick off your trip with something memorable? Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a quick drive from the airport, and you’ll be cuddling koalas or feeding kangaroos within minutes. Prefer nature over wildlife parks? Head inland 25 minutes to the Currumbin Rock Pools for a refreshing dip under the trees.
🦘 Either way, having a car makes it seamless — no navigating bus routes or waiting for shuttles.
🧺 4. Tallebudgera Creek (12 mins)
This spot is a favourite for locals who know what’s up. Tallebudgera Creek offers calm, turquoise water perfect for floating, paddling or swimming. You won’t find noisy crowds here — just families, locals, and sunshine. It’s an instant holiday mood.
💡 Pro move: Stop at the supermarket on the way and turn it into a spontaneous picnic.
✨ Save Time, See More
Most of these spots are impossible to reach quickly by public transport — and let’s be honest, nothing kills the holiday buzz like standing around at a bus stop with your bags. Hiring a car from Gold Coast Airport means no waiting, no coordinating, just freedom.
Touch down, grab the keys, and book your Gold Coast Airport car hire to get your trip rolling from the moment you land.
