Standing loud and proud at 322 metres, Q1 is the tallest residential building in all of Australia and the stage for one of the country’s highest external building walks, the SkyPoint Climb. The accommodation here is elite, with one to four-bedroom apartments, boasting views that stretch from the shimmery sands of Surfers Paradise to the lush green hinterland. The Q1 architectural design was inspired by the Olympic Torch and Sydney Opera House, and inside you’ll find three swimming pools, an award-winning day spa, four spectacular eateries, complimentary underground parking and Australia’s only beachside observation deck on level 77.
With its gleaming beachside skyscrapers, its entertainment strip and casinos, and plenty of exciting things to do, the Gold Coast—or ‘Goldie’ as it’s affectionately known—has a reputation for being Australia’s Las Vegas. But that’s changing.
The most recent Australian Commonwealth Games saw more than one billion dollars worth of investment here, including an extension to the tram system, which now connects the city with trains to Brisbane. There are new markets, restaurants and bars too, plus hotels featuring everything from private marinas and casinos to retro bikes, glowworm displays and even the odd jungle celebrity – clearly aimed at everyone from glitzy Sydneysiders and visiting dignitaries to backpacking 19-year-olds. Price points too ensure there really is something for everyone. Here are the best hotels to stay at on the Gold Coast right now.