In a city of sky-rise serviced apartments and big-name beachfront resorts, a smattering of smaller lodgings has sprung up. Petite in stature but big on charm, Gold Coast boutique hotels offer a trendy alternative to the mainstream resort scene.

From 80’s-inspired motels to chic whitewashed boutiques, we’re covering the best little Gold Coast hotels for your next weekend away.

La Costa Motel

A hop and skip from the ocean in laidback Bilinga, La Costa Motel is an endearing beach shack with a distinct mid-century vibe. Delicate mint hues and vintage striped lounges hark back to the retro era, while luscious green lawns invite lazy afternoons outdoors.

Although the façade is old-fashioned, the interiors are anything but. From the cosy studios to the sprawling family rooms, high-end amenities and cushy furnishings make for a luxe modern stay. Hop on the hotel’s trademark cruiser bikes to explore the beachfront boardwalk in style.

The Pink Hotel

A Coolangatta classic, this hot pink hotel sits smack bang on state lines (thank God border closures are no longer a thing). Pop art murals, glistening neon signs, and chic vintage décor adorn its spacious king rooms and suites. Furthermore, there’s a hip rooftop bar with 180-degree ocean views.

Self-caterers don’t get a kitchen, but the award-winning Eddies Grub House will deliver wings straight to your door. The mid-century-themed boutique recently underwent an extensive renovation to enhance its vintage vibe.

Crystal Pacific

Once a run-down motel, this sleek boutique has transformed into Palm Beach’s most sought-after small-scale resort. Whitewashed exteriors and hanging daybeds give cause to linger outdoors. Fancy a dip? There’s a lovely little splash pool surrounded by loungers and bushy ferns.

Its split-level apartments have all the holiday essentials—BBQs, laundry facilities, and a kitchenette with assorted organic goodies. The café-strewn esplanade and the family-friendly Tallebudgera Creek lie a leisurely stroll away.

Beachside Bilinga

Overlooking the golden sands of Bilinga Beach, this mid-century-styled property oozes vintage appeal. Polished floors and designer furnishings (courtesy of local stalwarts Uniqwa and Kira Kira) set the scene indoors. Outside, bi-fold windows and bright white breeze blocks define the façade.

Only four two-bedroom apartments comprise this breezy Bilinga boutique, so book early to snag your spot. Expect luxe extras like I Love Linen bedding, Bluetooth speakers, and T2 tea in each dreamy dig.

Tessa’s on the Beach

Also in Bilinga—the epicentre of Goldie’s boutique scene—this beautiful beachfront hotel puts you smack bang on the sand. Its breezy ocean-facing patio has hammocks to soak up the view with a cocktail, or you could kick back poolside on a pin-striped lounger.

The 15 luxe rooms draw inspiration from Palm Springs panache—think floral murals and velvety armchairs. Ice-cold A/C, wall-mounted TVs, and sleek Scandinavian-style en-suites add a modern touch.

Discover the Gold Coast’s Culinary Delights With Kiff & Culture

We’ve covered the best Gold Coast boutique hotels. Now you need to work out where to eat.

Don’t roll the dice on shady TripAdvisor reviews. At Kiff & Culture, we’ll whisk you between the city’s top gastronomic hotspots on our decadent Gold Coast foodies’ tour.  

Image Credit: La Cost Motel via Instagram, The Pink Hotel via Instagram, Crystal Pacific via Instagram, Beachside Bilinga via Instagram & Tessa’s on the Beach via Instagram