The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s favourite holiday destinations. Whether it’s the endless stretch of golden sandy beaches, the hair-raising fun of the theme parks, the eclectic nightlife, or the tranquillity of surrounding rainforests, the Gold Coast is a destination that continues to appeal.
The Gold Coast offers something memorable for the entire family. Of course, the Gold Coast owes its name to its stunning coastline that offers up endless beach days and fun in the sun. Beach lovers will discover some of Australia’s most pristine beaches and best surf spots along this golden horizon of irresistible beauty.
From solo backpackers to families, there is truly something for everyone. No matter what time of the year you decide to go and visit, you can be met with beauty in all corners of this spectacular coastline. Getting there is easy, too. With two main airports including Brisbane Airport and Gold Coast Airport, you can easily start exploring the moment your plane hits the tarmac!
Tactics to find cheap flights to the Gold Coast
For most trips and vacations, the flight is the most expensive part! Luckily there are a few ways you can find cheap flights to the Gold Coast so that your airfare doesn’t leave you broke.
1. Search for flights in ‘private mode’
If you’ve ever wondered why prices seem to change every time you search for a flight, blame your browser’s cookies. By repeatedly searching for a particular flight or route, travel sites can sneakily hike prices up knowing that you’re serious about booking. In order to bypass this, search for your flights in incognito mode or private browsing mode. That way, you will get the cheapest flight prices available no matter how often you visit the booking page.
2. Check out the best budget airlines
Budget airlines are popping up everywhere. Don’t let the cheaper prices scare you, most of these airlines offer the same value for money as the more expensive carriers. However, depending on the airline, you may have a baggage weight restriction or have to pay for in-flight refreshments, but if you’re flying to the Gold Coast it is a hassle-free and cheaper way of travelling.
3. Travel off-season
Another way to secure a cheap flight to the Gold Coast is by avoiding peak travel months. Peak season on the Gold Coast is during the summer months of December to February. This is when schools go on holidays and many families visit for vacation. Mid-November can also be busy with many festival periods and “schoolies” festivities. The cheapest time to visit the Gold Coast is during the months of April and May.
4. Know the best time to get cheap flights
The best time to book your flight is generally 6-8 weeks before your departure. Leaving it any closer to the date may see a price hike. Booking too far in advance can also end up being more expensive.
5. Sign-up for notifications of special deals
Most airlines offer online newsletters or members emails notifying you of any deals or sales for your destination. Make sure you sign up with all the major airlines’ newsletters to be the first in the know of any cheap flights to the Gold Coast.
Flying in to the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast Coolangatta Airport is located on the southern end of the Gold Coast, only 25 kilometres (around half an hour’s drive) from Surfers Paradise and a short 5-minute drive from the surfside town of Coolangatta. It is also at the gateway of the Tweed Region of Northern New South Wales, where famous landmarks such as Byron Bay are located just under an hour away.
The Gold Coast Airport is the best choice of airport for anyone travelling to the Gold Coast and wanting to explore all the major attractions listed above.
Getting to and from the airport is easy, with taxi, uber, car rental, and bus services all located directly in front of the arrivals terminal. The single-level airport makes it easy to navigate and provides visitors with plenty of dining options as well as modern conveniences such as wifi, ATMs, baggage lockers, duty-free shopping and retail stores.
Image credit: Gold Coast Airport