Your guide to Gold Coast Airport

Driving and parking at Gold Coast Airport

You’ll find Gold Coast Airport on Eastern Avenue in Bilinga, Queensland. It’s 2.5km from Coolangatta and 24km from Surfers Paradise. The airport is open from 4am to 11pm.

Gold Coast Airport Parking is open 24 hours a day and is right next to the airport. Park your car, get your bags and step straight into the terminal. Book your parking online in advance for the best deal. There are clearly marked accessible parking bays in all airport carparks.

Picking up and dropping off
The area for picking up and dropping off is directly out the front of the terminal. Follow the signage once you enter the airport precinct or view the map on this page.

Public transport

Translink operates a couple of bus services to and from Gold Coast Airport. Catch route 777 from the Broadbeach South tram station (the G:link from Surfers Paradise or Southport stops here.) The 760 runs from Varsity Lakes Train Station to the airport.

There is a taxi rank outside the domestic arrivals area, and a ride share pick-up point outside the departures area.

Check out all the details on transport options on the Gold Coast Airport website.

Where to check in

You can’t miss the check-in counters and kiosks at Gold Coast Airport – they’re on the ground floor, directly in front of the central entrance. You can save time by checking in online from 48 hours before your domestic flight (online check in closes 35 minutes before your flight), then scan the code on your mobile at the kiosk to print out your baggage tag(s). Once you’ve dropped your bags off, head to security screening, next to the check-in area. If you’re flying international, you’ll go through security first, then on through to outbound immigration screening.

Getting to your gate

Gold Coast Airport has undergone an expansion, and the terminal now has three levels. Domestic departures generally leave from gates on the ground floor. After security screening, international travellers should cross the departure lounge to the southern end of the terminal, into the international terminal building. If you’re unsure where you need to go, look for the Airport Ambassadors in their bright blue shirts and they’ll help you.

Keep an eye on the flight information screens while you enjoy a bite to eat. For domestic flights, we recommend getting to your gate around 30 minutes before departure.

Accessibility

Gold Coast Airport has a series of accessibility measures in place for passengers and visitors with a disability. From accessible parking spots and toilets to a comprehensive hidden disabilities program and their wonderful AmbassaPAW therapy dogs, the airport is well equipped. For detailed information, check out the accessibility section of the airport’s website.

Shopping and dining at Gold Coast Airport

Once you’ve checked in, it’s time to relax, have a coffee, maybe do a little shopping… If you’re hungry, there’s a decent range of dining options, from sushi to salads to classic fast food, or you can get a refreshing beer and bar snack at Blackstone Bar and Café. (If you’re flying internationally, Wollumbin Café and Bar has got you covered.) You’ll also find a pharmacy, newsagent and convenience store in the terminal, along with boutiques and a digital travel accessories store, for any last-minute purchases.

Other things to do at Gold Coast Airport

If you’re lucky, you might catch some pop-up live entertainment from one of the area’s arts festivals. Otherwise, if you’ve got time between flights, those famous Gold Coast waters are within easy reach. Stash your baggage in the lockers located in the short-term car park and head across to Kirra Beach (it’s about a kilometre away), or hop in a cab to Coolangatta, just a few minutes down the road. If you don’t have enough time for a dip, the Coast Bar is an al fresco bar at the front of the airport, perfect for soaking up some sunny vibes.

Our top Gold Coast Airport tips

Time it right!
Gold Coast Airport is just on the Queensland side of the Queensland and New South Wales border, so it operates on Eastern Standard Time (Queensland time). Keep that in mind when you’re flying in from other states during Daylight Savings and if you’re booking connecting transport for Gold Coast Airport arrivals.

Calm your nerves
If you’re a nervous flyer or need some emotional support, seek out some fluffy therapy from Gary, Gold Coast Airport’s Labrador-cross AmbassaPAW! Gary is on duty on Tuesday mornings. On Wednesday mornings, his canine colleague Quincy takes over.

Get your work done
If you’re travelling for business, Gold Coast Airport has fast, free Wi-Fi. There’s also a Qantas Club with more business facilities.