Where to Stay in Gold Coast, Australia

This property only opened in October 2022 and already a significant landmark on the city-scape. Comprising of two tall glass building that kiss the clouds with stark white exo-skeleton strips on the outside. You can’t miss it!

However, it is when you walk inside that the draw drops. The timeless charm, that signature Langham scent, the glorious flower arrangements, and the pastel pink against the ocean blue that pops through every window. The decor, the endless ceilings, the grandeur without the ‘down your nose’ looks when someone walks through the lobby in their bathers and a towel. Refined, elegant, warm. The Gold Coast hotel scene just turned up a notch

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The Spa and Wellness centre continues the attention to detail theme of the hotel. A 30m indoor lap pool, top notch TechnoGym equipment, with cardio machines facing the ocean, and regular fitness classes for guests. The Spa is a destination in its own right!

If you did want to venture out, the location is perfect. Half-way between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. The only thing separating you from the surf, is the sand and a sealed bike and walking path giving you easy access to the entire Gold Coast stretch.

A masterfully converted original 1970’s highway Hotel Motel, Crystal Pacific Palm Beach is a modern boutique beach side stay. It’s perfect for a family (or friends) stay when you want space, access to the beach, local cafes and a short walk to the pristine Tallebudgera Creek.

 Each two-storey apartment has light filled bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs. Off the master bedroom there is a large private deck featuring a beautiful hanging daybed that commands you to stop, open a book or just be. Downstairs there is a kitchen, lounge and dining area with all you need for a week (or longer) stay. You have your own private courtyard with a bar bench, stools and BBQ. Nothing more needed.

 The decor is on point – whites and natural fibers, textured wall art and soft timbers create an atmosphere of tranquil coastal living. It’s not just a place to rest your head, it is a home that invites you to, well… just chill… take as long as you need. 

 There is also a large communal outdoor space with mineral magnesium pool and comfortable sun loungers protected by large umbrellas and tropical gardens. The entire space is designed for you to linger.

 Located on the highway, down the southern end of the Gold Coast, which is rising in popularity. Burleigh Heads is a short walk away, and buses stop regularly out the front if you want to go to Pacific Fair, other beaches or explore the coast. And no, you don’t hear the highway traffic once you step inside your sanctuary that is Crystal Pacific!

While the road to get there is windy, and a picturesque journey in itself (pop into the organic shop in Canungra on your way) it’s not until you get to the top that you could be forgiven for thinking you might have missed a turn and ended up in heaven! 

For over 100 years, the O’Reilly family have been opening their doors and hearts to nature lovers, sharing their passion for Australia’s flora and fauna. They are pioneers of ecotourism, before ecotourism was a thing. You not only experience it, but you feel the deep respect for the surrounding natural wonders and this seeps into every aspect of O’Reilly’s Retreat. Their commitment ensures that every guest experiences the magic while leaving the lightest possible ecological footprint.

Stepping onto the grounds of O’Reilly’s Retreat is like stepping into a storybook, the original main timber lodge (akin to an American Dude Ranch) still stands front-and-centre today and the heartbeat of the retreat. The echoes of the past resonate in the air as you learn about the remarkable history of the O’Reilly family. Discover the tales of Bernard O’Reilly, the intrepid explorer who discovered the Stinson plane (which now sits proudly in front of the main lodge). You may even have the pleasure of meeting the second, third, or fourth generation family members, who continue to own and operate the retreat today. 

Wake up from a great night’s sleep to the melodic symphony of birdsong and savor the breathtaking views. Big tip: You definitely need to stay longer than one night!