RV Travel in Gold Coast, Australia – The Complete Guide

Golden beaches, lush hinterlands, and a laid-back coastal vibe—this is the Gold Coast, a sun-drenched haven tailor-made for RV travel. Whether you’re a grey nomad chasing the winter sun, a vanlife couple cruising Australia’s east coast, or an international traveller with a surfboard and a map, the Gold Coast offers one of the most rewarding RV experiences in the country.

Situated just an hour south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast is a seamless blend of urban energy and natural tranquillity. One moment you’re navigating the glitter of Surfers Paradise; the next, you’re tucked away in a rainforest at Springbrook or Lamington National Park. The region is built for RVers, with well-maintained highways, an abundance of holiday parks, public dump points, and a welcoming atmosphere for every kind of traveller.

Families love it for the theme parks and safe swimming spots. Nature seekers come for the mountain lookouts, creekside camping, and wildlife. And food lovers won’t be disappointed with beachfront markets, artisan cafés, and farm-to-table eats tucked throughout the hinterland. There’s no need to choose between ocean, rainforest, and city—on the Gold Coast, you can have it all, parked right outside your door.

What Makes Gold Coast a Great RV Destination?

The Gold Coast stands out as one of Australia’s premier RV destinations thanks to its rare balance of natural beauty, urban convenience, and RV-ready infrastructure. It’s a region that caters to every type of road-tripper—from beach hoppers and hinterland hikers to foodies, families, and digital nomads looking for a mobile base near the action.

A Landscape Made for RVing

Stretching along 57 km of coastline, the Gold Coast offers uninterrupted access to world-famous beaches like Burleigh Heads, Coolangatta, and Broadbeach. But it’s not just about the sand—drive 30 minutes inland and you’ll find the lush hinterlands of Springbrook and Lamington National Parks, filled with rainforest walks, waterfalls, and mountain lookouts. This natural diversity makes the Gold Coast an RV playground where every day feels like a new destination without ever leaving the region.

Year-Round Travel Weather

The subtropical climate is ideal for RV travel, with mild winters and warm summers:

• Autumn (March–May): Arguably the best time—mild temperatures, low humidity, fewer crowds.

• Winter (June–August): Dry, sunny, and cool—perfect for grey nomads and long-stay travellers.

• Spring (September–November): Beautiful beach weather, blooming national parks, and great surf conditions.

• Summer (December–February): Hot, humid, and very popular. Expect crowds, especially near theme parks and coastal campgrounds.

Thanks to this forgiving climate, RVers can comfortably travel here any time of year with just minor adjustments for seasonal bookings and heat preparation.

Urban Access with a Wild Edge

Unlike more sprawling metro areas, the Gold Coast offers easy navigation with a surprisingly calm pace—even in more urban zones like Southport and Surfers Paradise. Many RV parks sit within walking distance of shops, cafés, and beaches, and the city’s G:link light rail makes it possible to explore without needing to move your rig every day.

Just outside the main strip, RVers can access quiet towns like Tallebudgera, Currumbin, and Tamborine Mountain, offering scenic bush drives and campgrounds with next-level views. Whether you prefer being parked beside a beach café or waking to the sound of whipbirds in the rainforest, the Gold Coast makes both possible—often in the same week.

Where to Rent an RV in Gold Coast

If you’re starting your RV journey on the Gold Coast, you’re in luck—this region is home to several trusted rental companies offering everything from budget campervans to luxury motorhomes. Whether you’re flying in through Coolangatta Airport or arriving by train or car, there’s an RV rental depot nearby ready to get you on the road quickly and confidently.

Below are five of the top-rated RV rental providers in the Gold Coast region:

1. Apollo Motorhome Holidays – Southport

• Location: Southport (north of Surfers Paradise)

• Vehicles: Campervans, motorhomes, 4WD campers (2–6 berth)

• Highlights: Large fleet, 24/7 roadside assistance, well-maintained vehicles

• Visit website: https://www.apollocamper.com/

2. Camperman Australia – Arundel

• Location: Arundel (near Helensvale)

• Vehicles: Budget campervans (2–5 berth) with self-contained options

• Highlights: Affordable rates, unlimited kilometres, great for long hauls

• Visit website: https://www.campermanaustralia.com/

3. Cruisin’ Motorhomes – Southport

• Location: Southport (near Gold Coast Highway)

• Vehicles: Modern motorhomes and campervans (2–6 berth)

• Highlights: Late-model vehicles, flexible pickup/drop-off, competitive pricing

• Visit website: https://www.cruisinmotorhomes.com.au/

4. JUCY Rentals – Gold Coast Airport (Coolangatta)

• Location: Near Gold Coast Airport

• Vehicles: Funky green vans and mini RVs (2–4 berth)

• Highlights: Budget-friendly, great for backpackers and young couples

• Visit website: https://www.jucy.com.au/

5. Travellers Autobarn – Brisbane (serves Gold Coast)

• Location: Brisbane depot, 1 hr drive from Gold Coast

• Vehicles: Station wagons, campervans, self-contained options (2–5 berth)

• Highlights: Unlimited KM, long-term hire discounts, no hidden fees

• Visit website: https://www.travellers-autobarn.com.au/

RV Rental Tips for Gold Coast Travellers

• Licensing: Most rentals only require a full (non-learner) driver’s licence in English. International visitors may need a certified translation or International Driving Permit.

• Tolls: Expect tolls when driving between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Register for Linkt passes here: https://www.linkt.com.au/

• Booking: Summer holidays (Dec–Jan) and Easter fill up fast—book at least 2–3 months in advance.

• Vehicle Checklist:

  • Ensure it’s self-contained if planning free camping.

  • Check for included extras: kitchen kit, bedding, camping chairs.

  • Confirm insurance coverage, bond fees, and roadside support.

Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in and Around Gold Coast

Whether you want to wake up to crashing waves or birdsong from the hinterland, the Gold Coast offers a wide variety of RV parks and campgrounds suited to every kind of traveller. Most parks provide full hookups, powered sites, and family-friendly amenities—plus easy access to beaches, walking trails, or public transport.

Below are six of the best RV parks and campgrounds in and around the Gold Coast:

1. Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park – Palm Beach

• Why Stay Here: Absolute waterfront location on the calm inlet of Tallebudgera Creek. Great for kayaking, SUP, and swimming.

• Facilities: Powered sites, dump point, laundry, camp kitchen, Wi-Fi, boat ramp.

• Pet-Friendly: No (pets not permitted)

• Visit website: https://www.goldcoasttouristparks.com.au/parks/tallebudgera-creek

2. BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park – Helensvale

• Why Stay Here: Perfect for families visiting theme parks—walking distance to Movie World and Wet’n’Wild. Massive lagoon pool and water playground.

• Facilities: Ensuite sites, dump point, heated pool, jumping pillow, pet spa, cafe, Wi-Fi.

• Pet-Friendly: Yes (dog-friendly on designated sites)

• Visit website: https://www.goldcoastholidaypark.com.au/

3. Burleigh Beach Tourist Park – Burleigh Heads

• Why Stay Here: Steps from the beach and walking trails of Burleigh Head National Park. Close to cafes, surf clubs, and the local markets.

• Facilities: Powered slab sites, laundry, BBQs, showers, Wi-Fi.

• Pet-Friendly: No

• Visit website: https://www.goldcoasttouristparks.com.au/parks/burleigh-beach

4. Kirra Beach Tourist Park – Coolangatta

• Why Stay Here: A quiet coastal park just minutes from Gold Coast Airport and the NSW border. Ideal for beach lovers and surfers.

• Facilities: Powered sites, dump point, camp kitchen, TV room, Wi-Fi.

• Pet-Friendly: Yes (dog-friendly on application)

• Visit website: https://www.goldcoasttouristparks.com.au/parks/kirra-beach

5. NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort – Biggera Waters

• Why Stay Here: Resort-style holiday park with mini-golf, a kids’ splash zone, and family entertainment. Close to Harbour Town shopping and Broadwater.

• Facilities: Powered sites, dump point, pools, playgrounds, camp kitchen, licensed bistro.

• Pet-Friendly: Yes (conditions apply)

• Visit website: https://www.nrmaparksandresorts.com.au/treasure-island/

6. Binna Burra Campground – Lamington National Park

• Why Stay Here: For those who want a true nature escape, this campground sits within World Heritage-listed rainforest with direct trail access.

• Facilities: Unpowered and powered sites, toilets, camp kitchen, eco showers, fire pits.

• Pet-Friendly: No (national park restrictions)

• Visit website: https://www.binnaburralodge.com.au/stay/camping/

Local Camping Tips for RVers

• Peak Booking Times: School holidays, summer, and long weekends can book out 1–2 months ahead—especially at beachfront parks.

• Public Transport Access: Most coastal parks near Burleigh, Southport, and Helensvale are walkable to buses or light rail (G:link).

• Camping Legally: Avoid parking overnight in public beachfront carparks. Gold Coast Council enforces no-camping zones with fines. Always use designated caravan parks or free camps in the hinterland where allowed.

RV Facilities and Essentials in Gold Coast

A well-supported RV destination needs more than scenic campgrounds—it also requires dependable services to keep your rig running and your journey smooth. Fortunately, the Gold Coast delivers on all fronts with a wide network of dump points, water refill stations, service centres, and apps to help you plan your trip in real-time.

Dump Points (Public + Campground)

You’ll find several reliable dump points on the Gold Coast, both within caravan parks and at public access sites. Use apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate to locate the nearest one, or start with these confirmed public locations:

• Palm Beach Parklands (Near Currumbin Creek)

  • Free public dump station, well-maintained, easily accessible

• Gold Coast Holiday Park – Helensvale

  • Available to park guests; great for overnight dump and refill

• Kirra Beach Tourist Park – Coolangatta

  • Clean, on-site facility included with powered sites

• Binna Burra Campground

  • For campers only, remote but functional for hinterland trips

Tip: Always carry your own gloves and hose adaptors—standards vary by site.

Fresh Water Refill Stations

Fresh water is widely available at most powered campsites and select public areas:

• Burleigh Heads and Broadwater Parklands: Tap access in parking zones (non-potable unless marked)

• Most tourist parks: Offer potable water with powered sites or communal refill points

• Fuel stations: Some major servos like BP and Shell have outdoor taps—ask inside first

To ensure safe drinking water, look for stations marked “potable” and sanitize water tanks every few weeks.

RV-Friendly Fuel Stations

Many major servos on the Gold Coast offer RV-friendly access with high clearance and easy-turn bays:

• BP Biggera Waters (Brisbane Rd) – Large forecourt, trailer-friendly

• Shell Currumbin Waters (Stapylton St) – Good turning space, easy highway access

• Ampol Foodary – Helensvale – Next to theme park area, clean toilets and open late

Use Fuel Map Australia (https://www.fuelmap.com.au/) to find the cheapest diesel and petrol options based on real-time user reports.

RV Repairs & Accessory Shops

If you need repairs, parts, or expert help while travelling, the Gold Coast is well-stocked with trusted service providers:

• Gold Coast Caravan Repairs – Arundel

  • Custom mods, awning fixes, seal replacements

  • Visit website: https://www.goldcoastcaravanrepairs.com.au/

• Jayco Gold Coast – Ashmore

  • Parts shop + service centre for Jayco motorhomes

  • Visit website: https://www.jaycogoldcoast.com.au/

• RV Warehouse – Nerang

  • Accessories, solar panels, fridges, spare parts

  • Visit website: https://www.rvwarehouse.com.au/

• Gold Coast RV Accessories – Burleigh Heads

  • Caravan gadgets, electricals, and installation support

  • Visit website: https://www.gcrvaccessories.com.au/

Recommended Travel & Fuel Apps

• CamperMate – For campgrounds, dump points, free sites, toilets

  • https://www.campermate.com.au/

• WikiCamps Australia – User-reviewed camping info and offline maps

  • https://www.wikicamps.com.au/

• Fuel Map Australia – Find fuel prices across regions in real time

  • https://www.fuelmap.com.au/

• LiveTraffic QLD – Road conditions and updates

  • https://qldtraffic.qld.gov.au/

Parking, Driving & Local Regulations

Navigating the Gold Coast by RV is relatively easy compared to larger cities like Sydney or Melbourne, but there are still important local rules to be aware of—especially when it comes to parking, overnight stays, and tolls. Planning ahead will help you avoid fines and ensure you can enjoy both beach and hinterland stress-free.

Can You Drive an RV into the Gold Coast CBD?

Yes, you can drive an RV into most areas of the Gold Coast, including Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Southport. However, parking is very limited in these high-traffic coastal zones, especially during weekends and holidays. Expect tight underground car parks and height restrictions under 2.1m in many central locations.

💡 Tip: Park outside busy hubs (e.g. Broadwater Parklands, Helensvale), then use the G:link light rail to explore Surfers and the CBD.

Where Can You Park or Stay Overnight?

Overnight stays are only legal in designated campgrounds or rest areas. Free camping in public beach carparks or reserves is strictly prohibited and heavily patrolled by Gold Coast City Council.

• Legal Overnight Spots:

  • Caravan parks (see earlier section)

  • Hinterland rest areas like Canungra Showgrounds (budget stays)

  • Short-term stops with self-contained rigs allowed in select rural spots (check WikiCamps)

• Fines: Rangers issue fines from $266 and up for illegal camping or parking in signed “No Overnight Stay” zones.

• Council Info: https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/ (search “camping regulations”)

Key Driving Rules & Restrictions

• Toll Roads: If entering from Brisbane, you may use the M1 or Gateway Motorway. All tolls are electronic—use Linkt to register:

  • https://www.linkt.com.au/

• Vehicle Heights & Limits:

  • Watch for low-clearance bridges and undercover parking near coastal strips.

  • Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach have multiple carparks under 2.2m height.

• Speed Limits:

  • 50 km/h in residential and CBD areas

  • 40 km/h in school zones (strictly enforced)

  • Up to 110 km/h on some stretches of M1

• U-Turns & Roundabouts:

  • Legal at intersections unless signed otherwise

  • Take extra caution at multilane roundabouts with long rigs

Avoiding Parking Fines

Gold Coast is serious about parking enforcement, particularly near tourist beaches. Here’s how to avoid fines:

• Always obey signs marked “No Parking Between 10pm–5am”

• Do not park across multiple bays in commercial zones

• Avoid parking in front of residential driveways or nature strips

• Use designated oversized vehicle bays (listed on WikiCamps or Google Maps)

Tip: Broadwater Parklands and Miami provide some of the few legal RV-sized bays near the coast.

RV-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do

One of the best things about travelling the Gold Coast by RV is the sheer variety of things to see and do—all within short driving distances. Whether you’re into national parks, surfing beaches, artisan food markets, or wildlife sanctuaries, this region is packed with experiences that are easy to access with your home-on-wheels.

National Parks & Nature Escapes

1. Springbrook National Park

• Just 45 mins inland from Burleigh, this World Heritage park is famous for its waterfalls, ancient rainforests, and the Glow Worm Tunnel.

• RVs can park at most trailheads, though roads are steep—smaller rigs recommended.

• Great day trip for waterfall chasers and nature lovers.

2. Lamington National Park (O’Reilly’s & Binna Burra)

• A dream for bushwalkers and birders. Both ends of the park offer scenic drives with campground access (see Binna Burra Campground).

• Highlights include the Tree Top Walk, Elabana Falls, and panoramic lookouts.

3. Burleigh Head National Park

• Small but spectacular headland walk with views across the coastline. No RV parking on-site—best to stay at Burleigh Tourist Park and walk.

Scenic Drives

1. Currumbin Valley Road

• Lush drive past creeks, farms, and forest—leads to Currumbin Rock Pools. Narrow in places, best for vans and smaller rigs.

2. Tamborine Mountain Loop

• Wineries, rainforest walks, and boutique villages. Steep access roads—check vehicle brakes and clearance before ascending.

3. Tallebudgera to Numinbah Valley

• Serene drive along winding hinterland roads with picnic spots and swimming holes. Ideal for a relaxing half-day RV cruise.

Pet-Friendly Places

• The Spit, Southport – Huge off-leash dog beach, wide RV-friendly car park

• Tallebudgera Dog Island – Small off-leash zone across the creek mouth

• Dog-Friendly Cafés – Check out Paddock Bakery (Miami), Parlour Coffee (Burleigh), or Stable Coffee (Currumbin)

Tip: Most caravan parks require dogs to be on-leash at all times. National parks generally do not allow pets.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Sea World – Just off the Broadwater, with plenty of parking nearby (not suitable for overnight stays)

• Wet’n’Wild & Movie World – Theme parks near Helensvale, ideal for families staying at BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – Up-close Aussie wildlife, treetop challenge, and accessible RV parking

• Broadwater Parklands – Huge family area with splash zone, BBQs, playgrounds; close to Southport and several campgrounds

Markets, Local Food & Events

• Miami Marketta (Fridays & Saturdays) – Food stalls, live music, licensed bar, great for dinner out while camped nearby

• Burleigh Farmers Market (Saturdays) – Organic produce, local crafts, friendly vibe

• Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets – Held weekly with beachside shopping and street performers

• Currumbin Valley Harvest – Fresh farm café for breakfast or produce just off Currumbin Valley Road

Pro Travel Tips for RVers in Gold Coast

Whether you’re visiting for a week or staying a month, these insider tips will help make your RV adventure on the Gold Coast smoother, cheaper, and more enjoyable. These are the kind of things seasoned RV travellers learn the hard way—so take note and save yourself the hassle.

1. Use the Light Rail to Avoid City Parking Chaos

Parking in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach is limited and often not RV-friendly. Stay at parks near the G:link light rail (like Broadwater or Helensvale) and ride into the CBD stress-free.

2. Book Campgrounds in Advance During Holidays

Summer (December–January), Easter, and September school holidays are peak travel times. Book popular parks like Burleigh and Tallebudgera at least 6–8 weeks ahead to avoid missing out.

3. Avoid Free Camping in Coastal Carparks

While tempting, overnighting in beachfront carparks is illegal and carries hefty fines. Stick to legal free camps in the hinterland or low-cost showgrounds like Canungra or Beaudesert.

4. Use WikiCamps & CamperMate for Live Camp Info

These apps show user-verified info on campgrounds, dump points, water refill spots, height restrictions, and even where rangers are patrolling.

• WikiCamps: https://www.wikicamps.com.au/

• CamperMate: https://www.campermate.com.au/

5. Watch for Height Limits and Tight Car Parks

Underground and shaded parking near popular beaches often have 2.1m height limits. Plan your stops in advance using satellite view on Google Maps or apps like Parkopedia.

6. Fuel Up Before Heading to the Hinterland

Remote hinterland areas like Lamington NP have no fuel stations nearby. Fill up in Nerang or Canungra before ascending into the mountains.

7. Beware of Humidity in Summer

The subtropical climate can be intense in summer. Ensure your van has proper ventilation or air-con, and avoid leaving perishables or pets inside.

8. Respect Pet Rules in National Parks

Dogs are not allowed in any national parks, including Springbrook and Lamington. Look for dog-friendly alternatives along the coast or book pet-friendly caravan parks.

9. Avoid Heavy Traffic Times

Traffic builds up around 7:30–9:00 AM and 3:00–6:00 PM, especially near school zones and theme parks. Plan your travel legs early in the morning or midday to avoid delays.

10. Carry Insect Repellent for Hinterland Stays

Mosquitoes and midges are common around rainforest campsites and creekside areas. Use insect screens in your RV and apply repellent at dusk.

How Gold Coast Compares to Other RV Destinations

Travelling around Australia by RV opens the door to dozens of diverse destinations, each with its own vibe, challenges, and rewards. So how does the Gold Coast stack up against other major RV hotspots like Brisbane, Byron Bay, Sydney, and Cairns? Here’s a breakdown to help you weigh your options—or plan your route.

Gold Coast vs Brisbane

• RV Infrastructure: Gold Coast has more tourist parks near beaches; Brisbane’s caravan parks are mostly in outer suburbs.

• Vibe: Brisbane is more urban and cultural; Gold Coast feels like a holiday every day.

• Ease of Driving: Brisbane has better inner-city road layouts; Gold Coast is more spread out but easier for RV parking near beaches.

• Nature Access: Gold Coast wins—national parks are 30–45 minutes away in all directions.

Gold Coast vs Byron Bay

• RV Facilities: Gold Coast offers more campgrounds and better-equipped holiday parks.

• Atmosphere: Byron Bay has a relaxed, bohemian vibe with a heavy focus on alternative culture.

• Camping Laws: Byron has very strict free camping laws with frequent patrols. Gold Coast is slightly more flexible but still requires staying in approved areas.

• Driving Conditions: Byron’s town centre can be very congested. Gold Coast is larger but easier to navigate for longer RVs.

Gold Coast vs Sydney

• Accessibility: Gold Coast is far more RV-friendly—wider roads, less traffic, more legal overnight options.

• Cost: Gold Coast is generally cheaper for park stays, fuel, and tolls.

• Scenery: Sydney has iconic city views and harbor drives; Gold Coast offers rainforest-meets-beach coastal drives and hinterland trails.

• Stress Level: Sydney can be overwhelming in an RV; Gold Coast is more relaxed and better for extended stays.

Gold Coast vs Cairns

• Climate: Both are warm year-round, but Cairns is more tropical and humid—especially in the wet season (Nov–March).

• Wildlife & Adventure: Cairns offers access to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest; Gold Coast has more variety within a smaller radius.

• Drive Time: Cairns is ideal for long-haul travellers doing the East Coast. Gold Coast is more practical for short to mid-range loops.

• Campgrounds: Gold Coast has more holiday park options; Cairns offers remote, rugged camps for off-grid adventurers.

Bottom Line:
The Gold Coast combines the best of both worlds—easy, resort-style RV travel with proximity to serious nature. It’s less intense than Sydney, more flexible than Byron, and better equipped than Brisbane. For many travellers, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and adventure.

Conclusion / Final Thoughts

From sun-drenched surf beaches to misty rainforest lookouts, the Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most dynamic and RV-friendly destinations. It’s the kind of place where you can park by the beach in the morning, hike to a waterfall by lunch, and catch a live band at a street market by night—all without moving far from your campsite.

What makes RV travel here so enjoyable is the balance: plenty of infrastructure without the chaos of a big city, natural beauty just minutes from modern conveniences, and weather that invites you to stay year-round. Whether you’re exploring with a family, adventuring solo, or living the long-term vanlife dream, the Gold Coast offers flexibility, accessibility, and unforgettable variety.

The key to a smooth trip? Plan ahead in peak seasons, respect the local camping laws, and make full use of the apps and tools available. With a bit of preparation and the right mindset, your RV journey through the Gold Coast can be more than a holiday—it can be a lifestyle highlight.