Surfers Paradise Gold Coast, Australia
Renovated
2019
Price
$$
Rated for
Design Social ResortOutside the door
The house
QTRetro coastal playground
The hotel channels mid-century beach culture with disco-era swagger, balancing poolside lounging with late-night izakaya dining.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
The public spaces defy preconceived notions about beachfront hotels — there’s a welcome lack of nautical kitsch, just plenty of bold colors and curvy modern furniture.
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Surfers Paradise beach is one block east, and the shops along Cavill Avenue are an easy walk south.
The rooms
Crisp white walls get hits of citrus color and ceramic cockatoo lamps. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out across the Pacific.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The outdoor pool has a monochrome striped bottom, flanked by cushioned loungers and an adjacent whirlpool spa.
The spa and gym
spaQ houses a unisex steam room and an ice fountain. On Level 2, the fitness centre stays open around the clock.
Bar
Stingray Lounge
Geometric tiles front the illuminated bar, where bartenders pour from a collection of over fifty tequilas and mezcals.
At the table
Bazaar prepares fresh seafood and desserts across interactive cooking stations, and The Spring pours cocktails on the pool deck.
How it began

The 1987 tower was originally the Gold Coast International Hotel before relaunching in 2011 as the debut QT property.
The app
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.