Best Getaway Destinations to Relax & Recharge on the Gold Coast

We’re all for the kind of holiday fun that gets your heart racing, but as a destination that’s famous for its laidback energy, we excel at the art of relaxation. The Gold Coast isn't just about excitement - we're truly skilled at slowing down, switching off and easing into super chill mode. Looking for stress relief? Come, unwind, and let the Gold Coast's serene side work its magic on you.

Relax Poolside 

Embrace the pace of holiday mode, stretched out on a sun lounge beside the shimmering turquoise waters of a sparkling pool. Laze in the sunshine, order a cocktail and snack then sip, dip, snooze, repeat. For some of Gold Coast’s most indulgent poolside experiences check out Cali Beach Club, Isoletto Pool Club at Dorsett Gold Coast, QT Gold Coast or JW Marriott Resort & Spa. Explore the best pool clubs on the Gold Coast.

Isoletto Pool Club

Sail Away

Cruising the Gold Coast’s gorgeous waterways will help you unwind in no time. Did you know we have more canals than Amsterdam and Venice combined? There’s plenty of space for serene cruises and yes, we've even got gondolas!

Step aboard a luxury sailing cruise across the Broadwater complete with bubbles at sunset with Sailing in Paradise, or hire your own self-drive picnic boat and spend a glorious day exploring the canals, bays and beaches that wind their way through waterside suburbs.

Treat Yourself to Premium Pampering

For that top-tier self-care synonymous with Gold Coast wellness, consider stunning day spas. These offer opulent wellbeing experiences tailored for mind, body, and soul. Want to dive deep into relaxation? For truly luxurious treatments (crushed diamond body exfoliation anyone?) Visit Chuan Spa at The Langham Gold Coast, One Spa at RACV Royal Pines Resort or Earth & Skin Organic Day Spa in Mudgeeraba.

These spas imbue a sense of tranquillity the moment you step inside and slip on a robe. You’ll float out of there feeling a million dollars and not only will you feel refreshed, you’ll look at it, too. Indulge in the finest spa experiences on the Gold Coast.

Bliss Out in Boutique Accommodation

If you really want to get away from it all, book a stay at the kind of accommodation where you can enjoy complete privacy, stunning scenery and a tranquil natural environment. The Gold Coast and surrounding areas are emerging as a hub for tiny house accommodation and there are some truly unique and charming places to stay.

Another spectacular place to stay is Verandah House in Mount Tamborine. This country-style boutique hideaway is perfect for a romantic getaway, a solo escape, or a relaxing weekend away with friends. Offering panoramic views of the Hinterland and the ocean, Verandah House Country Estate is more than an accommodation but a place for rejuvenation with their cedarwood hot tub, infrared sauna, wellness experiences and spa treatments. 

Escape to a Deserted Island

While South Stradbroke Island isn’t entirely deserted, it embodies the spirit of a relaxing holiday escape. With no cars and boat-only access, life here moves at its own tranquil pace. But it's the untouched beauty of nature that truly enchants visitors.

There are two campgrounds on the island, and a stay here will do wonders for your stress levels. Think long stretches of sand with no-one on them, the soothing rhythm of waves on the shore, a crackling campfire and sky full of stars. Fill your days with surfing, fishing, boating and bushwalking… and a whole lot of chill time too. 

Feel Good Fitness

We all know getting active makes us feel good but now we're suggesting you go and wipe yourself out with hardcore cardio session. Save that for when your holiday is over. More leisurely pursuits like a beach walk at sunrise, a cruise along the coastline on a bike or a stroll through the rainforest will do the trick. The combination of fresh air, sunshine, beautiful views and physical activity will have a magical effect on your mood. 

Press Reset at a Hinterland Health Retreat

There are two very special lifestyle retreats tucked away in the Gold Coast Hinterland where you can book in for a transformative stay and completely immerse yourself in wonderful wellbeing experiences for days at a time.

Eden Health Retreat in Currumbin Valley gives guests the time and space to repair, restore and reconnect with themselves in comfort and tranquility. Situated on a mountain top in Tallebudgera Valley, Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat (pictured below) is designed to help guests realign, recharge and restore with wellness packages that span two to seven-night stays.

While each of these luxe retreats offer a different experience, you can expect nourishing organic meals, spa treatments, health and wellness workshops, calming activities like tai chi and yoga and lots of time spent in the beautiful natural surroundings. Also, you’ll be asked to switch your phone off during your stay so you can completely unplug. 

Soak Your Stress Away

There's no better stress relief than soaking in a bubbling spa, transitioning to a steamy sauna, and finishing with a dip in a magnesium plunge pool. Bathing isn't just luxurious; it packs health benefits. And if you’re looking for the Gold Coast’s top bathhouses, we've got recommendations.

There’s Soak in Mermaid Beach, Greenhouse the Bathhouse in Tallebdugera and The Bathhouse at Ground Currumbin in Currumbin Valley. If you’re up for a road trip, head to Banya Bathhouse across the NSW border in Mullumbimby. Experience luxury and relaxation on the Gold Coast.

Soak Bathhouse (Main image: The Bathhouse at Ground Currumbin)

Relax For Days With Nature Stays

The healing powers of nature on your nervous system cannot be underestimated. Whether it’s watching a sunrise, sitting beside a waterfall or walking in the forest, it never fails to leave you feeling calmer and more content. A favourite is the Purlingbrook Falls circuit in Springbrook National Park - it's a 4km return trip that takes about two hours. When you reach the bottom of the gorge and look  up to the falls, it's a truly stunning sight!

The benefits are even better when you can spend a few days immersed in the beauty and tranquility of the natural world. Escape the hustle and bustle, the sound of traffic and hectic pace of life by booking a stay at some Hinterland accommodation with awe-inspiring views, where nature is literally on the doorstep.

Binna Burra Lodge, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, Cedar Creek Lodge and Beechmont Estate offer various kinds of stays from eco-friendly safari tents, to glamping and luxe country-style cabins.Glamping tent at Cedar Creek Lodge. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

Looking for more ways to unwind on the Gold Coast? There's plenty!