Car Hire Gold Coast Airport

Start Your Gold Coast Adventure with Convenient Airport Car Hire

Avoid the airport terminal queues and get on the road faster with East Coast Car Rentals Gold Coast. Our friendly team offers a seamless car hire experience from our off-airport depot – just a short, easy shuttle ride from Gold Coast Airport.

Our Gold Coast Branch Manager, Emaline Morel, a long-time local, understands that the best trips begin the moment you land. She and her team are dedicated to making the vehicle pickup process quick, simple, and stress-free, so travellers can start enjoying the Gold Coast without delay.

Why Choose East Coast Car Rentals Gold Coast?

• Easy shuttle pickup from Gold Coast Airport to our nearby depot
• Affordable car hire with no hidden fees
• Pre-pay online for our best rates, or pay on arrival with no cancellation fees
• Wide range of vehicles – all well-maintained and backed by 24/7 roadside assistance
• Trusted by travellers since 1979. Over 2,000 five-star reviews

Book your Gold Coast car rental today and see why thousands of travellers choose East Coast Car Rentals for value, service and peace of mind.

Where Do I Pick up My Hire Car From at Gold Coast Airport?

Our off-site depot located just 5 minutes (3.6 km) from the Coolangatta Airport offers easy shuttle service, meaning you’ll skip the terminal queues and head straight to your rental vehicle with ease.

Here’s how it works:

• Call on Arrival – Once you’ve collected your luggage, call our local team to request your shuttle pickup.
• Shuttle Pickup – Head to the designated pickup zone at the northern end of the terminal.
• Quick Transfer – Enjoy a short ride to our depot, where your car will be ready and waiting.

Need help finding the shuttle?

View our step-by-step instructions based on your arrival type:

• I’m arriving from a Domestic Flight
• I’m arriving from an International Flight

Public transport also operates from the airport, with bus services connecting to nearby destinations and the depot.

Your Guide to Exploring the Gold Coast by Car

With your own rental car, the best of the Gold Coast and beyond is yours to discover. As one of Australia’s major tourism hubs, the region stretches from Coolangatta to Beenleigh, giving you endless attractions, beaches, rainforests and dining hotspots to explore at your own pace. Here are some of the top destinations and their approximate driving distances from our Gold Coast Airport depot, along with a few must-see highlights along the way.

Burleigh Heads (14 km)

A local favourite and one of the Gold Coast’s most scenic coastal pockets. Burleigh Heads boasts lush rainforest, meandering headland trails and sparkling shorelines perfect for a relaxed walk. Park your car and explore the vibrant café scene on James Street, or settle in to watch surfers tackle one of the world’s most famous point breaks.

Surfers Paradise (27 km)

Experience the iconic heart of the Gold Coast. Home to the region’s most famous surf spot, Surfers Paradise Beach, this area is known for its soaring skyline, buzzing nightlife and expansive golden sand. While you’re there, head up to the SkyPoint Climb & Observation Deck for the best panoramic views of the coast. Gold Coast Airport is approximately 25km from Surfers Paradise making for an easy and scenic drive for visitors.

Theme Parks (40 km)

An easy drive up the M1 gets you to Australia’s playground. Warner Bros. Movie World offers Hollywood-inspired rides and stunt shows, Wet’n’Wild delivers an impressive lineup of water slides, and Dreamworld combines adrenaline-pumping rides with a wildlife park and kid-friendly exhibits. Sea World is also nearby, home to dolphins, penguins, polar bears and family-friendly attractions, perfect for a full day out.

Lamington National Park (65 km)

Escape to the lush natural attractions the Gold Coast Hinterland has to offer. Drive through stunning mountain scenery to discover ancient rainforests, spectacular lookouts, and the beautiful waterfalls of the Green Mountains section.

Byron Bay, NSW (95 km)

Cruise south across the border to experience the unique, laid-back vibe of Byron Bay. Walk to the iconic lighthouse, explore the eclectic shops, and enjoy some of the best food Byron has to offer, all at your own pace.

Brisbane (100 km)

Just over an hour’s drive north, Brisbane is perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. Explore South Bank, take a cruise along the Brisbane River, or discover the city’s thriving arts and dining scene. For added convenience, we also have depots located at Brisbane Airport and in the Brisbane CBD, making it easy end your journey. *Available with one way rental.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation on the Gold Coast caters to every style of traveller, with options ranging from full-service hotels to spacious self-contained apartments ideal for longer stays. Families often gravitate toward the stretch between Southport and Broadbeach, where beachfront resorts and convenient access to dining, shopping and attractions make holidays easy and enjoyable. Burleigh Heads is another popular choice, offering a more relaxed coastal vibe with boutique stays just steps from the beach and headland trails.

Gold Coast Weather

It’s no surprise the Gold Coast is a year-round favourite, Queensland isn’t called the Sunshine State for nothing! The region enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers perfect for beach days and poolside relaxation, and mild winters that are still comfortable for outdoor activities.

Summer temperatures average around 29°C, while winter lows rarely dip below 12°C. Although summer can bring the occasional thunderstorm or heavy shower, the weather overall is reliably pleasant, making the Gold Coast a top holiday destination no matter the season.

Ready to Start Your Gold Coast Adventure?

Get an instant quote for your trip. Our simple online booking system is fast, secure, and has no hidden fees.