When visiting a new place, knowing how you’re going to get around is important – Especially in Australia where landmarks can be exceptionally spread out.

But visitors to the Gold Coast need not worry – Transport in this beautiful Australian city is relatively easy if you know the available options.

All public transport across Queensland is managed by Translink, a division of the Department of Transport and Main Roads. This includes all buses, trains, ferries and trams, as well as long distance rail, coaches and regional air services.

On the Gold Coast, translink operates bus, train and tram networks to connect you with must-see destinations. Keep reading for more details on all the transport options, or purchase tickets quickly online here.

In this article

Travel by Tram – G:Link

The Gold Coast’s light rail is known as the G:Link. Its first stop is at Helensvale Train Station, connecting commuters to 19 stations across 20.3 kilometres, passing through Parkwood, Southport, Main Beach, Surfer’s Paradise and Broadbeach. Construction is underway on stage 3 of the Gold Coast light rail extension which will lengthen the G:Link from Broadbeach to Burleigh Heads. Stage 4 will connect Burleigh Heads to Tugun. The extensions are intended to provide locals and visitors with additional public transport, including a connection to Gold Coast Airport. You can access the G:Link via a Go Card, which can be purchased online, at fuel stations, rail station ticket offices, and fare machines at tram stations. You can also check the closest station to you and view the tram schedule here.

Travel by Tram

Travel by Train – Queensland Rail

In all honesty, unless you’re travelling from Brisbane or need to get to Brisbane, the train won’t be super useful for exploring the Gold Coast. The Queensland rail service on the Gold Coast runs between Varsity Lakes Station and Ormeau Station. The Queensland rail does include stations at Brisbane’s domestic and international airports, which is convenient for those travelling to the Gold Coast from the airport.

For the cheapest fares, a Go Card is your best bet. Go Cards can be purchased online, at fuel stations, rail station ticket offices, and fare machines at tram stations. You can also check the nearest station and the schedule here. Fares are based on the number of zones you cross during your journey, whether you’ve got a concession, and when you’re travelling.

Travel by Train

Travel by Bus – Bus Lines across the Gold Coast

From theme parks and shopping centres, to surfing and ancient rainforests – the bus routes across the Gold Coast are extensive. The bus service serves as the backbone of the public transport network in this ever-growing Australian city – particularly on the south coast where buses are often the only form of public transport. Travelling across the entire region may take 1.5 hours, including one or two transfers.

All Gold Coast buses are numbered in the 700s and you can access them with a Go Card, which can be purchased online, at fuel stations, rail station ticket offices, and fare machines at tram stations. You can also check the nearest bus station, the bus you need, and the schedule here.

Travel by Bus

Other Transport Options

Rent a Car

If you’re on holiday in the Gold Coast, renting a car is an excellent way to get around. While the public transport system is good, it won’t take you everywhere you want to go (and there are heaps of things to see and do). This is especially true if you want to explore the hinterland – a seriously beautiful attraction on the Gold Coast.

There are several rental car agencies on the Coast including both local retailers and large international agencies. We suggest scanning the options on Rentalcars.com to find a cheap deal.

Bike Share – Lime Bikes

With 2400 kilometres of interconnected bikeways and pathways, the Gold Coast is a great place to explore by bike. Lime’s pedal-assisted electric bikes offer an eco-friendly way to travel around the city. The extensive bikeway network links effortlessly with major transit routes, and there are hundreds of bikes available at key locations. Lime bikes can be picked up and dropped off anywhere. Find more information on the Lime website.

Rideshare Services

Two main rideshare services are available on the Gold Coast: Uber and DiDi. An easy transportation option for locals and tourists, these ride share services are popular for their affordable and easily accessible rides. Just download the mobile app for either service and book a ride. After renting a car, rideshare services are the next best option for direct transport to attractions across the gold coast.