“Note: This review is from our pre-caravan days. While we didn’t stay here in ‘Sunny’, we highly recommend this spot if you are looking for a break from the van or a touch of luxury!”
Have you been wondering where to stay on the Gold Coast? Well, you can relax, as our Rydges Gold Coast review has got you covered!
Living in South East Queensland, a weekend away on the Goldy (Gold Coast for non-locals lol) is common. We have stayed all over the Gold Coast, and I have to confess that Gold Coast accommodation can vary wildly, from the 6 star Versace to budget dives you rent by the hour.
Our last stay for my wife’s birthday weekend away was fantastic. Read on for a comprehensive Rydges Cold Coast review.

The Rydges Hotel on the Gold Coast is located at the Gold Coast airport. This location is at the very southern end of the Gold Coast and next door to the airport,
So, is it any good? Is it too far from everything? Do you hear the planes taking off and landing? How far from the beach is it?
There are lots of questions, so let’s get into the review.
Read on to find the answers to all your questions.
Where Is The Rydges Gold Coast Hotel Located?
Rydges Gold Coast is located at the southern end of the Gold Coast in Coolangatta. It is located inside the Gold Coast International Airport Precinct, making it an ideal location before or after travel
The location is excellent for activities on the southern end of the Gold Coast, but it is a long way from the theme parks or even Surfers Paradise. If that’s your focus, I would recommend looking elsewhere.
If you are looking for a base to explore the Gold Coast hinterland, Coolangatta, Tweed Heads, Byron Bay etc then the Rydges Gold Coast hotel should be your go to.
Room Review
Huge King Size Bed
The first thing you notice when you walk into your room is the HUGE king size bed.
Not only is it a huge bed but it is super comfortable. We had a fantastic sleep and think you will as well. The bedding is beautiful. I don’t know the brand but it is very high quality.
Something we did find a little strange that there was only 1 soft pillow plus a small cushion for each side of the bed. While it was very stylish, I would of appreciated a second, firmer pillow as an option.

Bathroom
Next up is the bathroom. A minimalist approach, but beautifully appointed. A very large walk-in shower with plenty of beautiful, clean, soft white towels.
A large basin and plenty of room for all your bathroom essentials. There was a range of complimentary shampoo, conditioner , body moisturizer, and soap. Everything you need for a night or two.


Kitchenette
We loved the fact that there was a small kitchenette. While there wasn’t any cooking facilities, this does give you options. I’m guessing that not many people travel with a microwave, but I do know quite a few travellers and families that carry a sandwich toaster with them.
There was the obligatory kettle and a good supply of coffee, tea, sugar and milk. Once you used all these, you could go to reception for more with no question, or more importantly, no charges.

Desk & Casual Seating
There is a simple but elegant desk with light and powerpoint. There was a very comfortable chair at the desk, but it didn’t have wheels, which made it a little difficult to get it into the right ergonomic position at times.
Next to the desk was a small coffee table and a very comfortable casual chair for relaxing and watching TV.

A nice touch at the desk was that the PowerPoint had 2 usb ports for charging phones, watches, etc. We found that these ports charged our phones very quickly.

Bars & Restaurants
Perched on the 7th floor and rooftop, the Salty Fox bar and restaurant provides an unparalleled experience with uninterrupted views over the tarmac, the ocean, or both. This stunning venue stands out as a unique offering in the region, combining breathtaking scenery with an exceptional dining and entertainment experience.
As you take in the panoramic vistas, you can sip a cocktail while deciding on your next meal. The bistro-style menu caters to every taste, whether you’re here for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. With dynamic activity and an inviting ambiance at every turn, our rooftop bar and restaurant is the perfect destination for an unforgettable outing.
Breakfast at The Runway Cafe & Bar
It was a really good breakfast. A large selection of healthy options with an equally impressive list of not so healthy including, toast, bacon, eggs, and hash browns



Wardrobe & Miscellaneous
You will find a large wardrobe with full length mirror sliding doors. We were only staying for 1 night but as per usual, Pauline took enough clothes for a week, “just in case”. There is no shortage of room to store clothes.
In the wardrobe is a ironing board and iron, a staple in most hotels.

Pro’s of Rydges Gold Coast
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- Sure! Here are ten good things about staying at the Rydges Hotel on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia:
- Convenient Location: Located right next to the Gold Coast Airport, making travel easy and stress-free.
- Modern Accommodations: Comfortable and contemporary rooms equipped with modern amenities.
- Beach Access: Close proximity to some of the Gold Coast’s beautiful beaches.
- Dining Options: On-site restaurant and bar offering delicious meals and beverages.
- Event Facilities: Well-equipped conference and event spaces for business or social gatherings.
- Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary high-speed internet throughout the hotel.
- Pool: Outdoor swimming pool with a relaxed atmosphere for guests to enjoy.
- Fitness Center: Well-maintained fitness facilities to keep up with your workout routine.
- Friendly Staff: Exceptional service with a commitment to hospitality and guest satisfaction.
- Proximity to Attractions: Easy access to local attractions and activities, including theme parks, shopping centers, and dining options.

Cons of Rydges Gold Coast
- Noise Levels: Being next to the airport can result in constant noise from airplanes taking off and landing.
- Limited Dining Options: The immediate vicinity may have limited dining choices, reducing convenience for meals beyond the hotel restaurant.
- Isolation from Attractions: The location may be somewhat removed from key Gold Coast attractions, requiring more travel time.
- Traffic Congestion: Proximity to the airport can mean heavy traffic, especially during peak flight hours.
- Limited Scenery: The surrounding area, primarily airport infrastructure, may lack the picturesque views typically associated with the Gold Coast.
- Check-in/Check-out Delays: Proximity to the airport could result in crowds and potential delays during peak travel times.
- Limited Resort Amenities: If you’re looking for a resort-style experience, the hotel might not offer extensive leisure facilities compared to other Gold Coast resorts.

Our Experience Staying At The Rydges Gold Coast
Overall, we had a very enjoyable and relaxing stay at the Rydges Gold Coast. The location was perfect, the room very well appointed, and the staff were very obliging and can’t be faulted. The onsite bars and restaurants were amazing. Great food and it’s pretty special to watch the sun set over Surfers Paradise from the Salty Fox rooftop bar.
Who is the Rydges Gold Coast for?
We would strongly recommend the Rydges Gold Coast for couples, travelling business people and families going on a flight or looking for a holiday base at the southern end of the Gold Coast
Pricing/Location
We made our booking on Booking.com and got the room for a Saturday night , including full breakfast for 2 for the super price of $252 inc GST. Very hard to beat that with a hotel of this quality.
The location is excellent for a base on the southern end of the Gold Coast. If you do want to head up to Surfers Paradise, it is 28 klm’s, around 30 to 45 minutes depending on the famous Gold Coast traffic.
FAQs About Gold Coast Accommodation
What are the must see things on the Gold Coast?
There are 2 categories here. Nature and Man made. Let’s start with nature.
These activities and places offer a varied experience of the natural beauty Queensland has to offer, and they are easily accessible from the Rydges Hotel on the Gold Coast!

Once you’ve finished exploring the natural attractions, head to these attractions to get your adrenaline flowing

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Final Thoughts On My Rydges Gold Coast Review: Is It Worth The Cost?
This is really simply – yes it is worth the cost.
Our stay at the Rydges Gold Coast was one of the best we’ve enjoyed for some time. For $252 AUD we enjoyed a beautiful upgraded corner room along with very friendly service by everyone we interacted with. Secure parking under the hotel was provided and the breakfast was sensational.
Enjoying a couple of drinks watching the sun set at the Salty Fox bar on the 7th floor was the cherry on top that just finished it off for us.
If you have enjoyed our Rydges Gold Coast Review, click below to experience the sophistication for yourself!

While the Rydges Gold Coast is right at the southern end of the Gold Coast, we have reviewed the breath taking Sheraton Mirage, located in the centre of the coast. You can read our in depth review here.
