Coolangatta Beach Tours and Activities

Coolangatta Beach showing a sunset, general coastal views and a coastal town
Coolangatta Beach which includes a sunset, surf and general coastal views
Coolangatta Beach showing a beach, general coastal views and a city
Coolangatta Beach which includes general coastal views, a skyscraper and a city
Coolangatta Beach showing a beach, general coastal views and a sunset


This city at the southern tip of the Gold Coast has some of the most pristine beaches, and clear water for swimming, fishing and diving.

The beaches at Coolangatta include Rainbow Bay, Greenmount and Kirra. The first two are the Gold Coast’s only north-facing beaches, making them more sheltered with calmer water ideal for swimming. Walk or jog along the paths of the oceanfront park or visit the mall along the coast on a sunny winter’s day. Pods of dolphins and migrating whales can sometimes be seen head to Snapper Rocks at the New South Wales border for the best views.

This Queensland border city is named to commemorate a ship that was wrecked nearby in 1846. The sheltered beaches found here have been a popular holiday destination since the late 1800s. The city enjoys a slower pace than the bustling centre of the Gold Coast, and it’s only a half-hour drive away from all the action.

Coolangatta’s beaches are quieter than those around Surfers Paradise, the busy commercial hub at the north end of the Gold Coast. The smaller waves at Coolangatta are safer for children and others who aren’t strong swimmers. Kirra is popular with families as it tends to be quieter than the northern Gold Coast beaches. Rainbow Bay has tree-shaded playgrounds right near the shore.

At Greenmount, take a surfing lesson or rent scuba gear to explore the underwater world. Book a boat tour to the Cook Island Marine Reserve at the local diving centre. Whale-watching tours run from May to October.

Head to Showcase on the Beach for shopping, dining and entertainment. Here you can enjoy open-air dining with ocean views and try an Australian Outback Grill, or European or Asian cuisine. The centre offers free parking in the heart of Coolangatta.

Learn about the native population of this area at the Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre and visit a sacred Bora Ring initiation site just across the border.

Coolangatta is near the Gold Coast Airport along the Gold Coast Highway. Remember to always swim between the flags. Fishing regulations apply, so if you’d like to try catching your lunch or dinner, check at the local tackle shops for size limits and protected species.

Plan a trip to see Coolangatta Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Circle On Cavill Surfers Paradise Apartments-Holiday Paradise
Surfers Chalet
Jewel Residences - Q Stay

Popular places to visit


Top Coolangatta Beach Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Mantra Twin Towns

Mantra Twin Towns

4 out of 5
Corner Griffith & Wharf Street, Tweed Heads, NSW
Mantra Twin Towns
Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites

Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites

4 out of 5
99 Griffith Street, Coolangatta, QLD
Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites
Mantra Coolangatta Beach

Mantra Coolangatta Beach

4.5 out of 5
88 Marine Parade, Coolangatta, QLD
Mantra Coolangatta Beach
The Pink Hotel Coolangatta

The Pink Hotel Coolangatta

3.5 out of 5
171 Griffith St, Coolangatta, QLD
The Pink Hotel Coolangatta
The Sebel Twin Towns Coolangatta

The Sebel Twin Towns Coolangatta

3.5 out of 5
Corner of Griffith Street & Wharf Street, Tweed Heads, NSW
The Sebel Twin Towns Coolangatta
Iconic Kirra Beach Resort

Iconic Kirra Beach Resort

4 out of 5
76 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta, QLD
Iconic Kirra Beach Resort
Reflection Tower Two

Reflection Tower Two

4.5 out of 5
110 Marine Parade, Coolangatta, QLD
Reflection Tower Two
Rydges Gold Coast Airport

Rydges Gold Coast Airport

4 out of 5
Lot 5, Terminal Drive, Bilinga, Bilinga, QLD
Rydges Gold Coast Airport
Reflection on the Sea

Reflection on the Sea

4.5 out of 5
120 Marine Parade, Coolangatta, QLD
Reflection on the Sea
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Coolangatta Beach

Coolangatta Beach boasts stunning beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming, along with exciting water activities like surfing and snorkelling. Don't miss the vibrant Cooly Rocks festival for music and culture, and for wildlife enthusiasts, whale watching is a must during the migration season. For thrill-seekers, nearby amusement parks offer fun rides and attractions, making Coolangatta a fantastic destination for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is The Strand, just 322m from Coolangatta Beach, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out Honeyworld, 6.4km away, and The Village Markets, 12.9km away, for unique souvenirs and local vibes.

Recreation

At Twin Towns Services Club, indulge in a luxurious atmosphere with fine dining and entertainment options, just 483m from Coolangatta Beach. The Coolangatta and Tweed Heads Golf Club offers a scenic golfing experience, while Palm Beach Parklands, located 6.4km away, provides a serene space for relaxation and wellness activities.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of freefall at Gold Coast Skydive, located 966m from Coolangatta Beach, offering adventure vibes. For water enthusiasts, Walkin' On Water Surf School, right at the beach, provides surfing lessons in an exhilarating outdoor setting. Dive into adventure with Tweed Sea Sports, 4.8km away, for underwater exploration.

Nightlife

For a fun night, visit Timezone Coolangatta for arcade games and family-friendly vibes just 322m from the beach. For a romantic evening, head to Kingscliff Beach Bowls Club, 9.7km away, or enjoy a unique experience at Dracula's Cabaret, 17.7km away, featuring entertainment and culture.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Coolangatta Beach

Coolangatta Beach offers an array of attractions for all types of travellers, from beach lovers to culture enthusiasts. Explore the stunning Kirra Beach, relax at Coolangatta Beach, or enjoy a meal at the Coolangatta Surf Club. Whether you seek outdoor adventures or family-friendly activities, this beautiful destination has something for everyone, making it the perfect spot for a memorable getaway on the Gold Coast.

  • Kirra Beach: Located 966m from Coolangatta Beach, Kirra Beach offers laid-back beach vibes, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The stunning golden sands and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for families and water sports enthusiasts alike.
  • Rainbow Bay: Just 805m away, Rainbow Bay boasts picturesque scenery and outdoor vibes. Enjoy the vibrant beach atmosphere, explore the rock pools, or relax with a picnic while taking in the breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs.
  • Point Danger: This cliff, located 1.1km from Coolangatta Beach, provides an adventurous experience with its stunning lookout points. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, you can enjoy hiking, whale watching, and panoramic views of the coastline.

Best time to go to Coolangatta Beach

The best time to visit Coolangatta Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Coolangatta Beach falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Coolangatta Beach falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January75.7°F (24.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
February75.6°F (24.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May65.8°F (18.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July61.2°F (16.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September65.5°F (18.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October68.4°F (20.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November71.6°F (22.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December73.9°F (23.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Coolangatta Beach

To save money on your trip to Coolangatta Beach, consider visiting in February, June, or August when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance often yields the best rates, while Tuesday is typically the cheapest day to stay. Check Expedia for last-minute deals and package options that combine flights, hotels, and activities for added savings. Utilise public transport for budget-friendly travel, and take advantage of free activities like beach walks and parks. Always compare prices to find the best deals and look for eco-friendly options to support sustainable tourism.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Coolangatta Beach are February, June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Coolangatta Beach about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Coolangatta Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Coolangatta Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Coolangatta Beach hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.