Advancetown(Australia) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Advancetown, the top family-friendly hotel with direct beach access is The Gateway Resort, located just a 5-minute walk from Coolangatta Beach. This resort features spacious apartments with kitchenettes, a heated swimming pool, children’s playground, and free Wi-Fi. It’s ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience, with easy access to nearby attractions like Coral Park and Gold Coast Airport. The property also offers complimentary breakfast and on-site childcare services. Its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to the ocean make it a perfect base for beach-loving families exploring southern Queensland’s coastal charm.

To experience authentic Australian coastal culture in Advancetown, visit the Sunday Morning Beach Market at Coolangatta Pier, where local artisans, organic farmers, and street food vendors sell kangaroo meat pies, macadamia nut spreads, and handmade crafts. The market hosts live performances by Aboriginal artists showcasing traditional dance and dot painting. Surrounded by palm trees and ocean breezes, this vibrant gathering reflects the laid-back, sun-soaked lifestyle of coastal Australia. Don’t miss the chance to rent a bike and ride along the Gold Coast Surf Coast Trail, embracing the quintessential Aussie love for surfing, nature, and outdoor living.

Yes, Paws & Relax Retreat is the only certified pet-friendly boutique hotel in Advancetown, located steps from Coolangatta Beach. Each room includes pet beds, feeding bowls, and secure fencing. The property offers pet grooming services, a dedicated dog-walking path, and welcome kits with treats and toys. Guests can enjoy pet-friendly beaches like Southport Dog Walk and scenic coastal trails. Reservations require prior notice of pet presence and adherence to cleaning protocols. This pet-conscious retreat ensures both humans and furry companions have a comfortable, memorable stay in a relaxed seaside setting.

In Advancetown, must-try local dishes include kangaroo meat fritters, a savory deep-fried pastry rooted in Indigenous culinary traditions, and macadamia-crusted salad, featuring locally harvested nuts, coconut shavings, and fresh mango. Both are available at the Sunday Beach Market and The Coastal Kitchen restaurant. Complement your meal with a locally roasted Gold Coast espresso, known for its bold flavor and smooth finish. These flavors reflect the region’s rich natural bounty and multicultural heritage, offering a true taste of southern Queensland’s coastal identity.

Advancetown Beachfront Promenade is the prime spot for evening strolls and sunset viewing. This scenic pathway stretches along Coolangatta Beach, offering uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean and dramatic golden hour skies. With shaded benches, ambient lighting, and art installations, it’s perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking serenity. At night, the Coolangatta Lighthouse Light Show projects dynamic patterns across the sky, synchronized with soft music. Nearby, The Pier Bar & Grill provides a cozy vantage point to enjoy drinks while watching the stars emerge over the water—ideal for romantic or reflective moments.

Near Advancetown, join a guided night-time wetland eco-tour at Brisbane River Mouth Conservation Area, where you’ll observe nocturnal wildlife such as possums, owls, and fireflies. Another sustainable option is renting an electric bike to explore the Coastal Greenway Trail, a car-free route stretching through native bushland and dunes. You can also participate in beach clean-up events hosted by local NGOs every Saturday morning. These activities promote environmental awareness while allowing visitors to connect deeply with the region’s natural ecosystems—perfect for eco-conscious travelers seeking meaningful experiences.

Public transport in Advancetown is reliable for short trips, with Translink Bus Routes 102 and 103 connecting to Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast City Centre, and Gold Coast Airport. Buses run every 30 minutes and accept Go Card payments. Bike-sharing stations and e-scooters are available along the Beachfront Promenade, making short-distance travel convenient. For longer journeys, the Coolangatta Train Station offers regular trains to Brisbane (approx. 30 minutes). While not as extensive as major cities, the network supports most tourists’ needs, especially those without a rental car, ensuring accessible and affordable access to key destinations.

Top photography spots in Advancetown include the Coolangatta Lighthouse, whose white tower stands boldly against the horizon; the Beachside Mural Wall, adorned with vivid Aboriginal-inspired artwork; and the arched iron bridge at Gold Coast Harbour Entrance, framed beautifully by morning light. The Holiday Beach coastline, with its gentle waves and palm shadows, offers stunning reflections perfect for long-exposure shots. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural lighting. Bring a drone to capture aerial views of the winding coastline and turquoise waters—a must for travel photographers seeking iconic images of Queensland’s southern shores.

While Advancetown is more relaxed than high-end resorts, The Gateway Spa at The Gateway Resort offers premium wellness experiences including ocean-view massage therapy, herbal body wraps using local botanicals, and private hydrotherapy sessions. The spa uses sustainable practices and incorporates native ingredients like eucalyptus and macadamia oil. Guests can also book sunrise yoga on the beach deck or a couples’ relaxation package with champagne and sea views. Though modest in scale, these services deliver a serene, rejuvenating escape that blends luxury with the natural beauty of the coast.

Key cultural landmarks in Advancetown include the Coolangatta Lighthouse, built in 1900 and still operational, symbolizing maritime history. Nearby, St. Mary’s Church showcases colonial-era architecture and serves as a community hub. The Aboriginal Art Gallery at the Sunday Market displays works by local First Nations artists, highlighting ancestral stories and Dreamtime legends. Additionally, the Coastal Heritage Trail features interpretive panels detailing early settlement, whaling, and Indigenous land use. Visiting these sites offers deeper insight into the region’s layered history, blending colonial legacy with enduring Aboriginal culture.