Monday:06:00-22:30
Tuesday:06:00-22:30
Wednesday:06:00-22:30
Thursday:06:00-22:30
Friday:06:00-22:30
Saturday:06:00-22:30
Sunday:06:00-22:30
Where is the branch located?
Domestic Airport terminal desk. Terminal Drive, Bilinga 4225.
When returning your rental vehicle to one of our locations please ensure to refuel your hire car to the agreed level.
Return area is directly opposite the terminal building. Follow car returns signs from Terminal Ave. Allow an additional 30 to 40 minutes prior to the flight check-in time for car rental return.
Return vehicle to rental returns carpark following return signs from terminal Dr. After hours return is located in the terminal building desk. Marked “key return”.
Not available at this location.
Staff members meet all flights. If you are a local renter with no flight number, you must pick up during operating hours.
Touch down at Gold Coast Airport and get ready to explore one of Australia’s favourite coastal cities. Go for the sun, the surf, the theme parks, the hinterlands, or all the above with this handy guide.
Gold Coast is the gold standard of Aussie beachside cities. With a staggering 70 kilometres of beaches, a dynamic dining scene, thrilling theme parks, surrounded by lush rainforest, this place is packed with adventure in every direction. Follow us as we take you on a ride throughout the best of the best, accompanied by your Thrifty rental car. All aboard?
If you need just one reason to head to the Goldie, it’s those beaches! That golden sand and sparkling water sits pretty by the city centre, meaning a dip, surf or view is always there when you need it. Here are some beaches to add to your list, from the centre and beyond.
Surfers Paradise: An iconic spot with lively vibes both on and off the beach.
Rainbow Bay: A secluded and sheltered bay, perfect for a relaxing swim or family picnic.
Snapper Rocks: A world-class surf break, home to the famous Superbank wave.
Currumbin Beach: A laid-back, scenic beach with great surf and a bohemian vibe.
Burleigh Heads: A local favourite, perfect for swimming, surfing and sunset picnics.
Tallebudgera Creek: A tranquil spot for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and camping.
If theme parks are on the agenda, the Gold Coast should be too. This city is without a doubt the theme park capital of the country, where you can experience everything from water slides to water creatures. Here’s some of the best:
Dreamworld: Home to rides, live shows and wildlife—basically a bit of everything.
Movie World: Action-packed rides and activities, all inspired by your favourite blockbusters.
Sea World: Marine life meets amusement park, with dolphins, sharks and polar bears.
WhiteWater World: An water park with giant slides, splash zones and everything in between.
After a day in the sun, the water or the theme park, it’s time to sit down and fill up! The Gold Coast is packed with seaside cafés award-winning restaurants—here are some to get your mouth watering:
Crispy Italian Bar: Sometimes (or maybe all the time), all you need is some simple, traditional Italian to warm the soul. This is exactly where to get the job done.
Social Eating House + Bar: One of the Gold Coast’s most loved restaurants, serving up modern Australian in a sleek and friendly style.
Blowfish Ocean Grill and Bar: When you’re by the ocean, you crave something from the ocean, and this polished place serves up the very best seafood in the city.
The Paddock: For something worth splashing out on, head 45 minutes out of town to this farm-to-table fine diner with a wagyu beef farm as your backdrop.
Gold Coast isn’t all beaches—it’s also home to some fantastic national parks. Here are some to seek out.
Lamington National Park: A World Heritage-listed rainforest with walking trails, waterfalls and breathtaking views.
Tamborine Mountain: Just an hour from the Gold Coast, this mountain retreat offers hiking, boutique wineries, and scenic lookouts.
Springbrook National Park: Home to the famous Natural Bridge, glow worm caves and stunning waterfalls.
Mount Barney: A rugged outback escape for hiking and outdoor adventures.
The Gold Coast has always been known for its beach culture, but less so for its creative culture. But at the Home of the Arts, you’ll be immersed in everything from art exhibitions and live performances to outdoor markets and open-air cinema. Keep an eye out for local and international artworks, head to the Outdoor Stage for live concerts and comedy, explore the Sculpture Walk and stop by The Exhibitionist Bar for a rooftop view of the city with a snack in hand. It may not be what came to mind when thinking ‘Gold Coast’, which is exactly what makes it a must-do!
Beaches, rainforests, theme parks, restaurants and arts. With an itinerary this packed, you’ll definitely need a trusty rental car. And at Thrifty, we’ve got a great range of vehicles, at great prices, ready to make your Gold Coast getaway one you’ll never want to return from. Book yours now and enjoy the ride!
