The Gold Coast Airport welcomes over 6 million passengers annually and is one of Australia’s fastest growing airports. It’s located in a unique position, with the Queensland/New South Wales border cutting directly across its runway. Gold Coast Airport is the key aviation hub for travellers visiting the famous white sand beaches this destination is known for, as well as holiday hotspots like Bryon Bay in northern New South Wales.
What facilities are at Gold Coast Airport?
Although an unashamedly ‘low cost’ international airport, Gold Coast Airport (OOL) has all the services and facilities you would need before a domestic or an international flight.
Check-in
Both international and domestic flights depart from the same terminal and make use of the same check-in area. Most domestic airlines require that you be at the check-in counter at least 45 minutes before departure. For international airlines, it’s at least two hours before departure although we recommend confirming this with your airline.
Passengers should arrive for check-in with plenty of time to clear security. International passengers must also clear Customs after making their way through the departure lounge to the International Terminal area. Each airline’s counter space is easily recognisable and most carriers provide kiosk check-in capabilities. The security screening area is located in the centre of the terminal and passengers may proceed through to the departure lounge once check-in and security clearance is complete.
Baggage
Before you travel to the airport, confirm with your airline what the baggage requirements are for your specific flight. Size, weight and number of bags can vary between airlines.
If you find that you have a few free hours between flights, you may like to store your luggage in the Smarte Carte lockers near the short term car park and take a short walk across to Kirra Beach or a short bus ride to Coolangatta and soak up the Gold Coast atmosphere.
Is there a currency exchange?
Yes, there are two Travelex foreign currency exchange kiosks at Gold Coast Airport, one in the departure lounge and one just outside international arrivals. Prefer to get your foreign currency sorted out in advance? Travel Money Oz can help you get organised before you head to the airport.
What are the other services and facilities?
- ATMs
- AmbassaPAW therapy dogs program
- Terminal practice runs
- Parents’ rooms
- Baggage lockers
- Special assistance for passengers with disabilities or special needs
- Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)
- Free Wi-Fi
Transport and terminal transfers
What’s the best way to get to and from Gold Coast Airport?
Travelling to and from Gold Coast Airport couldn't be easier, and there are plenty of different options available. Below is an overview of the different ways you can get to and from Gold Coast Airport.
Car hire: This is undoubtedly a fantastic option for visiting the Gold Coast, with its kilometres of beaches, stunning hinterland and close proximity to beautiful northern New South Wales destinations such as Byron Bay and Bangalow. We can help organise your car hire in advance so it's ready to pick up when you land, or you can visit the car rental desks opposite the arrivals area.
Picking up and dropping off: There is a pick-up and drop-off area conveniently located at the front of the terminal. Note: this is not a waiting area, it’s strictly for pick-up and drop-off only and penalties apply for waiting.
Taxis: A taxi rank is located at the southern end of the terminal, opposite the international arrivals area.
Rideshare: If you’d prefer to travel via rideshare, Uber have a pick-up point outside the domsetic arrivals area.
Shuttle bus: There are a number of shuttle bus options available, including Con-X-Ion and Link Transfers. Booking a shuttle transfer is a convenient way to travel between the airport and a number of the Gold Coast's most popular tourist attractions. Talk to your Travel Expert for help organising airport transfers before you set off.
Public Transport: Translink operates all the public transport on the Gold Coast, in an integrated network that includes G:link trams and Queensland Rail. Smart Ticketing is available across South East Queensland’s public transport network, providing contactless payment options on board.
Chauffeurs and limousines: There is a staggering number of limousine and premium car hire firms on the Gold Coast. Ask your Travel Expert for more information.
Parking: Gold Coast Airport offers a number of convenient parking options. The fully-covered Premium Parking is just a one-minute walk from the terminal - perfect for quick trips - while Terminal Parking offers discounted rates for those staying four days or longer. Saver Parking provides a balance of value and convenience, located a short walk away from the terminal, and Budget Parking (both covered and uncovered) is the most affordable, long-term option.
How do I transfer between terminals?
At Gold Coast Airport, there’s no need to transfer between terminals because they’re both located in the one building.
