1map logoGo to main page

Cairns, Queensland to Gold Coast, Queensland from AU$140: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Gold Coast, Australia

How to Get from Cairns to Gold Coast: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$140 by busBest price
1469 kmDistance
4h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Gold Coast with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  30m
Estimated price
AU$101-443
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  52m
Estimated price
AU$96-391
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1469 km
Duration: 4h 30m

See more options

Company
Queensland Rail Travel
Train
Average Duration
26h  32m
Estimated price
AU$120-4039
Company
Premier Motor Service
Bus
Average Duration
31h  30m
Estimated price
AU$140-189
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
31h  50m
Estimated price
AU$182-1010
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
22h  6m
Estimated price
AU$1011-1012
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cairns to Gold Coast

Journeying from Cairns to Gold Coast offers a striking contrast between the tropical charm of rainforests and the vibrant beach culture of the Gold Coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in Gold Coast

Gold Coast features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinctive attractions and experiences.

Surfers Paradise
• Iconic beaches with vibrant nightlife.
• Great shopping and dining options nearby.
Burleigh Heads
• Stunning national park trails and beautiful beaches.
• Laid-back atmosphere with local cafes.
Broadbeach
• Close to Pacific Fair shopping center.
• Offers a family-friendly vibe and parks.

Best Times To Visit Gold Coast's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Gold Coast experience.

Theme Parks
Visit on weekdays during off-peak seasons for shorter lines and less crowding.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Mornings are best for animal activities, with fewer visitors and cooler weather.
Gold Coast Beaches
Early mornings or late afternoons offer stunning sunrises or sunsets with fewer people.

Gold Coast Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Gold Coast enjoys a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild winters, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. Visiting during the dry season from May to October not only provides cooler temperatures but also enhances your overall travel experience, as you can fully enjoy beach days and adventures.

Dining Recommendation in Gold Coast

Try the fresh seafood platter at The Fish House, where ocean flavors shine through local ingredients and a stunning beachfront view enhances your meal. This dining experience contrasts with Cairns' tropical influences, offering a vibrant coastal atmosphere that celebrates Australia’s surf culture.

Cairns - Gold Coast operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns and Gold Coast, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
qantas.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Gold Coast (OOL)

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
AU$1014-1017

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Brisbane (BNE)

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
AU$120-1017

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Gold Coast (OOL) via Newcastle

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
AU$1014-1017

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Gold Coast (OOL) via Sydney

Average Duration
5h 17m
Estimated price
AU$1013-1018
Website
jetstar.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Gold Coast (OOL)

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
AU$1014-1017

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Gold Coast (OOL) via Newcastle

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
AU$1014-1017

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Gold Coast (OOL) via Sydney

Average Duration
5h 12m
Estimated price
AU$1014-1017

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Brisbane (BNE)

Average Duration
2h 11m
Estimated price
AU$4430-1017
Website
flybonza.com

Plane from Cairns (CNS) to Gold Coast (OOL)

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
AU$4432-4433
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Cairns Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
26h 32m
Estimated price
AU$120-1016

Train from Roma Street to Helensvale station, platform 1

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
AU$4437-4438
Contact phone
13 12 30
Website
translink.com.au

Train from International Airport Station to Helensvale station, platform 1

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
AU$4435-4436

Train from Roma Street to Helensvale station, platform 1

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
AU$4437-4438
Bus
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
premierms.com.au

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
29h 5m
Estimated price
AU$120-963

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Surfers Paradise

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
AU$964-965
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
greyhound.com.au

Bus from Cairns to Brisbane

Average Duration
30h
Estimated price
AU$963-443730

Cairns to Gold Coast: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cairns and Gold Coast offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Cairns to Gold Coast, covering a distance of 1182 miles. The journey offers stunning coastal views and diverse landscapes along the way. 💰 The cost of driving from Cairns to Gold Coast ranges from $240 to $350, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to explore the east coast of Australia at their own pace. 🛣️ With an estimated driving time of approximately 22 hours and 6 minutes, this road trip allows for flexibility to stop at charming towns, beautiful beaches, and iconic landmarks, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
Average price
$240 - $350
🚂 Planning a train journey from Cairns to Gold Coast? While there is no direct train route available, you can embark on an exciting 26-hour adventure with transfers along the way. 🌿 Departing from Cairns Central Station, operated by Queensland Rail Travel, you'll make stops at Roma Street and Helensvale stations before reaching Gold Coast's Cypress Avenue station, platform 2. 💰 Prices for the train ride between Cairns and Gold Coast range from $120 to $4039, offering a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two vibrant Australian cities. 🌞
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Helensvale station, platform 1
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: When traveling from Cairns to Gold Coast, you can enjoy a selection of catering services offered by Queensland Rail. The train usually provides a buffet car where you can purchase snacks, light meals, and beverages. Additionally, some services include pre-packaged meals that you can enjoy at your seat.
• Seating Options: The train service on this route offers different seating options, including Economy Class, Business Class, and First Class. In Economy Class, you will find comfortable seating with ample legroom, while Business Class seats provide more space and a quieter ambiance. First Class offers luxury seating with additional amenities such as extra-wide seats and fine dining service.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving in Gold Coast, you will disembark at the Broadbeach South Station. There are restroom facilities available, and you can leave your luggage at the station for a small fee if you wish to explore the area before your next destination. Additionally, make sure to check for any available showers, especially if you've been traveling for a while.
🛫 Flying from Cairns to Gold Coast is quick and convenient, with a direct flight that takes just 2 hours and 15 minutes. Several airlines like Bonza, Qantas, and Jetstar offer flights on this route. 🌅 The journey from Cairns to Gold Coast by plane is a total of 4 hours and 30 minutes, offering breathtaking views of Australia's coastline along the way. 💸 Prices for flights between Gold Coast and Cairns can range from $101 to $443, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Cairns Airport
Arrival Point
Gold Coast Airport
🚌 Starting from Cairns Central Station, travelers can embark on a scenic bus journey bound for Gold Coast. Although there isn't a direct route, passengers will transfer at Brisbane Roma Street during the 31.5-hour trip. 💰 Prices for this bus trip between Cairns and Gold Coast range from $140 to $189, making it a cost-effective way to explore the east coast of Australia at a leisurely pace. Travelers can sit back, relax, and take in the beautiful scenery as they make their way to the Gold Coast.
Departure Point
Cairns Central Station
Arrival Point
Surfers Paradise station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Gold Coast.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Cairns and Gold Coast is approximately 913 miles by air and 1182 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. It takes approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes to fly from Cairns to Gold Coast, 5 hours and 53 minutes by flying to Brisbane and then taking a train, and 26 hours and 32 minutes by train directly from Cairns to Gold Coast. If driving, it takes approximately 22 hours and 6 minutes, and by bus, it takes around 31 hours and 30 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cairns to Gold Coast is by bus, which takes around 31 hours and costs between $130-$190. However, if time is a priority, the fastest option is to fly, which takes approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $100-$390. Both options have their advantages depending on your budget and schedule.
The prices for traveling from Cairns to Gold Coast by train range from $118 to $245. Alternatively, taking a bus from Gold Coast to Cairns can cost between $136 and $184. These prices may vary depending on the specific time of travel, availability, and any discounts or promotions offered. It is advisable to check with the respective transport providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Cairns to Gold Coast without using public transportation, you can opt for a road trip. The driving distance is approximately 1182 miles, and it takes about 22 hours and 6 minutes to reach Gold Coast by car. The prices for such a journey range from $240 to $350, depending on factors like fuel costs and vehicle type. It's important to consider rest breaks and plan the trip accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
To travel from Cairns to Gold Coast without a car, you have a few options. The best way is by train, which takes approximately 26 hours and 32 minutes and costs between $110 and $250. Alternatively, you can fly, which takes about 4 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $100 and $390. Another option is to take a bus, which takes approximately 31 hours and 30 minutes and costs between $130 and $190. Choose the option that suits your budget and travel preferences.
There is no direct train or bus link between Cairns and Gold Coast. However, there are options available with transfers. The train journey takes approximately 26h 32m with transfers at Roma Street station and Helensvale station. The bus journey takes approximately 31h 30m with transfers in Brisbane.
The flight between Cairns and Gold Coast typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. The prices for this flight route can vary between $100 and $383, depending on factors such as time of booking and airline preferences. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Gold Coast. With over 1198 hotels in the area, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $94 per night, ensuring that there is something for every traveler's budget. Whether you prefer a luxury resort, a budget-friendly motel, or a cozy bed and breakfast, you can easily find a place to stay near Gold Coast.

Trips from Cairns

Trips to Townsville