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Gold Coast, Queensland to Lightning Ridge, New South Wales from $100: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Gold Coast, Australia
to
Lightning Ridge, Australia

How to Get from Gold Coast to Lightning Ridge: 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.

$100 - Train and BusBest price
794 kmDistance
5h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Gold Coast to Lightning Ridge 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
Murrays Coaches
Bus
Average Duration
13h  22m
Estimated price
$94-136
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
14h  58m
Estimated price
$100-150
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 794 km
Duration: 5h 52m

See more options

Company
Self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
8h  34m
Estimated price
$100-150
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  52m
Estimated price
$119-232
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  15m
Estimated price
$193-458
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  34m
Estimated price
$193-478
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  42m
Estimated price
$208-493
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  54m
Estimated price
$228-518
Company
various
Train
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
17h  6m
Estimated price
$263-568
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Traveling From Gold Coast to Lightning Ridge

The journey from Gold Coast to Lightning Ridge reveals a striking contrast between the vibrant beaches and surf culture of the Gold Coast and the rugged, mineral-rich landscapes found in Lightning Ridge.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lightning Ridge

Lightning Ridge features distinct neighborhoods that offer unique experiences.

The Opal Capital
• Home to numerous opal mines.
• Offers guided tours and workshops.
Main Street
• Bustling area with shops and cafes.
• Hosts community events throughout the year.
Gunsynd Drive
• Scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Near popular attractions like the Big Opal.

Best Times To Visit Lightning Ridge's Attractions

Planning your visit to Lightning Ridge can enhance your experience significantly.

The Big Opal
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and ideal lighting.
Lightning Ridge Heritage Cottage
The best time is during weekdays when it’s less busy and more intimate.
Chambers of the Black Hand
Explore this stunning attraction during spring for pleasant weather and vibrant surroundings.

Lightning Ridge Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lightning Ridge experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when temperatures are more moderate and the weather enhances your exploration of its unique attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Lightning Ridge

Try the famous Outback Pancakes at the Lightning Ridge Bakery, where you’ll experience hearty portions and local flavors that stand in stark contrast to the beachside dining scene of Gold Coast. The cozy, rustic atmosphere and the use of regional ingredients create a distinctive experience that highlights the charm of the Australian outback.

Gold Coast - Lightning Ridge operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
131 500
Website
https://transportnsw.info/regional

Bus from Surfers Paradise Coach Transit Centre, Beach Rd to Brisbane

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
AU$5-9
Contact phone
(61) 13 22 51
Website
https://www.murrays.com.au/default.aspx

Bus from Brisbane City to St George

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
AU$60-95

Bus from St George to Lightning Ridge

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
AU$28-33

Bus from Brisbane to Toowoomba

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
AU$16-35

Bus from Toowoomba to Moonie

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
AU$30-36

Bus from Moonie to St George

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
AU$23-28
Train
Contact phone
13 12 30
Website
https://translink.com.au/

Train from Helensvale station, platform 2 to Roma Street

Average Duration
1h 3m
Estimated price
AU$4-7

Train from Helensvale station, platform 2 to International Airport Station

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
AU$21-25
Plane
Website
https://linkairways.com

Plane from Brisbane Airport to Walgett Airport

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
AU$120-330

Plane from Brisbane Airport to Walgett Airport

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
AU$120-440
Website
http://rex.com.au

Plane from Toowoomba Wellcamp to St George

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
AU$65-160
Website
https://airlinkairlines.com.au

Plane from Brisbane to Walgett

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
AU$120-420

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Gold Coast to Lightning Ridge.

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The distance between Gold Coast and Lightning Ridge is 558 km. The road distance is slightly longer at 794 km. If you are traveling by train and then bus, it takes approximately 17 hours and 20 minutes to reach Lightning Ridge from Gold Coast. However, if you prefer to drive, it will take around 8 hours and 34 minutes from Lightning Ridge to Gold Coast. Another option is taking the bus, which will take approximately 13 hours and 52 minutes to travel between the two locations.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Gold Coast to Lightning Ridge is by bus. It takes approximately 13 hours and 52 minutes and costs between $90 to $130. However, if time is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking around 8 hours and 34 minutes and costing between $100 to $150.
The prices for a bus ticket from Gold Coast to Lightning Ridge range from $92 to $125.
To travel from Gold Coast to Lightning Ridge without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 795 km, which takes around 8 hours and 34 minutes. By car, the prices can range from $100 to $150 for the journey.
The most convenient way to travel from Gold Coast to Lightning Ridge without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 13 hours and 52 minutes, and ticket prices range from $90 to $130.
There is no direct link between Gold Coast and Lightning Ridge. However, there are options available for travel. One option is to take a train from Gold Coast to Brisbane City and then transfer to a bus to Lightning Ridge, with a total travel time of approximately 13 hours and 52 minutes. Another option is to drive by car, which takes around 8 hours and 34 minutes.
The flight distance between Gold Coast and Lightning Ridge is approximately 600 km. The quickest flight option is to fly from Brisbane Airport to Dubbo Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. As for the cost, it may vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but typically, flights from Gold Coast to Dubbo can range from around $100 to $300 AUD per person.
There are several accommodation options available near Lightning Ridge. Some of the options include four or more hotels in the area. Prices for these hotels start at $78 per night, offering affordable choices for visitors.

Trips from Gold Coast