Accessible Gold Coast holidays: Darcy’s personal guide
Darcy’s accessible guide to the Gold Coast
By Darcy · Originally published 7 March 2022
Original article
Hi, my name is Darcy! Before you get into my travel guide, here’s what you should know about me: I’m 22 years old, and I live on Mars (just kidding, I live in Brisbane) with my parents, younger brother and many, MANY pets. I love playing powerchair soccer and spending time with my close friends and I love a chat — especially a good conversation.
I live with Cerebral Palsy (CP), which can impact my daily routines, but the benefit of CP is that I’m only limited by my determination and desire to do something. It’s important to me that people know CP this doesn’t stop me from having a great time doing what I enjoy, including heading on holidays.
One of my go-to holiday destinations is the Gold Coast. I’ve been MANY times before, so I’m a bit of an expert now! Here are my recommendations on where to stay and what to do for a great getaway…
Where to stay
My favourite place to stay is in the Montrose ‘Our Getaway’, on the northern end of the Gold Coast. It’s got SIX bedrooms, some with ensuites for extra privacy. It’s modern and everyone has their own space to use as they please.
When it comes to the bedrooms, the beds are remote controlled and there are ceiling hoists installed. The beds have air mattresses which you can adjust to make the bed softer or harder as you please. In the rest of the property, there are hoists available and the walkways are fully accessible.
The team there are welcoming and you can choose what you want to do during your stay. You also have the option of booking with friends. They have 24/7 support, including nightshift workers who will make sure you are comfortable and settled in each night.
What to do
I LOVE to go to the theme parks — and do you want to know my top tip? Get an annual pass! If you have a companion card you can sometimes get discounted rates too. My favourite theme park is SeaWorld – I love the underwater aquarium with the sharks and the fish.
If you are staying at Montrose’s Our Getaway, the Harbour Town shops are close by and have movies and lots of restaurants. I also love the beach, a little ice cream is lovely while sitting down and looking over the water. The esplanade at Labrador is a great spot that is also accessible.
When it comes to how you want to plan your holiday to the Gold Coast, it all really depends on what type of person you are. If you are a ‘must do everything person’ I’d suggest planning in advance. Or, you might be more like me and just want a chilled time. Either way, you can’t go wrong at the Gold Coast.
Clickability editorial update: October 2026
Check the facilities against your own equipment and preferences
Ask accommodation staff for current details about beds, hoists, bathrooms and the tasks their staff can assist with. Confirm compatibility and responsibilities with the relevant professionals rather than assuming the author’s arrangements will suit you. Check costs, cancellations and what changes if support needs differ.
For attractions, use Sea World’s current accessibility information and ask about the activities you want to do. Companion-card arrangements and admission conditions should be confirmed before buying. Ordinary holiday costs and short-term respite support have different funding considerations.
Plan the quieter parts as well as the headline activity
Ask what the person wants to keep flexible and where rest or an easier day would help. Agree the support schedule, transport and an alternative if an attraction is unsuitable. A successful holiday can include sitting by the water; completing every attraction is not the measure of participation.
Questions readers ask
Does the account guarantee today’s facilities or staffing?
No. Verify the current arrangements directly.
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