The best safari tent rentals near Coolangatta, Queensland

At the southernmost tip of the Gold Coast, surfers flock to Coolangatta, or “Cooly,” for its renowned surf breaks, and sand lovers have five beaches to choose from. Watch the pros riding world-class waves at Duranbah, head to Kirra beach to swim and sunbathe, or enjoy water sports along Coolangatta beach. After taking a dip at the Snapper Rock Pools, hike the coastal trail from Greenmount Hill to Rainbow Beach, and look out for migrating whales and dolphins along the shore. Finally, check into one of the beachfront campsites and take your pick of seafront bars and restaurants.

95% (181)

Top-rated campgrounds

At the southernmost tip of the Gold Coast, surfers flock to Coolangatta, or “Cooly,” for its renowned surf breaks, and sand lovers have five beaches to choose from. Watch the pros riding world-class waves at Duranbah, head to Kirra beach to swim and sunbathe, or enjoy water sports along Coolangatta beach. After taking a dip at the Snapper Rock Pools, hike the coastal trail from Greenmount Hill to Rainbow Beach, and look out for migrating whales and dolphins along the shore. Finally, check into one of the beachfront campsites and take your pick of seafront bars and restaurants.

95% (181)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay

94%

(286)

56km from Coolangatta · 214 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Byron Bay, NSW

This northern New South Wales hotspot needs no introduction. Byron Bay attracts some two million visitors to its sandy shores each year. To see what makes this beach holiday destination so alluring, stay amongst Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay’s 28 acres of parklands which fronts onto the famous Tallow Beach. Whether you like to caravan, camp, or stay in a cabin, there is a range of accommodation options at Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay to suit any holiday style.

2. Ballina Beach Nature Resort

91%

(79)

80km from Coolangatta · 194 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ballina, NSW

Ballina Beach Nature Resort is more than a campground, glamping retreat, caravan park or short-stay hotel - we're a family; offering adventurers, from the local region and across Australia, the opportunity to experience NSW, Ballina, the Byron Bay region and natural coastal wildlife. Whether you're a grey nomad, van-life enthusiast, an admirer of nature, in search for your next romantic getaway, or looking for an afternoon coffee or takeaway, our beach resort accommodation and Turtles Café have got you covered!

3. NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort

88%

(4)

29km from Coolangatta · 189 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gold Coast, QLD

Treasure Island Holiday Resort is more than a caravan park, it is a bounty of adventure and relaxation on the iconic Gold Coast. For the young and young-at-heart, we’re all about fun. Little swashbucklers enjoy wall-to-wall adventure, where a splashpark and year-round kids’ activities are just the beginning. Set up a home base in one of our camping or caravan sites, cabins and villas, or step it up with a glamping tent. Our activities schedule has something to delight every member of the family, while poolside lazing is encouraged at our four resort-style pools. We’ll even shake you a cocktail at our licenced Galleons Bistro, where meals together are made easy. Beyond our fair shores you’ll find everything the Gold Coast is famous for: shopping, theme parks, beaches and nightlife. But with all the ingredients for a holiday they’ll remember forever right here, once you drop anchor at Treasure Island you may never want to leave.

4. Clouds On Beechmont

33km from Coolangatta · 3 sites · Lodging · Beechmont, QLD

Welcome to Clouds on Beechmont Perched high on the scenic ridge, Clouds on Beechmont offers a truly unforgettable hinterland escape. Expect sweeping panoramic views overlooking the Numinbah Valley and Lamington National Park. Our property provides the perfect blend of secluded nature and easy access to the best of the Scenic Rim. Wake up above the clouds and experience the peace and tranquillity of the mountain air. What Guests Can See and Do On-Site Relax and Reconnect: Enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets from your vantage point. The crisp mountain air is perfect for stargazing, reading, or simply listening to the local birdlife. Local Adventures and Experiences We’re ideally located near the heart of the Beechmont–Canungra area, offering countless day-trip opportunities: • Lamington National Park (Binna Burra Section): Just a short drive away, explore the World Heritage-listed rainforest with its network of walking tracks, ancient trees, and beautiful waterfalls such as Moran Falls and Elabana Falls. • Rosins Lookout: A must-see spot for hang gliding, paragliding, or simply soaking up breathtaking views across the Numinbah Valley and towards the coast. • Local Flavours: Discover the charm of Beechmont and nearby Canungra, home to cozy cafés like The Flying Bean Café and local treasures. Don’t miss O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards or the monthly Beechmont Markets. • Wildlife: Beechmont is a haven for native wildlife. Look out for colourful birds, wallabies, and—if you’re lucky—a platypus in the local creeks.

5. Trickling Waters Retreat

41km from Coolangatta · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Commissioners Creek, NSW

Nestled in the beautiful rainforest of Commissioners Creek, Trickling Waters Retreat is a peaceful sanctuary where forest, water, and wildlife come together to create a truly grounding escape. Our land offers a blend of comfort and raw natural beauty. Wake to birdsong, fall asleep to the soft rush of the creek, , wander through open grassy spaces, or relax by the water’s edge. The creek flows year-round sometimes deep enough for a refreshing dip, and other times shallow, cool, and perfect for wading, creek-walking, or just sitting with your feet in the water while listening to the trees. In the evenings, gather around your private fire area, Or wander over to our handcrafted communal fire pit, a stunning circle built from Grand Natural stones unearthed from the property itself. You’re welcome to ask your hosts to light it for you. Whether it’s shared with other travellers or enjoyed quietly on your own, it’s one of the most peaceful spots on the property, perfect for slow conversations, warm or cold drinks, and unwinding by the glow of the flames. and letting the stars take over the sky. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot where guests often tell us their minds finally stop racing. We currently offer a spacious glamping tent overlooking the creek, plus beautifully spread-out grassy areas ideal for campers seeking privacy and a true nature experience. Guests also have access to our modern amenities pavilion, hot shower, flushing toilet, and an outdoor wash-up area to make your stay effortless. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic nature getaway, solo traveller wanting space to think, or small group looking to unplug and breathe again, Trickling Waters Retreat offers a calm, memorable escape on one of Commissioners Creek’s most serene pockets of land.

6. Trees Rd Glamping

12km from Coolangatta · 1 site · Lodging · Tallebudgera, QLD

Tent with queen bed Outdoor Kitchen and bathroom private use. No pets. Swimming pool, spa and sauna non private use. There is 150 acres, of Nature Reserve, opposite the property for bush walking. It is a Koala breeding area, with kangaroos and other native wildlife. Kookaburras visit daily for feeding with parrots and galas. Beautiful bush outlook, private access and parking with stairs to the tent site and upstairs to the pool spa and sauna. The tent is the only one, with a private home, a unit and a tiny home on the property. The tent has an outdoor fire and fire pit area and outdoor lounge area. Location is 15 mins to beach and great restaurants at Burleigh Heads. 5 mins to local grocers, pizza, fish n chips.

Stories from the community

D

Drew

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Ballina Beach Nature Resort

Great stay with good amenities and hot showers, will stay here again!

L

Liezl

May 2025

1 night at Ballina Beach Nature Resort

Loved camping here. The wildlife in the evening as well as the birds in the morning was amazing. Facilities are neat and clean.

Isabella

April 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ballina Beach Nature Resort

We stayed in the ‘luxury swag’ and it was quite nice. It’s got a queen bed and a little kitchen area. The toilets are not too far of a walk. The cafe was great (only down side is that it’s only open fri-sat) and it is really away from everything so be sure to pack food, games etc! It is very family oriented which is great. Has a water play ground and a dog park which is fenced! We loved that we could take our puppy too. Overall a good experience

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best safari tents near Coolangatta guide

Where to go

Gold Coast

North of Coolangatta, the Gold Coast is Queensland’s quintessential beach destination. Head to the beaches of Miami or Broadbeach to swim and surf, browse the famous Village Markets in Burleigh, or party until the early hours in Surfers Paradise. Campers have plenty of options along the coast, and adrenaline junkies can head to some of Australia’s most famous theme parks.

Gold Coast Hinterlands

Northwest of Coolangatta, the Gold Coast Hinterlands provide plenty of scope for outdoor adventures. Take a road trip through the Currumbin Valley, stopping to visit the eco-village and cool off with a swim in the Currumbin Rock Pools. Further north, hike along rainforest trails in Springbrook National Park, spot glow worms at the Natural Bridge, and enjoy bush camping in the Numinbah Valley.

NSW North Coast

New South Wales’ most scenic road trip follows the Legendary Pacific Coast route. Set out from Coolangatta and drive south to Tweed Heads and Byron Bay, where you can browse the art and crafts markets, take a surf lesson, or hike along the headlands. Inland, campers can escape the crowds in the Mount Jerusalem and Nightcap national parks.

When to go

The sun rarely stops shining along the Gold Coast, and beach days are possible even in winter (June through August). Summer (December through January) is peak season, when advance bookings are essential, but spring is an equally lively time to visit, with a number of markets, festivals, and outdoor events. Whale watching season along the coast runs from June through October.

Know before you go

The Gold Coast has an excellent public transport service, but having your own transport is useful for exploring the hinterlands and national parks.

Coolangatta has a selection of shops where you can pick up camping gear and stock up on supplies before heading out into the hinterlands.
Fire bans are common in Queensland during summer and dry periods, so be sure to check local recommendations before lighting your campfire and always use designated fire pits.
Camping permits are required to camp in Queensland’s national parks and must be reserved in advance.