Holidaymakers head to Gold Coast in droves during Easter long weekend

The coastal city has experienced a boost to match pre-pandemic levels this long weekend, with resorts and hotels reaching almost full capacity.

Hotels across the city are currently above 85 per cent capacity, as Gold Coast airport records its busiest day in two years.

Both international and domestic travellers have flown into the area for the weekend, making the city one of the country’s busiest holiday destinations.

“All the resorts are full, 100 per cent occupancy here at the moment,” Sue Fairweather from ULTIQA Hotels and Resorts said.

Thousands flocked to the Gold Coast’s theme parks, with car parks reaching full capacity and extensive lines experienced by families and visitors.

“It’s bigger than I thought it would be,” one woman said.

Others arrived as early as possible to try to beat the queues.

According to data from Destination Gold Coast, this Easter school holiday period is predicted to provide a $173 million boost to the local economy.

Beaches have also been full as travellers from New South Wales seek to avoid the wet weather which has drenched the state over the last few months.

“We came to the Gold Coast to get out of the weather of Sydney and get some sunshine and the beach, take the kids out for a little while,” one woman said.

Locals also parked deck chairs on the beach to enjoy the sunshine.

“Look at this – it’s the best backyard in the world,” one man said.