Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa

Echoing the beautiful scenery on the Gold Coast, this Marriott Resort's traditional style is full of sandy colors, palm trees, and artistic touches. It's an attractive white stone building with pretty water features out front, setting an upscale tone right off the bat. The lobby is dominated by the huge bamboo sculptures and an impressive winding staircase decorated with intricately carved iron leaves running up its banister. It's a calm, welcoming space with plenty of seating, from sofas to rattan armchairs and cute enclosed chairs alongside stylish touches like vine-like chandeliers and decorative shutter screens. Off the lobby, Citrique restaurant is modern and bright, while Chapter & Verse Bar and Lounge has a range of seating both inside and out. Both eateries look out to the landscaped gardens and pool. Given its name-brand status and reliably attractive style, the hotel has broad appeal -- expect to see lots of families and business travelers. 

The Marriott Resort & Spa is located right on the Gold Coast Highway, just north of the main Surfers Paradise hub. It's one of several upscale hotels that line the main road between the Pacific Ocean and the Nerang River. There's not a lot in the immediate area in terms of retail activity, but it's a five-minute walk to the seafront and beach (keep in mind you'll have to cross busy roads). Most of the town's shopping, dining, and nightlife are 15 minutes away on foot. The tram line runs along the northern corner of the hotel, and it's a five-minute walk to Surfers Paradise North stop. Journey south, and Cavill Road is five minutes away, or carry on to chilled Broadbeach to pick up a bus to Gold Coast Airport -- which takes about 75 minutes door-to-door. The trip to the airport by car is about 40 minutes. The big theme parks like Movie World and Dream World are a 20-minute drive away, or Sea World is less than a 10-minute drive. There's also a bus to Sea World that takes about 10 minutes from the bus stop, which is a four-minute down the main road.

Rooms are bright and airy, with light decor that consists of white-and-oak furniture and a nod to the hotel's seaside location in the coral patterned rugs and cushions. All feature large windows and balconies looking out to the river and the sea, plus air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee facilities, mini-fridges and safes. Rooms also have walk-in wardrobes. Larger Club Suites include access to the stylish Club Lounge. One-bedroom Club Suites offer separate living rooms and the Residential Suite adds an extra dining area. Bathrooms are spacious, though they look just a touch dated, with their brown marble tiling. All feature separate shower and tubs. Raised whirlpool baths with sea or pool views in the Club Suites are a nice addition, and all include bathrobes and slippers.

Located just outside the center of Surfers Paradise, the Marriott has the advantage of space. Thankfully, it makes the most of it, with a well-landscaped outdoor area overlooking the river, featuring a lagoon pool with sandy beach, whirlpools, and a regular swimming pool. There are plenty of sun loungers, cabanas, and a poolside bar that's open during holidays and peak times. The resort also has tennis courts, a small kids' playground and bikes available for hire. Inside, amenities include a spacious spa, Club Lounge with superb ocean-views, well-equipped gym with cardio equipment and weights, internet lounge, several conference rooms and a self-service laundry. Citrique is an international buffet-style restaurant which specializes in fresh, local seafood, and Misono is a Japanese Steakhouse with its own authentic sake bar. The lobby bar/lounge serves a menu of light meals and snacks. All three are open from breakfast through to evening meals. Parking is available on-site, but comes at a fee, while Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.