Plan Your Visit

Parking, including wheelchair accessible parking, is available but limited. From 9am to 7pm, your first 4 hours of parking is free - simply enter your vehicle registration at the parking meter on arrival to redeem.

Parking is free on public holidays, and free and unrestricted before 9am and after 7pm. If you're staying longer than 4 hours, a flat day rate of $8.00 applies, payable at a parking machine onsite or via the EasyPark app.

Accessible parking spaces are available in the carparks near the entrance to the main building, the HOTA Gallery, and the playground by the lake.

There are almost 900 spaces across the precinct, however parking can be limited during major events, festivals, and the HOTA Markets - in these situations we encourage public transport or ride-share.

Buses & Trams

TransLink's bus, train and tram network connects HOTA to places all over the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Call 13 12 30 for further information on how to buy your tickets. 

Train / Light Rail 

Ride the G:link to Surfers Paradise and walk across Chevron Island — approximately a 20 minute walk. Visit ridetheg.com.au for timetables and fare information.

Ferry 

Travelling between Surfers Paradise and the Broadwater Parklands, with stops at HOTA, Marina Mirage and Sea World, the HOPO Ferry is a gorgeous scenic arrival to our precinct.

Taxi & Ride-Share 

Why not try ridesharing and getting dropped off on Chevron Island? It's then just a quick walk from Thomas Drive, across the HOTA Green Bridge, before arriving at the Precinct.

HOTA Green Bridge 

Walk, cycle, scoot or skate to HOTA - the HOTA Green Bridge connects us directly to Chevron Island for easy access.

Cycle Parking 

The City of Gold Coast has e-bikes available for hire throughout the city.

Drop-off points 

Drop-off and pick-up points are available at HOTA, however they are limited and can get busy - particularly around event times. We recommend allowing extra time when arranging your ride.

Pick-up after events 

After popular events, demand for taxis and ride-share can be high and wait times may be longer than usual. Consider arranging your pick-up away from the main precinct entrance, or walk across the HOTA Green Bridge to Chevron Island for a quicker pickup.

Coach Drop Off 

Dedicated coach and group drop-off is available at HOTA. We recommend contacting us in advance to arrange access and ensure a smooth arrival for your group.

School Groups 

Planning a school visit? We recommend coordinating your coach drop-off and pick-up times with our team ahead of your visit. Visit our Schools & Education page for more information.

Tour Operators 

HOTA welcomes tour groups year-round. Please contact us in advance to discuss group access, drop-off arrangements, and any specific requirements your group may have.

Busy Nights & Events

On these occasions 

On busy event nights, parking at HOTA fills quickly and traffic in the surrounding area can be congested. We strongly recommend using public transport, ride-share, or active travel options where possible.

Plan ahead 

Allow extra travel time when attending popular events. If you're driving, consider parking nearby on Chevron Island and walking across the HOTA Green Bridge to avoid delays closer to the precinct.

Traffic management 

For major events, traffic management may be in place around the precinct. Follow the directions of staff and signage on the night, and check our website or social media before you travel for any event-specific travel advice.