Surfers Paradise is one of the most searched short-stay destinations on the Gold Coast and one of the most misunderstood when it comes to real returns.

Most owners have a rough idea of what they could earn.
Very few know what they should be earning when a property is managed properly.

What Short-Stay Income Actually Looks Like

With consistent tourism, major events, and year-round demand, Surfers Paradise offers one of the strongest short-stay markets on the coast.

As a general guide:

• 1-bedroom apartments: $45,000 – $55,000+ annually
• 2-bedroom apartments: $65,000 – $90,000+ annually

These figures reflect well-presented, well-managed properties.

We regularly see identical apartments in the same building producing completely different results, purely based on how they’re managed.

What Drives Performance

Presentation

Professional photography and thoughtful styling directly impact bookings.

Pricing Strategy

Short-stay pricing should move constantly with demand, not remain static.

Reviews

Strong guest experiences build ranking, visibility, and long-term performance.

Exposure

Multi-platform distribution increases occupancy and reduces reliance on a single channel.

What Owners Need to Consider

Gross revenue is not net return. Typical costs include:

• management
• cleaning
• consumables
• maintenance
• platform fees

With the right management, improved performance typically outweighs these costs.

The Reality

Surfers Paradise works extremely well for short stays.

But only when it’s managed properly.

Want to Know What Your Property Could Earn?

We provide a realistic, no-obligation assessment based on your property and current market conditions.

0413 522 111
andrew@goldcoastshortstays.com.au