Best of both worlds: this new Ritz-Carlton will offer five-star retro luxury just a stone’s skim away from one of Australia’s most famous coastal playgrounds.
Australia’s third Ritz-Carlton Hotel is set to make itself well and truly at home on the Gold Coast in 2026.
Late last week, Marriott International signed an agreement that will see the Ritz-Carlton become part of a $480 million Gold Coast waterfront development.
The luxury brand’s newly-announced Queensland debut is expected to herald a new era of five-star luxury for the Gold Coast and has certainly raised some interest amongst luxury lovers, including us!
Here’s what we can expect the new Ritz-Carlton Gold Coast to deliver:
The Location
In just a few years, the waterfront development will have taken its 60s-inspired shape in the heart of the prestigious northern end of the Gold Coast’s Mariner’s Cove. Setting up shop across the road from The Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, the Ritz-Carlton Gold Coast will be a few idyllic minutes away from the iconic Surfers Paradise strip.
Richard Crawford, Vice President of Hotel Development, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Marriott International said the location will play a large role in the property’s appeal. “Once opened, the resort expects to set a new benchmark for luxury on Australia’s Gold Coast with the property’s enviable waterfront location,” he said.
The Property
Think: old gold. We think the hotel’s golden sunshine, mid-century curved lines and lashings of greenery may just give Palm Springs a run for its money.
Unlike the high-rise properties that have become typical of the Gold Coast, the new Ritz-Carlton’s location means it is restricted to just three storeys, in which it will house two levels of rooms and suites.
In true Ritz-Carlton fashion, we can expect the hotel to do what it has to do and do it more than well.
The rooms
Expected to house 150 stylish rooms and suites across two levels, the new Ritz-Carlton Gold Coast will make a small but mighty splash in the Sunshine State.
After something a little more ‘ritzy’? The pinnacle of luxury lies in plans for a 275-square-metre Ritz-Carlton Suite where discerning guests can experience truly upscale service.
The lifestyle
Dining-wise we have high expectations. A signature restaurant and three bars (including poolside of course) will ooze the quintessentially laid-back Gold Coast vibe we all know and love.
It wouldn’t be the ‘Goldy’ without a water playground, which will overlook the marina and feature parent-friendly terrace seating. Whether guests prefer to work or relax, a top-of-the-range fitness centre and restorative wellness spa could offer a welcome escape from all that Gold Coast play and fun.
Speaking of escape, the jewel in the hotel’s crown can be found on the golden rooftop, where a pool and sun-kissed terrace vie for the hours in your day.
Summary: Would we stay here?
It’s safe to say that come 2026, the country’s newest Ritz-Carlton will be a particularly prestigious drop in the Gold Coast’s ocean of hotel properties.
Though we’re not expecting overnight rates to come cheap, Marriot Bonvoy members will be able to access member benefits at this property, so it has definitely caught our attention. Better start saving those points!
This will be Australia’s third Ritz-Carlton property, joining the flagship hotel in Perth and the Ritz-Carlton Melbourne which will open in just a few months.
Are you dreaming up a stay at the freshly-announced Ritz-Carlton Gold Coast?
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