Marriott is one of the original 5 star hotels on the Gold Coast, yet it still is one of the best. It is centrally located in Surfers Paradise, only 5-10 minutes walk to the mall with many cafes, shops and restaurants. The only downside of the location is that it is not right on the beach.

 

But lagoon pool and exceptionally friendly facilities do make up for it.

 

Arrival

 

We arrived at night after a long flight in a comfortable limousine (hotel can arrange one at $77 one way from Coolangatta or $222 from Brisbane airport). Our junior suite was ready and luggage was delivered to the room without a delay.

 

In the room we were pleasantly surprised by a selection of little gifts prepared for my junior Lux Travellers. They felt very special unpacking their new toys on arrival.

 

 

Accommodation

 

 

Marriott has a variety of rooms and suites for any taste or budget. Entry level rooms start from only $300 per night and face away from the sea. Junior suites are slightly larger rooms with little balconies and an outlook towards the ocean. Here is the view from our suite.

 

Junior suites also have little luxuries like large spa baths and walk-in wardrobes and start from $500 per night.

 

 

For those with a more flexible budget there is a beautiful Residential Suite and Penthouse suite. Both are often occupied by visiting celebrities. The rates start from $1,000 per night. Penthouse suite has been recently renovated and features 228 sq meters of living space with beautiful modern furniture, separate living and dining room and a walk in wardrobe in the spacious bedroom with a four poster bed.

 

 

The rooms are comfortable and nicely furnished but to become a true luxury hotel the Marriott would need to update the interiors. Many common areas and room bathrooms look a little tired.

 

 

Facilities

 

Marriott is famous on the Gold Coast for its lagoon pool with tropical fish. You can hire snorkelling gear and even sea scooters to use in the pool or, if you prefer your holidays a little slower, simply hang out in the stylish poolside cabana while the kids play in the lazy river, swim or ride on the waterslide.

 

Cabanas need to be booked ahead and come with a $50 daily fee. We found them to be very handy as sun lounges get taken up early in the morning and stay occupied for the whole day.

 

Marriott also has a kids club room with some art and craft facilities and evening movies. My kids found evening movie to be a nice diversion from dining with the parents every other night of the week. Movie service is $20pp including dinner.

 

For adults there is a beauty spa that offers massages and facials but unfortunately we didn’t have the time to visit it. Apparently their candle massage is quite special and we’ll definitely try it next time.

 

 

Dining

 

Buffet breakfast is served in the main restaurant and offers a standard hotel selection of pre-packed juices, eggs and fruit. Satisfying yet nothing out of ordinary.

 

Lunch is served either in the main restaurant or poolside and has a usual mix of salads, pizza and burgers on the menu.

 

For dinner guests can choose from either Teppanyaki restaurant Benihana or a delicious seafood buffet at Citrique.

 

 

 

Seafood buffet was equally enjoyable with mountains of fresh prawns, lobsters, sashimi, sushi, steamed trout and a large selection of hot dishes. Lolly table and a chocolate fountain were absolute winners with the kids!

 

The Lux Traveller Loves

 

Very friendly genuine service

Lagoon pool with tropical fish

Seafood buffet

Kids facilities

 

 

Splitting Hairs

 

It would be nicer to be right by the beach

The hotel could benefit from a renovation but I hear it is already in the plans

 

 

All In All

 

Marriott is an excellent choice for families looking for an easy and pleasant holiday on the Gold Coast.