Gold Coast Airport (OOL) Airport Shuttle
We offer shuttle services for 6 destinations going to and from Coolangata Airport including Byron Bay, Ballina, Casino, Lismore, Grafton, and Yamba.
Sharp Shuttle offers exceptional value for larger groups of 4 or more people, with a fixed rate of $200 for up to 6 passengers—equating to just $28.57 per person at full capacity for the service to Gold Coast Airport (including a trailer for all your luggage).
Gold Coast Airport (OOL)
Gold Coast To Byron Bay | Byron Bay to Gold Coast
Sharp Shuttle specialises in the popular Gold Coast to Byron Bay route, offering reliable and comfortable transport for up to 7 passangers to this vibrant coastal town known for its stunning beaches, iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, and lively events like the Bluesfest music festival.
The drive from Gold Coast Airport to Byron Bay takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes under normal traffic conditions, covering a distance of 67 to 68 kilometers via the Pacific Highway (M1).
Travel time may extend to 60 minutes during peak hours or roadworks.
Gold Coast Airport (OOL)
Gold Coast Airport (OOL) (formerly known as Coolangatta Airport) is an international and domestic aviation hub situated in Coolangatta, serving the Gold Coast region of Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Gold Coast Airport manages a high-volume passenger flow due to its proximity to major tourist destinations such as Surfers Paradise, Byron Bay, and the Gold Coast theme parks.
Gold Coast Airport is the only Australian airport on a state border, connecting Queensland and New South Wales.
Are transfers private or shared?
Sharp Shuttle offers direct private transfers for up to 7 passangers.
Travel Times to Gold Coast Airport (OOL)
The shuttle routes we offer are. These are door-to-door routes with no extra stop overs.
| Route | Travel Time Range | Distance | Pricing (One-Way / Return) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grafton ↔ Gold Coast | About 2h 45m – 3h 0m | Approx. 210 km | $Special Request (SR) / $Special Request (SR) |
| Lismore ↔ Gold Coast | About 1h 15m – 1h 30m | Approx. 107 km | $310 / $590 |
| Yamba ↔ Gold Coast | About 2h 15m – 2h 30m | Approx. 185 km | $460 / $900 |
| Casino ↔ Gold Coast | About 1h 30m – 1h 45m | Approx. 115 km | $Special Request (SR) / $Special Request (SR) |
| Byron Bay ↔ Gold Coast | About 1h 0m – 1h 15m | Approx. 88 km | $220 / $200 |
| Ballina ↔ Gold Coast | About 1h 15m – 1h 30m | Approx. 95 km | $200 / $380 |
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Which destinations does Gold Coast Airport connect with?
Gold Coast Airport (OOL) connects to destinations across Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, and Malaysia, served by airlines including Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Qantas, Air New Zealand, and AirAsia X
Domestic Destinations
Gold Coast Airport offers flights to domestic destinations, including major cities and regional hubs. Key routes include Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Cairns, Townsville, Hobart, Newcastle, Avalon, Albury, and Port Macquarie.
International Destinations
The airport serves international destinations, with strong Trans-Tasman and Southeast Asian connectivity. It offers flights to Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, Wellington, Hamilton, and Dunedin in New Zealand, making it the Australian airport with the highest number of routes to New Zealand (six total).
In Asia, Denpasar (Bali) is served by Jetstar and Virgin Australia, while Kuala Lumpur is connected via AirAsia X.
How early to check in for a domestic flight at Gold Coast Airport?
You must arrive at Ballina Byron Gateway Airport at least 60-90 minutes before your domestic flight departure if you plan to check in at the airport, or 30 minutes prior if you have already checked in online.
How early to check in for a international flight at Gold Coast Airport?
You should arrive at least two hours before departure, with three hours recommended for Virgin Australia flights due to counter check-in requirements. Check-in and bag drop close 60 minutes before departure for Qantas and Jetstar, and 90 to 120 minutes for some Air New Zealand flights. Virgin Australia requires check-in at the counter three hours before departure, as online check-in is unavailable for international flights. All international travelers pass through domestic security first, then proceed to international security and immigration screening when called, with additional checks for powders, liquids, aerosols, and gels (PLAGs)
Pickup Timing Abbreviations
- WI: With online check-in
- WO: Without online check-in
| Route | Travel Time Range | Distance | Domestic Pickup Time (9:00 am flight) | International Pickup Time (9:00 am flight) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Byron Bay -> Gold Coast | About 1h 0m – 1h 15m | Approx. 88 km | 7:00 am WO / 7:30 am WI | 6:30 am WO / 7:00 am WI |
| Ballina -> Gold Coast | About 1h 15m – 1h 30m | Approx. 95 km | 6:45 am WO / 7:00 am WI | 6:15 am WO / 6:30 am WI |
| Lismore -> Gold Coast | About 1h 15m – 1h 30m | Approx. 107 km | 5:30 am WO / 6:00 am WI | 5:00 am WO / 5:30 am WI |
| Casino -> Gold Coast | About 1h 30m – 1h 45m | Approx. 115 km | 5:30 am WO / 6:00 am WI | 5:00 am WO / 5:30 am WI |
| Yamba -> Gold Coast | About 2h 15m – 2h 30m | Approx. 185 km | 5:00 am WO / 5:30 am WI | 4:30 am WO / 5:00 am WI |
| Grafton -> Gold Coast | About 2h 45m – 3h 0m | Approx. 210 km | 4:30 am WO / 5:00 am WI | 4:00 am WO / 4:30 am WI |
Book Your Shuttle Service
PLEASE NOTE:
To book a RETURN trip, just add a separate service for each leg—so you can choose different pick-up and drop-off airports for each direction and enjoy full flexibility with your travel plans.
What happens after I book?
You will receive a confirmation in your mailbox. We will contact you when nearing your destination on pickup day.
Can I change my details after booking?
If a trip is cancelled within 24 hours of your scheduled pickup, the deposit is non-refundable. Full refund if you cancel with more than 48 hours notice.
Do you offer group or family pricing?
We have one low-price for up to 6 passengers and their luggage. We do not charge per passenger or run a meter.
Do you have car seats?
Yes, we have 1X toddler seat and 1X baby seat.
Can I bring surfboards or bulky equipment on airport shuttle transfers?
We have a trailer available for large groups with bulky items, but we do NOT handle surfboards.
How much luggage can the Sharp Shuttle carry?
Our trailer can accomodate for up to 6 passengers with 2 large suitcases each.
Extra Time
Extra Time for International Flights (Brisbane +60min, Gold Coast +30min)
Private Shuttle Service
Door-to-door pick up and delivery. No stopovers, no detours, no extra pick-ups—just you, your bag, and a straight shot to the terminal, on time.
Group Friendly
We offer one budget friendly price for up to 7 passangers, no need to watch the meter.
Gold Coast Airport Information
Gold Coast Airport (OOL) Location
Gold Coast Airport (OOL) Location
Gold Coast Airport Terminal Map
Gold Coast Airport Terminal Map
Find everything you need with this Gold Coast Airport Terminal Map.
Gold Coast Airport Facilities
Gold Coast Airport Facilities
The airport provides diverse retail stores ranging from fashion and travel essentials to duty-free shopping.
Key stores include:
- Heinemann Tax & Duty Free (International): Offers premium spirits, wines, perfumes, cosmetics, and tech gadgets.
- Boardriders (After Security): Sells surf and lifestyle apparel with brands like Billabong and Quiksilver.
- Seed Heritage (After Security): Features travel fashion and modern classics for timeless appeal.
- WHSmith (Multiple Locations): Provides travel essentials, snacks, and reading materials.
- Sunglass Hut (After Security): Specializes in eyewear for various destinations.
- InMotion (After Security): Offers premium tech and travel accessories.
- Kids Stop by WHSmith (After Security): Stocks toys, games, and treats for children.
- Amcal+ Express (After Security): Provides health and wellness products.
Dining Options
Dining choices include cafes, bars, and quick-service restaurants with various dietary options. Notable venues include:
- Artisan Kitchen & Bakery (After Security): Serves croissants, pizzas, burgers, and vegetarian/vegan options.
- Asia Street Cooking (After Security): Offers Asian street food like honey chicken and banh mi.
- The Sand Bar (After Security): Features cocktails and local beers in a chic setting.
- Paradox Coffee Roasters & Bar (After Security): Provides coffee and meals with urban vibes.
- Fresh – Juice & Healthy Foods (After Security): Focuses on healthy options like poke bowls and juices.
- Hungry Jack’s (After Security): Serves burgers and fast-food items.
- Two Tigers (After Security): Offers sushi and Vietnamese-inspired bites.
- Wollumbin Cafe & Bar (International): Provides local flavors with hinterland views.
- Beach Shack Bar & Grill (Before Security): Features a breezy atmosphere for pre-security dining.
- Merlo Coffee Roasters (Before Security): Serves premium coffee near check-in.
Services and Facilities
Additional services include currency exchange, luggage storage, and wrapping:
- Interchange Travel Money (Domestic/International): Offers foreign currency exchange and transfers.
- Luggage Lockers by Smarte Carte (Before Security): Provides 24/7 self-service storage.
- Oversized Storage and Wrapping (Before Security): Accommodates surfboards and bikes with luggage wrapping.
Access Areas
Shopping and dining access varies by terminal security zone:
- Before Security: Accessible to anyone.
- After Security: Accessible to domestic/international travelers and screened guests.
- After International Security: Exclusive to international passengers after secondary screening.
What is the fastest route from Gold Coast Airport to Byron Bay?
What is the fastest route from Gold Coast Airport to Byron Bay?
The fastest route follows the M1 Pacific Motorway south to the Ewingsdale Road exit, then continues east to Byron Bay. This route covers 75 kilometers and typically takes 50 minutes without traffic delays.
| Route Component | Distance | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Coast Airport to M1 | 5 km | 5 minutes |
| M1 to Ewingsdale Road exit | 60 km | 35 minutes |
| Ewingsdale Road to Byron Bay | 10 km | 10 minutes |
What factors affect driving time?
5 factors influence the total journey time:
- Peak hour traffic between 7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM adds 15 to 30 minutes
- School holidays increase travel time by 10 to 20 minutes
- Weekend traffic particularly on Fridays and Sundays extends the journey by 10 to 15 minutes
- Road construction on the M1 can add 5 to 20 minutes
- Weather conditions such as heavy rain or fog may increase driving time by 10 to 15 minutes
What is the distance between Gold Coast Airport and Byron Bay?
The distance measures 75 kilometers via the M1 Pacific Motorway, the most direct route. Alternative coastal routes measure 82 to 90 kilometers but offer scenic views of beaches such as Kingscliff, Cabarita, and Brunswick Heads.
Which route options are available?
3 primary routes connect Gold Coast Airport to Byron Bay:
- M1 Pacific Motorway route (75 km, 50 minutes) – fastest option
- Coastal scenic route via Tweed Coast Road (82 km, 70 minutes) – passes through Kingscliff and Cabarita Beach
- Pacific Highway alternative (78 km, 60 minutes) – travels through Murwillumbah
When is the best time to drive?
Mid-morning between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM offers the shortest travel time with minimal traffic congestion. Avoid departing during these 3 periods:
- Weekday mornings from 7:00 to 9:00 AM
- Weekday afternoons from 4:00 to 6:30 PM
- Friday afternoons from 3:00 to 7:00 PM
What are the border crossing requirements?
The route crosses from Queensland into New South Wales at the Tweed Heads border. No border checks or permits are required for this interstate travel under normal circumstances, though COVID-19 restrictions previously required border passes during 2020-2021.
4 convenient stopping points offer facilities and attractions:
- Tweed Heads (30 minutes from airport) – fuel stations, cafes, shopping centers
- Kingscliff (40 minutes from airport) – beaches, restaurants, restrooms
- Cabarita Beach (45 minutes from airport) – coastal views, cafes
- Brunswick Heads (55 minutes from airport) – river walks, dining options
Does Gold Coast Airport operate 24/7?
Does Gold Coast Airport operate 24/7?
Yes, Gold Coast Airport (OOL) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The terminal is open 24/7 for passengers, and the airfield operates continuously for flight arrivals and departures.