The Gold Coast offers various payment options for their trams. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there are convenient ways to pay for your Gold Coast tram journeys. From the go explore card to contactless payment methods, navigating the trams is easy and hassle-free.
Key Takeaways:
- There are multiple payment options available for Gold Coast trams.
- The go explore card offers unlimited daily travel on TransLink buses and trams.
- Contactless payment methods, including debit/credit cards and smart devices, are accepted on the trams.
- You can purchase the go explore card from various locations, including tram stations, airports, and visitor information centers.
- Trams operate from 5 am to midnight, with varying frequencies depending on the time of day.
Where to Buy the go explore Card
To purchase the go explore card for your Gold Coast tram journeys, you have several convenient options. Visit TransLink Info kiosks located at Broadbeach South and Cavill Avenue tram stations for quick and easy card purchases. You can also find the go explore card available for sale at Gold Coast Airport, Brisbane Airtrain stations, Gold Coast Visitor Information Centres, selected Gold Coast retailers, and selected hotel concierge desks.
If you need to reload your go explore card with additional day passes, there are selected retailers and fare machines located on all tram platforms where you can conveniently top up your card. This ensures that you always have enough credit for uninterrupted travel on the Gold Coast trams.
Where to Buy the go explore Card
| Location | Availability |
|---|---|
| TransLink Info kiosks at Broadbeach South and Cavill Avenue tram stations | Available |
| Gold Coast Airport | Available |
| Brisbane Airtrain stations | Available |
| Gold Coast Visitor Information Centres | Available |
| Selected Gold Coast retailers | Available |
| Selected hotel concierge desks | Available |
With these accessible locations, you can easily purchase and reload your go explore card, ensuring your tram journeys on the Gold Coast are seamless and hassle-free.
Using the go explore Card
When it comes to purchasing and using tram tickets on the Gold Coast, the go explore card provides a convenient and cost-effective option. With the go explore card, you can enjoy unlimited daily travel on both buses and trams. Adult tickets are priced at $10 per day, while child tickets are available for $5. This card is perfect for visitors and locals alike, offering flexibility and convenience in navigating the city.
To use the go explore card, simply tap it to the card reader at the start and end of your journey. This card can be used on non-consecutive days, making it ideal for those who wish to explore the Gold Coast at their own pace. The go explore card is valid from the first touch on to 3 am the next day, allowing you to travel hassle-free throughout the day and into the early hours of the morning.
Whether you’re heading to the beach, exploring Cypress Avenue, or discovering the vibrant Surfers Paradise, the go explore card is your ticket to hassle-free travel. So, ditch the hassle of buying individual tickets and opt for the go explore card to make the most of your Gold Coast tram experience.
Additional Payment Options
Aside from the convenient go explore card, there are other payment options available for Gold Coast trams. Whether you prefer contactless payments or paper tickets, you have choices that suit your preference and travel needs.
If you don’t have a go explore card, you can simply use your contactless debit or credit card, or even your smart device, to pay for your tram journeys. Just tap your card or device on the validator at the start and end of your trip, and you’re good to go.
For those who prefer traditional paper tickets, single one-way tickets are also available. You can purchase these tickets on board buses and fare machines. These tickets are valid for a 2-hour time frame, allowing you to complete your journey within that period.
Table: Payment Options for Gold Coast Trams
| Payment Method | How to Use |
|---|---|
| go explore card | Tap the card on the reader at the start and end of your journey |
| Contactless debit/credit card or smart device | Tap the card or device on the validator at the start and end of your trip |
| Paper tickets | Purchase on board buses or fare machines |
With these additional payment options, you have the flexibility to choose the method that works best for you. Whether it’s the convenience of a go explore card, the ease of contactless payment, or the simplicity of a paper ticket, paying for your Gold Coast tram journeys is hassle-free.
Tram Frequency and Operating Hours
When traveling on the Gold Coast trams, it’s important to be aware of their frequency and operating hours. The trams operate from 5 am to midnight, 7 days a week, ensuring convenient transportation options for both residents and visitors.
During peak periods, which are from 7 am to 7 pm on weekdays, trams run every 7.5 minutes. On weekends during peak times, trams run every 10 minutes. This ensures that you won’t have to wait long for the next tram to arrive, making your journey smooth and efficient.
Outside of peak times, trams run every 15 minutes, providing a reliable and consistent service. It’s also worth noting that from midnight to 5 am on weekends, trams operate every half an hour. This ensures that even if you’re traveling during late hours, you’ll still have a tram available to take you to your destination.
| Operating Hours | Frequency |
|---|---|
| 5 am to 7 am | Every 15 minutes |
| 7 am to 7 pm (weekdays) | Every 7.5 minutes |
| 7 am to 7 pm (weekends) | Every 10 minutes |
| 7 pm to midnight | Every 15 minutes |
| Midnight to 5 am (weekends) | Every 30 minutes |
“The Gold Coast trams run frequently throughout the day, ensuring that you can easily reach your destination without waiting for long periods. Whether you’re traveling during peak times or off-peak hours, the trams provide a reliable and efficient mode of transportation.”
With these operating hours and frequencies, you can plan your journeys on the Gold Coast trams with confidence, knowing that you’ll have convenient access to transportation throughout the day. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the city, or enjoying the nightlife, the trams are there to take you where you need to go.
Explore Cypress Avenue and Surfers Paradise
When you take a ride on the Gold Coast trams, make sure to explore Cypress Avenue and Surfers Paradise, two exciting destinations along the tram line. Cypress Avenue is a popular stop that offers a range of attractions for you to enjoy. You can immerse yourself in the fascinating world of celebrities at the Wax Museum or indulge in some retail therapy at the Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre. For a unique experience, head to the Infinity fun-house and let your senses be captivated by its mind-bending illusions. And if you’re craving a delicious meal, don’t miss out on the mouthwatering burgers at Betty’s Burgers.
Continuing south on the tram, you’ll arrive at Surfers Paradise, a vibrant area that has something for everyone. Explore the bustling Cavill Avenue, where you can find an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Take a break from the tram and visit the iconic Hard Rock Café, known for its rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia and live music. For those who love the bizarre and unusual, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a must-visit attraction filled with oddities from around the world. And if you’re up for a fun challenge, head to King Tutt’s Putt Putt mini golf and test your skills on their unique courses.
“Experience the excitement of Cypress Avenue and Surfers Paradise, where you’ll find a blend of entertainment, shopping, and dining options. With the convenience of the Gold Coast trams, these popular destinations are just a tram ride away!”
Attractions at a Glance:
- Wax Museum
- Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre
- Infinity fun-house
- Betty’s Burgers
- Cavill Avenue
- Hard Rock Café
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
- King Tutt’s Putt Putt mini golf
With a mixture of entertainment, shopping, and dining options, Cypress Avenue and Surfers Paradise are not to be missed. Hop on the Gold Coast trams and embark on an unforgettable journey to these vibrant destinations.
| Adult Ticket Price | Child Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| $10 | $5 |
Image source: Gold Coast Trams
Bus Travel on the Gold Coast
If trams aren’t your preferred mode of transportation, don’t worry! The Gold Coast also offers an extensive bus network that covers over 60 routes, including seven “turn up and go services” that operate every 15 minutes or better, seven days a week. Whether you’re exploring the city or need to travel to a specific destination, the bus system provides a convenient and reliable option.
One popular bus route is the Route 777, which connects the Broadbeach South light rail station with the southern end of the Gold Coast, all the way to the Gold Coast Airport at Coolangatta. This route provides easy access to various attractions and destinations along the way, including shopping centers, popular resorts, and the airport.
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, it’s recommended to plan your bus trips in advance. TransLink, the official public transport authority, offers an online journey planner where you can enter your starting point and destination to find the most convenient bus routes and schedules.
Bus Fare and Payment
When traveling by bus, you can pay for your fare using multiple payment options. The most common method is by using the go explore card, which is the same card used for tram travel. Simply touch your go explore card to the card reader when boarding and exiting the bus. The card will automatically deduct the correct fare based on your journey.
If you don’t have a go explore card, you can also use contactless payment methods such as contactless debit or credit cards, as well as smart devices. Just tap your card or device on the validator when boarding and exiting the bus, and the fare will be deducted accordingly.
It’s important to note that bus fares are distance-based, meaning the further you travel, the higher the fare. However, with the go explore card, you’ll enjoy unlimited daily travel, making it a cost-effective option if you plan on using the bus multiple times in a day.
| Payment Method | Adult Fare | Child Fare |
|---|---|---|
| go explore card | $10 per day | $5 per day |
| Contactless debit/credit card or smart device | Fare based on distance | Fare based on distance |
With the convenience of the go explore card and contactless payment options, exploring the Gold Coast by bus has never been easier. Whether you’re commuting to work, visiting attractions, or simply enjoying a day out, the bus network provides a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
Heavy Rail Travel on the Gold Coast
If you prefer to travel by train, Queensland Rail offers heavy rail services on the Gold Coast, connecting major centers like Helensvale, Nerang, Robina, Varsity Lakes, Ormeau, and Coomera. The trains operate at regular intervals to and from Brisbane, making it convenient for those traveling from the capital city. Bus connections are available at various stations, providing easy access to popular Gold Coast destinations.
To explore the Gold Coast by train, you can start your journey at the Helensvale train station. From there, you have the option to go south toward Varsity Lakes or north on the AirTrain to Brisbane Airport. Whether you’re heading to the airport for a trip or planning to visit other areas along the Gold Coast, the heavy rail service offers a reliable and efficient mode of transportation.
“The heavy rail service on the Gold Coast provides a convenient option for both locals and tourists, allowing easy access to key destinations and connecting with other modes of transport. It’s a great way to explore the region and enjoy a hassle-free journey.”
Heavy Rail Travel Information
Here are some important details to know about heavy rail travel on the Gold Coast:
- The trains operate at regular intervals, providing reliable service throughout the day.
- Bus connections are available at various train stations, offering convenient access to popular destinations.
- Trains run between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, making it easy to travel between the two regions.
- Helensvale train station is a major hub on the Gold Coast, offering connections to both the north and south.
| Gold Coast Train Stations | Connections |
|---|---|
| Helensvale | Bus connections to Varsity Lakes and Brisbane Airport via AirTrain |
| Nerang | Bus connections to various Gold Coast destinations |
| Robina | Bus connections to various Gold Coast destinations |
| Varsity Lakes | Bus connections to various Gold Coast destinations |
| Ormeau | Bus connections to various Gold Coast destinations |
| Coomera | Bus connections to various Gold Coast destinations |
Conclusion
Navigating the Gold Coast’s public transport system, including the trams and buses, is made easy with the go explore card and other payment options. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there are convenient ways to pay for your Gold Coast tram journeys. The go explore card offers unlimited daily travel, while contactless payment methods provide a convenient alternative. Plan your journeys, purchase tickets, and explore all that the Gold Coast has to offer with ease and confidence.
With the Gold Coast tram ticketing system, you have the flexibility to choose the payment method that suits you best. The go explore card is perfect for those who prefer a one-time payment and unlimited travel. Simply tap your card at the start and end of each journey to enjoy seamless transportation. If you prefer not to carry an extra card, you can also use your contactless debit or credit card or smart device to pay for your tram trips.
Make the most of your time on the Gold Coast with the convenient and efficient Gold Coast trams payment system. Whether you’re exploring Cypress Avenue and Surfers Paradise or venturing further with buses and heavy rail, you’ll find a range of options to suit your needs. Purchase your go explore card from various locations or use contactless payment methods for a hassle-free experience. Say goodbye to fumbling for change and embrace the simplicity of the Gold Coast tram ticketing system.
FAQ
How do you pay for the Gold Coast trams?
You can pay for the Gold Coast trams using the go explore card, contactless payment methods, or single paper tickets.
Where can I buy the go explore card?
The go explore card can be purchased from various locations, including TransLink Info kiosks, Gold Coast Airport, selected retailers, and selected hotel concierge desks.
How do I use the go explore card?
Simply tap the go explore card to the card reader at the start and end of your journey. The card allows for unlimited daily bus and tram travel on the Gold Coast.
What are the additional payment options for Gold Coast trams?
In addition to the go explore card, you can also pay for Gold Coast trams using contactless debit and credit cards, as well as smart devices. Single paper tickets are also available.
What are the tram frequency and operating hours on the Gold Coast?
Gold Coast trams operate from 5 am to midnight, 7 days a week. During peak periods, trams run every 7.5 minutes on weekdays and every 10 minutes on weekends. Outside of peak times, trams run every 15 minutes.
What attractions can I find at Cypress Avenue and Surfers Paradise?
Cypress Avenue is nearby attractions such as the Wax Museum, Chevron Renaissance Shopping Centre, Infinity fun-house, and Betty’s Burgers. Continuing south, you’ll reach Surfers Paradise, which offers attractions like Cavill Avenue, the Hard Rock Café, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, and King Tutt’s Putt Putt mini golf.
Are there bus services available on the Gold Coast?
Yes, there are over 60 bus routes available, including seven “turn up and go services” that operate every 15 minutes or better, seven days a week.
How can I travel by heavy rail on the Gold Coast?
Queensland Rail trains provide heavy rail travel on the Gold Coast, connecting major centers like Helensvale, Nerang, Robina, Varsity Lakes, Ormeau, and Coomera. Trains run at regular intervals to and from Brisbane, with bus connections to popular Gold Coast destinations.
Are there free shuttle services available on the Gold Coast?
Yes, free shuttle services are available at the Harbour Town Outlet Shopping Centre for tourists and at the Gold Coast Turf Club for patrons of the races. Additionally, free transport is available for ticket holders to AFL games at Metricon Stadium.
How can I navigate the Gold Coast’s public transport system?
You can navigate the Gold Coast’s public transport system by purchasing tickets, using the go explore card, or utilizing contactless payment methods. Plan your journeys and explore all that the Gold Coast has to offer with ease and confidence.
What is the Best Way to Get Around Gold Coast: Trams or Hire Car?
When exploring Gold Coast, the choice between trams and an ideal hire car gold coast awaits depends on individual preferences. Trams offer convenience, covering major attractions, and are cost-effective for frequent travel. However, if you desire flexibility and independence to explore the city’s outskirts, hiring a car ensures a personalized experience.
Source Links
- https://translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares/ticket-types/visitors-and-tourists/go-explore
- https://www.destinationgoldcoast.com/blog/travel-the-gold-coast-by-public-transport
- https://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/resources/tickets-and-fares/ticket-types/visitors-and-tourishs/go-explore/go-explore-gold-coast-guide.pdf