Waking up to a sunrise over Burleigh Heads usually costs a minimum of $400 a night, yet many do it for absolutely zero dollars while sipping coffee with a Golden Retriever named Barney.
If you think the Gold Coast is only for tourists blowing their savings on theme parks, think again.
For many, it has become one of the premier destinations to live like locals without the price tag.
But here is the honest truth: it isn't just about free accommodation.
It is about trading your time and care for a slice of the Australian dream.
Whether you want to surf before breakfast or hike the hinterland, house sitting here opens doors that hotels simply can’t.
Here is everything we know about landing the best sits on the Gold Coast, straight from our travel diaries.
Why the Gold Coast is a House Sitter’s Dream
When we started out with a toy poodle named Coco in Sydney, we didn't realize how quickly this lifestyle would snowball.
We quickly learned that house sitting Australia is incredibly diverse.
But the Gold Coast holds a special place in our hearts.
It offers a unique blend of high-energy coastal life and tranquil mountain retreats.
The homeowners here are often traveling for extended periods, leaving behind stunning properties that need care.
This creates a high volume of house sitting opportunities year-round.
Plus, the weather usually plays ball, provided you time it right (more on that later).
The Best Platforms to Find Gold Coast Sits
Not all websites are created equal, especially when you are targeting a specific region like South East Queensland.
We have tested dozens of platforms, and for the Gold Coast, it really comes down to three major players.
1. Aussie House Sitters
This is the heavyweight champion for Australia-specific listings.
If you are looking specifically for Aussie House Sitters, this platform consistently has the highest volume of Gold Coast listings.
Pros:
It is incredibly affordable at $89 AUD per year.
You get unlimited applications.
The interface is intuitive and the user verification is secure.
Cons:
It is restricted to Australia only.
Competition can be fierce for beachside properties.
We find that this site is perfect if you are already in the country or planning a dedicated Aussie road trip.
2. TrustedHousesitters
This is the platform we use for our global travels, from the Swiss Alps to the beaches of Queensland.
If you want a platform with global reach, check out Trusted House Sitters.
The sheer size of the community means you find everything from studio apartments to luxury house sits in mansions.
Pros:
Includes liability cover and 24/7 vet support (Premium plans).
Verified reviews build trust quickly.
Great mobile app for managing sits on the go.
Cons:
It is more expensive (up to $259 USD/year).
They have introduced a booking fee for non-premium members.
You can only have 5 active applications at once.
Before you sign up, make sure you understand the Trusted House Sitters new booking fee structure so there are no surprises.
We have also written a detailed Trusted House Sitters review if you want a deep dive.
3. Happy House Sitters
This is a solid budget option if you are strictly focused on local sits.
Pros:
Very cheap at $79 AUD.
Emphasis on verified, dependable users.
Cons:
Smaller community means fewer listings.
Limited options if you want to travel internationally later.
If you are looking for Trusted House Sitters alternatives find sits without paying huge fees, this is a good place to start.
When to Visit: Timing Your Stay
The Gold Coast is famous for its "beautiful one day, perfect the next" slogan, but let's be real about the weather.
We have sweated through enough humid days to tell you that timing is everything.
The Sweet Spot: March to November
This is autumn through spring.
The humidity drops, the rainfall eases off, and the temperatures are generally mild (21°C - 28°C).
It is the perfect weather to look after dogs during a house sit without worrying about them overheating.
The Danger Zone: December to February
Summer brings high humidity, storms, and intense heat.
However, this is also when school holidays occur, meaning a spike in listings.
If you can handle the heat, you can take your pick of homes.
Just remember to ask the owners if they have air conditioning—it is a non-negotiable for us in summer.
Choosing Your Location: Beach, Bush, or City?
The "Goldie" isn't just one long strip of sand.
Your experience will vary wildly depending on which suburb you land in.
The Seaside Sits
If you dream of ocean views, look at Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads, or Coolangatta.
Surfers Paradise is energetic and central, perfect if you love nightlife and don't mind noise.
Burleigh Heads offers a more laid-back surf scene and is incredibly popular.
These spots are competitive, so you need a stellar house sitting profile to stand out.
The Hinterland Retreats
Head inland to Tamborine Mountain or Springbrook National Park.
These sits are often on larger properties with gardens and maybe even chickens.
It is peaceful, green, and cooler than the coast.
However, be aware that you might encounter wildlife like snakes or ticks.
This is a crucial consideration for pet safety, so always ask the owner about local risks.
The Urban Centers
Southport and Robina offer a mix of city convenience and green spaces.
Robina often features lakeside suburbs and is great for house sitting for seniors who want easy access to amenities.
Southport gives you access to the Broadwater Parklands and the light rail.
A Typical Day on the Gold Coast
What do house sitters actually do all day in paradise?
Well, it depends on the pets.
If we are house sitting for cats, our mornings are slow.
We might feed them around 7 am, clean the litter, and then head out for a surf or a coffee.
Cats are generally independent, giving us ample time to explore theme parks like Dreamworld or Sea World.
If we are with dogs, the routine is more structured.
Morning: Early walk to beat the heat (especially in summer).
Midday: Check-ins and play time in the garden.
Evening: Another walk along the esplanade or a game of fetch.
We always make sure to simplify taking photos during the house sit to send updates to the owners.
Trust us, owners love seeing their pets happy at the beach.
Logistics: Getting Around and Staying Safe
You don't always need a car, but it helps.
The G:link light rail is fantastic for coastal routes between Helensvale and Broadbeach.
For anything further afield, especially the hinterland, you will need wheels.
We often ask owners about lending their car to a house sitter.
Many are happy to add you to their insurance policy, which saves a fortune on rentals.
Safety First
The Gold Coast is generally safe, but like any tourist hub, petty theft can happen.
We are meticulous about locking up when we leave.
Simply being there helps house sitting safety by making the home look occupied.
We take in the mail, open shutters, and ensure the pets are secure.
One time, I almost lost a dog who slipped out the front door, never again.
Now, we check gates and leashes obsessively.
The Financial Reality
Let's clear up a misconception: this is usually an unpaid exchange.
You get a free place to stay; the owner gets free pet care.
However, there is a clear difference between house sitting and unpaid labor.
You should not be expected to run a farm or renovate a kitchen.
The tasks should be reasonable: watering plants, walking dogs, and keeping the house tidy.
If you are looking for paid work, that is a different ball game.
You can check average pay for house sitters if you are offering professional services, but most platforms are for exchange.
Actionable Checklist for Gold Coast Sitters
Before you pack your bags, here is our essential checklist for a successful sit in this region.
Sun Protection: The UV index here is no joke. Pack high-SPF sunscreen and a hat.
Tick Prevention: If you are in the hinterland, ask the vet or owner about paralysis ticks.
Transport Plan: Download the MyTranslink app or secure a go explore card ($10/day).
AC Check: Confirm the cooling situation if you are visiting in summer.
Emergency Numbers: Save the local vet and snake catcher numbers (yes, really).
Arrival Coordination: Communicate your arrival time clearly.
If you are new to this, we have a guide on how to get started in house sitting our step by step guide.
Is House Sitting on the Gold Coast Right for You?
We have done sits all over the world.
We have experienced house sitting in London during a rainy winter.
We have enjoyed house sitting in Melbourne Victoria for the coffee culture.
But the Gold Coast offers a lifestyle that is hard to beat.
It is perfect for house sitting jobs for retirees who want a warm winter escape.
It is equally amazing for digital nomads who need a view while they work.
Just remember that you are there to care for the home and pets first.
If you treat the home with respect, you will likely be invited back.
We have returned to the same homes multiple times because the owners trusted us implicitly.
And honestly, being invited back to a mansion on the water feels pretty good.
Getting Your First Sit
Competition can be tough in popular areas like Burleigh Heads.
To increase your chances, you need verified references.
If you don't have any yet, try doing a short weekend sit locally first.
This helps you get house sits without prior experience by building your profile.
Also, consider looking at listings that fall over Christmas.
Many regular sitters want to be home with their families, leaving a gap in the market.
This is often where the house sitting opportunities are most abundant.
Final Thoughts
House sitting on the Gold Coast has allowed us to live a millionaire's lifestyle on a backpacker's budget.
But more importantly, we have made furry friends that we still miss today.
Whether you use Aussie House Sitters or another platform, the key is communication.
Be honest about your experience and your schedule.
If you are ready to swap rent for dog cuddles, the Gold Coast is waiting.
Good luck with your house sits and if interested in joining the house sitting community, make sure to use our codes for discounts on house sitting sign ups.
Caro & Konrad 🐾🚐
DM us @housesittersguide if you have questions — we answer everyone!
What is the best website for house sitting in the Gold Coast?
Aussie House Sitters is the best for volume of local listings and affordability ($89 AUD/year). TrustedHousesitters is excellent for international travelers looking for insurance and global opportunities, while Happy House Sitters offers a verified, smaller community feel.
Do house sitters get paid in the Gold Coast?
Generally, no. Most house sitting arrangements in the Gold Coast are an exchange of services: free accommodation in return for pet and home care. However, some professional pet sitters may charge for their services, but this is less common on the major platforms.
What is the best time of year to house sit in the Gold Coast?
March to November is the ideal time. The humidity is lower, and temperatures are comfortable (20-28°C). December to February is popular for school holiday vacancies but can be very hot, humid, and stormy.
Do I need a car for house sitting in the Gold Coast?
It depends on the location. If you are in Surfers Paradise or along the coastal tram line (G:link), you can manage without one. However, for sits in the Hinterland or outer suburbs, a car is essential for getting around and transporting pets in emergencies.
Is it safe to house sit in the Gold Coast?
Yes, the Gold Coast is generally safe. However, like any major tourist city, break-ins can happen. It is important to keep the house secure. Also, be aware of local wildlife like ticks and snakes, especially if you are pet sitting in the Hinterland areas.
