The Star Residences Gold Coast

My husband surprised me with a Thursday to Saturday trip for our fifth wedding anniversary, but it wasn’t the wonderful break I’d hoped for. The accommodation was okay and the bed comfortable, though everything else felt very average. With upgrades happening at the main entrance, there was no helpful signage for first time visitors trying to find their way in, especially on a 40 degree day. I still can’t believe guests have to pay for water. On the second day, water damage at the venue was so bad that half the casino gaming machines were down for at least an hour. The pokies selection was about as varied as my local country town club. Cards from your Sydney establishment didn’t earn players points or discounts at the Gold Coast, despite saying all venues are linked. I also didn’t see any food offered to people who were playing and drinking the whole time. I’ve never been to a pub or club that didn’t at least offer nuts. The staff were friendly, probably the reason for the two stars. I wouldn’t recommend it and probably won’t return. In my opinion, Broadbeach had more variety and paid more.

I came for poker and had a great time. Signing up was easy and basically required. The dealers were experienced and kept the 2/5 game moving. The rake’s a bit high, but that’s okay. The rest of the casino looks pretty decent too, and it sounds like some really fun poker is coming in February. Can’t wait to come back and see it on the weekend :D

We spent New Year 2026 at The Star Gold Coast. The hotel’s a bit old, but it was clean, and our corner room had a nice view and a balcony with room to sit and relax. Check-in was quick even with a long line, and we got the room fast. It was busy all the time because of the casino, but I liked the New Year vibe. The hotel’s New Year’s Eve masquerade event was amazing and really memorable, with great food and beautiful fireworks at the end. The one letdown was the private pool area: the cafés closed early, it wasn’t very organized or very clean, so we preferred the beach, about a 10-minute walk away. It was a good hotel. 🎭

Haruka at reception was lovely, friendly and super helpful, and the location is great. But there were blood stains on the doona, which was horrifying. Housekeeping replaced it straight away, but the cleaning staff should have checked first. The bathroom downlights by the towels didn’t work either. This is nowhere near a 5 star establishment.