






Road Genius makes it easy to find great rental car offers in Gladstone and around Australia. Compare prices and make bookings in one place. Simple. Gladstone combines major industry with access to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. A hire car allows you to explore the region, from the busy port to beaches and island departure points.
| Location | 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Gladstone Airport |
|
|
| Gladstone City Centre |
|
|
| Tannum Sands/Boyne Island |
|
|
Compare your options online. The easiest way to find a better deal is to see all the prices from different companies for your dates in one place.
Book ahead during industrial shutdowns. Gladstone is a working town. When major projects or maintenance are on, demand for cars skyrockets, and so do prices.
Do the math on your pickup spot. An airport pickup can have extra fees, but getting to a city depot will cost you a taxi fare. Weigh the total cost to see which is actually cheaper.
Check the weekly rate. If you need a car for 5 or 6 days, it's worth checking the price for a full 7-day rental. Sometimes the weekly deal is cheaper.
| Location | Parking Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gladstone CBD |
|
Paid spots operate weekdays 8 AM-5 PM. Free on weekends. |
| Gladstone Marina |
|
3-hour free spots available. Extended parking for island visits. |
| Tannum Sands Beach |
|
Plenty of spaces even during busy periods. |
| Tondoon Botanic Gardens |
|
Large area providing good access to facilities. |
| Stockland Shopping Centre |
|
Air-conditioned centre featuring major retailers. |
Local Driving Regulations:
Road Hazards:

Can I take my rental car to Heron Island or other islands? No, the islands are accessible only by boat or air. You'll need to park your rental car at Gladstone Marina or arranged parking areas. Some rental companies offer storage options during island stays.
Is there public transport from Gladstone Airport to the city? Limited shuttle services operate to coincide with flight arrivals. Booking in advance is recommended, or a taxi will cost around $30-40.
Do I need a 4WD to visit attractions around Gladstone? Most attractions are accessible with a standard 2WD vehicle. A 4WD is recommended for Kroombit Tops National Park, especially in wet conditions. Note: many rental agreements prohibit 2WD vehicles on unsealed or gravel roads. 4WD/AWD vehicles may be allowed only on graded unsealed roads and are still prohibited from off-road or beach driving. Always check your specific contract terms carefully for permitted road types and restrictions.
What should I know about driving near industrial areas? Be prepared for heavy vehicles and follow all traffic management signage. Some industrial sites have specific access restrictions and safety requirements. Respect all safety barriers and don't stop to photograph in restricted areas.
Where can I park if visiting the Southern Great Barrier Reef islands? The Gladstone Marina offers both short-term and long-term parking options. For overnight island stays, secure paid parking is available at the marina. Some hotels also offer parking packages for island visitors.