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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.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 342312
Location 👍 Pros 👎 Cons
Gladstone Airport
  • Pick up car right after you arrive
  • Major rental companies available
  • Easy flight connections
  • More expensive (airport fees)
  • Fewer cars available during busy times
  • Shorter service hours on weekends
Gladstone City Centre
  • Lower prices
  • More car types to choose from
  • Close to hotels
  • Need taxi from airport (15-20 minutes)
  • Limited hours (usually close at 5 PM)
  • May need to book ahead
Tannum Sands/Boyne Island
  • Good for beach holidays
  • Some local rental companies
  • Very few cars available
  • Limited opening hours
  • Must book in advance

Car Rental Prices

How to save?
  • 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.

Parking and Driving

Location Parking Options Notes
Gladstone CBD
  • On-street metered parking
  • Off-street paid lots
  • Shopping centre car parks
Paid spots operate weekdays 8 AM-5 PM. Free on weekends.
Gladstone Marina
  • Free timed parking
  • Long-term paid parking
3-hour free spots available. Extended parking for island visits.
Tannum Sands Beach
  • Free beachfront parking
  • Unrestricted street parking
Plenty of spaces even during busy periods.
Tondoon Botanic Gardens
  • Free car parks
  • Bus and RV spaces
Large area providing good access to facilities.
Stockland Shopping Centre
  • Free undercover parking
  • Time-limited in some areas
Air-conditioned centre featuring major retailers.

Local Driving Regulations:

  • Standard Australian road rules apply: drive on the left and always wear seatbelts.
  • Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 100 km/h on highways.
  • School zones (40 km/h) operate during school term on weekdays.
  • Industrial areas have special speed limits and safety requirements.
  • Heavy vehicle presence on main routes due to industrial activity.
  • No toll roads or congestion charges in the region.

Road Hazards:

  • Industrial traffic including oversized loads.
  • Wildlife on rural roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Flash flooding possible in wet season (December-February).
  • Road trains and mining vehicles on highways.

Car Rental Driving Distances from Gladstone, Australia

FAQs

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.