Gold nanorods (AuNRs) have received tremendous attention recently in the fields of sensing and detection applications due to their unique characteristics of surface plasmon resonance. Surface modification of the AuNRs is a necessary path to effectively utilize their properties for those applications. In this Article, we have focused both on demonstrating the recent advances on methods of surface functionalization of AuNRs as well as their use for improved sensing performance using various techniques. Main surface modification methods discussed include ligand exchange with the assists of thiol-group, layer by layer assembly method, and depositing inorganic materials with desired surface and morphology. Covered techniques that can then be used for using those functionalized AuNRs include colourimetric sensing, refractive index sensing and surface enhance Raman scatttering sensing. Finally, the outlook on the future development of surface modified AuNRs for improved sensing performance is considered.

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