Top Gold Coast Day Trips
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With the Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast to the north, the border of New South Wales to the south, and the lush peaks of the hinterlands stretching inland, the Gold Coast is a prime location from which to explore Australia’s east coast. Here are some of the best day trips from the Gold Coast.
Stradbroke Island — 22 miles (35 km) north
Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as the locals call it, is a slice of paradise ranking as the second largest sand island in the world. It’s just over a 30-minute drive from the Gold Coast, making it a convenient choice for water sports, wildlife-watching cruises, and sea kayaking excursions.
Lamington National Park — 29 miles (46 km) southwest
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park stretches over 49,915 acres (20,200 hectares) of protected forest ranging from subtropical rain forest to drier eucalyptus forest. On a day trip from Gold Coast, it’s possible to enjoy a canopy walk, go bird watching, or take a bushwalk from O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat.
Mt. Tamborine National Park — 29 miles (47 km) northwest
Visit Mt. Tamborine National Park during the day and marvel at the views from the Rainforest Skywalk, or brave a nighttime rainforest tour and spot wildlife by flashlight as you hike to a waterfall and stand beneath a canopy of twinkling glow worms.
Brisbane — 49 miles (79 km) north
The Queensland capital is just a short hop from the beach, making it an obvious choice for a day tour. Take in the views from Kangaroo Point and Story Bridge; browse the stalls at the Brisbane City Markets; stroll around the lively Southbank and the Brisbane Botanical Gardens; or enjoy a sightseeing cruise along the Brisbane River.
Byron Bay — 58 miles (94 km) south
Cross the border into New South Wales and visit laid-back Byron Bay, renowned as one of the east coast’s coolest beach resorts. Here, you can visit Australia’s most easterly point, do some shopping, grab lunch at a beachside café, or spend the day surfing and sunning on some of Australia’s best beaches.
Moreton Island — 65 miles (105 km) north
Moreton Island, the third largest sand island in the world, is 90 percent covered by national park and is home to Mt. Tempest, the planet’s highest coastal sand hill. Snorkelers will find a variety of colorful life at the Tangalooma Wrecks off the western coast, while plentiful sand dunes make for excellent sand boarding.
33 results | All Gold Coast Tours

Natural Bridge & Springbrook Waterfalls Tour
84
Journey into the hinterlands on this 5-hour afternoon tour of the Springbrook National Park from the Gold Coast. Explore the UNESCO-listed Goondawanna rainforests by coach, stopping to walk through the jungle, peek into ancient caves and enjoy views of Mount Warning from the Best of All Lookout. Visit natural wonders like Purling Brook Falls, Numinbah valley and Rainbow Falls, and soak up the scenery from the Canyon Lookout. This small-group tour is limited to 16 people for a personalised experience, and includes hotel pick-up and afternoon tea.
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From
$69.73
From
$69.73

Full-day Springbrook National Park Tour from the Gold Coast
30
Exploring the Gold Coast Hinterland can be a challenge if you don’t have your own transport, but this full-day tour from the Gold Coast offers the perfect introduction. Discover the natural wonders of the Springbrook National Park, stopping to take in the views of Mt Warning and the Numinbah Valley, and admire landmarks including the Natural Arch, Rainbow Falls, and Goomalarah Falls.
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From
$75.05
From
$75.05

Lamington National Park, O'Reilly's & Vineyard Tour
3
A fully guided tour visiting the world’s largest Sub Tropical rainforest and famous O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. Experience stunning panoramic views, canopy treetop walk, see wild birds and more on this relaxed journey to 1,000 metres above sea level.
Learn about the O’Reilly’s amazing history on route including the Stinson plane crash and see why this beautiful property is on the must do list for travellers from all over the world.
When visiting the Scenic Rim, a stop at a vineyard is a must. O’Reilly’s own Canungra Valley Vineyard set by a mountain stream gives you the chance to check out the vineyard and enjoy a complimentary glass of their own sparkling wine. This is also home to Mountain View Alpaca Farm.
Remove the hassle of driving and experience the hinterland with the Gold Coast’s most experienced rainforest tour operator.
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From
$69.73
From
$69.73

The Best of Tamborine Mountain from the Gold Coast
11
Exploring the Gold Coast hinterland can be tricky for those unfamiliar with the area. See places you'd never find on your own on this guided tour to Tamborine Mountain. Embark on a rainforest walk to Curtis Falls, travel through Eucalyptus Forest, and explore the Tamborine Mountain Forest Skywalk, a network of forest floor trails, steel bridges through the highest points of the upper canopy, and a 131-foot (40-meter) cantilevered bridge that soars 98 feet (30 meters) above the creek and rainforest below.
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From
$81.07
From
$81.07

The Tastes of Tamborine Mountain
10
Explore the wild beauty of the Gold Coast hinterland on this full-day tour to Mt Tamborine. Encounter koalas, kangaroos and cascading mountain waterfalls on a guided bushwalk through the eucalypt rain forest of Mt Tamborine National Park. Indulge in some mountainside produce tasting.
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From
$126.08
From
$126.08

Evening Rainforest & Glow Worm Experience - Small Group Tour
123
Experience the nighttime enchantment of Mt Tamborine National Park on this unique 4WD rain forest walk and glowworm tour. At the mountain summit, stop for a light supper of cakes and hot chocolate, and soak up views of the twinkling Gold Coast from a lookout. Then, observe nocturnal wildlife by torchlight with a guided bushwalk through the rain forest, where you’ll come across an ethereal waterfall illuminated by glowworms.
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From
$69.73
From
$69.73

2.5hr Gold Coast Kayaking & snorkelling tour
63
Short on time? Sample the natural beauty of the Gold Coast on this outdoor tour. Hop on a sea kayak and paddle your way over to Wave Break Island to swim and snorkel amid tropical fish and colorful coral. Spot dolphins, stingrays, and sea turtles along the coast, and enjoy a snack before heading back to shore.
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From
$48.60
From
$48.60

Half Day Dolphin Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour
143
Start your day off right with a half-day kayak tour to South Stradbroke Island. Enjoy a great vantage point on the beaches and wildlife of the Gold Coast as you paddle at a leisurely pace, stopping to snorkel off Wavebreak Island, visit secluded beaches, and enjoy a picnic breakfast on the beach. Your expert guide shares informative commentary about the region's ecology and animals, and provides full instruction on kayaking and snorkeling — making this tour suitable for both experienced paddlers and first-timers.
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From
$62.69
From
$62.69

Aquaduck Gold Coast 1 hour City and River Tour
246
Experience the Gold Coast’s beautiful Surfers Paradise on a tour aboard an amphibious Aquaduck. Bring the kids and hop aboard this unusual dual-purpose vessel for a jaunt along the area’s picturesque beaches and past local landmarks like Palazzo Versace and Marina Mirage. Then, enjoy a thrilling river cruise past the glitz of millionaire’s row as the Aquaduck transforms from a bus into a boat.
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From
$42.26
From
$42.26

ArtVo Gold Coast - Queensland's first 'trick art' gallery
50
Become part of the art at the incredible ArtVo Gold Coast, an art gallery with a difference. Queensland’s first trick art gallery is a fun destination to visit with your family or friends. Be amazed by the skillful art, spread over a huge area, and stop for plenty of photos and selfies. Staff are willing to help out if you need. Pre-purchase your tickets for a smooth arrival.
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From
$16.20
From
$16.20

Tropical Fruit World with Wildlife Boat Cruise from Gold Coast
6
Visit Tropical Fruit World, where you can learn about tropical fruit around the world and taste the fruit grown on the farm. Cruise down the farm's waterway and feed the wild birds as they swim and swoop alongside the boat, then transfer to a miniature train for a ride through the eucalyptus trees.
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From
$112.69
From
$112.69

Deluxe Winery Tour to Tamborine Mountain, includes gourmet two course lunch
84
Taste award-winning liqueurs, spirits, and wine on this tour of the Mt. Tamborine area, which also includes a gourmet lunch. Taste the bounty of the Great Brisbane region, including locally produced cheese from Witches Chase Cheese Factory, spirits from Tamborine Mountain Distillery, and vintages from multiple wineries. All tastings, snacks, and beverages provided means a seamless, belly-filling experience.
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From
$118.33
From
$118.33

Hipster Sipster Brewery and Distillery Tour
55
This comprehensive full-day tour allows you to sightsee, swim, hike, and bushwalk through The Royal National Park. Including transportation to the Figure 8 Pools, only about an hour's drive from Sydney, you'll discover coastal views and local wildlife. Pickup and drop-off at a central Sydney meeting location.
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From
$137.35
From
$137.35

Gold Coast Full Day Brewery Tour
53
Visit three craft breweries on the Gold Coast during a half-day tour that includes lots of beer tastings and a delicious lunch. You'll sample the goods at Black Hops Brewing, Burleigh Brewing, and Balter Brewing, meet some of the brewers, and learn what goes on behind the scenes during the brewing process.
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From
$133.12
From
$133.12

Gold Coast Half-Day Fishing Charter
27
Enjoy deep sea fishing on a 5-hour charter tour from the Gold Coast. Choose from a morning or afternoon departure for this fishing tour with professional fishing guides who assist you to find and land your catch. A wide variety of pelagic and bottom-dwelling fish can be found in the waters off the Gold Coast. Includes the use of fishing equipment and a safe ride on a fully equipped boat.
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From
$105.65
From
$105.65

Glow Worm Evening Eco-Adventure from the Gold Coast
21
Head into the Gold Coast hinterland for an evening of luminescent glow worms, a torch-lit rain forest walk, and stargazing in the clear night sky. Deep inside the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest, marvel at the natural phenomenon of thousands of tiny glow worms lighting up an ancient cave before trekking among the nocturnal creatures of Queensland on a guided night safari. Cap off the evening with stargazing at the Springbrook Research Observatory and a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
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From
$67.55
From
$67.55

Full-day Wine-Tasting and Tamborine Mountain Tour with Lunch
20
Leaving the urban jungle of the Goldie, we’ll cruise up through the verdant green hills of the Gold Coast hinterland to Tamborine Mountain. A rainforest-covered escarpment formed by a 23 million-year-old lava flow, Tamborine Mountain is the gateway to the Scenic Rim – one of Australia’s most underrated wine regions. And you’ll be enjoying a tasting at three of its finest wineries on this gourmet day trip, topped off with a two-course lunch at Hampton Wines (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) or Mason Wines (Wednesday and Thursday). A visit to Witches Falls Winery – often ranked among Queensland’s best – is included on every tour.
You’ll also get a chance to sample a selection of the artisanal spirits and liqueurs produced by Tamborine Mountain Distillery, a local icon which has won more than 300 awards for its quirky tipples – eucalyptus gum leaf vodka, anyone? If you’re a sucker for a great view, you’ll love the spectacular Scenic Rim lookout we stop at before heading back to the city.
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From
$116.22
From
$116.22

Mt Tamborine Wine Tour
15
Mt Tamborine is renowned for its boutique wineries and artisan producers, and lies just an hour south of Brisbane. On this private tour, enjoy a customizable itinerary, stopping at up to four wineries, along with a distillery, craft brewery, and cheese factory (optional). Sample a variety of wines and tasters along the way, then indulge in a scrumptious 2-course lunch at a winery restaurant.
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From
$126.78
From
$126.78

Hinterland Heritage Wine Tour
14
Many wine tours focus only on the great wine but on this tour you’ll also visit some of the most beautiful heritage buildings in the area, which happen to be wineries. On this tour you’ll be taken to four different estates, including a home that three previous Queensland premiers lived in. Learn about wine-making and local history while indulging in a tasty drop or two.
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From
$119.74
From
$119.74

Gold Coast Private Skippered Limo on the Water Canal Cruise
4
Whether you want to see the sights from the channels and coastlines or you just want to have dinner and drinks on the water, this private canal cruise can be tailored to your needs. Take this water-limo, custom-built for small groups, out for one hour or for half the day, cruising in the shadow of the grand Gold Coast skyline. With a skipper on hand to point out all the highlights, from Surfer’s Paradise to the homes of the rich and famous, this is a unique and discreet way to experience the Gold Coast.
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From
$232.43
per group
From
$232.43
per group

Gold Coast Skippered Canal Cruise
4
Experience the beautiful Gold Coast on this small-group guided cruise. Enjoy a flexible itinerary—cruises last from one to five hours—and a quiet ride on this custom built boat with an electric motor. Check out amazing views of sites like Main Beach, Southport, Cronin’s Island, and Isle of Capri. Marvel at the million dollar homes and gorgeous canals, elegant bridges and marine life that could include dolphins, turtles, and sea eagles.
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From
$144.39
per group
From
$144.39
per group

Exclusive Private Tour - Design your own
4
Explore the lush rainforests and waterfalls around Brisbane and the Gold Coast on this personalized group adventure through Springbrook or Lamington National Park. Perfect for private groups of up to 11, this personalized tour gives you the chance to choose your own itinerary, with guided walks, waterfalls, wildlife, and snacks included—along with pickup/drop-off at a destination of your choosing, transport, park fees, and even optional sunrises/sunsets.
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From
$633.20
per group
From
$633.20
per group

Hot Air Balloon Tour in Brisbane with Breakfast
4
The forested valleys and vine-clad hills of Brisbane’s Scenic Rim area are even more magnificent when viewed from above. With this tour, make an early start to catch the sunrise and float over the picturesque landscapes in a hot air balloon. After admiring the views, celebrate your flight with a glass of Champagne and a scrumptious hot buffet breakfast at a local vineyard.
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From
$338.08
From
$338.08

Full-Day Tweed Hinterland Food and Drink Tour
3
You’ll be amazed by how quickly the urban jungle morphs into the rolling farmlands of the Tweed in the northeastern corner of NSW. Our first stop will be at a tropical fruit farm and cafe where we’ll take a walk around the picturesque property and taste some exotic tropical fruit.
Set on an avocado farm nearby is a community-focused boutique brewery overlooking iconic Mt. Wollumbin. We’ll take a tour of the rustic brewery and sample its tasty beers (with other options available) before heading to a world famous Distillery just down the road.
On a tour of this innovative rum and gin distillery, you’ll learn all about the Australia-first method of making rum from local sugar cane before trying its spirits for yourself. Set on a sugar cane farm with cracking views of Wollumbin and a gourmet cellar door menu, this distillery is the ultimate destination for a long, lazy lunch.
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From
$123.26
From
$123.26
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