The Gold Coast is 70 kilometres of extraordinary. World-famous surf, lush hinterland rainforest, pulsing coastal culture, and family wildlife encounters - all within an hour of Brisbane. Let Cooee Tours take you there with a guide who knows every secret corner of the coast.
Most people know the Gold Coast as a strip of high-rise hotels and theme parks. And while Surfers Paradise and the rides of Dreamworld and Movie World are certainly part of the story, they represent only a fraction of what makes this 70-kilometre coastal region one of Australia's most compelling destinations.
Venture inland just 20 minutes from the beach and you enter a different world entirely: the ancient, mist-draped rainforests of Lamington National Park and Springbrook - home to luminescent glowworm caves, ancient Antarctic beech trees that have stood for centuries, and some of the most dramatic waterfalls in Australia. This is the Gold Coast that most day-trippers never see.
Back on the coast, the surf culture runs deep. This is where generations of Australians learned to read waves, where surf lifesaving was born as a sport, and where the beach is so central to identity that locals can tell you which break is working by the time of day, wind direction, and swell height. Our guides are part of that culture and will introduce you to it from the inside.
The food scene has transformed dramatically in recent years. Where once you could only find overpriced tourist restaurants, you will now find outstanding cuisine in Broadbeach, farm-to-fork cooking in the hinterland villages, craft beer taprooms in Burleigh Heads, and a farmers market scene that rivals anything on the Sunshine Coast. We know where to eat, and we will make sure you do too.
Four tours, four different versions of the Gold Coast. All include Brisbane hotel pickup, expert guide, and small-group guarantee.
Our Gold Coast tours are among the most popular in Queensland. Peak season (June to October) books weeks in advance. Secure your spot today.
📞 Call 0409 661 342 ✉️ Email an EnquiryHere's how a typical Gold Coast Highlights day unfolds. Exact timings flex slightly depending on group pace and conditions - we prefer an unhurried experience over a rushed checklist.
We collect guests from all major Brisbane CBD and South Bank hotels in our comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Coffee and water provided for the drive south. Your guide sets the scene for the day ahead.
One of Queensland's best wildlife parks - koala cuddles, free-range kangaroo feeding, crocodile presentations, and the spectacular native bird show. Entry is included in your tour price.
A stunning coastal headland walk through banksia forest with Pacific Ocean panoramas. Your guide explains the local ecology, surf culture history, and points out resident wildlife including the monitor lizards that sun themselves on the rocks.
We skip the tourist traps entirely. Your guide has a handpicked selection of genuinely excellent local restaurants depending on the day, your group's preferences, and what's fresh. Dietary requirements are always accommodated.
Experience the iconic Gold Coast skyline from the beach. Swim, explore, shop, or simply sit and watch the world-class surf. Free time to explore independently while your guide remains available for recommendations.
Drive up into the hinterland for sweeping views over the coast and the Pacific horizon - on clear days you can see as far as Byron Bay lighthouse. Your guide explains the geological and ecological story of the 600km2 national park system behind the strip.
Comfortable drive back to Brisbane. Your guide shares their top recommendations for your remaining time in the region. Hotel drop-off from approximately 6pm.
All tours include Brisbane hotel pickup, expert guide, and small-group guarantee.
| Tour | From | Duration | Wildlife | Beach | Rainforest | Lunch | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highlights Day Tour | $129 | 10 hrs | Currumbin | Free time | Lookout only | Included | First-timers |
| Theme Park Combo | $169 | 11.5 hrs | Wildlife | Beach stop | No | Theme park | Families |
| Hinterland Deep Dive | $149 | 10 hrs | Birds only | No | Full day | Included | Nature lovers |
| Private Custom Tour | $290+ | Flexible | As chosen | As chosen | As chosen | Included | Groups, occasions |
4.9 out of 5 across 12,000 reviews - here's what Gold Coast tour guests say most often.
"The hinterland tour was the surprise of our whole Australia trip. We thought we'd do the beach thing but our guide suggested the rainforest option instead - glowworm caves, ancient trees, incredible views. We didn't miss the beach at all!"
"Did the theme park combo for my son's 10th birthday. He rode every coaster at Movie World twice, we had a fantastic lunch, and the wildlife sanctuary was a bonus hit. Our guide made the whole family feel so welcome. Absolutely brilliant day."
"We had 6 hours between flights and Cooee organised a rapid-fire Gold Coast highlights tour that was genuinely breathtaking. Burleigh Heads with the sun setting over the headland... I'll remember that image for the rest of my life."
Whether it is surf, rainforest, wildlife, or theme park thrills - your Gold Coast day trip is waiting. Book now and secure your spot on one of Queensland's most popular tours.
📞 Call 0409 661 342 ✉️ Email an Enquiry