Gold Coast is famous for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and lush hinterland. But what truly sets it apart are the unique tours that let you see the area from exciting perspectives—whether catching waves, soaring in a hot air balloon, or swimming alongside dolphins. Among our favorites is the Surfers Paradise: 2 Hour Surf Experience, which gets you into the water with a qualified instructor in just two hours—perfect for first-timers wanting a quick hit of surfing thrill. Or, for those who want to see the landscape from above, the Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon Flight offers breathtaking views of the hinterland and city, with the added fun of helping pack up the balloon afterward.
From adrenaline-pumping skydiving to relaxing whale-watching cruises, this list covers a wide range of experiences. Whether you’re a budget traveler, adventure seeker, or family looking for engaging activities, you’ll find options that suit your style. Let’s explore the best tours on the Gold Coast to help you plan a memorable trip.
Quick Overview
The Gold Coast boasts a variety of outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and scenic cruises. You can learn to surf on iconic beaches, take a hot air balloon ride over lush landscapes, or experience the thrill of tandem skydiving with breathtaking views. For wildlife lovers, whale watching cruises and dolphin tours are popular, especially during migration season. Water sports enthusiasts will enjoy jet ski safaris, while food and sightseeing cruises offer a more relaxed pace. This guide highlights 15 of the best options, each with its own charm and appeal.
1. Surfers Paradise: 2 Hour Surf Experience on the Gold Coast
At number 1, this quick yet comprehensive surf lesson on Surfers Paradise Beach promises you’ll be up and riding in just two hours. Perfect for beginners, an experienced instructor guides you through safety, positioning, and board control. The highlight? Most students stand up on their first try, making it a confidence boost you won’t forget. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of surfing without a full day commitment. With a 4.9/5 rating from over 900 reviews, this tour delivers fun, safety, and quick results. It’s ideal if you want a memorable, active experience with minimal fuss. Bottom line: If surfing is on your bucket list, this lesson offers a practical, fun start.
2. Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon Flight
Flying over the Gold Coast in a hot air balloon is a bucket-list experience. This hot air balloon flight is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 from nearly 600 reviews. You’ll take off early morning, floating silently 7500 feet above the landscape, with views of the city or hinterland depending on the wind. The basket’s doorless design makes photography easy, and you’ll get a photo and movie package to remember the moment. The experience lasts about three hours, including transfer and packing up. The crew’s professionalism and the breathtaking scenery make this tour stand out. Best suited for those seeking a peaceful, scenic adventure that offers a unique perspective of the area. Bottom line: It’s a peaceful, picture-perfect experience for romance or a special treat.
3. Gold Coast Tandem Skydive
For thrill-seekers, the Gold Coast Tandem Skydive is hard to beat. This 2.5-hour adventure includes jumping from 15,000 feet, enjoying a freefall followed by a gentle float down to Kirra Beach. What sets this apart is the blend of adrenaline and spectacular views of the coastline, Pacific Ocean, and city skyline. With a 5.0/5 rating from 450 reviews, many mention it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, especially for first-timers. The instructor is experienced, and the jump can be scheduled at various times. It’s an expensive tour, but the price reflects the quality and comprehensive safety measures. Bottom line: Best for adrenaline junkies or those wanting a defining moment on their trip.
4. 1.5 hr Jet Ski Safari tour to South Stradbroke Island!
This Jet Ski Safari is a lively way to explore the water and islands. Over 3 hours, you’ll ride past beaches, sandbars, and mangroves, with the option for early morning safaris around weekends. Suitable for all skill levels, it’s well-rated with a 5.0/5 from 366 reviews. Many mention the support from staff and the fun of seeing kangaroos and ducks during the island stop. The included safety gear and the flexibility for beginners and experienced riders make it accessible. The price reflects the thrill and scenery. Bottom line: Perfect for groups, water lovers, and adventure fans wanting a combination of speed and scenery.
5. Gold Coast Whale Watching Cruise
During whale migration season, this whale watching cruise is a top choice. With a 5.0/5 rating from over 300 reviews, it offers around 2.5 hours of prime whale viewing. The vessel’s speed allows quick access to the whales’ habitat, and the boat’s 360-degree views mean no one misses the action. Many reviews highlight sightings of breaching whales and the informative commentary. Prices are accessible, making it a good value for such a focused wildlife experience. It’s ideal for families or anyone eager to see whales in their natural environment. The only caveat is that sightings depend on the season and weather. Bottom line: An engaging, affordable way to connect with nature during whale season.
6. 1hr Jet Ski Safari
If you prefer a shorter but equally fun water adventure, the 1-hour Jet Ski Safari offers a quick adrenaline rush. Starting from Main Beach, you cruise toward South Stradbroke Island, with many reviews praising the flexibility for first-timers and experienced riders alike. The tour includes all safety gear, and many mention how patient guides help build confidence. It’s priced at $155, providing great value considering the 2-hour duration and scenic route. Photos are available to purchase afterward. Bottom line: A lively, accessible option for a quick dose of water excitement.
7. Gold Coast: 55-Minute Extreme Jet Boat Ride
For a high-speed thrill, this extreme jet boat ride is just 55 minutes of pure adrenaline. The boat races past Surfers Paradise’s luxury homes and offers an exhilarating experience with plenty of twists and turns. It’s the only jet boat departing from Surfers Paradise, making it convenient. Many reviews mention the boat’s power and the fun of taking photos while speeding through the water. It’s a short tour but packed with excitement, suitable for adventure lovers and those short on time. Bottom line: For a quick, adrenaline-fueled blast, this tour hits the mark.
8. Australian Outback Spectacular Dinner & Show
A different kind of experience, the Australian Outback Spectacular offers a 2-hour dinner and entertainment program. It features acrobats, animal acts, and comedy, all set against a backdrop of Outback stories. The three-course meal with drinks makes it perfect for families or couples seeking an evening of lively entertainment. Many rave about the quality of the show and the lively atmosphere. The ticket price includes dinner, so it’s good value for a full night out. Bottom line: An engaging, fun-filled evening that combines culture and cuisine.
9. Gold Coast Parasailing – Tandem & Triple Flights
For a bird’s-eye view, parasailing is a fantastic option. The parasailing experience offers up to 400 feet of altitude, with great views of Surfers Paradise and beyond. The reviews mention how helpful and friendly the staff are, making first-timers feel safe. Photographs and videos capture the moment for memories. It’s ideal for solo travelers or groups wanting a short, scenic thrill—only about an hour long. The cost reflects the premium experience of soaring over the coast. Bottom line: A must-do for aerial photography fans and those craving a quick adventure.
10. Whale Watching by Sea World Cruises
This whale watching tour offers a 2.5-hour journey into the prime humpback whale habitat. Rated 5.0/5, many reviewers highlight how close and active the whales are. The boat’s comfortable, and the crew provides helpful commentary. It’s a perfect option for families and wildlife lovers who want a relaxed but rewarding experience. Whales migrate from late May to early November, so timing is key. The trip is good value, with the added bonus of a peaceful cruise on the calm waters. Bottom line: A reliable choice for whale enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive and comfortable tour.
11. Gold Coast Buffet Lunch Sightseeing Cruise
Relax and see the Gold Coast from the water on this buffet lunch cruise. Over two hours, you’ll pass landmarks like Marina Mirage and Wave Break Island while enjoying a seafood and chicken buffet. Included live commentary enriches the experience with local insights. Many reviews mention the good food and friendly service, making it a great way to combine sightseeing with a leisurely meal. Costing around $67, it offers good value, especially if you want a flexible, scenic tour that’s less physically demanding. Bottom line: Ideal for a relaxing, culinary cruise with sightseeing highlights.
12. 2 Hour Ultimate Learn to Surf Adventure
This learn to surf experience is perfect for beginners who want to stand up on their first wave. With a 100% guarantee of getting up, small groups, and expert instructors, it’s a practical choice for novices. Many reviews celebrate the supportive guides and the fun of mastering basics like paddling and wave spotting. The tour costs about $44, offering good value given the personalized instruction. It’s best suited for active travelers who want a hands-on introduction to surfing. Bottom line: A straightforward, encouraging class that delivers results in a short time.
13. Whale Watching Tour with Spirit of Gold Coast
This whale watching tour combines marine biology insights with guaranteed whale sightings. Led by a passionate marine biologist, the 2 hour 50-minute trip offers educational commentary and a chance to see breaching whales. The tour is known for its friendly crew, good viewing spots, and the calm vessel. Many reviewers appreciate the extra knowledge and the dual-deck viewing. It’s slightly longer and more educational than other whale tours, making it suitable for curious travelers and families. The price is reasonable for a premium experience. Bottom line: An informative, well-organized whale adventure for all ages.
14. 2.5 hr Jet Ski Safaris tour – Ultimate Adventure + island stop
This Jet Ski Safari combines high-speed fun with a scenic island stop. Over four hours, riders navigate a 49-mile route, testing their speed through winding waterways and making a stop for lunch on South Stradbroke Island. Many reviews praise the support staff and the sense of adventure. The tour is suitable for experienced jet skiers and newcomers willing to brave the water. The price includes the full experience and the island break. It’s ideal for those wanting a longer, more challenging ride with a scenic reward. Bottom line: For serious water adrenaline and scenic exploration, this tour hits the sweet spot.
15. Moreton Island: Premium Tangalooma Snorkel & Dolphin Tour
Set sail to Moreton Island, for a day of snorkeling, wildlife watching, and beach relaxation. Highlights include snorkeling the Tangalooma Wrecks, seeing wild dolphins, and enjoying a buffet lunch. The tour is praised for its well-organized nature and the chance to freely explore the beaches or kayak afterward. Many reviews mention the quality of the food and the opportunity to feed fish or relax on the sand. With a full day of activities for around $160, it offers excellent value for marine lovers and families. Bottom line: A comprehensive, relaxing day trip perfect for marine wildlife enthusiasts.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Gold Coast
Choosing among these fantastic options depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. For adrenaline enthusiasts, the skydiving or extreme jet boat ride may be the best fit. If wildlife is your focus, the whale watching or dolphin tour will satisfy your curiosity. Water sports fans should consider the jet ski safaris or parasailing. For a more relaxed experience, the sightseeing cruise with buffet or dinner show are excellent choices. Remember to book early, especially for popular activities like whale watching or skydiving, to secure your preferred times.
Final Thoughts
The Gold Coast offers an impressive selection of tours—whether you’re chasing adrenaline, wildlife encounters, or scenic relaxation. For a quick taste of surfing, the 2-hour surf lesson is perfect. Seeking something truly unforgettable? The hot air balloon flight or skydiving will give you stories for years. Wildlife lovers should not miss the whale cruises or dolphin tours. Water sport fans will find plenty of action with jet skis and parasailing. Whatever your style, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Happy adventuring!