The Gold Coast is a fantastic place for exploring by city tour. Its combination of golden beaches, glittering high-rises, lush hinterland, and lively waterways makes it a natural playground for sightseeing. Whether you’re after a fun family adventure, a scenic helicopter ride, or a relaxing cruise at sunset, the Gold Coast has something to offer. We particularly like tours that blend land and water experiences, like the Aquaduck City Tour and River Cruise — not only because of its quirky amphibious vehicle but also for its family-friendly vibe, including kids getting a chance to steer the duck and earn a captain’s certificate.
For a truly spectacular view, the Coastal City Scenic Helicopter Flight offers a quick but breathtaking perspective of the cityscape, hinterland, and Broadwater, perfect for those wanting a memorable bird’s-eye experience. And if you’re after a relaxing evening, the Surfers Paradise Sightseeing City Lights Cruise and the Private City Lights Tour provide a chance to see the glittering skyline from the water, with options for champagne in hand. Each tour offers a unique way to see the Gold Coast, whether on land, water, or sky.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a range of city tours in Gold Coast, including amphibious land-and-water rides (Aquaduck City Tour), scenic helicopter flights (Coastal City Scenic Helicopter Flight), evening cruises (Surfers Paradise City Lights Cruise), and private water tours (Private City Lights Tour). Each offers something different, so read on to see which best matches your interests and budget.
1. Gold Coast: Aquaduck City Tour and River Cruise
Starting off our list, this Aquaduck tour combines city sightseeing with a water cruise, making it a top pick for families and curious travelers alike. Priced at just $38 per person for an hour, the tour departs from Surfers Paradise and offers a fun amphibious ride that covers both land and water. The highlight is the ability for kids to steer the duck—an experience that turns sightseeing into a playful adventure, complete with a personalized captain’s certificate.
The tour’s two-part format means you’ll see iconic Surfers Paradise skyscrapers, the Broadwater, and local landmarks, all narrated by an engaging guide. The amphibious vehicle’s ability to transform from bus to boat adds a layer of excitement not found on typical land tours. Guests rave about the friendly crew and how well the tour balances informative commentary with entertainment. With a 4.7/5 rating from over 220 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this tour offers excellent value for money.
The big appeal here is its family-friendly vibe and the chance for kids to participate actively. It’s perfect if you want a lighthearted, memorable way to explore the Gold Coast in a short time.
Bottom Line: Fun, affordable, and family-oriented, this tour delivers a lively mix of land and water sightseeing with a dash of hands-on participation.
2. Aquaduck Gold Coast 1 hour City and River Tour
At number two, this Aquaduck offers essentially the same amphibious experience but with slightly different details and reviews. For around $39.32, you’ll spend approximately an hour exploring Surfers Paradise from a unique perspective, both on land and water. The tour is praised for its informative narration about local landmarks, including Marina Mirage, Millionaire’s Row, and the Imperial Hotel (formerly Palazzo Versace).
The real charm lies in the transforming vehicle and the interactive element—kids and adults alike enjoy getting behind the wheel of the duck for a brief water drive. Reviewers highlight the entertainment and knowledge of the crew, with many noting how the tour makes sightseeing relaxed and fun. The kids’ captain’s certificate remains a big hit among families, reinforcing this tour’s appeal for a younger crowd.
While the tour is similar in duration and price to the previous one, it emphasizes the scenic views of the coastline and local landmarks, making it ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick, entertaining overview of Surfers Paradise’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Slightly more detailed in landmark commentary, this tour is a solid choice for families and anyone looking for a fun, budget-friendly introduction to Gold Coast’s waterways.
3. Gold Coast: Coastal City Scenic Helicopter Flight
For a 10-minute flight that leaves a lasting impression, this scenic helicopter tour is perfect. Priced at $109 per person, it offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, Broadwater, Hinterland, and even the famous Sea World. The tour departs from Australia’s largest privately owned heliport, and the fully air-conditioned Airbus provides a smooth, comfortable ride.
What makes this experience stand out is the live commentary from a professional pilot, who points out landmarks like the Q1 Resort and the Gold Coast Hinterland, giving you a comprehensive bird’s-eye view of the region. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a quick but immersive sightseeing experience without spending hours in the air.
Many reviewers mention how this flight is a “must-do” for photo enthusiasts or those celebrating a special occasion. The short duration makes it a good option if you’re pressed for time but want a peek at the region’s scenic beauty from above. The only downside is the price—consider it as a splurge for a special moment rather than a budget option.
Bottom Line: A quick, high-quality aerial view that’s perfect for travelers craving a spectacular snapshot of the Gold Coast’s landscape.
4. Surfers Paradise Sightseeing City Lights Cruise
As the sun sets, this city lights cruise offers a charming way to see the Gold Coast’s skyline glow against the evening sky. At $21 per person for 1.5 hours, it’s among the more affordable options. The cruise navigates through the canals and waterways of Surfers Paradise, providing fantastic views of skyscrapers, luxury homes, and the famous beaches.
The highlight? Watching the sunset cast a golden hue over the skyline, perfect for photography. The onboard bar, offering champagne and beer, makes it a relaxed, social experience. You’ll see dolphins, sea eagles, and other wildlife, adding to the sense of being immersed in nature amid the city’s glittering backdrop.
Though it has only five reviews, those are glowing—calling the experience “great fun” and “a beautiful way to end the day.” Ideal for couples or small groups, especially if you want a romantic or peaceful evening activity.
Bottom Line: An inexpensive, scenic cruise that shines in the evening, especially for sunset lovers wanting a quiet, scenic view of Surfers Paradise.
5. Gold Coast: Private City Lights Tour
For those seeking privacy and exclusivity, this private city lights tour offers a tailored experience for up to three people for $329. The two-hour cruise takes you on a luxurious journey through the Gold Coast’s illuminated waterways. You’ll enjoy snacks and drinks as you take in views of the opulent residences on Macintosh Island and the Main Beach Marina.
This tour’s real strength is the personalized service—you set your preferred route and timing. The view of the skyline and waterfront properties at night is stunning, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a quiet, intimate experience.
While reviews are not available, the high price point and private nature make this ideal for luxury travelers or those wanting an exclusive, romantic evening. It’s best suited for small groups or couples who value privacy and comfort over the social aspect.
Bottom Line: A premium, customizable experience perfect for couples or small groups wanting privacy and luxury during their Gold Coast night experience.
$329 per group up to 3
6. Explore Gold Coast City Lights
This newer offering provides an approximate two-hour cruise for $336.66, aiming to showcase the most iconic landmarks, including Broadbeach Water, Surfers Paradise skyline, and Macintosh Island’s luxury homes. The focus is on delivering a comprehensive, relaxed viewing experience that captures the essence of Gold Coast’s vibrant waterfront life.
Itinerary highlights include cruising past the Star Casino, luxurious waterfront properties, and the Main Beach Marina with its impressive yachts. The calm waters make for a smooth ride, allowing you to absorb the scenery at leisure. While it currently has no reviews, the detailed itinerary suggests a well-rounded experience.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a comfortable, leisurely cruise. Its price is comparable to other private or semi-private options, offering good value for a more private, in-depth look at the city lights.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive, relaxed evening cruise with plenty of spectacular sights.
$336.66 per group (up to 3)
7. Private Transfer Gold Coast Airport OOL to City Centre/Brisbane
Finally, while not a sightseeing tour per se, this private transfer offers reliable, comfortable transportation between the Gold Coast Airport and city center or Brisbane for $47.69 per person. The professional drivers and air-conditioned vehicles ensure a smooth, stress-free start or end to your trip.
This is an excellent option if you want to avoid the hassle of public transport or taxi lines and prefer a personalized pickup. It’s especially convenient for early or late flights, or if you’re traveling with luggage. While it doesn’t include sightseeing, it’s an essential service that makes your overall experience more comfortable.
Bottom Line: A practical and stress-free way to travel between the airport and your accommodation—worth booking in advance for peace of mind.
$47.69 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Gold Coast City Tour
When selecting your city tour, consider your budget, interests, and time. If you’re traveling with kids or want a fun, interactive experience, the Aquaduck tours (Gold Coast: Aquaduck City Tour and River Cruise) are hard to beat. For a photo-worthy aerial view, the scenic helicopter flight (Coastal City Scenic Helicopter Flight) is the way to go.
Night owls or romantic couples might prefer the city lights cruises, especially the private options (Private City Lights Tour). Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordable sunset cruise (Surfers Paradise Sightseeing City Lights Cruise), offering excellent views at a low price.
Booking in advance is wise, particularly for popular tours like the helicopter flight, which often sell out. Consider the best times—sunset cruises are best around that golden hour, and daytime tours are perfect for clear weather and good photos.
Final Thoughts
Gold Coast offers a wide variety of city tours to match different interests and budgets. For family-friendly fun, the Aquaduck rides are hard to beat. For those craving breathtaking vistas, the helicopter flight will create memories that last a lifetime. Evening lovers will enjoy the city lights cruises, which show off the skyline’s glittering beauty. And if privacy and luxury are your style, the private water cruise provides an intimate experience.
No matter what you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable adventures. The Gold Coast’s diverse tour options guarantee you’ll find one that fits your style and makes your visit truly special.