The Gold Coast is famous for its sun-drenched beaches, lively nightlife, and incredible scenery—so it’s no surprise that its dining scene is just as diverse and exciting. Whether you’re after a memorable night of entertainment, a scenic cruise with a gourmet meal, or a luxurious private sailing experience, the Gold Coast offers something for every taste and budget. Our favorites include a dinner show that immerses you in Outback stories, a sunset cruise with a buffet and skyline views, and a private sail that delivers elegance and tranquility. Each experience offers a unique way to enjoy the city’s waterfront and cultural vibe, making your visit truly special.
We’ve rounded up five of the best dining experiences on the Gold Coast, carefully selected for their standout features, reviews, and value. From lively shows to romantic cruises, these options showcase the region’s best water-based dining and entertainment. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, you’ll find something that suits your style—and maybe even your sense of adventure.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of dinner shows, sightseeing cruises, private sailing, cultural visits, and a combination pass for art and waterfront fun. These tours are perfect for different interests: if you love storytelling and live entertainment, the Australian Outback Spectacular Dinner & Show is a great pick. For a romantic evening on the water, the Gold Coast Private Sunset Sailing offers an intimate experience. Want a casual, scenic day? The Surfers Paradise cruise and gallery pass blends art, culture, and light refreshment. For more details, browse the individual experiences linked below.
1. Gold Coast: Australian Outback Spectacular Dinner & Show
Rating: 4.6/5 (826 reviews)
Price: $79 per person
Duration: 2 hours
This dinner and show experience is a true standout for anyone eager to embrace Australian storytelling with a hearty meal. The Australian Outback Spectacular combines lively entertainment with a three-course meal and drinks, all set against a backdrop of Outback legends. You’ll be immersed in stories of rugged cattlemen, the iconic Australian wildlife, and daring acrobats—all performed by talented locals and animal stars. The show blends humor, action, and a good dose of Australian pride, making it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
What makes this experience particularly appealing is its focus on storytelling combined with impressive live acts—think daring stunts, animal tricks, and hearty humor. The 4.6-star reviews highlight the quality of the performance and the food, with many visitors mentioning how fun and engaging the night is. The price of $79 offers excellent value considering the entertainment, food, and drinks included.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a lively, family-friendly night that mixes culture, comedy, and good food, this dinner show delivers at a reasonable price and a memorable experience.
2. Gold Coast Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise
Rating: 4.5/5 (179 reviews)
Price: $87.46 per person
Duration: approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
For those who prefer dining with a view, the Gold Coast Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise offers a relaxed way to enjoy the city’s waterways and skyline at night. Starting from the Sea World Cruises Terminal, this cruise takes you along the canals of the Gold Coast Broadwater, where you’ll enjoy a buffet dinner prepared by local chefs. This is a great choice for celebrating a special occasion or simply soaking in the view with friends and family.
The cruise includes live entertainment and a chance to sip on locally crafted beers or cocktails as you glide past the Surfers Paradise skyline. The reviews praise the quality of the meal and the scenic, smooth journey—perfect for a romantic evening or a memorable night out with loved ones. Free open-air parking by the departure point makes logistics straightforward.
During sunset, the skyline’s lights are at their best, and the experience becomes even more magical. The cruise’s 4.5-star rating reflects its popularity among visitors seeking a relaxing, picturesque dinner on the water.
Bottom Line: This cruise is an elegant way to combine waterfront dining, sightseeing, and entertainment, ideal for couples and small groups looking for a scenic, leisurely evening.
3. Gold Coast Private Sunset Sailing Charter w/ dinner & drinks
Rating: 5/5 (4 reviews)
Price: $309 per group (up to 2)
Duration: 2 hours
Looking for a luxurious, intimate experience? The Private Sunset Sailing Charter is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a peaceful escape on the water. This private boat allows you and your chosen group to sail across the calm waters of Gold Coast Broadwater while enjoying one of the most spectacular sunsets over the skyline.
The experience includes a gourmet grazing board, champagne or your preferred drinks, and a dedicated crew to take care of everything. The captain will guide the boat to the best vantage points for sunset photos, and the calm, private setting makes it suitable for romantic couples, small families, or close friends. With a perfect 5-star review, this tour stands out for its exclusivity and relaxed luxury.
The only downside is the cost—at $309 for up to two people, it’s an investment in a memorable, personalized experience rather than a group activity. But if you seek a romantic or special occasion on the water, it’s hard to beat.
Bottom Line: For those wanting privacy and luxury, this private sailing offers a memorable sunset and gourmet grazing in an elegant setting.
4. Surfers Paradise: Cruise, HOTA Gallery Entry, & Dining Pass
Rating: 5/5 (1 review)
Price: $26 per person
Duration: 1 day
If you’re looking to combine art, culture, and waterfront relaxation, this day pass is a fantastic value. It includes a scenic cruise along the Gold Coast waterways, admission to the Home of the Arts (HOTA) Gallery, and access to The Exhibitionist Bar for a meal or drink. For just $26, you get a well-rounded cultural experience that highlights the region’s creative scene.
The cruise offers a short, scenic ride, giving you a fresh perspective on the city’s waterways. HOTA Gallery showcases contemporary Australian art, and the rooftop bar offers incredible views of the Gold Coast. Visitors rave about how this mixed itinerary offers an affordable way to explore both the artistic and aquatic sides of the city.
This experience is perfect for visitors with limited time or those interested in art and culture, combined with a relaxed waterfront vibe. The all-in-one price makes it an excellent choice for families or solo explorers who want a compact but enriching day.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly way to enjoy water, art, and good food, making it ideal for culture lovers and those looking for a flexible day activity.
$26 per person
5. Brisbane/Gold Coast: Sunset, Dinner, Stars/Premium Telescope
Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review)
Price: $79.61 per person
Duration: about 2 hours
For an unforgettable night under the stars, this experience on Tamborine Mountain combines a stunning sunset picnic with incredible stargazing. Your guide will welcome you with a picnic blanket, and you’ll watch as the sky turns from fiery orange to a starry canopy. As darkness falls, a powerful telescope allows you to see the Moon’s craters, distant planets, and even galaxy clusters.
This tour offers a peaceful retreat from the busy coast, with the advantage of clear mountain air and minimal light pollution. The review highlights how informative and accommodating the guide is, making it a perfect choice for science enthusiasts, romantics, or anyone curious about the cosmos. The included BBQ dinner and a complimentary drink add to the experience.
Given its limited availability and high ratings, this tour is best booked early. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of scenic beauty and intellectual curiosity, away from the hustle.
Bottom Line: A magical, educational, and romantic experience that stands out for its stunning stargazing and scenic sunset.
$79.61 per person
How to Choose the Best Dining Experience on the Gold Coast
When selecting your perfect dining adventure, consider your interests and budget. If you want family-friendly entertainment and storytelling, the Australian Outback Spectacular offers lively acts and a hearty meal. For a romantic, scenic evening, the Sunset Sailing or Stars and Sunset tours might suit best.
If culture and art appeal to you, the Waterfront Cruise and HOTA gallery pass offers an affordable way to explore both. Budget travelers should note that the dining pass is very economical for a full day of activities, while those seeking exclusive luxury will appreciate the private sailing experience.
Timing also matters—early booking is recommended for the popular sunset and stargazing tours, especially in peak seasons. Consider your fitness level too; water-based tours generally involve minimal walking but require a bit of comfort with boat or outdoor settings.
Final Thoughts
The Gold Coast offers a fascinating mix of dining experiences that blend entertainment, scenic beauty, and culture. Whether you choose an energetic dinner show, a romantic cruise, or an elegant private sail, each option provides a memorable way to enjoy the region’s stunning waterways and lively atmosphere.
For families or those on a budget, the Waterfront Cruise and Art Pass presents great value and variety. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the private sunset sailing delivers exclusivity and luxury. And for a fun, lively night out, the Outback Spectacular hits all the right notes.
Whatever your preference, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these popular experiences. Explore your options, pick what excites you most, and enjoy the vibrant dining and entertainment scene in Gold Coast!