8-Day Brisbane & Gold Coast Discovery: City Highlights & Coastal Escape

After breakfast, make your way to the meeting point at Adventure Day Trips Brisbane, 222 Margaret Street, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia, a short distance from your hotel. Meet your guide and fellow travellers before departing for your full-day North Stradbroke Island adventure. ­ Tour Details Duration: Full day Departure: Brisbane Return: Approximately 5:45 PM to Brisbane City Destination: North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), Queensland Tour type: Guided group tour Transportation: Bus transfers and return ferry crossing Meals: Not included ­ Highlights Enjoy a scenic ferry crossing across Moreton Bay. Discover North Stradbroke Island’s spectacular coastline and natural landscapes. Walk the famous Gorge Walk at Point Lookout. Look for dolphins, turtles, koalas, and kangaroos in their natural habitats. Enjoy panoramic Pacific Ocean views from dramatic coastal headlands. Visit Cylinder Beach, Frenchman’s Beach, and Main Beach. Explore Dunwich, one of the island’s historic settlements. Discover the peaceful seaside community of Amity Point. Stroll along the Myora Springs boardwalk through a distinctive natural environment. Watch for migrating humpback whales during the seasonal viewing period, generally May to October. ­ What’s Included Return ferry transfers between the mainland and North Stradbroke Island Guided island sightseeing tour by bus Local tour guide Visits to selected beaches, lookouts, and island communities Time to explore Point Lookout and the Gorge Walk ­ What’s Not Included Meals and beverages Personal expenses Optional activities not specified in the tour Tips and gratuities Any services not specifically listed under “What’s Included” ­ Itinerary Morning – Departure from Brisbane: Meet your tour group and travel to the ferry terminal for the crossing to North Stradbroke Island. Ferry journey: Enjoy coastal views across Moreton Bay during the crossing. Island sightseeing: Travel by bus with your guide to explore the island’s beaches, scenic viewpoints, and local communities. Point Lookout and Gorge Walk: Take in dramatic ocean views and look for marine wildlife from the coastal walking track. Beaches and natural attractions: Visit selected locations such as Cylinder Beach, Frenchman’s Beach, Main Beach, and Myora Springs. Island communities: Discover Dunwich and Amity Point, experiencing more of the island’s local character. Afternoon – Return to Brisbane: Take the ferry back to the mainland and arrive in Brisbane City at approximately 5:45 PM. ­ Description Escape the city and discover the coastal beauty of North Stradbroke Island, known by its Traditional Owners as Minjerribah. Located off the coast of Brisbane, this beautiful island is celebrated for its sandy beaches, dramatic headlands, native wildlife, and rich Aboriginal cultural heritage. ­ Your journey begins with a scenic ferry crossing over Moreton Bay before continuing by bus around the island. Along the way, your guide introduces you to the region’s landscapes, local history, and natural environment. ­ At Point Lookout, enjoy the spectacular Gorge Walk, where coastal trails reveal sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Keep watch for dolphins, turtles, and other marine life, while the winter whale migration offers an extra highlight for visitors travelling during the viewing season. Wildlife sightings depend on the season and natural conditions. ­ Continue to some of the island’s beautiful beaches, including Cylinder Beach, Frenchman’s Beach, and Main Beach. Depending on the day’s schedule, you may have time to relax by the shore, take photographs, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the sand. ­ The tour also introduces you to island communities such as Dunwich and Amity Point, along with the peaceful natural setting of Myora Springs. Together, these stops showcase the island’s combination of coastal scenery, local culture, and unique ecosystems. ­ With return ferry transfers, guided island sightseeing, and opportunities to experience the region’s wildlife and beaches, this full-day tour is an ideal getaway from Brisbane.

After breakfast, make your way to the meeting point at River City Cruises, Cultural Centre Public Pontoon, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia, a short distance from your hotel. Board the sightseeing vessel and enjoy a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise along the Brisbane River toward Breakfast Creek. Listen to informative commentary about Brisbane’s history, culture, and development while admiring the city skyline, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Story Bridge, South Bank Parklands, and beautiful riverside homes. With excellent photo opportunities and a complimentary souvenir map, this cruise offers a relaxing way to discover Brisbane from the water. ­ Tour Details Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes Departure point: Cultural Centre Public Pontoon, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia Meeting point: River City Cruises departure pontoon, a short distance from your hotel Departure times: Common scheduled departures include 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM; afternoon departures may also operate on selected days. Confirm your booked departure time. Tour type: Shared sightseeing cruise Destination: Brisbane River, cruising toward Breakfast Creek ­ Highlights Enjoy panoramic views of Brisbane from the river. Admire the dramatic Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Cruise past the iconic Story Bridge. See South Bank Parklands and the Brisbane city centre. Discover New Farm Park and elegant riverside homes. Learn about Brisbane’s history and future through onboard commentary. Capture memorable photographs of the city skyline and waterfront. Receive a complimentary Brisbane souvenir map. ­ What’s Included 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise along the Brisbane River toward Breakfast Creek Informative onboard commentary about Brisbane’s history and development Complimentary souvenir map ­ What’s Not Included Hotel pickup and drop-off Meals and beverages, unless specified in your selected cruise option Personal expenses Tips and gratuities Any services not specifically listed under “What’s Included” ­ Itinerary Before departure: After breakfast, walk to the Cultural Centre Public Pontoon at South Brisbane and arrive before your scheduled departure. Boarding: Board the sightseeing vessel and settle in for your river cruise. Brisbane River cruise: Enjoy commentary and views of South Bank Parklands, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Story Bridge, New Farm Park, the city centre, and riverside homes. Return: After approximately 90 minutes, return to the departure pontoon. ­ Description Discover Brisbane from a different perspective on a relaxing sightseeing cruise along the Brisbane River. Ideal for visitors who want to explore the city without a lengthy excursion, this guided boat trip combines scenic views, fascinating local stories, and plenty of opportunities for photography. ­ As the vessel travels along the river toward Breakfast Creek, enjoy views of Brisbane’s distinctive waterfront and architectural landmarks. Pass South Bank Parklands, admire the towering Kangaroo Point Cliffs, and see the famous Story Bridge from the water. The cruise also showcases New Farm Park, the city centre, and attractive riverside homes. ­ Throughout the journey, informative onboard commentary introduces Brisbane’s history and development, helping you understand the important role the river has played in shaping the city. ­ The cruise offers a comfortable sightseeing experience with a covered upper deck, indoor seating, and onboard facilities. A complimentary souvenir map is included, making this an enjoyable addition to your Brisbane itinerary and leaving you with time for further sightseeing or shopping afterward.

After breakfast, wait for your driver at your selected Brisbane CBD hotel for pickup and enjoy a comfortable journey to Australia Zoo on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. With return transfers and zoo admission included, you can spend at least six hours exploring one of Australia’s most famous wildlife attractions. Discover native Australian animals, learn about wildlife conservation, watch exciting animal presentations, and enjoy a special glimpse into the work of the Wildlife Warriors Hospital. After a full day of wildlife encounters and exploration, relax on the return journey to Brisbane. ­ Tour Details Duration: Approximately 9 hours Departure: Morning pickup from selected Brisbane CBD hotels Return: Afternoon arrival at your selected Brisbane CBD hotel Destination: Australia Zoo, Beerwah, Queensland Tour type: Shared transfer and zoo admission package Time at the zoo: At least 6 hours ­ Highlights Visit Australia Zoo, made famous by conservationist Steve Irwin. Explore exhibits featuring Australian and international wildlife. See iconic animals, including kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles, and other fascinating species. Enjoy opportunities to watch scheduled wildlife presentations. Get a sneak peek into the Wildlife Warriors Hospital. Spend at least six hours exploring the zoo at your own pace. Enjoy convenient return transfers from selected Brisbane CBD hotels. Benefit from direct entry access to the zoo. ­ What’s Included Pickup and drop-off at selected Brisbane CBD hotels Return transfers between Brisbane and Australia Zoo Day admission to Australia Zoo At least six hours to explore the zoo Sneak peek into the Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Hospital ­ What’s Not Included Meals and beverages Personal expenses and souvenir purchases Optional animal encounters or experiences not specified in the booking Tips and gratuities Pickup or drop-off outside the operator’s designated locations Any services not specifically listed under “What’s Included” ­ Itinerary Morning – Hotel pickup: Meet your driver at your selected Brisbane CBD hotel and depart for Australia Zoo. Morning arrival – Australia Zoo: Enter the zoo and begin exploring its animal exhibits, conservation attractions, and wildlife presentations. Free time at the zoo: Enjoy at least six hours discovering the zoo at your own pace, including the included Wildlife Warriors Hospital sneak peek. Afternoon – Return transfer: Meet your driver at the designated departure point and travel back to Brisbane. Return to Brisbane: Arrive at your selected hotel after a full day of wildlife exploration. ­ Description Experience one of Queensland’s best-known wildlife attractions on a convenient day trip from Brisbane to Australia Zoo. Located on the Sunshine Coast, Australia Zoo is renowned for its wildlife conservation work, engaging animal presentations, and diverse collection of native and exotic species. ­ Your day begins with a morning pickup from a selected Brisbane CBD hotel, followed by a comfortable transfer to the zoo. Once there, enjoy at least six hours to explore the grounds, encounter Australian wildlife, and learn about conservation initiatives. ­ Discover kangaroos, koalas, crocodiles, and many other fascinating animals as you explore the exhibits. You may also attend scheduled wildlife presentations, including popular shows at the Crocoseum, subject to the zoo’s daily program. ­ The experience also includes a sneak peek into the Wildlife Warriors Hospital, offering insight into the care and rehabilitation of wildlife. After your visit, meet your driver for the return journey to Brisbane. ­ With return transportation and zoo admission included, this package offers an easy and enjoyable way to experience Australia Zoo without arranging your own transport.

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before making your way to Brisbane Central Station to board your train towards the Gold Coast. Settle into your seat and enjoy a comfortable rail journey through South East Queensland, passing suburban neighbourhoods and green landscapes as you travel south toward the coast. ­ Upon arrival at Helensvale Station, transfer to the G:link tram and travel to Cavill Avenue Tram Station in the heart of Surfers Paradise. From there, make your way to your hotel to check in and settle into your accommodation. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Surfers Paradise at your own pace, relax on its famous sandy beach, stroll along Cavill Avenue, browse local shops, or enjoy the area's vibrant cafés and waterfront restaurants. ­ The train journey from Brisbane to Helensvale typically takes around 1 hour, followed by approximately 30 minutes by tram to Cavill Avenue. Travel times and departure schedules vary by date.

After breakfast, make your way to the meeting point at voco Gold Coast by IHG, 31 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia, a short distance from your hotel. Meet your driver and board a comfortable, air-conditioned shuttle for a full-day adventure to Tamborine Mountain. Escape the busy coastline and explore Queensland’s beautiful hinterland at your own pace with return transfers and unlimited access to the mountain’s hop-on hop-off bus service. ­ Discover boutique wineries, craft breweries, distilleries, charming cafés, and the popular Gallery Walk shopping precinct. Nature lovers can enjoy scenic lookouts, rainforest walks, and picturesque mountain landscapes, while food and drink enthusiasts can explore local flavours along the way. With the freedom to choose your own stops and decide how long to spend at each venue, this flexible day trip offers a relaxed way to experience Tamborine Mountain without the hassle of driving. ­ Tour Details Duration: Approximately 8–9 hours Location: Tamborine Mountain, Queensland, Australia Meeting Point: voco Gold Coast by IHG, 31 Hamilton Avenue, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia Departure Time: 9:00 AM Return Departure: Approximately 3:30 PM from Tamborine Mountain Expected Return: Approximately 5:00 PM to the Gold Coast Tour Type: Self-guided hop-on hop-off experience ­ Highlights Enjoy convenient return transfers from the Gold Coast to Tamborine Mountain Explore the mountain with unlimited hop-on hop-off shuttle access. Visit participating wineries, breweries, distilleries, cafés, and local attractions. Browse boutique shops, galleries, and specialty stores along Gallery Walk. Discover scenic lookouts and beautiful hinterland landscapes. Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly local driver/guide. Create your own itinerary and explore at a pace that suits you. ­ What’s Included Return transfers between the Gold Coast and Tamborine Mountain Unlimited hop-on hop-off access on the mountain loop Air-conditioned bus transportation Local driver/guide Basic commentary and scenic stops ­ What’s Not Included Entry fees for attractions and venues Wine, beer, and spirit tastings Meals, snacks, and drinks Personal purchases and shopping expenses Optional attractions, including Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves and Rainforest Skywalk, unless booked as part of a separate combination package Travel insurance ­ Itinerary 9:00 AM – Meet Your Driver: Meet at voco Gold Coast by IHG in Surfers Paradise and board the shuttle. Travel to Tamborine Mountain: Enjoy the scenic journey into the hinterland. Hop-On Hop-Off Mountain Loop: Explore participating wineries, breweries, distilleries, cafés, Gallery Walk, scenic lookouts, and other attractions of your choice. Free Time to Explore: Spend time at your preferred venues, enjoy lunch, browse local shops, or discover the mountain’s natural scenery. Approximately 3:30 PM – Return Departure: Rejoin the shuttle for the journey back to the Gold Coast. Approximately 5:00 PM – Arrival: Return to the Gold Coast. ­ Description Discover the natural beauty and relaxed village atmosphere of Tamborine Mountain on a flexible hop-on hop-off day tour from the Gold Coast. Set in the scenic hinterland of South East Queensland, Tamborine Mountain is known for its lush rainforest, sweeping views, boutique shopping, and thriving local food and drink scene. ­ Your experience combines convenient return transportation with the freedom to explore independently. Hop off to visit participating wineries and distilleries, enjoy a break at a local café, browse the boutiques and galleries of Gallery Walk, or take in the surrounding scenery at selected lookouts and nature spots. ­ The mountain loop allows you to choose your preferred stops rather than follow a fixed sightseeing itinerary. Simply let your driver know where you plan to visit and follow the instructions for rejoining the service. Since there are many places to explore, planning your favourite stops in advance will help you make the most of your day. ­ Optional attractions such as the Glow Worm Caves and Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk may be available through separate tickets or combination packages.

After breakfast, make your way to the Hopo Kiosk at Appel Park, 10 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217, Australia, a short distance from your hotel. Check in at the kiosk at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure and collect your cruise tickets and AUD $30 food and beverage voucher. Board the Hopo sightseeing cruise and enjoy a relaxing journey along the Gold Coast’s beautiful waterways to HOTA – Home of the Arts, a vibrant cultural destination featuring contemporary art and inspiring exhibitions. ­ Upon arrival, explore HOTA Gallery at your own pace before enjoying a delicious meal, refreshments, or a specialty drink with your included voucher. Choose between The Exhibitionist Bar, known for its rooftop views, or HOTA Café, offering a relaxed setting overlooking the surrounding parklands. Combining scenic cruising, contemporary art, and a choice of dining venues, this experience is an ideal way to discover another side of the Gold Coast. ­ Tour Details Duration: Approximately 3–5 hours, depending on your chosen cruise and time at HOTA Location: Surfers Paradise and HOTA, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia Departure Point: Hopo Kiosk, Appel Park, 10 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise Tour Type: Sightseeing cruise, gallery visit, and self-paced dining experience ­ Highlights Scenic Hopo Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing return sightseeing cruise between Surfers Paradise and HOTA. Contemporary Art at HOTA Gallery: Explore inspiring exhibitions and contemporary artworks at the Gold Coast's leading cultural destination. AUD $30 Food and Beverage Voucher: Enjoy food and drinks at The Exhibitionist Bar or HOTA Café. Panoramic Gold Coast Views: Take in waterfront scenery and city views during your cruise and visit. Explore at Your Own Pace: Choose how long to spend exploring the gallery and enjoying your dining experience. What’s Included Return Hopo sightseeing cruise between Surfers Paradise and HOTA General entry to HOTA Gallery, excluding featured and separately ticketed exhibitions AUD $30 food and beverage voucher Access to the selected participating dining venue, subject to opening hours and availability Self-paced exploration of HOTA ­ What’s Not Included Entry to featured or separately ticketed gallery exhibitions Food and beverages exceeding the AUD $30 voucher value Additional activities or attractions not specified in the package Personal expenses Travel insurance ­ Itinerary Check-In at Surfers Paradise: Arrive at the Hopo Kiosk in Appel Park at least 15 minutes before your selected departure and collect your cruise tickets and food and beverage voucher. Sightseeing Cruise to HOTA: Board Hopo and enjoy views of the Gold Coast waterways during the short cruise. Explore HOTA Gallery: Discover contemporary art and current exhibitions at your own pace. Dining Experience: Redeem your AUD $30 voucher at The Exhibitionist Bar or HOTA Café, subject to opening hours and availability. Return Cruise to Surfers Paradise: Board Hopo at your selected return departure time and enjoy the scenic journey back. ­ Description Experience the Gold Coast through a combination of art, dining, and sightseeing with the HOTA Gallery, Cruise and Dine Experience. Your adventure begins at Surfers Paradise, where you board Hopo for a short cruise along the waterways to HOTA – Home of the Arts. ­ Once ashore, visit HOTA Gallery and explore its contemporary art collections and exhibitions. General gallery entry is included, giving you the opportunity to discover creative works and cultural perspectives, while featured and separately ticketed exhibitions can be purchased independently where available. ­ Continue your experience with an AUD $30 food and beverage voucher. Choose The Exhibitionist Bar for a rooftop dining atmosphere and sweeping views, or HOTA Café for a relaxed meal or refreshment overlooking the surrounding parklands. After enjoying your visit, return to Surfers Paradise aboard Hopo. ­ With its blend of culture, scenic cruising, and dining, this flexible experience is ideal for couples, friends, art enthusiasts, and visitors looking for a leisurely Gold Coast outing.

After breakfast, meet your driver and transfer to Gold Coast Airport OOL. We recommend scheduling your hotel pick-up up to 4 hours before your flight departure time. Please note that hotel check-out is at 12:00 noon, and late check-out will be subject to availability.