Best Day Trips from the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is perfectly positioned not just for surf and city thrills, but also for quick escapes into nature, culture, and charming nearby towns. If you’re looking to fill your itinerary with incredible day trips, you should visit these four destinations: Byron Bay, Lamington National Park, Tamborine Mountain, and Springbrook

1. Byron Bay

Travel time from Gold Coast: ~1 hour 15 minutes (by car)

Byron Bay is famous for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Just over the border in New South Wales, it's a scenic drive that takes you through lush hinterland and coastal towns.

Top Things to Do in Byron Bay:

• Visit Cape Byron Lighthouse: The easternmost point of mainland Australia, with panoramic ocean views — sunrise here is truly magical.
• Enjoy the Beaches: Main Beach, Wategos, and The Pass are perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or simply relaxing.
• Explore Local Markets & Boutiques: Byron is packed with artisan shops, organic cafes, and local markets (especially on Sundays).
• Spot Dolphins and Whales: Join a sea kayak or whale-watching tour (May to November for whale season).

Perfect for: Beach lovers, creatives, foodies, and anyone looking for a chilled-out coastal escape.

2. Lamington National Park

Travel time from Gold Coast: ~1.5 to 2 hours (depending on entry point)

Part of the UNESCO-listed Gondwana Rainforests, Lamington National Park is a paradise for nature lovers. With ancient trees, cascading waterfalls, and incredible wildlife, it’s one of the most rewarding day trips for those who enjoy the outdoors.

Highlights of Lamington National Park:

• O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat: A popular entry point with guest facilities, a treetop canopy walk, and bird feeding experiences.
• Hiking Trails: From short walks to full-day treks like the Box Forest Circuit or Toolona Creek Circuit, there's a trail for every fitness level.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot bowerbirds, pademelons, and even glow worms in the right conditions.
• Picnic with a View: The park offers stunning viewpoints like Python Rock and Morans Falls Lookout.

Perfect for: Hikers, birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone craving fresh mountain air and green scenery.

3. Tamborine Mountain

Travel time from Gold Coast: ~45 minutes to 1 hour

For a mix of natural beauty and artisan culture, Tamborine Mountain is hard to beat. Sitting in the Gold Coast Hinterland, it combines rainforest walks with wineries, galleries, and charming villages.

Must-Do Activities in Tamborine Mountain:

• Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk: An elevated walkway through lush rainforest with views over creeks and treetops.
• Gallery Walk: A quirky stretch of cafes, boutiques, art galleries, and fudge shops – ideal for a leisurely stroll.
• Curtis Falls & Witches Falls Walks: Gentle hikes leading to picturesque waterfalls surrounded by dense forest.
• Local Wineries & Distilleries: Enjoy wine tasting, locally distilled spirits, or a cheese platter with a view.
• Glow Worm Caves: A unique eco-attraction where you can see glow worms up close in a purpose-built cave.

Perfect for: Couples, families, wine lovers, and weekend wanderers.

4. Springbrook National Park

Travel time from Gold Coast: ~1 hour

Springbrook is another jewel of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Known for its dramatic waterfalls, spectacular lookouts, and prehistoric landscapes, it’s one of the most rewarding day trips for those wanting to reconnect with nature.

Top Things to Do in Springbrook:

• Natural Bridge (Arch): A must-see rock formation with a waterfall flowing through a cave — home to glow worms at night.
• Best of All Lookout: Aptly named, this viewpoint offers panoramic views over the Tweed Valley and even as far as Mt. Warning.
• Twin Falls Circuit: A stunning 4 km loop trail through lush rainforest, passing behind waterfalls and through rock crevices.
• Purling Brook Falls: A dramatic plunge waterfall with a great viewing platform and an optional hike to the base.
• Glow Worms: Visit after dark at Natural Bridge or join a guided night tour.

Perfect for: Waterfall chasers, hikers, nature photographers, and families wanting a scenic day in the wild.

From the boho beaches of Byron Bay to the lush, misty rainforests of Springbrook and Lamington, the Gold Coast is surrounded by natural and cultural gems. Whether you want waterfalls, wineries, mountaintop views, or surf town vibes, these day trips offer something for everyone — all within 1 to 2 hours’ drive.