What’s the best way to explore the Gold Coast beyond the sand? Many travellers would say it’s by joining the region’s most popular Gold Coast tours. If you’re staying at Princess Palm, you’re already in the right place to experience them.
Each option suits a different kind of traveller. Many guests come back saying these were the highlights of their stay. In this guide, you’ll find trusted local favourites that are easy to book and simple to reach.
Top Gold Coast Tours We Recommend
Many visitors find that exploring by land and sea reveals a side of the region they wouldn’t have seen otherwise. Several well-rated Gold Coast tours depart within 30 minutes of Princess Palm, making it easy to plan a fun day out without travelling far.
Aquaduck Surfers Paradise
This unique tour lets you explore the streets and waterways of Surfers Paradise without changing vehicles. The Aquaduck Surfers tour starts as a city drive, then shifts into a relaxing cruise across the Broadwater. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, and those who enjoy guided experiences with a difference.
- Distance: About 25 minutes from Princess Palm Beach
- Ticket Price: From $55 for adults and $40 for kids
- Local Tip: Book the 10:00 am or 11:15 am departure to enjoy fewer crowds
This Gold Coast tour gives you the best of both worlds. It’s easy-going and educational, with just enough excitement to keep everyone engaged. The trip fits neatly into a half-day schedule, so you still have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your afternoon.
Sea World Whale Watch
During the winter season, this tour becomes a highlight for many guests. Sea World Whale Watch runs daily trips from Main Beach, offering a rare opportunity to see whales in their natural environment. The experienced crew provides real-time commentary, helping you learn more about each encounter.
- Distance: Around 30 minutes from Princess Palm Beach
- Ticket Price: Starting at $99 per person
- Local Tip: Mornings usually bring smoother water and better viewing conditions
This is one of the top boat tours Gold Coast travellers choose in the cooler months. The vessel is built for stability and great visibility, which makes it a strong choice for families and couples.
If you’re searching for a relaxed and rewarding Gold Coast cruise experience, this one is well worth booking.
Gold Coast Food and Wine Tours That Celebrate Local Flavours
The Gold Coast is known for its beaches, but it also offers rewarding food and wine experiences within easy reach of Palm Beach. These tours showcase regional produce, award-winning wines, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Gold Coast Food and Wine Tours
This tour appeals to those who enjoy discovering new places through flavour. It runs as a small-group experience with curated stops that include boutique breweries, wine bars, and artisan producers. The Burleigh route moves at a slower pace and includes relaxed venues with coastal views.
- Distance: 10 to 25 minutes from Princess Palm Beach
- Ticket Price: Starting at $139 per person
- Local Tip: Choose the Burleigh option for a scenic and easygoing experience
This is a great starting point for wine tasting Gold Coast experiences. Guests also get a feel for family dining Gold Coast style, as many venues are family-operated and focus on local ingredients. It offers a balance of insight, flavour, and comfort in a compact half-day tour.
Pineapple Tours – Mt Tamborine Wine Tour
This tour leads guests into the Tamborine Mountain region. The cooler climate and quiet surroundings offer a different pace to coastal areas. Pineapple Tours is known for its thoughtful route, local connections, and friendly hosts. Guests visit small wineries and enjoy broad views across the hinterland.
- Distance: 30 to 35 minutes from Princess Palm Beach
- Ticket Price: From $150 per person
- Local Tip: Weekdays usually mean smaller groups and more personal attention
This tour Gold Coast visitors often recommend suits travellers who want to relax, enjoy scenic stops, and take their time. It’s a full-day option without the stress of long travel. Many guests return with new favourites and a better understanding of the region’s wine culture.
The Vino Bus
The Vino Bus offers a cheerful, all-day wine experience. Pickup is available near Palm Beach, and the route covers several top-rated wineries. Guests enjoy generous tastings, a long lunch, and time to browse shops between visits.
- Distance: Pickup within 35 minutes
- Ticket Price: Starting at $165 per person
- Local Tip: Request the Burleigh pickup point for a smoother start
This is one of the tours Gold Coast guests often choose for special occasions or relaxed group days. It runs with a friendly team that keeps things light and easy. The Vino Bus suits those who want a full itinerary without needing to organise the details themselves.
Tipsy Tours
Tipsy Tours mixes wine, craft beer, and a casual group atmosphere. It works well for birthdays, small parties, and informal get-togethers. Stops often include smaller wineries and gourmet producers with options to purchase along the way.
- Distance: Pickup available within 30 to 40 minutes of Princess Palm Beach
- Ticket Price: From $139 per person
- Local Tip: Bring a cooler bag if you want to take home wine, cheese, or other treats
This tour stands out for its easygoing style and flexible format. It runs throughout the year and can be tailored to suit different group types. Guests often say it feels more like a day out with friends than a structured tour.
30-minute Jet Ski Tour in Surfers Paradise
This short tour provides a quick and exciting ride across the Broadwater. The route is designed for smooth conditions and is ideal for first-timers or anyone fitting in a short activity between other plans. The views of Surfers Paradise add to the appeal.
- Distance: 30 to 35 minutes from Princess Palm Beach
- Ticket Price: Starting at $78 per person
- Local Tip: Early morning or late afternoon rides usually have shorter wait times
It’s a good option for guests who want a taste of jet skiing without spending the whole day on the water. The ride is structured but relaxed, and the pace suits beginners.
1-hr Jet Ski Safari
This one-hour tour allows riders to explore more of the Broadwater at a steady pace. The route includes quieter stretches where guests can open up the throttle or slow down to take in the surroundings. A guide leads the way and offers tips throughout the ride.
- Distance: 30 to 35 minutes from Princess Palm Beach
- Ticket Price: Starting at $85 per person
- Local Tip: Book a morning session for the best conditions on the water
This tour works well for riders who want more time to build confidence. It gives guests the space to enjoy the ride, take in the views, and cover more ground without feeling rushed.
Planning Gold Coast Tours That Suit Your Travel Style
With so many family things to do Gold Coast-wide, choosing the right activity comes down to matching the pace and mood of your trip. This section helps you find a tour that feels right for your stay.
All featured tours are within 40 minutes of Princess Palm Beach. Several include nearby pickup, and others start a short drive away. Booking ahead is a good idea during weekends or holiday periods. It helps you lock in your preferred time and avoid last-minute changes to your plans.
Stay Close to It All at Princess Palm Beach
Staying at Princess Palm on the Beach puts you in a prime location near the best Gold Coast tours, while giving you the comfort of a relaxed beachfront setting. You can head out in the morning for a wine tasting or a jet ski ride, then return to a peaceful apartment where everything is ready for you to unwind.
The property sits right on the beach with direct access to the sand and wide ocean views. Each apartment is spacious and well-appointed, featuring open-plan living, a fully equipped kitchen, and a bright balcony that faces east. It’s a space designed to help you settle in and enjoy your time away.
Book direct for the best rate and start planning your next Gold Coast holiday with ease.
Image Credit: Aquaduck
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