Top Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon Rides

The spread of the Gold Coast hinterland—its vineyards, pastures, and forest—can only be taken in from the air, which is hard to arrange yourself. Drift over it by hot-air balloon at dawn instead, picked up first from your Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach accommodation. Come back down to a buffet breakfast with sparkling wine at a local vineyard.

Your professional tour guides will deliver you to the launch site pre-dawn for you to witness the impressive scene of balloons being inflated. When the balloon is ready, step into the basket with your experienced pilot; feel the peace and serenity of floating above the countryside, see the rolling hills and open fields, set against the stunning backdrop of the rising sun. There is nothing in the world like the feeling of floating gently above the earth. Breathe in the fresh air, enjoy sweeping views of the famous Gold Coast Hinterland and Scenic Rim on one side then look towards the coast to see the skyline dotted with towering buildings - it's the best of both worlds! Your very experienced pilots will slowly guide the balloon down to the landing point, where the fun continues, we all pitch in and fold up the balloon itself, have a laugh and take some more photos. Finally we head to for a delicious hot breakfast, continental buffet beachside view

Get a different perspective on the Gold Coast by soaring over it in a hot air balloon. Get a bird's eye view over the city or hinterland, (depending on the wind pattern) and enjoy plenty of room to move around and take photos in Australia's only basket with doors. You have the option of helping to pack the balloon up afterward and will also receive a photo and movie package.

The forested valleys and vine-clad hills of Brisbane’s Scenic Rim area are even more magnificent when viewed from above. With this tour, make an early start to catch the sunrise and float over the picturesque landscapes in a hot air balloon. After admiring the views, celebrate your flight with a glass of sparkling wine and a scrumptious hot buffet breakfast at a local vineyard.

Experience the Gold Coast’s beautiful Surfers Paradise on a tour aboard an amphibious Aquaduck that transforms seamlessly from bus to boat. Bring the kids and hop aboard this unusual dual-purpose vessel for a jaunt along the area’s picturesque beaches, past local landmarks like Marina Mirage, and along the glitz of Millionaire’s Row.

Experience the thrills of parasailing while on the Gold Coast of Australia. First, you’ll receive a short safety training before being outfitted with a harness. Then, soar high above the Gold Coast, up to 400 feet (122 meters) high, and take in aerial views of the coastline. This is available for solo travelers or with one or two partners. Allow approximately 90 minutes for the full experience including briefing and flight time.

Spotting whales in their natural habitat can be tricky if you don't know where to look. Skip the guesswork on this whale-watching cruise, which guarantees you will see humpback whales as they migrate past the Gold Coast from June to November or you receive a complimentary second cruise. The tour is led by a marine biologist guide who is passionate about conservation and offers insights into whale behavior that enrich the experience. Includes morning tea and a photo booklet souvenir.

Feel the thrill of catching a wave at one of Australia's most famous surf hotspots when you sign up for this 2-hour beginner surf lesson at The Spit in Surfers Paradise. Master the basics under the guidance of an expert instructor, and have fun in the process. Changing rooms, safe storage areas, and outdoor showers are also available to you.

Become part of the art at the incredible ArtVo Gold Coast, an art gallery with a difference. Queensland’s first trick art gallery is a fun destination to visit with your family or friends. Be amazed by the skillful art, spread over a huge area, and stop for plenty of photos and selfies. Staff are willing to help out if you need. Pre-purchase your tickets for a smooth arrival.

Go skydiving during your visit to the Gold Coast for an incredible thrill and spectacular views of the city, coast, and Pacific Ocean. Jump in tandem with your expert instructor, enjoying a short freefall before your instructor releases the parachute. Float gently down to Kirra Beach, one of the beautiful beaches that makes the Gold Coast justifiably famous.

Wave Break Island—located just off Australia's Gold Coast—is a sheltered spot, and its calm waters are teeming with marine life. However, getting there can prove tricky without access to your own boat. Keep your vacation as simple as possible with this organized scuba diving experience, suitable for all levels of experience. Beginners can take advantage of an instructional dive with a guide, and certified divers can skip the instruction to explore independently.

Sample the natural beauty of the Gold Coast, without having to buy or rent equipment, with this outdoor adventure. Hop on a sea kayak and paddle your way over to Wave Break Island for a guided snorkel over a rocky reef and a short bushwalk. Spot dolphins and stingrays, then enjoy tasty, locally sourced snacks before returning to shore.

Start your day off right with a kayaking and snorkeling tour to Wavebreak Island from Biggera Waters, south of the Gold Coast. Paddle at a leisurely pace, while keeping an eye out for wildlife such as stingrays and seabirds. Head to a secluded island for a snorkel break, where you can spot loads of tropical fish. Visit a secluded beach and enjoy a picnic breakfast to refuel before heading back.