Brisbane to Gold Coast: Wine, Wildlife & Coastlines

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It's a short and simple drive from Brisbane to Gold Coast, as you will follow the Pacific Motorway (M1) from one city to the other. The journey is about 80km (50 miles) and the time it takes depends on traffic as mornings and afternoons can get quite congested as people travel to and from work. Gold Coast is Australia's premier holiday destination visited due to its stunning beaches, shopping, nightlife, theme pars and surf breaks. Surfers Paradise, the most famous Gold Coast's suburb, offers almost two miles of golden sand, sunny atmosphere and laid-back lifestyle.

Located just 45 minutes from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Sirromet Winery is a premier destination for wine and food lovers alike. Nestled in a picturesque setting overlooking Moreton Bay, the estate offers immersive experiences that showcase the best of Queensland’s renowned Granite Belt Region. Join a 90-minute behind-the-scenes tour of the fully operational, state-of-the-art winery where you’ll learn about the winemaking process and the history behind Sirromet’s success. Enjoy a guided tasting of six award-winning wines crafted by Sirromet’s expert team. Afterwards, unwind at the vibrant Cellar Door café and savour a gourmet burger lunch served with salad, chips, and a soft drink. With over 900 national and international awards, Sirromet’s wines are a true testament to quality and innovation. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this experience offers the perfect mix of education, indulgence, and stunning scenery. 

Famed for its beaches, including the world-renowned Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast has plenty to offer away from the sand and sea. In order to make the most of your free day make sure you include some of the following:
Beach hop between Coolangatta and Currumbin or take a surf lesson at Surf In Paradise from The Spit near Main Beach. Consider heading over to Wave Break Island with Queensland Scuba Diving and experience the fantastic snorkelling and diving. For the more experienced surfers, head to Burleigh Heads. This beach often has whales from April to September.
If thrills are what you are after, head to any one of Gold Coast's world-class theme parks. Dreamworld, Wet 'n' Wild, Sea World, Infinity Attraction and Topgolf Gold Coast are just a few.
For those looking for wildlife encounters, look no further than Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. This iconic park gives its visitors the opportunity to wander through open animal enclosures, feed kangaroos and befriend cuddly koalas. It's newest precinct is home to lemurs, cotton-top tamarins, red pandas, capybaras, and exotic birds and reptiles. As a non-profit organisation, all proceeds are put back into wildlife and conservation programs.
Feeling a bit peckish? Rick Shores and the Fish House are popular spots at Burleigh Heads for lunch and dinner. If you're hoping for a craft beer experience, have a pint of one of the award-winning beers from Burleigh Brewing Company, Black Hops, Fortitude Brewing Co., Balter or Lost Palms Brewing Company.

Experience the thrill of soaring to new heights as you embark on a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon flight over the iconic Gold Coast. As the sun rises, float effortlessly with the breeze, taking in panoramic views of the sparkling coastline and lush Hinterland. If a hot air balloon ride has long been on your bucket list, now’s the time to cross it off with this unforgettable adventure. Enjoy the comfort and ease of Australia’s only ‘Walk-In Basket,’ making entry and exit a breeze, along with a seamless connection via 4X4 at the end of your flight. Glide above golden shores and vibrant rainforests, immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the region. After your flight, indulge in an optional 5-star breakfast at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. Trust us, it’s worth waking up early for!

Experience a day of wildlife wonder and amazing memories at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife parks. This day pass offers full access to the sanctuary’s extensive range of animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and immersive experiences, with the added bonus of a personal koala photo opportunity to create a keepsake of your visit. Wander through lush, natural habitats and meet Australia’s unique wildlife, including kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, and the famous lorikeets. Explore the sanctuary’s conservation-focused exhibits, such as the Lost Valley, where you’ll encounter exotic species like lemurs, tamarins, and tree kangaroos. The sanctuary also features live shows, including the Free Flight Bird Show and Aboriginal cultural performances, adding depth to your visit.
The highlight of your experience is the chance to cuddle a koala and have your photo taken with one of these adorable marsupials. This memorable encounter gives you the opportunity to get up close and personal with one of Australia’s most iconic animals, creating a cherished souvenir to take home.

More than a tourist attraction, Tropical Fruit World is a family-owned, sustainable fruit farm dedicated to educating and sharing nature’s wonders. Set in lush rainforest and volcanic soils near Mount Warning, the farm grows over 500 unique fruits from around the world. A fully guided plantation tour includes a tractor train ride through orchards, exotic fruit tastings, a visit to the animal park, and a scenic boat cruise through the bushland valley. This tour features a delicious BBQ lunch showcasing fresh, locally sourced produce. Every season offers new flavours and experiences to enjoy!

Enjoy a guided behind the scenes 60-minute journey through Australia's only working farm distillery. The Daily Distillery tour kicks off with a welcome drink, followed by a tasting of the iconic Ink Gin range and a botanical exploration. Venture outdoors to discover the unique geology of the region and learn how the land influences the spirits. Then, go behind the scenes to see the farm-to-bottle process in action -  from the onsite sugar mill and fermentation tanks, to watching Australia's only Forsyth still in operation. Conclude your tour with a walk through of the operating bottling hall before sampling a Husk Rum flight in the barrel house.

Embrace the coastal charm of Cabarita for a perfect, relaxed day. Start with a sunrise walk up Norries Headland, following the boardwalk through the littoral rainforest for spectacular panoramic views of the coastline - a prime spot for dolphin and winter whale watching. After enjoying the vista, head down to Cabarita Beach for swimming between the flags, sunbathing on the broad sandy expanse, or simply watching the local surfers ride the famous point break. Pack your own lunch to enjoy at one of the shoreline park's free picnic tables and public BBQ facilities, overlooking the Pacific. In the afternoon, explore the Cudgen Nature Reserve fringing the area, perhaps walking or cycling the scenic coastal pathway that stretches north towards Kingscliff, or simply enjoying the laid-back, natural beauty of this Tweed Coast gem.

The drive from Cabarita Beach to the Gold Coast is a beautiful journey along the coast. Leaving the relaxed town, you will travel north, passing through the Tweed Head, where lush greenery and open farmland provide a scenic backdrop. Heading towards the Gold Coast, you will soon cross the border into Queensland. The views will begin to hint at the lively city ahead, with glimpses of the iconic Gold Coast skyline emerging on the horizon. The journey offers a perfect blend of peaceful coastal scenery and the anticipation of arriving at one of Australia's most vibrant destinations.

Explore more of Gold Coast before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!