The Gold Coast is known for its beaches, but there is plenty waiting beyond the shoreline. In under two hours out of Broadbeach Savannah, you can reach waterfalls, rainforest walks and mountain lookouts that feel a long way removed compared with the coast.
These Gold Coast day trips are easy to plan and suit families, couples, and anyone chasing fresh air and a bit of adventure.
If you are keen on hiking trails, Gold Coast locals rate, waterfall lookouts, or a chance to see Australian wildlife, the spots below bring a change of pace and a closer look at the hinterland and headland scenery.
Springbrook National Park: Waterfalls And Rainforest Walks
Springbrook National Park is one of the most popular national parks on the Gold Coast and a great escape for nature lovers. The drive is usually around 45 to 55 minutes out of Broadbeach Savannah and takes you into cool, green hinterland country.
Local Tip: Bring sturdy shoes and water. Paths can get muddy after rain, but the views are worth the effort.
Food: Pack a picnic as cafés are limited near the trails.
The highlight for many visitors is Purling Brook Falls, a dramatic drop framed by lush greenery, and a top pick for waterfalls in the Gold Coast hinterland. The circuit walk down to the base is about four kilometres and gives you one of the best waterfall views in the region. Nearby, the Twin Falls Springbrook track adds another standout walk through rainforest gullies and rock formations.
Keen to take on a bigger route? The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk links Lamington and Springbrook national parks via the Numinbah Valley, giving walkers a wider look at this remarkable landscape.
Tamborine Mountain: Trails, Falls, And Local Flavour
Tamborine Mountain brings cooler air, shaded forest walks and a strong local food scene. The drive is generally around 45 minutes out of Broadbeach Savannah, so it is a popular option for an easy day out.
Local Tip: Stop by the Tamborine Mountain Distillery for a small tasting or to pick up a bottle of local spirits.
Food: Many cafés serve homemade meals and sweets using local produce.
Don’t miss Cedar Creek Falls at Mt Tamborine, where clear pools run over rock terraces, or Curtis Falls, a short shaded walk that suits quick photos and an easy pace. Both sit within a network of Gold Coast bushwalks that work across a range of fitness levels.
Off the tracks, Tamborine Mountain has cafés, craft shops and wineries worth a stop. After your walk, Gallery Walk is an easy wander, and The Polish Place is a popular lunch option with valley views.
Lamington National Park: Tree Tops And Longer Walks
Lamington National Park is one of Queensland’s best-known rainforest escapes, packed with walking tracks and cool, misty scenery. Getting to the O’Reilly’s area is usually around 90 minutes out of Broadbeach Savannah, so it suits an earlier start and a full day out.
Local Tip: Bring layers of clothing as it can be several degrees cooler than the coast.
Budget: Entry is free for most hikes.
Food: The guesthouse café near O’Reilly’s serves coffee and snacks.
The Tree Top Walk at O’Reilly’s is a favourite. It takes you above the forest floor for a close look at birdlife and the canopy. There are also tracks that lead to waterfalls, ancient trees and quiet lookouts, with the steady sounds of rainforest all around. It is classic rainforest Gold Coast hinterland scenery.
Lamington is also part of the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk, so experienced hikers can plan longer routes that connect key sections across the hinterland.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Family Fun Close To Broadbeach
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best-known Gold Coast attractions, and it is an easy choice for families. The drive is usually around 20 to 25 minutes out of Broadbeach Savannah, so it fits neatly into a half-day or full-day plan.
You can feed kangaroos, take a koala photo, or watch the famous lorikeet feeding. There are also train rides through the park, reptile shows, and a treetop challenge course that suits kids and adults.
Editor’s Choice: The koala photo experience is a must-do for first-time visitors.
Food: The Wildlife Café has plenty of casual dining choices.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary works well on a list of Gold Coast day trips and adds a fun, family-friendly stop between national parks and beach time.
Burleigh Heads National Park: Coastal Track With Ocean Views
Burleigh Heads National Park is a quick nature fix close to the coast. The drive is usually around 15 to 20 minutes out of Broadbeach Savannah, and the headland track brings a rewarding walk beside the sea.
The walking trails Gold Coast locals love follow the headland through shady pockets of rainforest and open coastal paths.
Local Tip: Walk early in the morning or late in the afternoon to dodge the heat and catch the best light for photos.
Budget: Free entry all year round.
The main coastal track runs around the headland near Tallebudgera Creek, with lookouts that frame the skyline of Surfers Paradise. It is one of the most rewarding Gold Coast hiking trails and a great way to see the contrast between rainforest and ocean in a short walk.
Travel Tips For Gold Coast Day Trips
Planning Gold Coast day trips is straightforward when you stay in Broadbeach. The places listed range in distance, so it helps to match the day to your energy levels and the weather.
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Transport: A hired car is the easiest way to get around for the hinterland parks. Spots like Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary are also easily accessible by public transport.
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What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes for longer walks.
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Weather: July and August are cooler in the hinterland, so pack layers for early mornings and evenings.
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Budget: Most national park Gold Coast trails are free. Set aside a little extra for cafés or guided tours.
For variety, pair a longer walk with a slower afternoon in a café, a lookout stop, or a wander through local shops, then head back to Broadbeach Savannah for a comfortable reset.
Base Your Hinterland Adventures at Broadbeach Savannah
After a day chasing waterfalls or walking through the rainforest, it is a relief to come back to comfort. Broadbeach Savannah keeps you close to the best Gold Coast attractions while staying near the beach.
With spacious apartments, a relaxing pool, and easy parking, it is a handy base for your next round of Gold Coast day trips. Plan a Gold Coast hinterland retreat out of Broadbeach and enjoy a simple balance of coast and country.
Book direct for the best stay rates and keep more time for the good stuff.
Image: Lamington National Park