The Gold Coast is best known for its beaches and buzzing entertainment — but just beyond the city, there’s a whole world of lush rainforests, mountain views, waterfalls, and artsy small towns that most tourists miss.
Here’s the thing: you’ll need a car to get there.
Sure, the Gold Coast has public transport — but it doesn’t reach the places that make Queensland feel truly wild and wonderful. With a rental car, you can explore at your own pace, stop where you like, and uncover some of the most unforgettable day trips in the region.
Ready for the ultimate local-style adventure? Here are the top day trips from the Gold Coast you can only do by car.
🌿 1. Springbrook National Park
Drive time: 45–60 minutes
Home to ancient rainforests, glow worm caves, and the incredible Natural Bridge, Springbrook is a must-see. Hike through lush trails, chase waterfalls, and breathe in crisp mountain air.
Highlights:
- Natural Bridge walk (kid-friendly)
- Purling Brook Falls circuit
- Best of All Lookout (yes, that’s really what it’s called)
🚗 You’ll need a car to reach all the best spots — tours run limited routes, and public transport doesn’t go this deep.
🏔️ 2. Mount Tamborine
Drive time: 1 hour
Part mountain escape, part foodie haven, Tamborine is all about slow travel, cute shops, and rainforest views.
What to do:
- Walk the Skywalk through the treetops
- Sample fudge, wine, and locally made gin
- Explore waterfalls and short trails like Curtis Falls
📍 Perfect for couples or families — and having your own car lets you cruise between stops at your own pace.
🌊 3. Byron Bay
Drive time: 1.5 hours
Yes, it’s across the border into NSW — and yes, it’s absolutely worth it. Byron is a mix of boho beach town, wellness retreat, and foodie paradise. Come for the lighthouse walk, stay for the markets and laid-back energy.
Top picks:
- Cape Byron Lighthouse walk
- The Farm Byron Bay (for brunch and animals)
- Clarke’s Beach for swimming and chill vibes
🚗 A rental car is the only realistic way to make Byron a day trip — public options are slow and infrequent.
🐨 4. Currumbin Valley
Drive time: 25–30 minutes inland
Looking for something close but off the radar? Currumbin Valley is a lush little detour that feels a world away.
- Splash at the Currumbin Rock Pools
- Grab coffee at a local eco café
- Drive scenic country roads with zero traffic
🚗 Hidden gems like this aren’t on bus routes — self-drive is the only way to explore freely.
🚗 Your Road, Your Pace
The beauty of the Gold Coast isn’t just the coast — it’s what surrounds it. And to reach these unforgettable spots, you’ll need more than a beach towel… you’ll need your own wheels.
Planning to explore? Book your Gold Coast Airport car hire and turn your stay into a proper Queensland road trip.
