9 of the Best Boating Spots on the Gold Coast

Anybody who has ever explored the Gold Coast by boat understands what makes this coastal city one of Australia’s favourite tourist destinations. The Gold Coast is the perfect fusion of city living and natural wonders, home to white sandy beaches, bluer-than-blue waters and a thriving nightlife scene.  Planning a holiday to the Gold Coast and looking for itinerary inspiration? Here are 9 of the best boat spots on the Gold Coast every tourist must visit.  

Tallebudgera Creek

source: www.queensland.com    The idyllic Tallebudgera Creek stretches 25 kilometres, bordering the Burleigh Heads National Park. Its calm waters attract swimmers, paddle boaters and kayakers, but its expansive size means there are plenty of secluded spots to revel in. Sail down the creek, find a quiet area to dock your boat and prepare for a day filled with sun, swimming and spectacular scenery.   

Runaway Bay

Source: www.goldcoastaustralia.com   Once you’ve had your daily dose of nature, sail down to the coastal suburb of Runaway Bay. Here you’ll find a thriving cafe culture, colourful canals and shorelines dotted with restaurants, music venues and local breweries. If you need to buy souvenirs for friends and family back home, duck into one of the Runaway Bay Shopping Centre’s 120 shops.

South Stradbroke Island

Source: www.queensland.com   One of Australia’s rare sand islands, South Stradbroke Island is a slice of paradise located only 1-2 kilometres across the Broadwater. Anchor your boat off one of South Stradbroke Island’s white sandy beaches, strap on your snorkelling gear and jump into the clear waters below. You’ll be able to explore an ecosystem of colourful fish darting through the coral reefs and - if you’re lucky - you may even spot a sea turtle, dolphin or a dugong.

Peel Island

  Source: www.visitbrisbane.com   This heritage-listed island with a permanent population of 0 offers pristine beaches, calm swimming spots and plenty of lush picnic spots. If you enjoy snorkelling, then you must visit Platypus Bay’s historic shipwreck that attracts an impressive number of tropical fish and other marine life.

Coochiemudlo Island

​​ Source: www.weekendnotes.com   West of North Stradbroke Island is one of the most beautiful boat spots on the Gold Coast that draws yachts from all over Australia. No matter whether you’re an avid swimmer, fisher or kayaker, the clear waters surrounding Coochiemudle Island offer something for everyone. And, if your legs need some time on solid ground, there are plenty of cultural and natural sites on this charming island. Go for a round of golf at the island’s very own golf course, have a BBQ at a beachside picnic spot or watch for native birdlife at the Melaleuca Wetlands.

Marina Mirage

Source: www.marinamirage.com.au   If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, you can cruise down to the docks outside Marina Mirage - the Gold Coast’s luxury shopping mall. Even if you’re not a shopaholic, the harbour outside Marina Mirage is still a gorgeous place to enjoy on the deck of your boat. Slot in time to visit Marina Mirage in the evening and you’ll be treated to spectacular views of golden lights glittering on the water’s shadows.

Broadwater Parklands

Source: www.destinationgoldcoast.com   The Broadwater Parklands is a community park stretched right across the harbour, making it easily accessible by boat. Kids will appreciate the giant playground that houses a mini traffic track, a pedal monorail and a fantastic flying fox. In summer, the Parklands also open up an inflatable water park. Its obstacle course is perfect for anyone with astute balance skills or a desire to get soaked in the harbour.  

Wave Break Island

Source: www.weekendnotes.com   Wave Break Island was built in 1985 as a wildlife sanctuary - and its intention has definitely become a reality. The waters off this artificial island are home to one of the highest amounts of fish in the whole of Australia. This haven for wildlife is perfect for snorkelling, with manta rays and bottlenose dolphins often seen splashing about in its waters.

The Broadwater

Leave behind the hustle and bustle of the Gold Coast and sail out to The Broadwater, an estuary that sits between Stradbroke Island and the mainland. Dozens of yachts are scattered across the peaceful waters of this area, and it’s easy to see why. Enjoy the blue skies from the comfort of your boat and keep an eye out for the gentle dugongs that can often be seen foraging for vegetation just beneath the surface of the water.

Nerang River

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nerang_River    As the largest river system on the Gold Coast, Nerang River offers 62 kilometres of waters to explore by boat. A cruise down Nerang River will provide you with stunning views of the city skyline that eventually transform into lush bushlands the further island you sail. Home to a number of great catches, any fishing enthusiast planning to venture down Nerang River should definitely bring their rod and some bait.  

Planning a trip to the Gold Coast?

  There’s so much more to experience in the Gold Coast than just theme parks. This coastal city blends the quintessential Australian beach lifestyle with a dazzling nightlife and bustling cityscape.  Make the most out of your vacation to this coastal paradise with a luxury Gold Coast cruise experience that can take you to any of the city’s gems, including the destinations listed above. View our premium boats for hire on the Gold Coast and start planning the trip of a lifetime today.