As Gold Coast pontoon manufacturers, our primary focus is always to deliver top-quality pontoons for waterfront homes across South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales. However, we’re also very aware of our customer’s reasoning for wanting a pontoon and the water lifestyle that comes with it.
As such, today, we thought we’d turn our attention away from pontoons themselves and look at all the places you can explore with your boat.
If you’re a boat owner looking for new day trip destinations on the Gold Coast, you’ll love this list of 7 great spots to check out! Whether you’re looking for a serene and relaxing day on the water or an action-packed adventure, these destinations have something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your boat and get ready to explore!
Table of Contents
The Broadwater
If you’re a boat owner looking for a new day trip destination on the Gold Coast, The Broadwater should be high on your list. With its sheltered waters and abundance of beautiful scenery, it’s perfect for a relaxing day out on the water. The Broadwater is the stretch of water between Southport and Southern Moreton Bay.
Here are a few of the highlights you can expect to see:
- The Broadwater is home to several stunning beaches, including Wavebreak Island and many beaches on the inland side of South Stradbroke Island.
- There’s plenty of wildlife to be seen, including dolphins, sea turtles and if you’re lucky, dugongs
- The area is renowned for its excellent fishing, so make sure you bring your rods or crab pots along.
- Pelican Feeding Frenzy every Wednesday and Sunday, between 4 pm and 5 pm
- You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, so you can enjoy a bite to eat.
To get to The Broadwater by boat, take a journey along the Nerang River and across the Gold Coast Seaway and then you’ll find yourself in the Broadwater.
The Spit
The Spit is one of the most popular boating destinations on the Gold Coast, offering stunning scenery and plenty of attractions to keep boat owners entertained all day long. The Spit is the Northern section of the world-famous Gold Coast beach that extends north from Main Beach to Surfers Paradise and south to Coolangatta.
Here are a few of the highlights you can expect to see:
- The area is a popular location for picnics, fishing, boating, dog walking and relaxing
- The famous Seaworld Amusement Park
To get here by boat, take a trip along the Nerang River and cross over into the Gold Coast Broadwater where you will then be adjacent to The Spit. Or, if you’re coming from the south, take a journey along the Tweed River, head offshore at Tweed Bar and then pop back in at the Gold Coast Seaway..
Moreton Island
Moreton Island is one of the best places to take your boat if you’re looking for clear blue waters, golden beaches and plenty of wildlife to discover.
The island is only accessible by boat, barge or plane, making it a great destination for those who want to escape the coast and explore a more isolated area. It’s home to some beautiful National Parks with lush rainforests, stunning views, swimming lagoons and more.
Here are a few of the highlights you can expect to see:
- You’ll find plenty of secluded bays perfect for fishing
- The clear waters around Moreton Island are home to an array of different fish species, so bring your rods with you if you’re planning on doing some fishing.
- Here you’ll find wooden boardwalks and walking trails, perfect for taking in the natural beauty of Moreton Island.
- Take a trip to Tangalooma Island Resort, where you can enjoy dolphin watching tours and swim with wild dolphins. This is one of the Gold Coast’s most unique attractions and is definitely worth experiencing if you love animals!
To get to Moreton Island with your boat, you can travel the Broadwater north to the Jumpin Bar which is the bar between South and North Stradbroke Island. From here you will travel past the slipping sands and behind the back of Russell Island and into Moreton Bay.
Wave Break Island
Wave Break Island is a beautiful destination for boat owners looking for a new day trip boating destination on the Gold Coast.
Wave Break Island is located just off the coastline from Biggera Waters, nestled between The Spit and South Stradbroke island. As it is located within the Broadwater it has many sheltered bays for rafting up. It is a great spot for learner divers with many local operators heading to the wavebreak sea wall with eager divers.
Here are a few of the highlights you can expect to see:
- Calm, sheltered waters great for swimming with children
- You can also find some great fishing areas nearby or if you enjoy some water sports while you’re on your boat like Stand Up Paddle Boarding this spot is for you.
Wave Break Island is adjacent to the Gold Coast Seaway and quickly accessible from many of the local Gold Coast public boat ramps.
Couran Cove
If you’re looking for a new day trip boating destination on the Gold Coast, Couran Cove is another location definitely worth considering. Couran Cove Resort is located on South Stradbroke island just north of Coomera River, which means you’ll have some beautiful scenery to enjoy as you tuck into your picnic lunch.
The resort is only accessible by boat or helicopter, so if you want to escape the coast and enjoy a more secluded getaway, this is the perfect destination for you.
Couran Cove Island Resort offers luxury villas and apartments with spacious interiors and great views of Gold Coast Broadwater should you want to extend your day trip.
Here are a few of the highlights you can expect to see at Couran Cove:
- A luxury resort with stunning views
- Plenty of opportunities for fishing, snorkelling, kayaking and other water sports
- Great dining options
- Hiking trails and a natural sand beach to enjoy during your trip
Nerang River
The Nerang River is another destination that will make for a great day trip on your boat. Located not far from the Gold Coast Seaway, this busy river features many secluded areas to explore away from the larger riverside towns.
Many people enjoy fishing in this area due to its proximity to the ocean. And, some sections are only accessible by boat, so you can enjoy a little privacy.
Here are a few of the highlights you can expect to see on the Nerang River:
- Plenty of secluded spots away from busy town centres
- A great place for fishing and other water sports
- Plenty of wildlife to spot as you journey along the river
To get to the Nerang River on your boat, you’ll need to cruise from Southport along the Gold Coast Broadwater.
Sanctuary Cove
If you’re looking for a new day-trip boating destination on the Gold Coast, Sanctuary Cove is another location worth visiting. This beautiful gated community offers plenty of opportunities for fishing and other water sports, as well as some great dining options.
One of the best things about Sanctuary Cove is the stunning scenery you’ll enjoy as you cruise along the Gold Coast Broadwater. The community is located just north of the new Coomera River,
Sanctuary Cove also features plenty of luxurious accommodation options, perfect if you want to extend your day trip.
To get to Sanctuary Cove on your boat, take a journey from Southport along the Gold Coast Broadwater. You can go via Paradise Point or stay on the Broadwater and head up to the North Arm of the Coomera River
Conclusion
There are several great day-trip boating destinations on the Gold Coast that boat owners should consider. The Broadwater, for example, is just one place where you can enjoy some scenic views and have an opportunity to do water sports like fishing or kayaking. Other popular spots include Moreton Island, Wave Break Island, Couran Cove and Sanctuary Cove.
Each location offers something unique in terms of amenities and scenery, so it’s worth considering which destination might suit your needs best before setting out on a day trip.
Of course, if you have a pontoon dock, then remember the name Micks Marine Maintenance. Along with being pontoon manufacturers, we also specialise in the repair and maintenance of pontoons and jetties, so we can ensure your pontoon remains as loved as your boat.