Enter Gold Coast’s hinterland as Brody takes us on a day full of everything that Tamborine Mountain has to offer. From wild waterfalls to breathtaking sunsets; come and see Gold Coast’s best hinterland getaway.

 

We acknowledge that this adventure is located on the traditional Country of the Wangerriburra people who have occupied and cared for the lands, waters, and their inhabitants for thousands of years. We pay our respects to them as the Traditional Custodians and recognise that sovereignty was never ceded.

 

We’ve already unpacked the ultimate Gold Coast adventure itinerary, but what are these experiences really like? We sent our Explorers straight to the source to get a feel for Gold Coast’s magic first hand. 

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Quick Overview

Located in South East Queensland, Tamborine Mountain is one of Gold Coast’s greatest lush weekend getaways. Only 50 minutes (40km) from Gold Coast’s CBD, Tamborine Mountain has everything you can ask for and more. 

About Tamborine Mountain

Walk among the towering trees and listen to the songs of the exotic birds as you clear your head from everyday city life back home. 

Back in 2022 Tamborine Mountain took out the top spot ‘Tourist Town in 2022’ so you know there certainly won’t be a lack of activities. Stay the day or a few and you’ll leave saying, ‘We have to come back for sure!’. 

Read more: Remember to leave no trace

Tamborine Mountain History

A part of the Scenic Rim in South East Queensland, Tamborine Mountain was formed as a result of huge volcanic eruptions 20 to 23 million years ago, and is now known for its bright and distinctive rainforests. 

Tamborine Mountain was known by the Wangerriburra clan, the Traditional Owners of the region, as ‘wild lime’ in Yugambeh language thousands of years ago, referring to the mountain’s wild finger lime trees that populate the mountain’s lush subtropical rainforest that you still see today.

How to Get to Tamborine Mountain

First, and most importantly, you need to be in the Gold Coast! For Explorers that hail from other states, you’ll need to jump on a plane and head to Gold Coast Airport. 

Only 53km from Coolangatta, follow the Pacific Motorway until you reach exit 71 towards Nerang Broadbeach Road. From there, turn left along Gilston Road and continue straight through onto Mclaren Road. Turn left onto Beaudesert Nerang Rd following signs to Tamborine Mountain. Climb up the winding road of the mountain with breathtaking views and lush rainforest and you will have arrived at Tamborine Mountain!

 

Where to Stay at Tamborine Mountain

If you’re looking to stay at Tamborine Mountain then you’ll have no issue finding somewhere you love! Stay at a rustic cottage, a five star bed and breakfast, or camp under a thousand stars listening to the sounds of singing birds. Tamborine Mountain has countless places to rest your head after a day of adventuring. If you’re after a rustic cottage stay I suggest Witches Falls Cottages for quaint cottages nestled amongst the lush rainforest with a double spa bath, cosy fireplace, and only a short walk from town.

Where to Eat at Tamborine Mountain

With so many different places to eat throughout the hinterland it really does depend on what you’re into. There are plenty of cute and quirky cafes that fill the streets, and if you’re after a drink, then a vineyard or distillery might be more your style. 

We found ourselves ending up at the newest gin distillery in the region, Cauldron Distillery. Feeling parched we ordered a trio of gins to try and a board of dips. We discussed our love for the tasty Five-To-Five Sunset gin as we rocked out to acoustic cover songs performed by the Friday Guys. 

 

 

Other suggested places to eat and drink:

Skill Level

Beginner

Essential Gear

  • Swimmers
  • Towel
  • Camera
  • Lunch
  • Picnic rug
  • Water bottle
  • Walking shoes

What it’s Like to Visit Tamborine Mountain

Tamborine Mountain is a stunning little getaway that’s both bustling and calming at the same time. The people we met were all super lovely and chill, inviting us throughout all of their boutique stores, cafes, restaurants, and tourist marvels, like the German cuckoo clock nest and the Tamborine Mountain markets. I’ve been up to Tamborine Mountain a handful of times now and the place and people never fail to amaze me. 

 

 

Here are some of my favourite things to do!

 

Cedar Creek Falls

Distance: 1km return
Duration: 30 minutes

Cedar Creek Falls is a 1km return, grade one hike located one hour from Gold Coast’s CBD in Tamborine Mountain. Give yourself about 30 minutes to complete the walk down and back but a little longer if you’re keen on a refreshing dip.

Cedar Creek Falls is one waterfall to put high on your list of places to visit on the Gold Coast, as it’s relatively accessible from Tamborine Mountain, but feels like a world away.

 

 

Whether you’re bringing the family along or are just getting away by yourself, this waterfall delight is a tranquil and immersive place for a freshwater dip. Find your own secluded zone in one of the three levels of the falls. Then just sit and relax amongst nature, while listening to the birds chirp as you splash around – that’s how we spent the best part of the day!

It’s an extremely easy short walk down to the waterfall, however once at the water’s edge be careful, because of the rocks it can be slippery. This spot isn’t wheelchair friendly either and has very little to no phone reception so be prepared for that as well.

Cedar Creek Falls can get very busy sometimes and the car park is pretty small. I suggest either trying to get there early in the day, or if it’s busy when you arrive, drive 500 metres back up the road and go for a coffee and try again later.

 

Hang Gliders Lookout

Watch hang gliders take flight through the valley at sunset as you relax and crack a cold beer to cheers the spectacular day you’ve had!

Bring a picnic rug to the hang gliding take off, about 30 minutes before sunset to find a nice patch of grass and set up.

 

 

Then just sit back and take it in! You’ll find it does get cold quickly once that sun goes down behind the mountains on the horizon, so bring a jumper!

Hang Gliders Lookout is extremely accessible for anyone from any walk of life, so it’s a perfect spot to wind down and catch the sunset. On days with the correct weather conditions, hang gliders and paragliders take flight from here too. The lookout is located on the western side of the mountain, easily accessible via the Main Western Road with parking on both sides of the road.

 

Tips for Visiting Tamborine Mountain

A few things to note when coming to Tamborine Mountain: 

  • Although still a part of the Gold Coast, Tamborine Mountain is most of the time several degrees cooler due to its altitude, so it’s worth bringing a jumper just in case you find yourself in the shade
  • If you plan to stay the night, slow down and make a weekend of it!

 

FAQs Tamborine Mountain

Where is Tamborine Mountain located?

South East Queensland. 53km north of Coolangatta and 80km south of Brisbane CBD.

When is Tamborine Mountain open?

It’s open all year round. There is a population of 8,401 people who live on the mountain.

Do I need to book my visit to Tamborine Mountain?

No booking is required, just show up.

When is the best time of year to visit Tamborine Mountain?

Head up to Tamborine Mountain at any time of the year however take into account that it’s normally several degrees cooler in the shaded spots

How long should I spend at Tamborine Mountain?

I suggest trying to try and book 1-2 nights stay on the mountain.

Is Cedar Creek Falls good for beginners?

If you’re just getting into hiking, Cedar Creek Falls is a great, very rewarding hike to do.

Can you swim at Tamborine Mountain?

Yes you can swim at many spots on Tamborine Mountain e.g. Cedar Creek Falls, Witches Falls

Do you need a 4WD to get to Tamborine Mountain?

No, not at all. Tamborine Mountain is accessible to any vehicle such as motorbike or car.

 

Right now is the best time to escape the cold of the south and experience the magic of the Gold Coast for yourself. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to the warmth!