5 Must-Try Food Tours In Gold Coast

The Gold Coast isn’t just famous for its sun, surf, and sand — it’s also a fantastic destination for food lovers who want to combine great eats with memorable views. Whether you’re cruising on sparkling waters, tasting local wines, or enjoying a hearty breakfast at sunrise, Gold Coast offers a variety of tours that show off its culinary delights and scenic beauty. We especially love the Sunset Sailing Cruise for its intimate setting and breathtaking views at sunset, and the Midday Sailing Cruise for a relaxing break in the middle of your day. Both combine sailing with tasty bites and the chance to spot dolphins and seabirds — a perfect mix of adventure and indulgence.

If you’re interested in pairing fine wines with a picnic, the Sirromet Winery experience offers a premium wine tasting alongside a carefully curated picnic in beautiful Mt Cotton. For a hearty start to your day, the Breakfast Sailing Cruise combines a delicious breakfast with a scenic cruise, perfect for early risers. All these tours provide a chance to enjoy Gold Coast’s stunning waterways while sampling the region’s best food and drink. Below is a detailed look at each option to help you choose the perfect experience.

1. Gold Coast: Sunset Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks

At number 1, the Sunset Sailing Cruise offers a magical two-hour sail on a luxury 38-foot yacht. This tour stands out because of its intimate size — limited to just 10 guests — which creates a cozy and personal atmosphere. Starting at Seaworld Drive Boat Ramp, you’ll set sail on the Gold Coast Broadwater, witnessing the sunset over the Hinterland as dolphins often join the cruise, splashing around and mesmerizing everyone onboard.

The highlight is watching the sun dip below the horizon while nibbling on a delicious snack plate and sipping drinks. The crew keeps things simple but memorable, focusing on the serenity of sailing and the natural beauty of the waterways. Friendly and attentive, the guides are eager to share local insights, making this a great choice for couples or small groups wanting a romantic or peaceful escape. Weather permitting, the dolphin sightings during the cruise add a playful touch. Keep in mind that this tour is limited in size, so booking early ensures you secure a spot. It’s perfect for those craving a quiet, scenic wind-down at day’s end.

Bottom Line: An elegant, intimate cruise ideal for sunset lovers, with a relaxed vibe and stunning views. A fantastic choice for couples or those celebrating a special occasion.

2. Gold Coast: Midday Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks

At number 2, the Midday Sailing Cruise hits the sweet spot for a relaxing break during your busy day. This tour takes place on a 38-foot yacht, starting from the same convenient Seaworld Drive Boat Ramp, and runs for two hours. What makes it special is the timing — sailing during the midday hours when the sunlight is bright and the waters are lively.

During this cruise, you’ll pass iconic spots like SPIT, Wavebreak Island, and South Stradbroke Island, all while enjoying a light meal and drinks on deck. Watching the scenery from the water provides a fresh perspective, and dolphin sightings are common, adding a playful element. The small group size ensures personalized attention and plenty of photo opportunities. The crew is attentive but unobtrusive, letting you unwind and take in the sights as seabirds and eagles soar overhead.

Guests love the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to disconnect from the noise of daily life. Since the cruise is short and intimate, it’s perfect for visitors short on time but eager to experience the waterways in style. Just bring sunscreen, a hat, and a sense of adventure.

Bottom Line: An ideal midday retreat offering scenic views, dolphin spotting, and a taste of the Gold Coast’s aquatic charm — good for anyone needing a quick but luxurious escape.

3. A Petit Pairing Sirromet Winery Food and Wine Matching

Coming in at number 3, the A Petit Pairing at Sirromet Winery combines wine tasting with a scenic picnic. Located on a sprawling 560-acre estate on Mt Cotton, Sirromet is renowned for its high-quality wines and picturesque vineyard sites. The tour begins with a guided wine tasting, where you’ll sample some of the region’s best vintages, guided by an expert who shares insights into the winemaking process.

After the tasting, you select a bottle of wine to accompany a curated picnic box. The team then helps you find a cozy spot with blankets, pillows, and a table, perfect for relaxing while soaking up the views of rolling vineyards. This experience is ideal for those interested in pairing gourmet wine with delicious local produce. The “food and wine matching” aspect makes it stand out, giving you a true taste of the region’s culinary craftsmanship.

Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the chance to learn about wine pairing in a beautiful outdoor setting. The experience lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick but rewarding activity. It’s especially suited for wine lovers or anyone wanting a calm, scenic outing. Keep in mind, the cost is about $35.14 per person, which offers excellent value for a personalized wine picnic.

Bottom Line: A charming, relaxed way to enjoy Queensland’s wines and scenery — perfect for a quick indulgence or a romantic outing.

4. Gold Coast: Afternoon Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks

At number 4, the Afternoon Sailing Cruise offers a peaceful two-hour escape on a luxury 38-foot yacht. Starting from Seaworld Drive Boat Ramp, this tour runs during the late afternoon, providing a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the changing light over the water. The itinerary bundles sightseeing, dolphin watching, and marine life viewing, with plenty of scenic moments as you cruise along the Broadwater.

The crew handles all the sailing, so you can sit back and savor a snack plate along with your choice of sparkling wine or beer. The experience emphasizes tranquility, making it ideal for those who want to relax without the fuss of a large group. During the cruise, you’ll pass by popular spots like Wavebreak Island and South Stradbroke Island. The small group size — limited to 10 people — ensures personalized service.

This tour is perfect for an intimate, leisurely afternoon, especially if you enjoy being on the water and spotting wildlife. It’s a flexible option for couples or small groups wanting a laid-back experience with beautiful views.

Bottom Line: A serene, intimate cruise that wraps up the day nicely, with opportunities for dolphin spotting and scenic photography — great for quiet reflection.

5. Gold Coast: Breakfast Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks

Rounding out our list at number 5, the Breakfast Sailing Cruise combines a hearty morning meal with a scenic cruise along the Broadwater. For $79 per person, you’ll start your day on a 38-foot yacht, enjoying a breakfast plate with croissants and fruit, all while taking in the peaceful water and skyline views.

This tour is perfect for early risers who want to combine delicious food with a relaxing sail. The small group size makes it easy to enjoy intimate conversation and personalized service. As you cruise, you’ll feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, making it a delightful way to kick off the day. The crew handles all the sailing, so you just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Guests describe it as a calm, enjoyable experience that offers an authentic taste of the Gold Coast’s waterways with the added bonus of a tasty breakfast. It’s well-suited for couples, families, or anyone looking to start their day in a relaxed, scenic setting.

Bottom Line: Excellent for breakfast lovers and early risers, this tour turns a simple meal into a memorable morning on the water.

How to Choose

When deciding among these tours, consider your budget, preferred time of day, and whether you want a quick snack or a full picnic experience. If you’re seeking a romantic sunset, the Sunset Sailing Cruise is hard to beat. For a mid-morning or afternoon escape, the Midday or Afternoon Cruise offers relaxed scenery and dolphin watching. Wine enthusiasts may prefer the Sirromet Winery picnic, while morning-oriented travelers might enjoy the Breakfast Cruise.

Keep in mind that all sailing tours are small groups, so booking early ensures a spot, especially during peak season. Think about your preferred activity — whether it’s a scenic sunset, a lively midday sail, or a wine picnic — and match that with your schedule.

Final Thoughts

Gold Coast offers a surprisingly diverse range of food-focused experiences on the water. For couples wanting romance, the sunset cruise is a top pick. Families or groups seeking a relaxed midday break might enjoy the midday sailing, while wine lovers will appreciate the winery picnic. The breakfast cruise adds a delightful start to the day, combining good food with stunning scenery.

No matter your choice, these tours provide a wonderful way to combine Gold Coast’s scenic waterways with delicious local flavors. To secure your spot and make the most of your trip, consider booking early — these experiences fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Whether you’re after a peaceful sunset sail or a hearty breakfast on the water, Gold Coast’s food tours promise memorable moments and tasty discoveries.