Gold Coast isn’t just about surf and sun; it’s also a lively spot for drinking tours that showcase Australia’s craft spirits and innovative bars. While some tours focus on behind-the-scenes tastings, others offer a full-day experience exploring local breweries and distilleries, often with VIP treatment. We particularly like the Craft Distillery and Brewery Tour for its intimate setting and high-quality spirits, and the Gold Coast and Craft Brewery VIP Tour from Brisbane for its comprehensive, luxury experience that combines art, beaches, and distilleries. For a fun, Instagram-worthy stop, the Mirror Bar offers a playful, photogenic environment with premium cocktails and reflective surfaces. Whether you’re after a laid-back tasting or an all-day adventure, these tours deliver a slice of Queensland’s spirited side.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights three distinct drinking experiences to suit different tastes and schedules. First, a short, focused distillery tour perfect for those who want a quick taste of award-winning spirits. Next, a full-day VIP experience that combines art, beaches, and distillery visits for those who want to explore more of what Gold Coast and nearby areas have to offer. Lastly, a quirky, selfie-friendly bar for those looking for a fun night out with eye-catching design and premium cocktails. Now, let’s dive into what makes each of these tours special.
1. Craft Distillery and Brewery Tour on Gold Coast
This 1.5-hour experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at Granddad Jack’s, a renowned craft distillery on the Gold Coast. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a cocktail and taken on a guided tour that reveals the secrets behind their award-winning gin, whiskey, vodka, and liqueurs. A key highlight here is the spirits tasting, where you sample a variety of high-quality products, including some exclusive small-batch releases, while munching on light nibbles.
Tour guide Kelly, with her 25 years of experience, shares fascinating insights into the science and artistry of distilling, making this more than just a tasting—it’s an educational experience. The intimate setting and personalized service make it ideal for spirits enthusiasts or those curious about how their favorite drinks are made. The tour’s cost of $82.48 offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of spirits and the friendly atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, relaxed experience that balances education and tasting, especially if you’re in the mood for a high-quality, small-group distillery visit.
2. Gold Coast and Craft Brewery VIP Tour from Brisbane
This 9-hour luxury tour takes you from Brisbane into the Gold Coast with a comfortable vehicle and a detailed itinerary. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a full day of exploration, combining art, beaches, and local spirits. The tour kicks off with a choice of pick-up locations, including Brisbane Airport or the Brisbane Cruise Terminal, and includes stops at HOTA Gallery and Surfers Paradise to soak up some local culture and scenery.
The highlight is a visit to the Beenleigh Rum Distillery, which boasts a 170-year legacy, and a tour of Perentie Brewing Co. for unique craft beers and spirits. The tour also features a lunch at Charis Seafoods, free time at Surfers Paradise, and a visit to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. A special treat is the Distillery Road Market, where you can browse local produce and spirits.
The combination of luxury transport, multiple stops, and diverse experiences makes this tour highly appealing for those who want an all-encompassing day out. It’s priced for its length and inclusions but offers excellent value for travelers seeking variety and comfort. Travelers say it’s a “stress-free way to explore the Gold Coast’s best sights and sips.”
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, guided day full of tastings, sightseeing, and local culture, this tour is tough to beat.
3. Mirror Bar
For something completely different, check out the Mirror Bar, a 45-minute experience that’s more about fun and photos than a deep dive into spirits. Everything in this world-first mirror installation is made of mirrors—including the bar and the kaleidoscope room—making it an ideal spot for Instagram selfies and memorable photos. The bar offers a selection of premium cocktails that you can sip while surrounded by reflective surfaces that create mesmerizing visual effects.
While it’s not a traditional drinking tour, the Mirror Bar is perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a night out that’s playful and visually stunning. Being kid-friendly adds to its appeal for those traveling with children or seeking a relaxed, lighthearted experience. The short duration makes it an easy add-on or a quick stop after a day exploring the Gold Coast.
Bottom Line: A must-visit for anyone wanting a unique, photo-worthy bar experience with premium drinks in a playful setting.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after a quick introduction to craft spirits, the Craft Distillery and Brewery Tour delivers quality without taking up your whole day. For a full-day, luxury experience that combines sightseeing and tastings, the Gold Coast and Craft Brewery VIP Tour from Brisbane is a great choice, especially if you enjoy art and beaches along the way. If fun, quirky photos, and creative cocktails appeal more, the Mirror Bar offers an offbeat experience that’s perfect for a casual evening.
Booking early is advisable for popular tours, especially the full-day VIP option, which fills up fast during peak season. Think about your schedule—whether you want a quick taste or a full-day adventure—and pick the tour that best suits your travel style.
Final Thoughts
Gold Coast offers a surprising variety of drinking tours—from intimate spirits tastings to luxury sightseeing days and playful bar experiences. If you’re looking for a short, focused distillery visit, the Craft Distillery and Brewery Tour hits the mark. For those wanting a comprehensive day of exploration, the Gold Coast and Craft Brewery VIP Tour offers a well-rounded experience with excellent value. And if you’re after a fun, selfie-focused outing, the Mirror Bar will not disappoint.
Whatever your style, these tours showcase the Gold Coast’s dynamic drinking scene and help turn a good trip into a memorable one. Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, and enjoy discovering some of Australia’s best spirits and bars.