Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon with 5 Star Champagne Buffet Breakfast

If you’re eyeing a truly special way to see the Gold Coast, this hot air balloon adventure might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally floated in the sky with this specific experience, reviews and details reveal a clear picture of what to expect—beautiful scenery, a touch of luxury, and a morning that promises both serenity and excitement.

What we love about this tour: the breathtaking aerial views of beaches and hinterlands, the easy pickup from your hotel, and the deluxe breakfast with champagne. However, a few considerations include the cost, which might seem steep for some, and the dependence on weather conditions—as with all ballooning experiences. This tour suits travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty, comfort, and memorable photos, especially those who appreciate a well-organized, luxe start to their day.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of both the Gold Coast beaches and Hinterlands from a peaceful altitude
• Hassle-free pickup from select hotels streamlines the experience
• A one-hour balloon flight offers enough time for awe-inspiring photography and relaxation
• Champagne buffet breakfast with a hotel setting adds a touch of elegance
• Weather-dependent activity, with options for full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions
• Group size capped at 48 ensures a more intimate experience

An Overview of the Experience: From Sunrise to Breakfast

This tour promises a calming yet exhilarating journey over the Gold Coast, beginning before dawn. The initial gathering at The Star Gold Coast Casino sets the tone—everyone is eager and anticipation hangs in the air. The crew’s role in transporting guests to the launch site, ideally timed for sunrise, ensures that you catch the city waking up and see the coast bathed in early light.

The hot air balloon flight itself lasts around an hour, during which you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of white sand beaches, shimmering waterways, and the iconic Surfers Paradise skyline. Reviewers highlight the quality of the pilot’s guidance, with one noting a “great pilot” who made the flight both relaxing and visually stunning. The group remains small enough for good conversation but large enough for a lively atmosphere—most tours cap at 48 guests, maintaining a sense of intimacy.

The Highlights of the Flight

The aerial views are the real star here. From the balloon, you get an unmatched perspective of the coastal beauty, including the surf beaches renowned worldwide, and the lush hinterlands stretching inland. One reviewer described the experience as “peaceful and stunning,” emphasizing the calmness of floating gently over the landscape.

You can expect the pilot to navigate smoothly, giving you plenty of opportunities for photos. A common tip from past guests is to bring a camera with a good zoom, as the views are worth capturing from every angle. Several reviewers mentioned the experience of drifting quietly at sunrise as a highlight, a perfect way to start a day filled with adventure or relaxation.

The Hassle-Free Pickup & Convenience

One of the top benefits noted in reviews is the included hotel pickup. This removes the stress of arranging transportation, especially early in the morning. Most pickups occur from centrally located hotels, making the experience accessible for many travelers. After the flight, you’ll be transported back to the Mercure resort for your champagne buffet breakfast—a delightful reward that combines indulgence with the comfort of a renowned hotel setting.

The breakfast features a variety of options, with some reviews specifically praising the champagne and the excellent quality of the buffet. This isn’t just a quick bite; it’s a proper start to your day, offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can reflect on the sky-high views.

Price & Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $246.76 per person, this experience isn’t the cheapest. However, the value hinges on what you’re after: spectacular visuals, a memorable experience, and a touch of luxury. Reviewers like Caixia_H described the hot air balloon as “a definite must-go,” emphasizing that it’s “the best time to relax and gather thoughts,” and noting the good booking process and friendly staff.

The inclusions—hotel pickup, a scenic flight, and a champagne buffet—compose a package that balances comfort and adventure. For many, the pictures and memories alone justify the expense, especially when it’s viewed as a once-in-a-lifetime moment or a special celebration.

Weather & Cancellation Policies

As with all balloon rides, excellent weather is crucial. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable. The good news is that if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’ll be offered a rescheduling or full refund. Past guests appreciated the transparent cancellation policy, with some noting that cancellations due to weather didn’t detract from their overall positive impression.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: The Star Gold Coast Casino

Your day kicks off with a gathering here, where the crew will organize transport to the launch site. This is a convenient starting point, especially for those already staying in the area. The brief waiting period is often a chance to mingle and get excited, with some reviews mentioning the friendly and helpful staff.

Stop 2: The Hot Air Balloon Flight

Rising early, you’ll ascend into the sky for around 60 minutes, drifting over the coast and hinterlands. The pilot’s experience and calm guidance are frequently praised, with many noting the peaceful serenity of floating at sunrise. The views are described as “amazing,” with some reviewers mentioning the incredible photo opportunities.

Stop 3: The Buffet Breakfast

Post-landing, you’ll be driven back to the Mercure resort for a buffet breakfast, including champagne. Many describe this as a luxurious and satisfying end to the morning, with some reviewers highlighting the excellent quality of the food and drinks. It’s a great chance to unwind and share photos and stories from the flight.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest, Soumya_M, noted that the “crew helped every step of the way and were very caring,” especially for guests who struggled with activities like snorkeling or scuba diving. It highlights the attentive service that can make the experience more comfortable.

Another reviewer, Chris M, appreciated that the whole trip was “well organized and safe,” even when weather conditions weren’t perfect. The early start can be challenging, but most agree it’s worth the effort for the views.

A common theme is the peacefulness of the flight—several guests described it as “great,” “stunning,” and “a perfect time to relax,” emphasizing the meditative quality of floating above such a beautiful landscape.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is clearly aimed at those who value scenic beauty over adrenaline, and who want a luxurious, peaceful start to their day. It’s ideal for romantic couples, special occasion celebrants, or anyone wanting a unique perspective on the Gold Coast. The included breakfast and hotel pickup appeal to travelers seeking convenience and comfort.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 3 or pregnant women over 12 weeks, reflecting safety considerations. If weather is a concern or if your budget is tight, you might want to consider alternatives, but for most, this tour promises a memorable, high-quality experience.

This hot air balloon and champagne breakfast combination offers a rare chance to see the Gold Coast from an extraordinary vantage point. The stunning views, thoughtful organization, and luxury breakfast make it a memorable indulgence—perfect for marking a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a peaceful morning in the sky.

While the cost might be a barrier for some, many travelers find that the experience’s beauty and exclusivity justify the expense. The small group size, expert pilot guidance, and smooth logistics mean you’re in good hands from takeoff to breakfast.

If you’re seeking a calm, scenic, and upscale way to explore the Gold Coast, this hot air balloon tour delivers on every promise, offering not only breathtaking views but also a touch of elegance and relaxation.

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hassle-free pickup is included from select hotels, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the hot air balloon flight last?
The flight itself lasts approximately one hour, providing ample time for sightseeing and photos.

What should I wear for the flight?
Comfortable clothing suitable for early morning temperatures is recommended, with layers in case it’s chilly. No specific gear is needed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor conditions are possible. If this happens, you’ll be offered a full refund or rescheduling.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 3 are unable to join, and pregnant women over 12 weeks should avoid flying for safety reasons.

What’s included after the flight?
After landing, you’ll be transported back to the Mercure resort for a buffet breakfast with champagne, offering a relaxing end to your morning adventure.

This hot air balloon experience combines breathtaking scenery, luxury, and ease of access, making it a standout choice for those wanting to see the Gold Coast from a whole new perspective.