Just 30 minutes from the Gold Coast, this lush hinterland region offers panoramic vistas, rainforested national parks and chic new hotel offerings. Here are the best things to do in Tamborine Mountain.
An hour south-west of Brisbane/Meanjin and a mere 30 minutes from the hot and heaving Gold Coast, Tamborine Mountain is a very literal breath of fresh air. A volcanic by-product of erosion following the formation of Wollumbin (Mount Warning) in the Tweed some 20 million years ago, this rainforested region is hemmed by Lamington National Park and Tamborine National Park. Within the latter you’ll find Queensland’s first designated national park, Witches Falls, gazetted back in 1908.
These days, the many walking trails and hikes, some featuring falls or glow worms, continue to draw day-trippers and mini breakers alike. Off-track, you may notice a schism in the suburbs here. At the Eagle Heights end, the tourist-trapping Gallery Walk is a strip of cafes with jolly chef statues advertising all-day pancakes, folksy craft stores, fudge shops and, confoundingly, the German Cuckoo Clock Nest shop that has somehow remained solvent for more than 30 years.
But elsewhere in Tamborine Mountain, a new style of tourism is taking root, complete with chic eateries, architectural stays and deliberate style anchored by real substance. Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Tamborine Mountain.
Where to stay in Tamborine Mountain
The Tamborine comes with a heated mineral pool.
The pad is clad in
earthy tones.
And replete with mountainous views.
A gleaming white beacon, The Tamborine boutique hotel is an extraordinarily well-executed reimagining of its former ’70s-era self. Its restoration beautifully honours the original hacienda style of the building, while coaxing it into a more modern fit-out. But the real jaw-drop comes from the astonishing ridgeline view that can be absorbed from each of the 23 rooms. The soothing, minimal spaces keep the spotlight outside, but are perfectly elegant places to unwind when you’re not out and about or dipping into the heated mineral pool.
The best things to do in Tamborine Mountain
1. SOL Elements
SOL Elements offers a soothing respite. (Credit: Timothy Birch)
Seemingly submerged in a reed-fringed pond, it’s impossible not to connect to your serene self at this soul soothing bathhouse. A circular design of treatment rooms, flotation caves and private bathing suites leads out to SOL Elements’ pond-adjacent bathhouse with mineral pools and an ‘earth lab’, where you can lather up with infused salt rubs. A sunken firepit has you eye-level with the water as ducks glide by and you exhale with a cup of herbal tea post-massage.
2. Loborn
Head to the tasting bar on Main Street for a tipple.
A fan of negronis and the artful backstory of the classic Italian amaro, a robotics engineer decided to distil his own components of the cocktail using Australian botanicals. The result is Loborn’s range of amaro, vermouth and gin, each inspired by Tamborine Mountain and carefully crafted to be assembled in unison or sipped solo. Head to the tasting bar on Main Street on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to try these well-made tipples and chat about how amaro went from monks’ tonic to modern aperitivo.
3. Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
Soak high above lush rainforest canopy. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland/Jesse Lindemann)
The region is famed for its lush verdant greenery, so naturally a visit to the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is one of the top things to do in Tamborine Mountain. The 1.5-kilometre experience blends forest floor, high-tech steel bridges and a 40-metre cantilever bridge allowing guests to stroll high among the tree canopy. A stop-in at the onsite eco gallery and cafe round out the experience.
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4. Potta Studio
Potta Studio is part of the sustainable North Stores precinct. (Credit: Sabine Bannard)
If you found yourself admiring the ceramics at The Tamborine, head to Potta Studio in the North Stores precinct on Main Street. Potter Andrew Moir shapes covetable organic forms you’ll find hard to leave in store. You can also join a workshop to create your own masterpiece.
5. Main St. Provedore Eatery & Espresso
Indulge in plated elegance. (Credit: Sabine Bannard)
Led by fine-dining chef Brenden Schutz, Main St. Provedore Eatery & Espresso is a quiet but applaudably high achiever. By day, pastries, good coffee and properly enjoyable sandwiches are on rotation at this petite diner, but come Friday and Saturday nights, 16 guests are treated to a five-course degustation of plated elegance. The menu is seasonal and may run in the vein of blackberries with stracciatella, squid ink risotto and black licorice ice cream with charcoal cake. It’s $125 very well spent.
6. Peddly Picnics
Let Peddly Picnics supply both the wheels and the meals.
Take to the mountain on an e-bike, but let Peddly Picnics supply both the wheels and the meals. Picking up your ride from Main Street, head to the Knoll Section in Tamborine National Park with a picnic of delicious gourmet accoutrements. You can even hire a carrier to take your doggo along – just make sure they’re allowed in the park.
7. Witches Falls Winery & Boxer Brewing Co
Witches Falls Winery is one of Queensland’s largest wine producers.
Sample wines at the barn-style cellar door. (Credit: @hausfrau)
Unwind in the beer garden at Boxer Brewing Co.
Tamborine Mountain has a collection of wineries and distilleries to tempt oenophiles, adding yet another layer to this mini break must-do. Among them is the pretty Witches Falls Winery, which happens to be one of Queensland’s largest wine producers. All wines are made onsite using minimal-intervention techniques and you can visit the barn-style cellar door to sample the output every day from 10am. If you’re more into hops than grapes, head next door to The Kennel, where you’ll find Boxer Brewing Co.
8. Curtis Falls Rainforest Walk
Cool off at Curtis Falls. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland)
This family-friendly eucalypt trail figures among the best things to do in Tamborine Mountain for very good reason. Expect to feel transported to an Avatar-esque realm as you meander beneath looming flooded gums and staghorn ferns, listen out for birdlife and spot basking turtles or glow-worms. The one-kilometre, Grade 3 walk leads to the namesake waterfall that may be a thunderous torrent or smooth flowing curtain, depending on recent rainfall.
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9. Saint Marthe Brasserie
Swing by Saint Marthe Brasserie to indulge in confit duck.
Perhaps you don’t expect a cosy French brasserie to be tucked into the Gold Coast hinterland, but here you will find a very excellent one. Wining and dining come apéritif hour, Saint Marthe rolls out the Gallic hits. Swing by after a hike for a fortifying cocktail and grazing plate or book for dinner to indulge in confit duck, steak frites and soufflé. The hospitality is welcoming, the setting effortless and without pretension, and letting the afternoon slip away as you sit outside is a worthy allocation of time.
10. Tamborine Cheese
Some of the best things to do in Tamborine Mountain involve kicking back and scoping out the impressively fresh produce, and Tamborine Cheese is no exception. Pop in to this Italian-owned deli for warm customer service and dairy delights spanning truffle burrata and authentic Italian ricotta to smoked scamorza.
11. Tamborine Mountain Gelato Co
Find comfort in familiar flavours of gelato.
While there are plenty of ice creameries along Gallery Walk, you’d do better to head to Main Street for your sweet uptick. At Tamborine Mountain Gelato Co the bright hues of the confections are secreted under stainless-steel pozzetti lids, but you don’t need to see them to know these flavours are next-level. Concocted by pastry chef Bec Leitner, expect flavours such as rosella and lime, salted caramel pretzel and caramel slice. All additions to the gelato, such as cookies and cakes, are made in-house.
12. Thunderbird Park
Embark on a treetop challenge at Thunderbird Park.
Welcome to Thunderbird Park, a choose-your-own-adventure destination packed with thrilling activities that make a visit among the best things to do in Tamborine Mountain for families. Perhaps you’d like to zoom above the forest canopy on a zipline; take on the TreeTop Challenge; meet adorable animals; or pan for crystals or fossick for Thundereggs.
13. Gallery Walk
Shop for a range of collectables along Tamborine Mountain’s famed Gallery Walk. (Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland/Jesse Lindemann)
More than 60 art, craft and nick-knack shops are found along Tamborine Mountain’s famed Gallery Walk, where tourists love to wander with little purpose but to be charmed and amused by the range of collectables and curiosities. Don’t miss Mumma Duck’s Sweets & Treats for chewy fudge or Charlie & Me for boutique gifts.
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Working for many of Australia’s top publications, Lara Picone has had the distinct pleasure of writing, editing and curating content about the finer things in life for more than 15 years. Graduating from Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, her editorial foundation began at Qantas: The Australian Way magazine, before moving on to learn the fast-paced ropes of a weekly magazine at Sunday Magazine and picking up the art of brand curation at donna hay magazine. Pivoting a near-problematic travel lust into a career move by combining it with storytelling and a curious appetite, her next role was as Deputy Editor of SBS Feast magazine and later Online Editor of SBS Food online. She then stepped into her dream job as Editor of Australian Traveller before becoming Online Editor for both International Traveller and Australian Traveller. Now as a freelancer, Lara always has her passport at-the-ready to take flight on assignment for the Australian Traveller team, as well as for publications such as Qantas Magazine, Escape and The Weekend Australian. As ever, her appetite is the first thing she packs.
Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.
Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.
Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.
Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.
Getting there, and around
Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.
The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.
Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).
Where to stay
Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)
Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.
Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.
Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.
Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.
The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.
For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.
Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.
Where to eat
Sit down to a feast at coca chu.
Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.
Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.
Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.
Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.
For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.
Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).
Where to explore
Explore the island’s walking trails.
There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.
One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).
For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.
Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.
Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.
Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.
Where to play
Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.
Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.
Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.
Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.
More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.
Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.
