Gold Coast Full Day Brewery Tour

Trying to decide whether a brewery tour is worth your time while visiting Brisbane or the Gold Coast? Based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, the Gold Coast Full Day Brewery Tour from Hop On Brewery Tours promises a fun, educational, and tasty experience. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out — and what you should consider before booking — so you can decide if it fits your travel style.

What we love about this experience is its comprehensive approach: visiting four diverse and renowned breweries, chatting with passionate brewers, sampling a wide range of beers, and enjoying a hearty included lunch. Plus, stress-free round-trip transportation makes it accessible whether you’re coming from the Gold Coast or Brisbane. One aspect to keep in mind is the group size; with a maximum of 18 people, it maintains an intimate vibe but does require booking well in advance, often around 2 months ahead.

This tour is perfect for craft beer lovers, curious travelers eager to learn more about brewing, or groups looking for a relaxed, social day out. If you’re after a deeper dive into the local beer scene without worrying about logistics, this guided experience offers great value and plenty of authentic moments.

Good To Know

• Expert-guided experience with knowledgeable guides sharing insider info.
• Visit four diverse breweries, each offering unique styles and stories.
• All-inclusive: beer tastings, a generous lunch, and hassle-free transportation.
• Ideal for groups up to 18 people, ensuring a friendly, social atmosphere.
• Offers behind-the-scenes insights from brewers themselves.
• Designed to suit most travelers aged 18 and over, with flexible pickup points.

An Introduction to the Tour

The Gold Coast Full Day Brewery Tour is a solid pick for anyone wanting to explore the craft beer scene without the hassle of driving or navigating unfamiliar territories. The tour lasts approximately six hours, starting around noon, with round-trip transfers included, so you can focus on the fun part — tasting and learning. From the moment the tour kicks off, you’ll notice how the experience emphasizes education as much as enjoyment, making it suitable for both beer aficionados and casual drinkers.

What makes this tour appealing is the opportunity to chat directly with brewers at each stop. You’ll learn about what goes into each brew, hear the stories behind the brands, and get answers to your burning questions. Plus, the inclusion of a hearty lunch ensures you stay energized through a day filled with sampling.

One aspect that came through strongly in reviews is the knowledgeable guides — especially Matt Farrell and others — who keep the conversation lively and informative. Expect a mix of fun anecdotes, professional insights, and plenty of opportunities to ask about brewing techniques or even suggest your favorite styles.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited to adults 18 and over who appreciate a good beer and enjoy learning about it. It’s ideal for groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed but engaging day out. If you’re staying on the Gold Coast or in Brisbane, the included transfers make this experience accessible without the stress of planning transport. It’s also a fantastic way to spend a leisure day with friends, family, or fellow beer lovers.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

First Stop: Lost Palms Brewing Company

Starting your day at the Lost Palms Brewing Company in Miami gives you a warm welcome into the world of craft brewing. This microbrewery is known for producing fresh, flavorful beers that you can sample in a relaxed setting. Reviewers noted that the beers were “great on the palate for all of our team,” highlighting the diverse options available.

Most Fridays, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch here, which is a real bonus for sustaining your energy. The lunch is described as “most Fridays,” indicating some variation, but generally, it’s a filling meal designed to complement the beers. The first stop sets the tone for the day — casual, friendly, and full of flavor.

Second Stop: Black Hops Brewery

Next, you’ll visit the award-winning Black Hops Brewery, a highlight for many. It’s here that you get to peek behind the scenes and perhaps even meet the founders. The brewery’s story is inspiring, and you’ll likely hear about their journey to craft excellence during your behind-the-scenes tour.

Reviewers rave about the expert knowledge of guides, with comments like “Matt Farrelly is the man,” and praise for the “straight-talking Aussie style.” The beers here are often described as “fabulous,” ranging from ales to stouts, with some adventurous options like ginger beer. The chance to see the brewing process firsthand makes this stop particularly valuable for those interested in the craftsmanship behind the beer.

Third Stop: Balter Brewing Company

The third stop is Balter Brewing, based in Currumbin. Known for international acclaim, this brewery produces some of Australia’s most popular beers. As you sip on your cold brews, you might also catch a surfer or two — the Gold Coast’s signature lifestyle woven into the experience.

Guests frequently mention how the brewery’s success is well-earned, with one saying, “this brewery is pumping out some of Australia’s most popular beer,” and that the experience offers a perfect blend of local culture and beer excellence. Expect to sample a variety of styles, with some reviewers noting the “huge selection” that appeals to all tastes.

Fourth Stop: Burleigh Brewing Company

The final brewery is Burleigh Brewing, a local favorite known for innovative, craft-style beers. Here, you get to try six different beers — a generous tasting opportunity. Reviewers describe Burleigh Brewing as “always creating new, unique beers,” which makes it a fitting finale.

This stop also provides a chance to relax and reflect on the day, often with some stunning views or a lively, upbeat atmosphere. The brewery’s reputation for top-quality brews and inventive flavors makes this an engaging end to your tour.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Tasting Variety and Quality

Reviewers consistently mentioned the large selection of beers, from craft ales to stouts and ginger beers. The tour’s emphasis on fresh, local brews ensures a genuine taste of the Gold Coast’s craft scene. Many praised the quality of the beer and the opportunity to taste six different beers at Burleigh, providing excellent value for the price.

Behind-the-Scenes Access

Unlike many casual tastings, this tour offers exclusive behind-the-scenes insights at Black Hops, where you can learn about the brewing process directly from the founders. This kind of access deepens your understanding and appreciation for the craft.

Knowledgeable Guides

The reviews highlight guides like Matt Farrell, who is described as “knowledgeable,” “entertaining,” and “down to earth.” Their stories and tips add significant value, making the tour both educational and fun.

Hassle-Free Transportation

The inclusion of round-trip transfers from designated meeting points removes the stress of parking or navigating public transport. From the Gold Coast or Brisbane, the convenience is a clear advantage, especially after a few beers.

Hearty Lunch Included

A substantial lunch serves as a perfect fuel-up during the first brewery stop, ensuring you’re well-fed without feeling overly full or sluggish. It’s a thoughtful touch that reviewers appreciated.

Practical Details: Duration, Group Size, and Cost

This 6-hour tour strikes a good balance between being comprehensive without feeling rushed. The group size is capped at 18 travelers, fostering a friendly, intimate environment where everyone can chat comfortably with guides and brewers alike.

At $149.90 per person, the tour provides a decent value considering the included tastings, lunch, transport, and expert insights. For craft beer enthusiasts, this is an excellent way to sample a broad range of high-quality local brews without the hassle of organizing multiple visits independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, round-trip transfers from designated meeting points are part of the package, making it easy to focus on enjoying the day.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age is 18, and you’ll need to bring photo ID to verify your age.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are advised, especially since some breweries may have areas requiring safety footwear or casual attire.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

What if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the focus is on beer, some guests with dietary restrictions or preferences might find the tour less suitable. However, the experience is primarily aimed at beer lovers.

How many beers are sampled?
At four breweries, you’ll enjoy a generous range of tastings — including six at Burleigh Brewing — ensuring you get a good variety to try.

What is included in the lunch?
The lunch is hearty and designed to line your stomach for more tastings, but specific menu items are not detailed here.

Is the tour suitable for non-locals?
Absolutely. Whether you’re from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, or traveling from elsewhere, the inclusive transport and engaging guides make it accessible.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best for adults of legal drinking age who appreciate a good craft beer and enjoy learning about its production. It’s particularly suited for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed, sociable day out. If you’re curious about local breweries, want behind-the-scenes access, and enjoy tasting a variety of beers, this experience provides solid value and memorable moments.

Travelers who prefer a structured, guided experience over DIY brewery-hopping will find this tour both convenient and enriching. It’s also perfect if you’re staying on the Gold Coast or in Brisbane and want a well-organized, hassle-free way to explore the craft beer scene.

Final Reflection

The Gold Coast Full Day Brewery Tour offers an appealing blend of tastings, education, and local culture. With expert guides, exclusive brewery access, and a carefully curated route, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for craft beer while enjoying the stunning surroundings of the Gold Coast.

The inclusion of transportation, lunch, and a manageable group size makes this tour particularly good value for those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed experience. Whether you’re a dedicated beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun social outing, this tour hits many marks.

While it’s not a cheap experience, the quality of the breweries visited, the insights gained, and the enjoyable atmosphere contribute to its strong reputation. If craft beer is your thing or you’re simply curious about Australia’s thriving brewing scene, this tour can be a highlight of your trip.

In short, this tour is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to explore the Gold Coast’s craft beer with expert guidance, without the stress of planning or driving. Perfect for groups, beer lovers, and those keen to learn more about local brewing heroes.