Gold Coast Kayaking Tours for the Whole Family
The Gold Coast Broadwater is one big natural playground, calm, sheltered water dotted with sandy islands, dolphins and turtles, and it's perfect for families to explore by kayak. Every tour below is beginner friendly, uses stable sit on top kayaks, and comes with all the gear you need. Here's how to get the whole crew out on the water.
Broadwater Dolphin Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour
The Broadwater Dolphin Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour is a 2 hour paddle across the tranquil Broadwater to a snorkelling hotspot off Wave Break Island, with friendly guides on hand for first timers, dolphins and turtles often spotted along the way, and hundreds of sub tropical fish waiting below the surface. Kids aged 6 and up can join the fun.
Gold Coast Morning Dolphin Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour
The Morning Dolphin Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour runs for around 3.5 hours and pairs a gentle paddle with a light continental breakfast on the beach at Wave Break Island, followed by snorkelling with sub tropical fish and turtles. Open to kids aged 5 and up, it's a relaxed way to start the day on the water as a family.
Gold Coast Wave Break Island Quick Escape Kayaking Tour
The Quick Escape Kayaking Tour is the shorter option at 2.5 hours, paddling out to Wave Break Island for a bush walk, a snorkel over the rocky reef and a snack and drink in the sun before heading back. Children as young as 4 can take part alongside an adult, making this a great first kayaking trip for younger kids.
Gold Coast South Stradbroke Kayaking Tour
The South Stradbroke Kayaking Tour takes families further afield on a 4.5 hour adventure across the Broadwater and out to South Stradbroke Island, spotting dolphins, turtles and rays along the way, with a included lunch to refuel before the paddle back, a great choice for families wanting a longer day out on the water.
Frequently asked questions
What age can kids go on a Gold Coast kayaking tour?
It varies by tour, with children as young as 4 able to join the Quick Escape Tour alongside an adult, and ages 5 and 6 and up for the other kayaking and snorkelling tours.
Do we need kayaking experience to join these tours?
No, all tours are designed for complete beginners, with stable sit on top kayaks, a safety briefing and guides on hand throughout the paddle.
Is snorkelling included on these kayaking tours?
Yes, the Broadwater, Morning Dolphin and Quick Escape tours all include a snorkelling stop at Wave Break Island, with mask and snorkel gear provided.
Will we definitely see dolphins?
Dolphins, turtles and stingrays are regularly spotted in the Broadwater, though as with any wildlife encounter sightings can't be guaranteed on every tour.
What should we bring on a Gold Coast kayaking tour?
Swimwear worn under your clothes, a towel, sunscreen, a hat and footwear that can get wet, the kayaks, life jackets and snorkel gear are all provided.
Local tip: book a morning tour for the calmest water and the best chance of spotting dolphins before the afternoon breeze picks up across the Broadwater.
Sort your family's Gold Coast kayaking tour above, a quick 2.5 hour escape to Wave Break Island, a 2 to 3.5 hour dolphin and snorkelling adventure, or a full 4.5 hour journey out to South Stradbroke Island. All good days are waiting.
