Gold Coast: Kayak & Snorkel Tour to Wave Break Island

Summary

Kayak Broadwater’s calm waters then snorkel reefs near Surfers Paradise

You’ll paddle from Gold Coast’s city edge into calm Broadwater waters, guided by locals who know every current. Snorkel rocky reefs at Wave Break Island among colorful fish, then relax with snacks and drinks as you watch city towers shimmer across the bay. Expect laughter, salt on your skin, and maybe a new favorite view.

What’s the experience like?

I’d never actually paddled a kayak before this Gold Coast kayaking & snorkelling tour — honestly, I was a bit nervous about tipping over. But our guide, Tom, just grinned and handed me a dry bag for my phone (“Trust me, you’ll want photos”). We pushed off from the sand and right away the city faded behind us. The water was glassy that morning, except for the splashes from our paddles and these weird little pops — maybe fish? Or just my imagination running wild.

It only took about twenty minutes to reach Wave Break Island but it felt like we’d crossed into another world. There were a couple of pelicans eyeing us from the rocks. Tom pointed out how the colors change in the Broadwater — blue-green where it’s deep, almost gold over the sandbanks. He also told us stories about dolphins showing up sometimes (no luck for us that day, though I swear I saw something move out there). The air smelled salty-sweet and I kept getting distracted by sunlight flickering on the water.

Snorkeling was… honestly colder than I expected at first (they gave us wetsuits because it’s winter), but once I put my face in, I forgot everything else. There were these schools of tiny silver fish darting around and some bigger ones with bright stripes — one nibbled my finger when I tried to point it out to my friend. Afterward we sat on the rocks with snacks (Tim Tams and fruit) and hot tea. My hands were still shaking a bit from excitement or maybe just the cold, but looking back at Surfers Paradise across the water made me feel oddly peaceful. It’s funny how close everything is here but it feels far away when you’re floating like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and snorkel at Wave Break Island

• Travel 20 minutes from Surfers Paradise
• Paddle towards Wave Break Island
• Spot dolphins and stingrays
• Snorkel at Wave Break Island reef
• Relax with snacks and views
• Paddle back to departure point

Top questions

How long is the Gold Coast kayaking & snorkelling tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours from start to finish.

Do I need previous kayaking or snorkeling experience?

No experience is required; guides provide all instructions and equipment.

Is equipment included in the price?

Yes, all kayaking and snorkeling equipment is included, plus dry bags for valuables.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, snacks and bottled water are included; hot drinks are available in winter months.

Can children join this tour?

The minimum age is 4 years old; child-sized gear is available.

What wildlife might we see on this day trip?

You may spot dolphins, stingrays, pelicans, and subtropical fish around Wave Break Island.

Where does the tour depart from?

The departure point is about 20 minutes from Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transport options are nearby.

What’s included

Your morning includes all kayaking and snorkeling gear (with wetsuits if it’s chilly), snacks like fruit and Tim Tams plus bottled water or hot drinks in winter. You’ll get digital photos taken by your local guide along with use of dry bags for your valuables before returning to shore together at the end of your Gold Coast adventure.