Tour Highlights
Guided Tastings
Sample craft beers, gins, whisky and seasonal releases with expert commentary at every stop.
Behind the Scenes
Go behind the bar and into the brewhouse. See how independent producers create their products.
Local Stories
Meet the makers and learn what inspires their recipes — from native botanicals to barrel-ageing.
Hassle-Free Transport
Relax and enjoy every tasting with return transfers available from Gold Coast accommodation.
Inside the Gold Coast Craft Drinks Scene
What to Expect on Your Brewery & Distillery Tour
The Gold Coast has emerged as one of South-East Queensland's most exciting craft drinks destinations, with a growing number of independent breweries and boutique distilleries scattered across coastal suburbs and hinterland pockets. This guided tour takes you straight to the source — bypassing the tourist traps and heading to the venues locals love most.
At each stop you'll be welcomed by the people who make the drinks. Expect guided walk-throughs of brewing and distilling equipment, explanations of ingredients and techniques, and generous tasting pours that showcase everything from hoppy pale ales and crisp lagers to native-botanical gins and barrel-aged whisky.
Your guide ties it all together with insights into flavour profiles, food pairings and the stories behind each producer — making the experience rewarding whether you're a craft beer devotee or just discovering what you like.
Sample Itinerary
Every tour day is a little different depending on venue availability and seasonal releases. Here's an idea of how a typical day unfolds:
Pick-Up & Welcome
Your guide collects you from your Gold Coast accommodation. Enjoy a short briefing on the day's venues and what to expect.
Brewery Visit 1 — Craft Beer Tastings
Arrive at the first craft brewery for a behind-the-scenes look at the brewhouse and a guided tasting flight of their core range and seasonal releases.
Brewery Visit 2 — Meet the Brewer
Head to a second brewery where the head brewer talks you through their process and philosophy. Sample small-batch and taproom-exclusive brews.
Distillery Visit — Spirits & Gin Tasting
Step into a boutique distillery for a guided tasting of gin, whisky or other spirits. Learn about botanicals, barrel selection and the art of small-batch distilling.
Optional Food Stop
Depending on the itinerary, enjoy a food stop or platter paired with local drinks (food at own expense unless stated).
Return Transfer
Relax on the drive back to your accommodation with a bag of bottles and new favourites to remember the day by.
Note: Venues and running order may vary. Your guide will confirm the final itinerary on the day.
What's Included
Included
- Expert local guide for the full tour
- Visits to 3–4 craft breweries and/or distilleries
- Guided tastings at each venue
- Behind-the-scenes access where available
- Return transport (when booked)
- Small-group experience
Not Included
- Full-size drinks or meals (available to purchase)
- Retail purchases (bottles, merchandise)
- Gratuities (optional)
"One of the best things we did on our Gold Coast holiday. Our guide clearly knew and loved the local craft scene — every venue was a standout. Can't wait to come back and do it again!"— Verified Cooee Tours guest
Good to Know Before You Go
Seasonal Craft Beer & Spirits Experiences
New & Limited Releases
Many venues drop seasonal or limited-edition brews and spirits, offering something fresh for return visitors.
Festival & Event Tours
Time your visit with beer festivals, tap takeovers or special tasting events throughout the year.
Hinterland Distillery Add-Ons
Some tours extend into the Gold Coast hinterland, combining scenic drives with distillery visits.
Why Tour with Cooee Tours?
Cooee Tours is a locally owned Australian tour operator with deep knowledge of the Gold Coast and its surrounding regions. We work directly with independent producers to ensure genuine, insider experiences that go beyond what you'd find walking in off the street.
Our guides are chosen for their passion for craft drinks and hospitality — they know the brewers, the backstories and the best pours. With small group sizes and flexible itineraries, every tour feels personal and unhurried.
Ready to Taste the Gold Coast?
Whether you're planning a day out with friends, a unique couples' experience or a group celebration, this brewery and distillery tour is a relaxed, social way to explore the Gold Coast's best craft drinks.
Enquire or Book NowFrequently Asked Questions
How long does the Brewery & Distillery Tour run?
Most tours run for approximately 4–5 hours, including travel time between venues.
What drinks are included in the tastings?
Tastings may include craft beer, gin, whisky or other spirits depending on the venues visited on the day. Tasting portions are included in the tour; full-size drinks can be purchased separately.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The experience is designed for all levels. Guides explain flavours, ingredients and production methods in a friendly, approachable way — no prior knowledge needed.
Is transport included?
Return transport from most Gold Coast accommodation can be arranged. Please enquire at booking for availability, pick-up locations and pricing.
How many breweries and distilleries do you visit?
Tours typically include 3–4 venue stops, which may be a mix of craft breweries, boutique distilleries and tasting rooms.
Can I buy bottles or merchandise to take home?
Yes. Most venues have retail areas where you can purchase bottles, cans, spirits and branded merchandise at your own expense.
Is food available during the tour?
Some venues offer food menus, share platters or bar snacks. Depending on the itinerary, a food stop may be included or recommended. Check when booking for details.
What is the minimum age?
Participants must be 18 years or older to take part in tastings, as required by Queensland liquor licensing laws.
What's the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure. Please refer to our full terms and conditions or contact us for details.
Can this tour be customised for private groups?
Yes. We offer private and tailored brewery tours for groups, corporate events and special occasions. See our private tour options or get in touch to discuss your requirements.