Southern Cross Tours

Southern Cross Tours takes visitors from the beaches into the Gold Coast hinterland, the mountain country of rainforest, waterfalls and lookouts inland from the coast. It is based on the corner of Cavill Avenue and Ferny Avenue in Surfers Paradise, is part of the Tours Group, and describes itself as eco-certified through Ecotourism Australia. It was named a gold winner at the 2026 Best of Queensland Experience awards from Tourism and Events Queensland.

The range covers the main hinterland highlights. The Natural Bridge and Springbrook Waterfalls Tour visits the World Heritage rainforest of Springbrook National Park, including the rock arch at Natural Bridge and waterfalls such as Purling Brook Falls. An evening glow worm tour heads into the rainforest after dark to see the glow worms, while a Lamington tour combines Lamington National Park and O'Reilly's with a vineyard visit. The Tastes of Tamborine Mountain tour covers the mountain's Gallery Walk and walks such as Curtis Falls, and there are also a Gold Coast day tour, a kangaroo and koala tour and customised private rainforest tours.

For travellers without a car, the convenience is a big part of the appeal. Pick-ups are offered from hotels and apartments between Broadbeach and Southport, with extra pick-up points for some tours and a map of locations in the FAQ section. Vehicles are air-conditioned, and car seats for children up to eight years old can be requested at booking, which makes the tours practical for families.

The company also highlights its cultural and environmental commitments. The Yugambeh Museum, Language and Heritage Research Centre has endorsed its efforts to share local Aboriginal cultural heritage respectfully, and since September 2023 it has planted 37 trees a month through a partnership with Reforest. Customers who want an operator that takes these issues seriously will find the details set out on its website.

The tours suit nature lovers, families, couples and anyone wanting to see the rainforest without driving the mountain roads themselves. Wear comfortable walking shoes for the rainforest tracks and book ahead, especially for the evening glow worm tour. The office is open from 8:30am to 5pm daily, and bookings can be made online, by phone or by email.