Day Tripping in Currumbin Valley

A day trip to Currumbin Valley, the hidden jewel in the Gold Coast Hinterland, is the quintessential country drive, and one of those trips where the journey is as exciting as the destination.

Heading out on Currumbin Creek Rd from Currumbin Beach, in less than 10 minutes, you'll experience a 'Through the Looking Glass' moment as the beautiful beaches of Currumbin and the canals of Currumbin Waters give way to rolling green countryside. Take the time to explore and you'll find waterfalls, bubbling streams, rock pools, grazing kangaroos, rustic cafes, markets and stunning luxury retreats. 

There are so many stops that you'll want to make along the way and one of these is the famous Currumbin Rock Pools - an iconic beauty spot that for decades has been a drawcard for swimmers and day trippers. The stunning rock formation and cool, clear waters are the perfect spot for a picnic or a dip before driving on.

Cougal Cascades are another highlight of any visit to the Currumbin Valley - in the far inland reaches of the valley is this picture perfect rainforest waterfall which is reached via an easy, short, creek-side trail. The path takes you along the bubbling, crystal clear waters of Currumbin Creek, past more swimming holes and the remains of an historic logging mill. 

Part of the fun is simply driving along the winding country road that is Currumbin Creek Rd, breathing in the fresh air and taking in the sights. Hemmed by creeks and streams on each side, the road passes by fields of grazing horses and groves of lush rainforest and rolling green hills dotted with barns, farms and rambling estates.

A couple of farms along the way are open to the public on weekends to buy produce, including Currumbin Valley Harvest, a biodynamic farm where you'll find premium grade fruit, vegetables, herbs and organic coffee plus a cafe overlooking the lush green hills. There's also Freeman's Organic Farm (a family farm since 1915) providing fresh seasonal produce including avocados, paw paws, custard apples, mangoes and award-winning bananas. On weekends and Mondays, you can also enjoy a coffee and delicious snacks at the cafe at Arthur Freeman Lookout. Take a seat on the lawn, bask in the sun and drink in the rich views of the valley below.

Currumbin Valley is also known for The Ecovillage at Currumbin, an international award-winning sustainable community set on 270 acres, just 7 minutes' drive from Currumbin Beach. Hundreds of native animals share the site with residents, including some 65 kangaroos, some of whom can be regularly seen grazing by the roadside. Visitors are welcome to visit the eco village's Pasture and Co cafe, the perfect place for a leisurely brunch made from fresh, local ingredients.

Hidden away on the road back to Currumbin beach, just past Currumbin Waters, is Balter Brewing, a local secret that makes for the perfect end to a day in the Valley. Don't be deceived by the plain unassuming exterior of this popular Gold Coast craft brewery, for inside you'll find a funky warehouse style space adorned with street art and filled with locals who come here for the excellent food and premise-brewed beer.