Where to find glow worms on the Gold Coast

Find out where you can find these fascinating glowing creatures that reside on the Gold Coast.

Glow worms are almost like mystical creatures that can be found by driving just out of the Gold Coast.

The best spot to see the remarkable glow worms is in the Glow Worms Caves in Tamborine Mountain or Natural Bridge in Springbrook. Natural Bridge is also a very fascinating waterfall and worth checking out for the waterfall alone!

Find out more about glow worms and the best ways to see them throughout the year.

What are glow worms?

Glow worms are actually fly larvae that glow in the dark, hence where they get their name from! The glow helps them attract small inspect for them to catch.

Across Australia, there are eight glow worm species, with the Gold Coast having the Arachnocampa flava species.

Glow worms are typically found inside caves where it is dark and wet. In Queensland, they are also found by waterfalls, including Natural Bridge, which is almost like a cave.

How can I see the glow worms?

You can see the glow worms for free at Natural Bridge, you will just need to do a short walk to reach the bridge. If you want to have a better chance to see the glow worms, you will have to book a tour at the Glow Worm Caves. It is recommended that you book a tour early to get the time slot you want.

There are tours available throughout the day for the glow worm caves or experience an evening tour and see them at Natural Bridge.

When is it the best time to see them?

All year round and all day and night are the best time to see them! The glow worms are found inside caves in Mount Tamborine, so you can still see them easily even during the day!

How can I get to the Glow Worm Caves or Natural Bridge?

To reach the Glow Worm Caves, it is recommended to drive there by car. The drive from Gold Coast is 50 minutes and you can hire a car for a day if you need one.

If you want to see the glow worms at Natural Bridge, it is about a 50 minute drive from Gold Coast. Again, you can hire a car or book an evening glow worm tour and get picked up from different locations in the city.

How are you wanting to see these fascinating creatures? Explore the Glow Worm Caves or check to see if you can find them at Natural Bridge where the breathtaking waterfall lies!

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.