SURF, SAILING, 4WD DRIVING AND MORE …
Think of Australia and you’re very likely to imagine sun drenched beaches, awesome surf and that little thing called the Great Barrier Reef. Queensland sums up some of the best of Australia. From it’s balmy year round climate to the spectacular scenery and laid back vibe.
The state is big and diverse, and depending on where you choose to go you can have hugely different experiences. Nature nerd? Far north Queensland is for you with the Great Barrier Reef just offshore and the ancient Daintree Rainforest on land to name just two breathtaking wildlife havens you can’t miss. Prefer to catch some of the best surf in the world? The Gold Coast has you covered with its epic surf breaks. But if it’s a vibrant city vibe you’re after then look no further than Queensland’s sunny capital, Brisbane. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to top class restaurants, music and art.
The sun is always shining (ok, not always but we all need some shade now and again) and the temperature is balmy all year round. So, where should you head?
Top 10 Places to Visit in Queensland
The Whitsunday Islands
This stunning collection of 74 islands just offshore from North Queensland, next to the Great Barrier Reef, will make every Robinson Crusoe desert island dream come true. With pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters and location above one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, the Whitsundays are a top Queensland sight. The best way to experience this island paradise is to spend a few days sailing from island to island. Here some tours:Â
Summertime Sail – Whitsundays QLD
Prosail Sailing Tour – Whitsundays QLD
Kiana Sail and Dive – Airlie Beach QLD
K’gari Fraser Island
We might be biased with this one but coming in at a very close second is K’gari Fraser Island, home to wild dingos and lots more besides. Camp under the stars, hike and explore ancient forest, float down Eli Creek and swim in the crystal clear waters of one of the island’s many natural lakes. You can do it all in a single day on K’gari. K’gari is the largest sand island in the world and the best place in Australia to experience the thrill of driving down a 75 mile beach highway with the waves by your side. A must visit place in Queensland.
Our own run tour on K’gari (Fraser Island)
Or our Haven on K’gari, an adult only beach house for the quite getaway.
Noosa
This gorgeous little town adds a touch of glamour to North Queensland and is a popular spot to spend some down time. Shop in the sweet boutiques or take a coastal hike between the area’s beaches by day, then dine on delicious local food in one of the many restaurants that line famous Hasting Street. The Noosa Everglades are a popular kayaking area too. Want to do it all, look here for our Noosa Drop In Package.
Cape Tribulation
Up in far North Queensland is the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage sites meet. The Daintree rainforest is the oldest in the world, and the Great Barrier Reef just offshore speaks for itself.Â
Magnetic Island
Wild koalas, usually snoozing in a tree, are easy to spot on this stunning island. Check out forts and forests and beaches on one of the many hiking trails that are found on the island. An easy hop from Townsville.
Brisbane
Sun drenched “Brissie” is the place to get your city fix. Vibrant but relaxed, and chock full of awesome nightlife and cultural spots such as the Gallery of Modern Art, hit up Brisbane if you’re after the buzz of the city.Â
Glass House Mountains
An easy day trip from Brisbane are the Glass House Mountains, located in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland area. Take your pick of 11 peaks and lots more hiking trails, including the most popular which takes hikers to the top of Mount Ngungun, the Glass House Mountains are a must for budding mountaineers (or anyone who loves a good walk).
Undara Lava Tubes
Unbelievable experience walking through caves carved out by a volcanic eruption more than 190,000 years ago. Undara Volcanic National Park is a top sight and an easy day trip from Cairns. How many people can say they’ve walked through a lava tube?
Lady Elliot Island
The most southerly island on the Great Barrier Reef is also one of the most beautiful. The diving here is world class and you’re likely to spot turtles and manta rays amongst many others. It’s also an excellent example of eco-tourism done right.
Rainbow Beach
Last but definitely not least, Rainbow Beach is a must see Queensland sight. This stunning beach is made up of dunes and unique colourful sands and is also a hopping off point for K’gari Fraser Island, our number 2 must see in Queensland. It’s a winner all round.
seasons
Queensland isn’t called the Sunshine State for nothing. Sub-tropical and almost always humid, you will never be cold but you could be faced with some pretty torrential rainstorms depending on when you visit Queensland. The most rain and humidity appears in summer, between October and May, with drier less humid weather in the winter months, between June and October. There tends to be more rain and higher temperatures year round, the further north you travel. Cyclones can also affect the northern area of Queensland between November and April. If you want the best weather, make a plan to visit Queensland during the winter months.
culture
Queensland has a reputation for being tropical, welcoming and very laid back. And its rightly deserved. Queenslanders love to be out there in nature enjoying everything from fishing to hiking, surfing and sharing a few beers on one of the hundreds of stunning beaches that line the coastline. If you need some serious chill time, you must visit Queensland.
top tip
Queensland has nearly half of Australia’s 11 World Natural Heritage areas and one of the Wonders of the World, the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors and a lot of time in the company of mozzies and other biting insects. Our top tip? Bring your mozzie spray and cover up!