QLD > Destinations

Take your time getting to know the city on foot as you venture through the cosmopolitan valley and city centre. Queen street mall will keep shoppers and food lovers in check, while those with a passion for strolling gardens and parks will delight in the network of riverfront walkways, Botanic Gardens and Southbank Parklands.

For those who love the outdoors, get an up close and personal experience with the local wildlife at one of the local Zoo's, scale the Kangaroo Point cliffs, embark on a kayaking adventure, set sail on Moreton Bay and discover the tranquility of an island getaway, take a 4wd tour, an adventure trike tour or an eco tour. The activity list is brimming with choices.

Expect to be tempted by the highly diverse dining scene where al fresco dining is in keeping with Brisbane's easy going lifestyle and the fresh produce of this sub tropical climate influences the variety of cultures at the heart of this dynamic ambience. Whether it's noodle bars and cafes or internationally celebrated restaurants and hinterland vineyards, your taste buds will be tantalised.

Take a self guided drive and meander through the rural shires exploring the touring highlights of country towns, undulating hills, rainforests and mountains of the west. Venture to Caboolture in the north and the cities of Ipswich and Toowoomba to the west.

Brisbane region is overflowing with alternative possibilities for a holiday experience to suit every traveller who visits this rapidly growing region.

As you drive through the fields of rich sugar cane and small crops it is not difficult to understand why Bundaberg is at the centre of this iconic Aussie industry. Bundaberg Rum or Bundy as it is commonly known, has been created here for over 100 years and a visit would not be entirely wrapped up without a sip or two of this iconic beverage. The hinterland region will have you venturing into the rugged wilderness and challenging yourself with four wheel drive escapades and bushwalking adventures.

While along the coast you will uncover stretches of long beaches framed by national park to be explored, along with the islands and reefs of the unspoilt Southern Great Barrier Reef. Lose yourself in the memories of childhood holidays in seaside villages, when life meant finding the perfect shell, swimming all day and slurping ice cream and experience it all over again in this beautiful region.

For those whose maxim is barefoot luxury, your search ends here with the breathtaking islands of Lady Elliott and Lady Musgrave where simplicity is the order of the day and will have you leaving the outside world behind.

Witness the largest mainland concentration of turtles in the South Pacific region at Mon Repos as you marvel at the annual turtle nesting and hatching. The stunning coastal and hinterland regions will tempt you to return to this lovely region.

The Capricorn region also plays host to the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef where you can arrive via a short ferry ride from the mainland. Just another one of Queensland's magical regions intertwined with bush and beach discoveries where you will be captivated by natures outstanding attractions.

Meander down Quay st in Rockhampton, the longest National Trust Heritage street in Australia, appreciating the monumental heritage buildings including the sandstone and copper domed Customs House. Just 35 mins north east of the city is the Capricorn Coast, with 13 long stretches of sandy coastline from Yeppoon to Emu Park. Head south of Yeppoon and jump on a ferry to Great Keppel Island, boasting 28 kms of stunning beach or inland to view the incredible Aboriginal rock art paintings in Carnarvon National Park.

Step out for an impressive view at one of the lookouts in Blackdown Tableland National Park with its sandstone plateau and breathtaking Rainbow Falls. Remember to fossick in the Sapphire Gemfields and visit the former gold mining town of Mount Morgan for a tour of the open cut mine which includes the mind blowing dinosaur footprints in the neighbouring limestone caves.

The Capricorn region offers something for everyone with its diverse natural beauty just waiting to be explored and discovered all over again and again.

This region is jam-packed with exciting adventures with a beach for everyone to enjoy, whether it's family fun or wild four wheel driving or simply watch the world go by and immerse yourself into the relaxed lifestyle of the local communities.

Explore the delights of rare and wonderful wildlife at the Ramsar site in the Great Sandy Strait, hook yourself some fish for dinner in the protected waters or search for the amazing resident dugongs, turtles and dolphins. Situated on the Mary river is the town that was Brisbane's rival as the state capital, Maryborough, well known for its impressive heritage and architecture, reflecting the character of the city in these beautifully maintained traditional buildings.

Hervey Bay is Australia's whale watching capital and is framed by an amazing 40 kilometres of exquisite beaches, conveniently providing visitors with access to Fraser Island and Lady Elliot Island right at your fingertips. Fraser Island is the world's largest sand island and at 124 kms in length it has been given World Heritage standing due to its rare and wonderful natural treasures.

Touring the rural towns of Kilkivan, Goomeri and Wondai, the cellar doors along the regions wine trail and the village atop the Bunya Mountains National Park for some holiday driving highlights. The Fraser coast is a playground for nature enthusiasts and water lovers enjoying year round attractions.

The diversity of landscapes adorning the Gladstone region establishes this area as the perfect solution to please everyone in the family, whether your preference is strolling through an evergreen forest, reconnecting with the wonder of wildlife, basking in the sun on a pure white sandy beach, snorkelling, fishing or diving.

The town of Gladstone is located between Rockhampton and Bundaberg, with the beautiful beach communities of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands situated to the south. For a relaxed beach holiday the communities of Boyne and Tannum Sands are a popular choice for visitors with a penchant for fishing and many other marine activities. The charming country town of Benaraby is a popular stop for travellers and is the gateway to the city of Gladstone.

Gladstone provides the launch point from which adventure seekers commence their exploration of the coral cays of Heron Island, where you will discover the wonder of Green Turtles in their nesting ground. Heron island offers some of the the very best snorkelling and diving on the Great Barrier reef, where you can plunge into pristine water and discover the inhabitants of an amazing under water world.

A visit to the Gladstone region is not complete without taking in the Discovery Coast including the Town of Seventeen Seventy and Agnes Water with 7 km of stunning coastline linking them together. Treat yourself to an unforgettable first class, day trip cruise out to the massive coral lagoons of Fitzroy Reef and Lady Musgrave Island. The idyllic position of these two towns creates an invigorating atmosphere that explains why this particular area is believed to be the ideal patch of turf and sand of the Great Barrier Reef.

The vibrating hub of the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise, has been attracting visitors from across the globe where adventure seekers flock to this alluring holiday destination where you can't resist the temptation of embracing the sun kissed lifestyle. With activities bursting at the seams attractions, entertainment, dining, shopping and nightlife you will be assured that a good time will be had by all.

If you desire a quieter location then head to one of the neighbouring areas of Miami, Mermaid beach, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, Currumbin, Tugun or Palm Beach where you can still enjoy the thrum of activity without being in the centre of it. Even quieter locations are available with a selection of luxury resorts with their own beach or waterfront settings.

Retreat inland for a moment of blissful solitude to explore the World Heritage listed Central Eastern Rainforest Reserves of Mount Tamborine and Lamington National Park. Offshore awaits South Stradbroke Island and Couran Cove where you can immerse yourself in the sheer pleasure of knowing that nature will have you sinking into a world of total relaxation and well being.

Celebrate pushing your boundaries with a non stop great time in sassy Surfers or retreat to the hinterland for an awakening of the mind, body and soul. The Gold Coast region has it all and will lure you back time and time again.

The mainland is adorned with adventure and activities in a year round tropical climate perfect for taking in vistas, soaking up culture, lazing on beaches and tempting taste buds.

Positioned on a fertile coast mainly dedicated to sugar cane growing, Mackay is Tropical Queensland's centre for the sugar industry. This spirited city with its palm tree bordered streetscapes with art deco buildings, botanical gardens and marina are highlights. Situated on a coastline of 31 beaches it won't be hard to find a little bit of splendid seclusion when the need is apparent.

Fancy a bit of fun and frivolity in the forest? Throw caution to the wind, be a dare devil and glide along on the latest fad in eco-tourism with Forest Flying. If you prefer to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground choose between a 10 minute stroll or a two day hike in a more conventional way by taking part in one of many walks through Finch Hatton Gorge or Eungella National Park. Either way, the wildlife will be in their home waiting to be discovered.

For maritime adventurers grab your goggles and snorkel and splash out in the unspoilt waters or get the very best view of the coast from a yacht as you sail the Coral Sea. Mackay prides itself as being one of the very best regions for leisure fishing on the east coast of Australia, with endless options no matter what your preferred variety of fishing.

The city of Townsville plays host to idyllic surroundings with sandy beaches, rainforest, reef with the bonus of big city convenience. A major drawcard for this tropical city is the picturesque Magnetic Island just 8 kilometres off the coast of Townsville. The Island is affectionately referred to as 'Maggie' by locals and boasts 23 pristine beaches and bays lovingly maintained in this spectacular environment by the flourishing community that reside on the island itself. The Strand is a very popular playground for residents and holiday makers, back on the mainland, where on any given day at any given time you will encounter sun lovers basking in the glorious sunshine along the sandy stretch or at the famous Rock pool enclosure. Visitors will be satisfied with the abundance of attractions, shopping, dining, museums and markets galore.

Discover North Queensland's unique heritage, culture and lifestyle as you mix it up with the locals and grab hold of the experience of a lifetime. Pack your adventurous spirit and stay the night in a haunted hotel room in Ravenswood or nature lovers will thrive, exploring the Tyto wetlands in Hinchinbrook or simply visit the closest mainland point to the Great Barrier Reef at Mission Beach. If fishing is your preferred leisure activity then you are in luck, with eager anglers converging on the abundant waters surrounding the city to participate in the bounty.

Whether you decide to try your luck at panning for gold at Charters Towers or take a ride on the wild side with a scenic flight or skydive over tropical islands and the breathtaking waters, maybe even strap on your walking shoes and tackle the trek up Castle Hill where you will be rewarded with impressive 360 degree views. The options are endless in North Queensland where your tropical discovery will have you coming back for more.

In the South West, an extraordinary transformation has materialised, after a considerable amount of rain, and restored the landscape by filling creek beds and lakes and breathing life back into the terrain. Treat yourself to a star studded evening at the observatory in Charleville, visit the iconic Burke and Wills Dig Tree on Cooper Creek, the furthest town from the ocean in Australia at Eromanga and the Lake Bindegolly National Park.

Queensland's Far West Outback is one of the most remote and challenging environments you will encounter and is also one of the most spectacular. Drop into the famous Birdsville Pub for a beer, visit the incredible Lake Eyre Basin after one of the wettest years on record where the Diamantina and Georgina rivers flow through the land directing seasonal floodwaters toward this amazing landmark.

At the geographical heart of Queensland is the Central West region with an abundance of natural attractions, legends of the outback, world class museums, breathtaking landscapes and the opportunity to learn of our cultural heritage that has shaped our nation. Hunt for dinosaur bones in Winton and make your way to Lark Quarry and the Australian Age of Dinosaurs for undisputed proof of these prehistoric animals on Australian soil.

The North West is home to rich fossil sites, diverse Australian landscapes, stunning sunsets and serene National Parks. Walk in the footsteps of crocodile Dundee at the Walkabout Creek Hotel in McKinlay, Australia's own Little Grand Canyon in the Porcupine Gorge National Park, fishing at Lake Moondarra north of Mount Isa and Chinaman creek dam in Cloncurry.

For a fantastic addition to any holiday plans, the Queensland Outback will leave a lasting impression for those who spend some time exploring the landscape and immersing themselves in the unique day to day activities of life on the land where all roads lead to unexpected adventures.

Spoil yourself and curl up in a cosy B&B on a frosty winters morning, explore the Girraween National Park where the wildflowers in spring burst to life in a myriad of colours, eat your way along the Granite Belt Nude Food Trail for a foodie extravagance like no other and discover the regions stunning, cool mountain vistas and waterfalls.

Visit the 'Rose and Rodeo City' of Warwick and stroll the spacious streets as you check out some of the state's exquisite genuine sandstone buildings. Excite your tastebuds in Stanthorpe, Queensland's leading wine region, with award winning wineries and excellent growing conditions also produce a range of fresh fruit and vegetables available from handy road side stalls as you shop in the crisp, open air.

Whatever your pleasure, you will be sure to encounter it in the Southern Downs and leave feeling reinvigorated with fond memories and a bottle of wine or two.

Stop and smell the roses in Toowoomba, Queenslands Garden City, with more than 150 public gardens and manicured parks on display. Spring in the city comes alive with a tapestry of vibrant colour during the celebration of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, all just 90 minutes from Brisbane. Toowoomba looks out over the coastal lowlands with waterfalls, walking tracks and a rich welcoming atmosphere.

Celebrate all four seasons as you warm yourself against the winter chill in front of a blazing fire with a glass of red and stand in awe at the wildflowers in spring. Sample delicious red apples, wander through rows of grape vines in summer and marvel at the mellow tones of autumn leaves falling. Mountain views and stunning sunsets are just a taste of the Southern West where wineries and welcomes go hand in hand.

The Bunya Mountains National Park should be on the list for gold fossicking and ancient rainforest exploration along with discovering precious bargains in antique shops of a bygone era that will be treasured forever. The wonderful residents who decide to call these towns their home make the experience real with their relaxed lifestyle and special warm hospitality, that can not be mirrored. The Southern West is unique and not to be missed but it is the people that make the difference giving the region its remarkable spirit.

Only an hours drive north of Brisbane the popular holiday destination of the Sunshine Coast begins with the main beach area of Caloundra where you will sink into the golden sands and start to feel reconnected immediately. The most difficult decision to make will be what to do next, surfing in the unspoilt waters of a great beach or fishing at Pumicestone Passage.

Heading north is a succession of holiday spots from peaceful locations to bustling resort towns where the main centres are Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Coolum and Noosa Heads. Chill out in a beachside cafe, take your time over a long lunch or indulge in the gourmet delights prepared by accomplished chefs.

Prepare yourself for a dramatic launch into the Sunshine Coast with the remarkable formation of the Glass House Mountains as you delve into the picturesque towns of Maleny, Montville and Mapleton. Explore hinterland art galleries, refresh with organic produce at farmers markets, visit pineapple plantations, sugar and ginger crops, take a wild 4wd adventure on an untamed beach or simply lie back and recharge.

Cairns is the major holiday centre of this region, situated on the shores of Trinity Inlet, offering world class hotels, dining, entertainment and shopping. Cairns provides a base for the exploration of this life changing region with a massive range of day cruises heading out to the stunning reef or coral cays and a multitude of other action packed activities. Eat and drink your way through the Highlands along the food and wine trail exploring towns and villages in the tablelands. Tour coffee plantations, galleries, crater lakes and wineries.

Whether it's a short drive, a wild adventure or a rainforest to reef escapade, discover a touring experience like no other on the Great Tropical Drive taking yourself on one of life's magical journeys. Visit the stylish resort haven of Palm Cove and take one of Australia's great drives along the undeveloped coast to the former fishing village and now charismatic town of Port Douglas. This world class touring loop stretches from the south of Townsville, up to Cairns and north of Cooktown with major inroads leading to the west and into the outback and lush hinterland.

A string of beachside holiday villages, stunning islands that trace the coast, luminous rainforest, the spectacular reef and ideal touring country in the Highlands, adventure seekers will not be in short supply of options. From happy campers to kings of comfort you get to take home a visually spectacular supply of postcard memories.

The sheltered waters of the Great Barrier Reef offers perfect conditions for sailing, whether you decide on a day trip or assemble the crew for a nautical adventure and sleep under a blanket of stars. Dive into the exhilarating waters and meet the fabulous creatures that inhabit this dynamic wonder of the world. Treat that special someone to an indulgent scenic flight, landing on a deserted beach for a gourmet picnic. Splendid isolation doesn't get much better than this.

Dig your toes into the pure white sands of Whitehaven Beach on the largest and most spectacular of all the islands, Whitsunday Island. Most of the islands are uninhabited and protected from being developed as part of the Marine National Park. There are seven resort islands to be tempted by with some seriously fantastic restaurants, accommodation and entertainment.

There is a treasure trove of good times to be discovered by everyone as these magical islands flaunt themselves in the tropical sun and then when the gold starts to set........well you'll just have to go and find out for yourself.