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21 best short breaks in Queensland

From island escapes to hinterland getaways, you’ll never be stuck for ideas with our hot list of 2o top short breaks to Queensland.

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Go four-wheel driving on Fraser Island

Purchase your vehicle permit online, pack the esky, towels and insect repellent and head off to the eco-wonderland that is Fraser Island to help celebrate over 25 years of World Heritage status. This stunning island is affectionately known as ‘k’gari’ (paradise) by the local Butchulla people , and with 123km of natural beauty, it’s not hard to see why. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Book a forest chalet in Ravensbourne

Perched on the edge of the Great Dividing Range and just 35 minutes from Brisbane, the rolling hills of Ravensbourne are filled with bushwalking tracks, mountain bike trails, country pubs and antique stores. Take the scenic drive through the winding Esk-Hampton road, considered one of the region’s prettiest drives, then relax before a log fire at the romantic Ravensbourne Forest Chalets . Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Head up to Palm Cove

Indulge in a weekend away at Peppers Beach Club & Spa , Palm Cove situated on the white sand of Far North Queensland. Wade through the crystal clear waters of Palm Cove beach, stroll along Palm Cove Esplanade, or simply relax in Peppers’ on-site day spa. Dinner overlooking the Coral Sea? Yes, please! Picture: Peppers Facebook

Get in touch with nature in Lamington National Park

Drop everything and head for Lamington National Park , a World Heritage area that includes some of the most extensive subtropical rainforest in the world. The dense forest is dotted with lookouts offering dramatic views over the Scenic Rim. Stay at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat and explore the park with guided bird walks, off-road Segway tours, a famed Tree Top Walk and animal shows aplenty. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

See marine life at Tangalooma Island Resort

Hop on a ferry from Pinkenba and travel just over an hour from Brisbane to Moreton Island and the untouched marine parks of Moreton Bay . Here lies Tangalooma Island Resort , one of the few places in the world where you’ll be able to snorkel shipwrecks and hand-feed dolphins all in the same day. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Hunt for cafes along the Sunshine Coast

It’s time to ditch your mediocre cup of coffee and spend a leisurely weekend on the Sunshine Coast hinterland in search of proper morning fuel. Follow your nose to cafes that are hidden all along the coast from Coolum to Noosaville. They make the perfect food stop on a short driving holiday. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Hang ten in Mooloolaba

With something to do for the whole family, Mooloolaba has a laid-back atmosphere that makes it the perfect destination for a short seaside break. Hop on a surfboard and hit the waves, practice your stand-up paddle boarding skills, enjoy a barbecue under the evening sky, or just hire a boat and go fishing. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Cosy up on Mount Tamborine

Mount Tamborine in the serene Gold Coast Hinterland is the perfect year-round destination and offers visitors an opportunity to escape the big smoke. Visit working farms, macadamia plantations, valleys, plateaus and gushing waterfalls. Spend an afternoon strolling through the Botanic Gardens or hop in the car and visit local distilleries. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Stay at Australia's highest non-alpine lodge

one of the best honeymoon spots in Queensland, Spicers Peak Lodge is located just two hours from Brisbane on a mountain top in Queensland’s Scenic Rim. If that alone is not enough to make you head there right now, let us add that accommodation is in luxurious suites and private lodges with a host of invigorating activities on offer, including sipping wine and eating award-winning gourmet food. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Take the family eco camping

Pack up the family and head to Habitat Noosa Everglades Eco Camp . Just 25 minutes north of Noosa, this much-loved camping ground has undergone extensive renovation to provide an array of accommodation styles such as cabins, campsites, and even glamping. The kids will enjoy meeting local kangaroos, and mum and dad will be ever so grateful for the onsite bar and bistro. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Spend a cosy weekend in the Bunya mountains

If you’re looking for a short break where you can do absolutely nothing but de-stress, reconnect and rekindle conversation, the Bunya Mountains are for you. Just two hours’ drive from Brisbane is a mystical setting where the temperature drops as the light dims. Choose from one of the many homes available and load up the fireplace for a night of toasted marshmallows and board games. Oh, and by the way, there is no internet service in the Bunya Mountains. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Stay in Girraween National Park

With over 117 square kilometres of natural rock formations, Girraween National Park is rugged beauty at its finest. Granite boulders (unbelievably) balance upon each other, and when it gets chilly, snow caps form over the boulders, and rock pools ice over like glaciers. If you’re brave, you can camp, and if not, book a romantic chalet-style cabin at Girraween Environmental Lodge . Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Detox at Gwinganna Health Retreat

Take a short break from your inbox and hit the reset button with a weekend detox at Gwinganna , a lifestyle retreat located in the serene Gold Coast hinterland. Here you can take a gentle yoga class, practice chewing all your food, do cider shots, and indulge in absolutely no internet whatsoever. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Soak up the outdoors and village charm in Montville

Sitting on the edge of the Blackall Range is the picture-perfect town of Montville . It’s the gateway to Kondalilla National Par k (pictured) and home to art galleries, boutiques, and quaint coffee shops. Accommodation is charming and ranges from rainforest cabins to luxury resorts, plus if you’re there for a weekend, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to stock up on fudge supplies.

Chase whales in Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay isn’t just for whale watchers, but if you’re interested in seeing the great mammals of the sea, this is the place you’d visit. Just 3.5 hours north of Brisbane, this town is known as the whale nursery because its calm, protected waters make it easy for migratory whales to nurture young calves. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Visit the big apple

No, this isn’t a typo – there is a Big Apple in Queensland, too! Situated close to the QLD/NSW border, Stanthorpe is the perfect weekend getaway from Brisbane for those who love seeing orchards of apples, vineyards, truffles and cheese. And for loved-up couples, consider staying at the Alure Stanthorpe – a couples-only retreat that offers beautifully appointed villas and luxury tent camping (glamping). Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Hit the gorgeous gorge

Did you know you only need a weekend to go off-grid and discover Queensland’s youngest gorge? Cobbold Gorge is a newcomer to the Gorge clan, having completed only 1700 million laps around the sun. Explore the thirty-metre thick gorge walls, which can only be accessed by guided boat tour. Once back in your comfy off-grid digs, marvel at the sky as it puts on a spectacular sunset for all to see. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Take a road trip to Coolangatta

This balmy location in Queensland’s southern-most suburb boasts sweeping white-sand beaches, luxury hotels and a laid-back atmosphere that’ll have you kicking off your shoes in no time. There is ample choice for meals, and The Strand on Coolangatta ’s waterfront is filled with activities that will keep the mum, dad and the kids happy. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Drive along the granite belt trail

Pack the car and head to the fertile fields of Southern Queensland where it’s all about the local produce. The Granite Belt is Queensland’s premier food and wine region and is the perfect destination for foodies and winos of all kinds with a smorgasbord of cellar doors, orchards, and dairies open to visit. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Go peanut hunting in Kingaroy

Just under three hours’ drive from Brisbane is the home of the largest peanut-processing plant in Australia – Kingaroy . Not only is it a delicious place for foodies to hit the road and soak in the surrounding farm trails, but there are also plenty of opportunities to stay the night at friendly B&Bs that serve country fare. Picture: Tourism and Events Queensland

Luxe it up in Cairns

Thanks to a trio of new hotels - The Crystalbrook Flynn , The Crystalbrook Riley and The Crystalbrook Bailey - Cairns is now channeling strong Miami vibes. The American one not the other Queensland one. Cocktails, luxe surrounds and some of the state's most Instagrammable pools.

A dad and daughter cruising extravaganza

Two cruise novices board the Quantum Of The Seas for five days of fun.

One word infuriating Aussies on island

One of Australia’s most popular island’s has made a move that’s left Aussies furious with some even vowing to “boycott” the hotspot.

This tiny house comes with a 10/10 view

These tiny houses in the Lamington National Park wilderness come with spectacular views.

Secret to cult Aussie biscuit

Upon spotting this bakery VoVo, with its fluffy pink icing and thick jam stripe, I stifled a squeal.

Weekend Getaways QLD – short breaks in Paradise!

Aug 17, 2020

Queensland is a big place to explore. It’s the second-largest state in Australia, and naturally, it’s here where you’ll find a ton of diversity to discover. There are more than 1.8 million square kilometres full of unique and intriguing species, habitats, landscapes, towns and more so where should you go for your weekend getaways Qld?

Back in 1770, Captain Cook landed at what is now the town of Seventeen 1770 and claimed the entire east coast of the continent for the Kingdom of Great Britain. Fast-forward a few hundred (and fifty) years, and Queensland is positively thriving.

Cities strung along the coast – from Brisbane in the south through Townsville, Rockhampton and up to tropical Cairns – offer a mix of history, close-to-nature living and good times.

The area plays host to students and attracts families, surfers, and backpackers to explore Australia’s East Coast. Elsewhere, ghost towns tell the tale of mining fortunes boons and losses.

Lining the state just off the east coast is the Great Barrier Reef. This natural wonder boasts unimaginable marine life, corals, and almost 1,000 islands and cays to explore. Turquoise seas and white sand beaches ahoy!

Meanwhile, back on dry land, the Outback beckons. Mountains, dozens of national parks, rainforests, wetlands, and swamps lie within easy reach of the state’s towns and cities.

There are so many options across the State and there is a lot of pet-friendly accommodation in Queensland too! Let’s have a look and see what your ideal weekend getaway in Queensland could look like.

Cairns is a cool, laid-back city set in tropical Far North Queensland. Not only is it Australia’s northernmost city, but it also happens to be the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This makes Cairns an excellent base in itself for exploring further afield.

How to get to Cairns

Cairns Airport connects international and domestic flights. It’s a quick 10-15 minute drive to and from the city centre. It makes for a straightforward destination – a holiday without the hassle.

About Cairns

Not only is it Australia’s northernmost city, but it also happens to be the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This makes Cairns an excellent base in itself for exploring further afield.

Then again, if cities are your thing, there’s absolutely no reason why Cairns and its surrounding area can’t be a destination in itself. Bustling, busy, with as many beaches as live music venues, it’s a modern city with a ton of things to see and do.

Much more about backpackers and holiday-makers than business, Cairns is a chilled out place to be. That might have something to do with its tropical location and the year-round warm weather. In fact, Cairns was actually built on the site of a swamp.

Though a jumping-off point for adventuring around the area – from the Barrier Reef to the surrounding UNESCO Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Site – in town, there’s plenty to entertain just about any type of traveller.

There’s the Cairns Botanical Garden to snap photos of tropical plant life, the boardwalk (home of Muddy’s – a great place for kids) and the Cairns Esplanade with its specially made swimming lagoon, to name just a couple of cool things to do in Cairns.

Further north, the Tjapukai Aboriginal Culture Park is an award-winning educational centre where you can truly get to grips with the native people of Australia, their traditions, cultures, and millennia-spanning history.

Highlights of Cairns

• Stroll the fascinating galleries of Cairns Museum
• Flying above the rainforest canopy through the power of Skyrail
• Swimming in the seawater pool at Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
• Being wowed by traditional performances at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Culture Park
• Hitting up a weekend market or outdoor concert at the Esplanade

Where to stay in Cairns

Cairns has been undergoing quite a metamorphosis with its hotel scene thanks to the Crystalbrook Collection. The UAE based company is founded by a Syrian refugee who holidayed in Cairns and quickly seized the opportunity to get a slice of the great opportunities it presented.

As a result, Riley hotel on the Esplanade is a much needed 5-star addition to the city and its sister properties Flynn and Bailey are both also about to open. 

The Pullman Reef Hotel Casino is a perennial favourite while The Sebel Harbour Lights is a great spot right on the Marina. 

For families, the Mantra Esplanade is right across from the wonderful waterpark and gardens along the waterfront and they have 2 and 3 bedroom self-contained apartments.

About 40 minutes north of Cairns is Palm Cove a very pretty, laid back beachside village that is very popular year-round and offers some stunning dining and accommodation choices such as Alamanda Cove by Lancemore and  Peppers Beach Club and Spa.

The Atherton Tablelands

Where are the atherton tablelands.

Around an hour’s drive from Cairns – 25 kilometres northwest of the city, to be exact – you’ll find the Atherton Tablelands. This fertile plateau boasts a temperate climate, making it the ideal summer weekend getaway in Queensland to escape the tropical heat.

It’s a diverse region spanning almost 65,000 square kilometres. This means there’s a lot to pack into any trip to Atherton Tablelands!

Because of just how fertile this place is – and thanks to its climate, too – there’s an abundance of produce growing in the area. This has resulted in the Atherton Tablelands becoming something of a favourite with foodies.

You’ll find everything here – from farmer’s markets selling locally-grown food, to coffee plantations where you can learn how your cup of Joe came to be, from berry to beverage.

For the best in markets, head to Yungaburra. Set on the Gillies Highway, this town is home to heritage buildings, cool cafes, arts and crafts, and farmers’ markets. It’s certainly one to mark on the map if you find yourself exploring the Atherton Tablelands for a weekend.

Elsewhere, there’s Kuranda. This rural town, dubbed “Village in the Rainforest”, sits 700 metres above sea level and is surrounded by lush rainforests, wetlands, and savannah.

It’s the place to go for wildlife and nature, with top sights including the awesome Rainforestation Nature Park, Koala Village, Butterfly Sanctuary, and a scenic railway that climbs its hills.

Kuranda has been a popular tourist destination since the 1900s because of its cooler climate. It also happens to be filled with diverse wildlife and some supreme natural beauty spots!

If you’re a keen swimmer, you’ll be happy to note that there are plenty of places you can stop off for a dip as you drive around.

There is a selection of natural slides and creeks in the rainforests, with options to swim in lakes in places such as Lake Eacham or Lake Barrine.

Highlights of the Atherton Tablelands

• Riding the very cool Kuranda Scenic Railway
• Visiting the Mareeba Wetlands for a fantastic array of birdlife
• Sampling coffee directly from the source in Yungaburra
• Experiencing indigenous culture at the Rainforestation Nature Park
• Refreshing yourself with a swim at Lake Eacham and Lake Barine
• Visit the amazing Crystal Caves in Atherton – very popular with the kids!
• Have a picnic on the shores of beautiful Tinaroo Dam.

Where to stay on the Atherton Tablelands

Yungaburra is one of the most popular places to stay as it right in the heart of the Tablelands, home to good cafes and restaurants and is a very pretty town.

Kookabura Lodge Motel is a great budget option while Mt Quincan Crater Retreat is a luxury property offering treehouses perched around a crater with magnificent views of the area.

Chambers Wildlife Rainforest Lodge is right on Lake Eacham while The Lake House is a great holiday home nearby that sleeps up to 6 people.

Further afield check out Malanda Lodge and Tinaroo Lake Resort on Tinaroo Dam.

Great Barrier Reef Islands

The Great Barrier Reef needs no introduction. It’s the most extensive coral reef system in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and protected by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park – which, if you were wondering, covers an area about the size of Japan.

While parts of the reef can be visited on day trips, there are plenty of islands where you can spend some time soaking up the serenity of it all. Any one of them would make the perfect weekend getaway Qld.

There are about 900 islands, not all of which you can stay on (obviously).

Fitzroy Island, with snorkelling opportunities right off the shore, is 45-minutes by boat from Cairns. It actually makes up its own national park: Fitzroy Island National Park. There’s accommodation here.

Bedarra is a luxury offering – the sort of place you can really slip into another world. Set in the Family Islands National Park, it’s an exclusive place. Think coconut palms and not doing much of anything except lapping it all up.

In terms of laid-back, Orpheus Island is a great idea. But if you like beaches, Lizard Island and its 24 beaches is an even better idea; this is also the jumping-off point for Cod Hole, one of the best diving spots in the Barrier Reef.

The Whitsundays make up a more comprehensive, family-friendly destination. A haven for yachts, too, there are a number of islands – such as Hamilton Island – where you can soak up all the wonders of the Barrier Reef. Here, it’s all about pure white beaches, reefs, and resorts.

The list of veritable paradises here goes on and on.

Highlights of the Great Barrier Reef Islands

• Going (almost) full Castaway on Wilson Island
• Glimpsing the abundant marine life at Cod Hole
• Swimming with turtles and manta rays near Lady Elliott Island
• Kayaking around the calm seaways of The Whitsundays
• Camping beachside on Fitzroy Island

Green Island

Hamilton Island

Lady Eliott Island

Where to stay on the Queensland Islands

Where not to stay! With so many islands to choose from narrowing it down is pretty tricky. The best thing to do is decide on the part of the reef you want to visit or the mainland town you want to access it from and then choose an island in that area.

In the north of the Reef, you’re best to stay at somewhere like Fitzroy Island near Cairns or Lizard Island for absolute luxury.

In the Whitsundays Hamilton Island is always popular as it has an airport, with luxury hotels and retreats found on Hayman with the new Intercontinental and Long Island with the wonderful Elysian Retreat . For families Daydream island caters very well.

In the Southern part of the reef, Great Keppel is accessible from Yeppoon/Rockhampton while Heron and Wilson Islands are near Gladstone, with Lady Elliott further south.

You can also sleep out on the reef at Reefsuites which is also Australia’s first underwater accommodation.

Fitzroy Island

The Daintree and Wet Tropics

If you’re looking to explore a slice of pristine rainforest in Queensland, look no further than the Daintree Rainforest. The word here is unspoiled.

A region of natural wonder hugging the northeast coast of Queensland, it spans 1,200 square kilometres, making it the largest on the continent.

In fact, the Daintree Rainforest is one of the oldest surviving continually existing rainforests in the world. It grows right down to the coastline, making it a unique mixture of tropical forest, beaches, and offshore reefs.

How to get to the Daintree and beyond

If you’re ready for a road trip with a difference, this unusual and beautifully beguiling mix of different ecosystems is best explored with your own set of wheels.

Getting to Daintree is a simple matter of getting yourself on the Great Barrier Drive from Cairns, one of the most iconic roads in the country. You get to watch the scenery change from urban to rainforest in a matter of 100 kilometres or so.

For a place to base yourself, you may want to consider Daintree Village. It’s a rural town surrounded by the rainforest, set on the south bank of the Daintree River; it’s got cafes, a friendly atmosphere, and some incredible nature. What more do you need?

If you’re looking for something even more far-flung, then camping at Cape Tribulation – a popular ecotourism destination – may be more your thing.

Highlights of The Daintree

• Learning all about the local wildlife at Daintree Discovery Centre
• Taking a cruise at Cape Tribulation in search of estuarine crocodiles
• Having a cuppa at Daintree Tea Company on Tribulation Road
• Walking the Mardja Botanical Walk through the rainforest
• Simply driving along the super scenic Great Barrier Reef Drive

Where to stay in Queenslands Wet Tropics

Daintree Wilderness Lodge is a beautiful place to enjoy this part of the world and is completely surrounded by the rainforest.

Not far from there is Daintree Ecolodge who have individual lagoon villas and great inclusions.

Further north at Cape Tribulation check out the wonderful Safari Lodge which is a great budget option or Cape Trib Farm for a very local experience. 

Fraser Island

Fraser Island has the not so small accolade of being the world’s largest sand island. Just off the coast of Hervey Bay, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed island is home to only 180 residents. But more famous than its tiny population is its ancient rainforests that seem to love growing in the dunes.

Combine this with sand formations, gleaming beaches, and a plethora of freshwater lakes, and Fraser Island has the potential to be your next favourite weekend getaway Qld.

How to get to Fraser Island

After catching a ferry (50 minutes from the mainland), it’s time to take you and your car to hit up the island’s 120-kilometre beach highway. Here you can spend your time stumbling across breathtaking sight after breathtaking sight.

The wreck of the S.S. Maheno is a famous landmark of Fraser Island. It’s an interesting sight to see the rusted old ship in such an otherwise pristine setting – lapped by turquoise seas – and makes for a great photo op.

There is no end to the beautiful beaches here. You can spend time lounging in the shallows or shaded on the sand. If you prefer your water less salty, then the incredibly blue Lake McKenzie – filled with rainwater – will certainly be your cup of tea.

It’s the perfect place for children to swim, being shallow with no currents. There’s also Lake Wabby, the deepest lake on the island, with cooler depths to dive into.

Highlights of Fraser Island

• Walking the 90-kilometre Fraser Island Great Walk between Dilli Village and Happy Valley
• Staying the night under the stars at one of the island’s many campgrounds
• Hiring a 4WD and cruising along the white sands of the beaches themselves
• Taking a guided night tour to see the nocturnal creatures who live in the rainforests
• Clapping eyes on migrating humpback whales
• Swimming and picnicking at Lake McKenzie

Further reading : A complete guide to Fraser Island

Where to stay on Fraser Island

Kingfisher bay resort.

Kingfisher Bay Resort is the main resort on the island and the best place to stay for first-timers and people with limited time.

Located on the western side of the island, the resort offers a range of nature-based activities, such as swimming, bushwalking, fishing, or water sports and there is an Eco-Rangers club for the kids too. There is a variety of accommodation styles including self-contained beach houses, cabins and hotel rooms.

There are 3 restaurants and 3 bars and you can also enjoy the Tastes of Australia experience which explores native food and flavours.

Eurong Beach Resort

On the other side of the island is Eurong Beach Resort which is located on Seventy-Five Mile Beach.

It’s well located to visit the southern lakes, which include McKenzie and Wabby, as well as the rainforests around Pile Valley and Central Station.

Facilities include a well-stocked general store and bottle shop, a bakery and coffee shop, as well as a restaurant, bar and a large swimming pool.

Accommodation at   Eurong Beach Resort   is designed to suit all budgets and ranges from modern, self-contained, one and two-bedroom apartments to backpacker dormitories.

Self-contained Fraser Island Accommodation

There are also a number of privately owned beach-houses and cabins on the island such as The Bungalow in Eurong and Orchid Blue in Orchid Beach, right at the top of the island, which sleeps up to 16 people.  

Townsville and Magnetic Island

Set on the coast of northeastern Queensland, over 1,100 kilometres from Brisbane, Townsville makes up the largest urban area north of the Sunshine Coast. It’s a fun place to spend some time, especially in winter and Magnetic Island is considered by many to be one of Australia’s best-kept secrets.

Long frequented by backpackers and holiday-makers, Townsville a great spot to “refuel”, stroll along The Strand, take in some city comforts, admire 19th-century buildings and make full use of its pedestrian-friendly credentials.

From Townsville its a 20-minute ferry ride to the shores of Magnetic Island.

Practically untouched, the island – known colloquially as Maggie – boasts no less than 23 sandy beaches, with excellent snorkelling and diving spots.

For less watery pursuits, there are around 24 kilometres of walking paths lacing across the 52 square kilometres of the island.

The central hub of activity on the island is Horseshoe Bay; this is the spot to come if all you feel like doing is watching the world go by with a cold drink or two.

If you are feeling active, however, and you didn’t get to hike on the island, then back in Townsville, you should head to Castle Hill. It’s the highest point in town and makes for a great vantage point out across the city-and-seascape – once you’ve spent 40 minutes hiking to the top, that is.

Highlights of Townsville

• Strolling along the Strand with other Townsvillians
• Viewing the whole region from the top of Castle Hill
• Hiking the intriguing Forts Walk on the island for some WWII history
• Indulging in a great pub meal – Townsville is famous for them!
• Doing a day trip to Magnetic Island or even a few days 

Where to stay in Townsville

In terms of luxury, The Ville is the stand-out these days having had a great makeover transforming it from a typical 80’s style Sheraton to a modern Plantation Style haven on the water. All rooms have great views and the pool and swim-up bar are fantastic. It’s also very affordable all things considered!

For something a little cheaper Oaks Metropole Hotel is excellent as is Rambutan Resort , and upmarket ‘backpackers’ with a very tropical vibe.

On Magnetic Island Peppers Blue on Blue is the largest and most upmarket resort (there are only a few) while nearby Island Leisure resort is a good budget option.

For something a little different and quite special The Little Bush Hut in Nelly Bay is tranquil rustic luxury for 2 and is pet-friendly too!

Mackay and The Whitsundays

The Whitsunday Islands – or simply just the Whitsundays – are a chain of 74 different islands and cays strung out along the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. The location alone, no matter what the islands look like (beautiful, by the way), is enough to warrant dozens of weekend getaways from Brisbane.

Mainly uninhabited, the islands are home to dense rainforests crisscrossed by hiking trails and, more often than not, ringed by pure white sand beaches. Some islands are inhabited and make for great places to kick back and take it all in.

Hamilton Island – the largest inhabited island and one of the most popular – has pristine beaches, coral to explore, offshore islands to kayak to, and a number of spots around the island – all reached by golf buggy. It’s all car-free. You’ll also get to spot wildlife like koalas and kangaroos just going about their business here.

Just a short ferry ride to the northwest of Hamilton, you’ll find the Molle Island Group – more specifically, Daydream Island.

This tiny island is just one kilometre long and 400 metres wide but has a lot going for it. Wallabies freely roam the island, and there’s an outdoor aquarium with around 80 different types of marine life from the Barrier Reef itself.

The area is also popular with sailing enthusiasts who visit the island because, well, it’s stunning.

For sheer luxury, there’s Hayman Island. Though privately owned, this northern island of the Whitsundays is open to members of the public. It’s part of the Cumberland Group of islands and is crowned by a luxury resort built in the 1950s.

The seclusion of the island offers a chance to truly escape city life and unwind in a supremely serene location.

Just across the water to the south is the much larger Hook Island. Largely uninhabited, it’s popular place for tours, which bring people to snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Maureen’s Cove and Luncheon Bay.

  Highlights of Mackay and The Whitsundays

• Unwinding in the upscale seclusion of Hayman Island.
• Exploring the living reef on Daydream Island.
• Taking a tour over to Hook Island for some uninhabited wilderness.
• Kicking back on the beach on family-friendly Hamilton Island.
• Wildlife-spotting as you tour the island on a golf buggy.
• Visit incredible Whitehaven Beach – often voted the best in the world!

Where to stay in Mackay and the Whitsundays

In Mackay we love Riviera Mackay with its funky, modern decor and rooftop terrace.  

In The Whitsundays Hamilton Island is the place to base yourself if it’s your first visit and you can fly direct as they are the only island with a commercial airport. Whitsunday Apartments and Reef View Hotel are where most people stay although if your budget runs to it then Qualia Resort is one of the best in the country.

On Long Island, Palm Bay Resort is wonderful as is beautiful Elysian Retreat , a recent addition to the luxury option in the area.

Town of 1770/Agnes Water

The seaside communities of Seventeen Seventy (aka 1770) and Agnes Waters are located at the very southern end of the Great Barrier Reef. With equal parts beauty and heritage to their names, this slice of Queensland is very much worth your time.

The Town of 1770 is famously named after the year (1770) that Captain Cook and the crew of the Endeavour landed in Queensland – on this very spot, in fact. Today, 250 years on, adventures still await. There’s plenty of exploring still to be done in the solitude of this gleaming coastline.

Keen surfers shouldn’t forget their boards. The rolling surf breaks here are well known, and there are plenty of waterways for kayakers to meander along, too.

It’s a fantastic place for wildlife. This also happens to be a prime spot for whale watching, with humpback whales visible when they migrate from the Antarctic. You can also catch sight of dolphins playing in the water.

Located at the southern end of the Barrier Reef, this part of the world makes for a great jumping-off point for exploring further afield into the world of coral to the north – or for discovering one of its many, many islands.

Also a coastal town, Agnes Waters has a population of around 2,000 people and is a laid back place for a weekend getaway in Queensland. One of the best things about this place is its incredible beach that runs for around five kilometres, backed by dunes dotted with trees and scrub.

• Hitting the water via a kayak or a spot of stand-up paddleboarding
• Spending the day alongside locals at Chairman’s Beach, a popular spot
• Booking yourself on one of the area’s super fun amphibious tour buses
• Walking the Paperback Forest Boardwalk on the outskirts of Agnes Waters
• Making sure you’re in town to attend the 1770 Festival in May

Where to stay at Town of 1770/Agnes Water

Accommodation is still fairly limited in this area so it pays to plan well in advance especially for beachfront properties.

Most of the accommodation is in Agnes Water including Edges on the Beach who have great self-contained villas as do Pavillions on 1770 . Agnes Water Beach Club and Sandcastles 1770 Motel and Resort are two other good options.

Unsurprisingly there are more beach-houses and shacks for rent and there are a number of very interesting and unique places. Drewhouse Pods are in the Sunrise at 1770 complex and have been featured in Vogue Magazine.

For groups, Bicentennial Oasis is a great house that sleeps up to 8 guests on acreage and it’s also pet friendly. Shutters1 is also great for families and groups and is right on the beach.

Couples should check out 1170 Getaway which is probably the most luxe accommodation in the area and is in a great location.

Nestled in the extreme southeast of Queensland, in the West Moreton Region, you’ll find the Scenic Rim. This area is nearly surrounded by UNESCO-listed national parks, Outback, and mountain ranges, with the Queensland capital of Brisbane to the north.

If you’re staying in Brisbane, it’s an excellent place for a weekend getaway; Scenic Rim is an easy hour’s drive from the city itself making a very popular weekend getaways Qld.

The main town of the region is Beaudesert. From here, you can jump off and explore the majestic scenery of this area. If you love natural beauty and food, there’s something for you here. It won’t take long for you to get into this place.

Foodies should make plans to stop off at places like Scenic Rim Brewery in Mount Alford, Witches Falls Winery at the top of Tamborine Mountain, and the Kooroomba Vineyard & Lavender Farm (a double whammy of bucolic beauty of good wine).

For those who like things more active, there are, of course, so many opportunities to explore further. Tamborine Mountain, for example, offers some captivating trails through eucalyptus forests that lead to waterfalls.

Those who love climbing should make a beeline to the dramatic and craggy Moogerah Peaks National Park, known for its non-bolted traditional climbing routes; Lake Moogerah, on the other hand, is a haven for kayaking surrounded by astounding nature.

Highlights of the Scenic Rim

• Getting to grips with the canopy along O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk (free of charge!)
• Admiring the subterranean glow worms at Cedar Creek Estate in Tamborine Mountain
• Taking your pick of wineries and soaking up the dramatic scenery
• Stopping at any number of small towns, such as Boonah, for their arts and crafts
• Glamping at somewhere like Nightfall Camp in Lamington National Park

Where to stay in the Scenic Rim

There is a wide range of places to stay in the Scenic Rim ranging from all-inclusive luxury to cheap and cheerful cabins.

Spicers Peak Lodge is one of the most beautiful luxury lodges in Australia and offers all-inclusive suites in their magnificent mountain top lodge as well as luxury Glamping on their 8000 acre property.

The Old Church B&B near Dugandah is a lovely spot for a short break and is quite close to the wonderful Overflow Estate 1895 winery and restaurant.

Another highly sought after spot to stay is the award-winning Ketchup’s Bank Glamping . They offer luxury tents and private ensuites and is perfect for couples looking for relaxation, isolation and amazing views. 

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35 of the Very Best Weekend Getaways Brisbane Offers!

Are you after suggestions for some great family weekend getaways Brisbane offers?  If you’re a Brissie local, then you’re in luck as there are some pretty awesome Brisbane weekend destinations; in fact so many you may find it hard deciding where to go!  I’ve actually been doing my own research lately, trying to come up with some new ideas for our family weekend trips from Brisbane and I thought I might as well turn it into a blog post and share it with you all.  

There are so many excellent destinations in this guide.  Whether you’re looking for somewhere to take the kids for a few days, a much needed mums getaway or even one of the many romantic getaways Brisbane offers, this Weekend Getaway Brisbane guide has well and truly got you covered.  Included are some gorgeous beaches, lovely country towns, hinterland destinations and more.

So without further ado, here is my absolutely awesome Weekend Away Brisbane guide.  Where will you go on your Brisbane weekend getaway?

Planning a trip to Queensland? Have any questions?  Join our Queensland Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Or if you’re more of a visual person, get inspired on our  Thrifty Family Travel Instagram Feed .

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer  here  for more information.

Page Contents

• 1.1 Mt Tambourine
• 1.2 Coolangatta
• 1.3 North Stradbroke Island
• 1.4 Montville
• 1.6 Stanthorpe
• 1.8 Lamington National Park
• 1.9 Caloundra
• 1.10 Cotton Tree
• 1.11 Couran Cove Resort– South Stradbroke Island
• 1.12 Lake Moogerah
• 1.13 Surfers Paradise
• 1.14 Springbrook National Park
• 1.15 Kenilworth
• 1.16 Broadbeach
• 1.17 Boreen Point
• 1.18 Mooloolaba
• 1.19 Girraween National Park
• 1.20 Camping or Glamping on Moreton Island
• 1.21 Tangalooma Island Resort
• 1.22 Somerset Dam
• 1.23 Tallebudgera
• 1.24 Toowoomba
• 1.25 Bunya Mountains
• 1.26 Hervey Bay
• 1.27 Burleigh Heads
• 1.28 Glass House Mountains
• 1.29 Coolum
• 1.30 Ravensbourne
• 1.31 Bribie Island
• 1.32 Killarney
• 1.33 Wivenhoe Dam
• 1.34 Kingaroy
• 1.35 Brisbane City

35 of the Best Weekend Getaways Brisbane Offers!

Unlike my usually super organised and ordered lists… I’m assuming whoever is reading this is mostly a local, so these weekend getaways near Brisbane are absolutely in no particular order – well they are – just the order that they popped into my head!

So scroll through until you find one of the short breaks from Brisbane, which is just perfect for you!

Mt Tambourine

When it comes to a long weekend Brisbane trip, Mt Tambourine is a great choice.  Located in the Gold Coast Hinterland, just an hours drive from Brisbane; Mt Tambourine is perfect whether you’re after something for the family or looking for Brisbane romantic getaway packages.

Amongst the gorgeous rainforest, valleys and waterfalls, there is so much to do in Mt Tambourine.  You can spend your days exploring one of many walking tracks, take a dip in rock pools, visit local wineries and try delicious produce.  While in the evening, you can snuggle with your loved ones in lovely little cabins around the fireplace.

A weekend down at Mt Tamborine is one of the great weekends away from Brisbane that will have you rested and rejuvenated as you embrace nature.

If Mt Tambourine sounds like one of the relaxing holiday destinations you want to experience, you can find out more about things to do in Mt Tambourine here and where to stay in Mt Tambourine here .

Coolangatta

If the beach is more your cuppa tea, then one of the best weekend getaways from Brisbane is down at Coolangatta.  Around Coolangatta are some of my all time favourite Gold Coast beaches , including the beautiful little Rainbow Bay.

Located right on the Qld / NSW border, Coolangatta has a great range of laid back hotels and luxurious accommodation options.  There is a super chilled out vibe around the streets of Coolangatta, with plenty of different restaurants, cafes and shops along the waterfront and large open grassy areas with playgrounds for the kids.

Coolangatta is a great place to come for those who love to surf, although it is equally great for those who want to swim and relax on the beach.  It’s one of the perfect beach weekend trips Brisbane offers.

Click here to check out where to stay in Coolangatta .

North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island would have to be one of the ideal weekend escapes from Brisbane!  Whether you take your car over on the barge or opt for the faster passenger ferry.  We usually enjoy camping over at Amity Point, but there is also a range of excellent North Stradbroke Island accommodation options to choose from.

The beauty of North Stradbroke Island is you can do as little or as much as you like.  Go swimming of course, sandboarding, explore the gorgeous Blue and Brown Lake, take the Gorge walk at Point Lookout and spot native wildlife, including koalas and kangaroos, as well as plenty of marine life such as dolphins, pelicans and even whales.

Whilst you could fit all of this into one of your Queensland weekend getaways, if you do want to take advantage of all that North Stradbroke Island has to offer, you may want to extend to 3 day trips from Brisbane.

While the cost of the barge over doesn’t make Straddie one of the cheap getaways Brisbane offers, it’s still one of our favourite nature getaways Brisbane has.

Get a full list of things to do at North Stradbroke Island here .

If the Sunshine Coast is calling your name, why not head to Montville in the hinterland.  Montville makes for a great weekend away near Brisbane.  Many people looking for romantic getaways near Brisbane go here, but it is also perfect for a family weekend or a group of friends wanting to get away.

Montville is a picture perfect town located on the edge of the Blackall Range.  The area is home to some gorgeous European inspired architecture as well as stunning valley views.  You can spend your days strolling around town exploring the art galleries, boutiques and cafes, waterfalls and rock pools in Kondalilla National Park, or heading down to Baroon Pocket Dam for some kayaking.

There is a range of accommodation options from basic cabins to glorious, luxurious resorts just perfect for those after one of the romantic weekend getaways Brisbane offer.  You can check out some accommodation options here .

So if you’re after some cozy Brisbane short breaks, certainly consider a few days in Montville for your next weekend away QLD.

Click here for a detailed guide on things to do in Montville.

Just down the road from Montville is Maleny, which makes for a great weekend away from Brisbane.  This gorgeous hinterland town sits on the mountain’s edge with dramatic views across the Sunshine Coast region.  The drive here alone is worth the trip, as you drive up the mountain you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous countryside views.

While you’re in Maleny, you can spend your days visiting all the local cheese factories, wineries and breweries, browsing the local boutiques, enjoying long lunches at cafes and exploring the gorgeous nearby National Parks such as Mapleton and Kondalilla.

Like Montville, there is an excellent range of Maleny accommodation options on offer.  However, if you can, I highly recommend having a splurge and getting a great place with a view, whilst it won’t be one of your cheap weekend getaways QLD – you’ll be so pleased you did!

Click here for a detailed guide on things to do in Maleny.

In terms of Brisbane weekend getaways, Stanthorpe is also a lovely choice, particularly in the colder winter months.  Stanthorpe is a rural town a few hours away from Brisbane, close to the NSW border and is the ultimate destination for wine lovers – but don’t worry, it is super family friendly too!

The most popular thing to do in Stanthorpe is to visit all the wonderful wineries in the area.  The area is also well known for its delicious local produce such as apples, cheese, truffles and olives.  The area is close to some beautiful national parks like Girraween and Bald Rock, which have great walking tracks.

There are some great cabins available for families or for couples; there are some pretty unique luxurious accommodation options.  We personally recommend the Granite Brewery Retreat as they have some lovely cabins for families.

Whether you’re taking the kids, your partner or a group of friends, Stanthorpe is one of the best short trips from Brisbane, making it a great QLD getaway!

Get a full list of things to do in Stanthorpe here and where to stay here.

One of my all time favourite short getaways from Brisbane is Noosa.  It has a great laid back vibe, and there is just so much to do in Noosa as well as the perfect place to do very little too!

Spend your days exploring the gorgeous beaches and views in the Noosa National Park, as well as the Noosa Main Beach.  I also recommend you hire a boat or a kayak and go out into the Noosa Spit – here; you can find your own private sand island to chillax on.

There is also plenty of shops to explore along Hastings Street as well as cafes and restaurants.  Noosa is also in the perfect location to explore nearby regions around the Sunshine Coast and take a day trip to the world famous K’gari .

We just love Noosa; it’s one of our personal favourite weekends away Brisbane offers.

If Noosa is on your list of Brisbane escapes, you can get a full list of things to do in Noosa here and where to stay here .

Lamington National Park

Some of the best weekend trips from Brisbane are found in many nearby national parks, such as the World Heritage Lamington National Park.  This area has some of the world’s most extensive subtropical rainforests and has excellent views across the Scenic Rim.

Of course, while visiting the Lamington National Park, you can spend your days venturing into the rainforest, exploring a range of walking tracks that will take you past gorgeous waterfalls and rockpools.  There is also some great wineries and restaurants in the area too.

Many people choose to stay at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat , where you can enjoy guided wildlife walks, segway tours and the popular Tree Top Walk. However, for the ultimate rainforest experience, why not stay at Nightfall, where you stay in the most luxurious tents #glamping, surrounded by the rainforest. 

Whether you’re after romantic getaways from Brisbane or short holidays from Brisbane with kids, the Lamington National Park is a great choice all year round for weekend getaways QLD.

Click here for tips on even more things to do around Lamington National Park.

If you’re looking for one of the sunny beach weekend escapes Brisbane offers, Caloundra is the perfect location. Caloundra is a casual coastal town on the Sunshine Coast and is a super popular destination, particularly amongst families.

There are many gorgeous beaches to choose from, including Kings Beach, a popular surf beach or the calmer waters of Bulcock and Golden Beaches, along the Pumicestone Passage.  Other things to do in Caloundra include boat cruises, kayaking, exploring the local street art, and having long lunches in one of the many waterfront cafes and restaurants.

Caloundra offers a range of great accommodation options, from basic self contained accommodation to some gorgeous resorts.  For families, I personally recommend the Oaks Resort as they have some fantastic facilities for the kids.

Caloundra is also well positioned for exploring the various Sunshine Hinterland towns and attractions.

If Caloundra ticks all your boxes for short holidays QLD, you can find out more by clicking here for a full list of things to do in Caloundra and for all the best accommodation click here.

Cotton Tree

Another popular weekend getaway from Brisbane is Cotton Tree.  Located along the banks of the Maroochy River and just a few minutes’ walk from the Maroochydore Beach, this is the ideal spot for those after a super chilled and relaxed weekend away.

The best thing about Cotton Tree is having the choice between the calm waters of the River mouth as well as the surf of Maroochydore Beach – so you have the best of both worlds!  Plus, along the Riverbank are lots of grassy areas with playgrounds, and walking and bike tracks.

The little dining and shopping precinct of Cotton Tree is super chilled and great for long lunches.  The area also has some great markets each Sunday. If you want to go further afield, there is the Sunshine Plaza Shopping Centre and, of course all the great attractions of the Sunshine Coast such as Australia Zoo, Sea Life, the Sunshine Coast hinterland, and stacks more .

When it comes to where to stay at Cotton Tree, I recommend the Cotton Tree Holiday Park which has a range of accommodation options, including beach houses, cabins and tent sites.  Check out our full review on the Cotton Tree Holiday Park here.

So if you’re looking for overnight stays near Brisbane, do yourself a favour and head off to Cotton Tree.

Click here for tips on even more things to do around Cotton Tree.

Couran Cove Resort– South Stradbroke Island

We talked about North Stradbroke Island above, but Couran Cove Resort on South Stradbroke is also one of the best weekend getaways Brisbane offers.  Couran Cove is a short ferry ride from the Gold Coast, perfect for overnight trips from Brisbane or even a day trip.

There is a range of great activities to keep the entire family entertained at Couran Cove.  For those that love the water, you can spend your days swimming, fishing, surfing, kayaking and SUPing.  Out of the water, there are some beautiful walking and bike tracks to explore.  There is also plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife too.

There is a range of different accommodation options at Couran Cove, from fully self contained rooms to small studios. In addition, several different dining options include fine dining to casual dining by the pool or beach club.

Whether you’re after a peaceful weekend retreat Brisbane offers or a weekend full of adventure, Couran Cove Resort has something for everyone.  It’s one of the lovely holiday destinations near Brisbane for your next Queensland getaway.  Click here to check out their accommodation options.

Lake Moogerah

A lovely place to go for a relaxing weekend surrounded by a gorgeous landscape is Lake Moogerah.  Located around an hour and a half drive from the city, this is perfect for a Brisbane weekend getaway, Queensland.

Lake Moogerah is a dam and so has plenty of water surface for a range of water activities.  Here you can spend your days fishing, kayaking, SUPing, water skiing or swimming.  The area is also great for bushwalking with the Mount Edwards track just across the dam wall and lots of other walking trails in the area.

This is the perfect place for those who just want to relax, with the gorgeous lake and mountains as a backdrop.  The sunrises and sunsets are amazing and with no light pollution, the night sky here is perfect for stargazing.

There are a few different camping spots around Lake Moogerah , or you can stay in cabins or a house at the Lake Moogerah Caravan Park , as well as some other houses near Haigh Park.

So for country escapes near Brisbane, consider a weekend at Lake Moogerah.  For those short on time, it also makes one of the best weekend drives from Brisbane.

Click here for tips on even more things to do around Lake Moogerah.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is one of those places that’s perfect whether you’re looking for family weekend road trips from Brisbane or even a girls weekend Brisbane getaway.  It’s ideal for those that like to be in the centre of it all, because in Surfers Paradise you’ve got it all – a great beach, loads of fun attractions and great restaurants and cafes.

During the warmer months, you can spend your days swimming at the beach or visiting tourist attractions such as Ripley’s Believe it or not, climb the Q1 SkyPoint, play putt putt golf, go to Time Zone, take a ride on the Aquaduck or cruise around the Gold Coast canals.   

There are also heaps of different options in terms of accommodation in Surfers Paradise.  There is some great family self contained accommodation options as well as fancy hotel suites.  We like staying at the Novotel or the Paradise Resort is also a firm favourite for families thanks to its impressive facilities for kids.

So if you’re after quick getaways from Brisbane with plenty to do, then Surfers Paradise might be the perfect destination for you.

Click here for a full guide of things to do in Surfers Paradise and where to stay here for one of your next QLD weekend getaways.

Springbrook National Park

Not that far from the glitz and glamour of the Gold Coast is Springbrook National Park in the Gold Coast Hinterland .  Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, this is the ideal spot for the gorgeous mountain getaways Brisbane offers.

Of course the main attraction here is the Springbrook National Park itself.  There are different walking tracks to explore and gorgeous waterfalls, including the 109m Purling Brook Falls, Natural Bridge and the Twin Falls.  There is also some great lookouts and beautiful spots for a picnic.

Springbrook is also well known for its dreamy little cabins tucked away in the rainforest.  It’s so peaceful, and you’ll love the sounds of the birds as well as enjoying a log fire during the colder months.  In fact, the cabins are so beautiful you could be forgiven for never leaving them over the weekend. For mountain getaways near Brisbane, add Springbook National Park to the bucketlist!

Click here for a full list of accommodation around the Springbrook National Park, perfect for romantic getaways, QLD.

With just 300 people, Kenilworth is a small charming town in the Mary Valley in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.  It is a rustic and rural area, around 50km from the coast and is home to dairy farms, olive groves and vineyards. 

The nice thing about visiting the little town of Kenilworth is that it has maintained much of its original 1920s charm.  While you’re here, visit the Living History Museum and explore the local art galleries, shops and various eateries selling cheese, yoghurts and ice cream.

The area is surrounded by some lovely National Parks and forests, including the Conondale State Forest, perfect for horse riding, fishing and exploring the various walking tracks.

Kenilworth provides several accommodation options, including gorgeous little cabins and several camping grounds.  Kenilworth Homestead is particularly popular among families on Queensland getaways.

Back down on the Gold Coast, Broadbeach is like the slightly quieter and more sophisticated neighbour to Surfers Paradise.  With gorgeous beaches, a great playground and loads of shops and restaurants, Broadbeach is another one of the brilliant weekend retreats Brisbane offers.

Of course, if you’re headed there during the Summer months, you’ll no doubt spend most of your time on the stunning beach.  On the foreshore, there is also an excellent playground which the kids will just love.

When you’re ready to escape the heat, there is the massive Pacific Fair Shopping Centre across the road, which has a zillion shops, cinemas and places to eat.  You also have the local Broadbeach Mall, which has a range of great shops, and you can catch the monorail over to the Star Casino, which has some family friendly places to eat.

Talking about places to eat – there are many great family restaurants and cafes in Broadbeach.  Plus, it’s a great base to explore nearby beaches, which are easy to reach with the tram right there.

Broadbeach has a great stack of accommodation to suit all types of travellers and budgets.  There are modest self contained apartments to super fancy suites and everything in between. If Broadbeach sounds like one of your next short stays Queensland has on offer – Click here for a full list of accommodation options.

Boreen Point

Another one of the best weekend road trips from Brisbane is Boreen Point.  Located in the Shire of Noosa, Boreen Point is a peaceful spot on the white sandy shores of Lake Cootharaba, which is the largest saltwater lake in Queensland. If you’re looking for relaxing weekend getaways, Boreen Point gets you back amongst nature, so you can disconnect to reconnect – with loved ones.

With its bush and lake setting, Boreen Point is a gorgeous spot and ideal for a range of water sports such as swimming, fishing, kayaking and SUPing.  The area also has several walking tracks and is the perfect place for wildlife spotting.  Plus, if you’ve got your own boat, you can head up into the Noosa Everglades – just gorgeous!

In terms of where to stay, campers have the option of either Boreen Point Campground or Habitat Noosa.  Habitat Noosa is also perfect for non campers with a range of cabins and some gorgeous glamping options.

Habitat has its own restaurant and café on site, or there is an excellent family friendly pub nearby (try the chicken parmi – my favourite!), and of course you’re not too far away from downtown Noosa here either.

If you’re looking for peaceful weekend breaks from Brisbane where you can get back to nature, add Boreen Point to your list.

Mooloolaba is a popular beach destination on the Sunshine Coast and is one of the best getaways near Brisbane.  This laid back coastal town has a range of attractions, making it ideal for a short break.

During the summer months, no doubt you’ll spend your days on the beach, swimming, SUPing or even surfing.  Mooloolaba is also home to one of Australia’s top dive spots, Ex-HMAS Brisbane.  Other things to do include visiting the popular SeaLife aquarium, enjoy a sunset cruise, or adventure rafting for the adrenaline junkies.

Along the esplanade, there are several shops to browse through and some great restaurants, cafés and bars.  Here you will also find accommodation galore, including some great family friendly self contained apartments as well as swanky hotel rooms.

Mooloolaba is also well positioned for exploring all the other local attractions around the Sunshine Coast.

Click here for a full list of where to stay in Mooloolaba for one of your next short getaways, QLD.

Girraween National Park

Just past Stanthorpe, Girraween National Park is a great destination for those who love the great outdoors.  Girraween National Park has over 117 square km of natural rock formations, including amazing granite boulders that balance on top of each other and gorgeous little rock pools.

There are several different walking tracks to explore here, all in varying lengths.  Choose the short 280m stroll to Bald Rock Creek or take the longer 11km return walk to Mount Norman.  One of the more popular hikes is the 4km return walk to the “Pyramids”.  While this walking track involves a steep climb up a granite rock face, the 360 degree views at the top make it well worthwhile.

In terms of accommodation, there are several campgrounds in the area, although I don’t recommend these during the colder months.  During the cooler months, book into one of the gorgeous little cabins complete with roaring log fires – making this the perfect Queensland getaway for couples. The Girraween Country Inn has cosy charm or the Girraween Environment Lodge is also great for the non-campers.

Although it is a 3 hour drive from Brisbane, Girraween National Park makes for one of the great long weekend getaways from Brisbane for the adventurous outdoor types.

Camping or Glamping on Moreton Island

Camping or glamping on Moreton Island should be one getaway Brisbane offers that should be on everyone’s bucket list!  Either take one of the weekend packages Brisbane offers with a tour group or arrange your own trip.

Whatever you choose, you’re in for a real treat at Moreton Island.  Spend your days snorkelling at Moreton Islands Wrecks and spot amazing marine life.  Go on a 4WD adventure around the island, go swimming, kayaking, or fishing.  In the evening, roast marshmallows on an open campfire or go kayaking with underwater LED lights.

If you arrange your own trip to Moreton Island, you can opt to take your 4WD across so you can camp on one of several different beaches.  But even those without a 4WD can still bring across their camping gear and set up camp where the ferry lets you off or stay in one of Castaways gorgeous glamping tents.  There are a few other accommodation options too – click here for full details.

While the journey across to Moreton Island is just 75 minutes by ferry, here you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away.  Easily one of the best Brisbane getaways!

Tangalooma Island Resort

Another option for those wanting to visit Moreton Island is to stay at Tangalooma Island Resort.  This island resort is stunning, and although it’s just an hour ferry ride away from Brisbane, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled to a tropical island a million miles away.

Like we mentioned above, while staying at Tangalooma Island Resort, you can join in all the wonderful activities available on Moreton Island, including snorkelling the Wrecks, 4WDing, swimming, kayaking and fishing.  However, you can also use the resort facilities, including swimming pools, wildlife feeding, and the very popular dolphin feeding, which happens each night.

Tangalooma Island Resort has a range of accommodation options , including basic studio rooms, self contained apartments and spacious holiday homes.  There is also a range of restaurants and cafes on site.

For tropical Brisbane weekend trips, they don’t get much better than a few days at Tangalooma Island Resort.  Click here for our full Tangalooma Island Resort Review – one of the great holidays near Brisbane.

Somerset Dam

Somerset Dam is another excellent option if you’re after weekend getaways, Brisbane offers.  Just a short drive from Brisbane, this is a beautiful destination on the waters edge and a great place for a weekend getaway.

Somerset Dam is super popular for the water sports enthusiast.  The calm flat waters of Somerset are ideal for boating, kayaking, SUPing, water skiing, wakeboarding, or jet skiing.  There are designated swimming areas at Kirkleigh and the Spit, while the dam is perfect for fishing.

Somerset Dam is popular among campers, or some great cabins are available on the northern shores at the NRMA Lake Somerset Holiday Park.

If you want to holiday near Brisbane where you can forget all your worries, and retreat back to nature, Somerset Dam is the place for you.

Tallebudgera

Best known for its pristine sparkling clear creek, with the Burleigh Heads National Park on one side and Palm Beach on the area, Tallebudgera is in my view, one of the most picturesque areas on the Gold Coast.  This is one of the best beach getaways near Brisbane!

This is a pretty chilled area of the Gold Coast, where you’ll be spending your days mostly in the water.  The creek is super calm, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking and SUPing.  There is a sandy beach for the kids to play and along the banks of the creek is a range of bike and walking tracks and lots of picnic areas. 

The best place to stay here is at the Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park – but be warned, this place is always booked out and you will need to book well in advance.  But don’t worry, this tourist park isn’t just about camping and cabins; they have some pretty stunning luxurious waterfront villas too. There are a couple of other accommodation options available if Tallebudgera is on your list of short breaks Queensland offers – you can check them out here.

For families looking for weekend holidays from Brisbane, where everything revolves around the water, Tallebudgera would certainly be my recommendation.

Toowoomba is certainly not the destination that usually comes to mind when people think of weekend retreats near Brisbane. Still, with its quaint country charm, beautiful parks and historical gems, this Garden City can be a great place to visit.

Thanks to its 150+ parks and gardens, Toowoomba has earned the name of the Garden City.  Some of the more popular parks to visit include Queens Park, Laurel Bank Park, the State Rose Garden in Newtown Park, and the Japanese Garden are top picks.

Things to do in Toowoomba include a visit to the Cobb + Co Museum, checking out the city’s street art and a picnic at Picnic point.  If you’re reasonably fit, then you’ll also enjoy the climb up Table Top Mountain which has spectacular views once you reach the top.

Toowoomba has a range of lovely accommodation options .  Stay in an old Qld’er complete with roaring log fire and snuggle up with your loved ones – one of the best retreats near Brisbane.

So next time you’re looking for weekend trips around Brisbane – why not consider Toowoomba.

Bunya Mountains

The Bunya Mountains are a 2 hour drive from Brisbane and is a great option for those after a peaceful mountain escape.  The area is home to the world’s largest forest of bunya pines – hence its name.

Bush walking is the main activity here, with several different trails to choose from.  It’s also the perfect place for spotting wildlife, including several species of birds, wallabies and more.  Also, with pretty much zero light pollution, the Bunya Mountains is the ideal place for enjoying the stars.

In terms of accommodation, your only option is to camp or book a home in the area.  Unless you are visiting in the warmer months, one of the beautiful homes would be my recommendation because it can be particularly cold here.  Plus, the homes are lovely and most have gorgeous fireplaces, great for snuggling in front of and they offer great value for money – perfect for those after cheap getaways from Brisbane.    Check out all the homes available to rent here.

The Bunya Mountains is a great destination any time of the year. Still, being one of the only places in QLD where you can experience a real winter, it’s perfect if you’re after one of the winter weekend getaways Brisbane offers.

Click here for our full guide on a weekend away in the Bunya Mountains.

3.5 hours north of Brisbane, Hervey Bay is wedged between the mainland and the world heritage listed K’gari and is considered the whale watching capital of Australia.  During the months of mid July to October, this is the place to be to see humpback whales.  The water surrounding Hervey Bay is calm and perfect for whales to nurture their young calves – hence why it’s known as a whale nursery. 

While whale watching is the most popular activity in Hervey Bay, the area does have around 14km of golden beaches to enjoy as well.  The calm waters are perfect for swimming and other watersports.  There are also walking tracks along the Esplanade and don’t miss a sunset and drinks at Enzo’s on the Beach.

There are some lovely places to stay along the Esplanade, from good budget self contained accommodation to luxurious hotel suites and everything in between. If Hervey Bay is one of the holiday spots near Brisbane you want to check out, then – Click here for a full list of accommodation options.

Burleigh Heads

Burleigh Heads is a popular and laid back coastal town on the Gold Coast, perfect for those wanting to be away from all the glitz and glamour of Surfers Paradise, yet still within easy reach to all the Gold Coast attractions.

The beach at Burleigh is perfect for both swimming and surfing and along the foreshore, you’ll find Burleigh’s famous towering pine trees.  The foreshore has spacious grassy areas dotted with playgrounds making the perfect spot for a family picnic.  The area is also home to regular craft markets.

The Burleigh Heads National Park is a great spot to walk and from here, you’ll enjoy some fantastic ocean views.  You can even walk all the way around to beautiful Tallebudgera Creek.

Burleigh has a range of great places to eat as well as places to stay.  You’ll find everything here, from super cheap old school units to modern fancy apartments.  Click here for a full list of accommodation options.

Glass House Mountains

Located in the hinterland in the Sunshine Coast, the Glass House Mountains makes for a great weekend escape from Brisbane.

For the adventurous types, you can spend your days exploring the Glass House Mountains National Park.  There are numerous lookouts and walking tracks at Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Ngungun for all different fitness levels.  Also, be sure to check out the Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretive Centre, where you can learn about local history and attractions.

The Glass House Mountains is also an excellent base for exploring nearby hinterland towns like Maleny and Montville and Steve Irwin’s world famous Australia Zoo .

There are several different accommodation options in the area, including caravan parks, motels and lovely cabins.  Click here for a few suggestions.

A few days at the Glass House Mountains is a great outdoor getaway near Brisbane.

Coolum is another gorgeous Sunshine Coast beach, just under a 2 hour drive from Brisbane, making it a great weekend getaway.  The coastal town is relatively quiet compared to some of the other Sunny Coast beaches, making it a beautiful place to come and relax for a few days.

Of course, the main attraction here is the gorgeous Coolum Beach, thanks to its pristine sandy beach and beautiful ocean, perfect for swimming and surfing.  However, another drawcard here is Mount Coolum, with visitors coming from all over to climb this rock and enjoy the spectacular views from the top.

Other fun things to do in Mount Coolum include visiting the Aqua Park, shopping along the esplanade and dining in the various beachfront restaurants and cafés.  Plus, Coolum Beach has an off leash dog friendly beach, so if you can find yourself some dog friendly accommodation, there is no need to leave your fur baby at home.

For cheap beachfront accommodation, you can’t go past the Coolum Beach Holiday Park , but there is also a wide range of accommodation options to choose from.  Click here for our guide on where to stay in Coolum.

Ravensbourne

Ravensbourne is a gorgeous area located on the edge of the Great Dividing Range, just under 2 hours from the Brisbane CBD.  The area is full of gorgeous rolling hills, exceptional food and beautiful landscapes, making it just perfect for a weekend away.

The drive to Ravensbourne is just gorgeous!  Be sure to take the winding Esk-Hampton Road, which is said to be the region’s most beautiful drive.  You’ll pass Lake Wivenhoe, the Deongwar State Forest and drive through rolling green hills featuring livestock.

Spend your days in Ravensbourne exploring the various walking trails of the Ravensbourne National Park.  Check out Gus Beutel lookout for amazing views across the Lockyer Valley, which is also a lovely spot for a picnic. Or for something a little different stop by Bunnyconnellen (pictured above) to check out their range of artisanal products and wine. It is just stunning here!

In terms of where to stay, there are a range of properties you can check out here, or Tweeters Country Getaway Farm Stay , which is about 30 minutes away but perfect for families.

Bribie Island

Just minutes from the Brisbane CBD, Bribie Island is a beautiful island and perfect for a weekend getaway.  On Bribie Island, you have the choice of calm waters or surf beaches as well as a casual, welcoming community vibe.

Along with Moreton and North Stradbroke Island, Bribie Island is one of the three sand islands in Moreton Bay.  Bribie Island is the smallest of the three and one of the easiest to reach, thanks to connecting to the mainland by a bridge.

For those who prefer calm waters, the Pumicestone Passage is the perfect place.  This protected marine park is ideal for water sports and swimming and is an awesome spot to watch the sunset with the Glass Mountains in the background. 

If you’re more into the surf, Bribie Island has a range of great surf beaches as well as wide sandy beaches and the Bribie National Park for 4WD enthusiasts.  There are also some great bushwalks where you can spot wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, dingoes and more.

Bribie Island is perfect for those who love to camp, but there is also plenty of apartment style accommodation too – click here for a full list of accommodation options .  For families, head on over to the mainland’s Big4 Sandstone Point Holiday Resort , which is jam packed full of great family friendly facilities!

Killarney is 2.5 hours from the Brisbane CBD, a rural town in the Southern Downs, just 6kms from the New South Wales Border.  This small country town is the perfect place to escape the city and be surrounded by rolling hills and mountain vistas and where visitors can spend their days exploring the various natural attractions.

The main reason people come to Killarney is for the gorgeous waterfalls along the Falls Drive.  You can see five different waterfalls within a short area, including Queen Mary Falls, Daggs Falls, Brown’s Falls, Upper Brown’s Falls, and Teviot Falls.  There are several walking tracks where you can get a closer look at these falls and also have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as echidnas, possum and more.  Also, don’t miss Carr’s Lockout for amazing views.

There is a caravan park close to the Queen Mary Falls or stay at gorgeous B&Bs.  Check here for accommodation in the area.  

Wivenhoe Dam

Located just 1 hour from Brisbane in the Somerset Region, Wivenhoe Dam covers 33,000 hectares and is an ideal spot for those after a relaxing getaway in the great outdoors.  Unlike Somerset Dam, you’re unable to use watercraft with motors at Wivenhoe, so it is an excellent spot for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Here visitors can spend their day’s kayaking, swimming, sailing, fishing and exploring the various walking tracks.  There are two playgrounds in the area and large grassy areas perfect for kicking a ball around for families with young children.  And for any keen anglers out there, this is one of the best places in Australia for bass fishing.

If you want to stay at Wivenhoe Dam, you can camp at either Captain Logan Campgrounds or the Lumley Hill Campgrounds.

Just under three hours’ drive from Brisbane is Kingaroy, home to the largest peanut-processing plant in Australia.  With its stunning rolling countryside, fresh farm produce and great places to eat, Kingaroy is the perfect short escape for foodies as well as those just after a peaceful countryside getaway.

During the day, visit the Pottique Lavender Farm, a few wineries, and stop to taste local delights such as olives and cheese.  For the peanut lovers, you can’t skip a visit to the Kingaroy Heritage Museum as well as making a stop at the Peanut Van to taste Kingaroy’s most famous export.  While at night, it’s recommended you visit the Kingaroy Observatory to see the night sky in all its glory.

If you can, plan your visit to Kingaroy to line up with one of the festivals they have in town.  There are fabulous race days as well as festivals celebrating pumpkin and even bacon!

There is a range of gorgeous B&B style accommodation like the Hillview Cottages as well as Holiday Parks.  Click here for a full guide on where to stay.

Brisbane City

Lastly, why even leave Brisbane for a weekend away when you can enjoy a fabulous weekend in Brisbane .  This might sound a little weird if you live in Brisbane, but when was the last time you had a staycation in your own city – it’s actually quite fun.

One of the great things about a weekend in Brisbane is that many of the top attractions are free! You can visit museums, art galleries, cruise the river, swim, take guided tours, and get around the city completely free of charge. 

If you plan your staycation during the warmer months, spend a few hours swimming at Southbank, followed by a meal at one of the Southbank restaurants and cafes.  Plus, of course there are the Southbank markets too and nearby you can easily spend an entire day checking out the Museum, Science Centre and Art Gallery.  Click here for more to do at Southbank.

In the centre of the CBD, don’t miss the Brisbane Museum, which even includes a free guided tour up the tower of City Hall.  If you’re a shopper, you can spend hours in the Queen Street Mall or for families, take the kids to Roma Street Parklands and the Botanical Gardens.  Then, at night, don’t miss the chance to see the Story Bridge lit up while having dinner at the Howard Smith Wharves.  Click here for more to do in Brisbane CBD.

There is, of course a stack of great accommodation options in Brisbane for families, but I really love Evolution Apartments , where you can get a well priced self contained apartment with fantastic river views. For loads more places to stay in Brisbane – Click here for a full guide on where to stay in Brisbane.

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Hopefully, you’ve found this list of awesome weekend trips from Brisbane helpful and now have some great ideas.  If you don’t have time for a weekend away, you can find our list of the best Brisbane day trips here and all our other Brisbane content here.

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The best short break stays in Queensland

16 June 2022

Quick break in Queensland? Drop anchor in Airlie Beach, find luxury in the outback and nightfall in a national park.

Freedom shores, airlie beach.

At Freedom Shores, located in a lush tropical valley at the edge of Airlie Beach, a nautical theme plays out across the property, with island chic interiors and expansive water views out to the Whitsundays.

Its boat cabins are a collection of one-room bungalows gathered together at the resort’s ‘land marina’ and fashioned like boats complete with a ‘deck’ from which to take in the surroundings; the Denver is an actual historic boat reconditioned into a bright and comfortable queen room.

Freedom Shores, Airlie Beach.

Nightfall Camp, Lamington

The Queensland weather lends itself to camping or, in the case of Nightfall Camp, glamping with a rustic chic vibe.

Located within Lamington National Park, its custom-designed safari tents feature organic linens, rain-head showers, tin soaking tubs, fireplaces and endless pristine bushland to look out to.

Dinners are communal and organic, and activities on offer range from bushwalking to birdwatching to yoga classes to creek-side massages.

Nightfall Camp, Lamington. (Image: Tourism & Events Queensland)

Mt Mulligan Lodge

With the soaring Mt Mulligan as a backdrop, this luxury outback lodge sits lightly on a 28,000-hectare working cattle station some 160 kilometres from Cairns.

Inside Mount Mulligan lodge.

With room for just 16 guests at a time (including children; it is proudly family friendly), accommodations range from rooms and suites to expansive pavilions.

The soaring Mt Mulligan is the backdrop to Mount Mulligan Lodge.

Once in residence, everything is taken care of so all you have to do is choose from a roster of activities including everything from barramundi fishing to cattle mustering.

Sanctuary at Sirromet, Mt Cotton

Situated within the grounds of Sirromet Winery in Mt Cotton, 45 minutes’ drive from Brisbane, Sanctuary at Sirromet is made up of a collection of stylish tented pavilions looking out over the 226-hectare property, including a spacious family pavilion.

Situated within the grounds of Sirromet Winery in Mt Cotton. (Image: Andrew Thurtell/Thurtell Photography)

While in residence you can make the most of the two on-site restaurants and the cellar door, as well as the extensive grounds, which feature bushwalking tracks and a Supa Golf course.

Inside Sanctuary at Sirromet. (Image: Andrew Thurtell/Thurtell Photography)

Adina Apartment Hotel, Brisbane

Originally opened in 1922 as the Queensland Government Savings Bank, Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane has made maximum use of its original Art Deco features of the banking chamber such as columns, carved wood panelling, ornate ceilings and endless marble to create a sophisticated hotel that offers all the features of an apartment.

Gilberton Outback Retreat

Sitting within a seventh generation working cattle station in goldfields country, the Gilberton Outback Retreat is fashioned from local stone and timber and finished with luxury inclusions like a pillow-topped king bed and soaking tub with views of the seemingly endless outback landscape. There’s no phones, television or internet so the escape from modern society here is complete.

The Gilberton Outback Retreat.

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EASY ESCAPES: Queensland short breaks your family will love

Pack up the car, or book a plane ticket. These sunny Queensland short breaks will keep every family member happy. 

Whether you pick tropical north Queensland or the action-packed south, you’re guaranteed to have fun.

Think sun, surf and loads of happy smiles.

Queensland accommodation for families

When you’re planning a family holiday, it’s often worth looking for accommodation with extra bedrooms so the kids can have their space (and so can you).  Kitchenettes are an added bonus. Because we all know that some kids wake at 5am starving or desperately need a snack at 3pm. 

Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites have large one or two-bedroom apartments that fit families in resort-style complexes with pools.

We’ve made a handy map of all of the Oaks Hotels in Queensland below so you can plan your Queensland holiday with ease.  Click on the Google map pins below for more detail about each hotel or resort.

You could string together our southern and tropical north Queensland destinations for an epic month-long road trip up the coast from Kingscliff to Port Douglas.

Escape to Brisbane

The Queensland capital is often overlooked in favour of its glitzy seaside neighbour.

That’s a mistake.

Brisbane has great playgrounds, engaging museums and really relaxed vibe.

Playing there:

You will find that one day is not enough. But if you do only have a short time to visit, head to South Bank, Brisbane’s cultural heart.

South Bank is home to the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art. It has 17 hectares of lush parkland, two enormous playgrounds, a water play park and a beach.

From South Bank, you can board a cruise along the Brisbane River. If you don’t mind heights, grab a ticket on the Wheel of Brisbane for a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. You can also climb the Story Bridge.

Every Friday and Saturday the Collective Markets feature arts and crafts, homewares and fashion.

They also have great cheap eats for kids who are always hungry.

If you have a little more time, you should book a kayak tour on the Brisbane River, watch the sunrise over Mt Coot-tha and explore the incredible Botanic Gardens.

Teenagers will love Victoria Park’s Golf Complex at Herston, skateboard or scooter lessons at RampAttak in Geebung and abseiling the Kangaroo Point cliffs.

Getting here :

The easiest way to get from Brisbane airport to the CBD is to jump on the train. But you can also take a shuttle bus or a taxi.

The train will cost about $20, a taxi $40 and the shuttle around $30 depending on the traffic and stops.

Brisbane accommodation:

The Oaks Brisbane Festival Suites at 108 Albert Street, Brisbane is perfect for families. This hotel is in the Brisbane CBD within walking distance to shops and fantastic family-friendly restaurants.

It has an onsite gym, swimming pool, sundeck and barbecue facilities. Families can stay in one or two-bedroom apartments with a kitchenette. All the rooms have WiFi and TV streaming capabilities.

Keep reading:

• Things to do with kids in Brisbane
• 55 things to do on the Gold Coast with kids

Escape to The Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is the number one family holiday destination for a reason – it’s packed full of things kids love. 

Think epic theme parks, long golden sand beaches and stunning hinterland walking trails.

Playing there: 

Everyone in the family will love the inflatable Gold Coast Aqua Park obstacle course, Seaworld, Wet And Wild, Movie World, Dreamworld and WhiteWater World.

Teenagers will love jetboating on the Broadwater, playing laser skirmish and ziplining at Thunderbird Park and facing their fears with a Bungy jump at Bungy Australia.

If you’re travelling with toddlers or babies you should check out Tallebudgera Creek. This gentle estuary is a great place to spend an afternoon paddling in the cool, calm water and lazing in the sun. 

If you can, spend a day in the Gold Coast Hinterland. It takes just 30 minutes to drive up into the Tallebudgera Valley and once there you can swim and splash in cool rock pools surrounded by rainforest.

The Gold Coast is a really active city, locals tend to wake up early and hit the beach. They also love to bike ride. You will find bikes for hire along the beachfront and in front of most hotels. You can cycle from Coolangatta all the way to Surfers Paradise along the beachfront bicycle path.

Venture out to The Spit or through the Broadwater Parklands, pass by the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre or take a peek at The Hill to see its sculptures.

After a long day of cycling, stop at the beach for a well-deserved dip in the sea.

Getting there: 

The SkyBus Gold Coast Airport Shuttle is a dedicated service connecting the Gold Coast Airport to the most popular tourist locations. It services all flights and runs seven days a week from Tugan to Main Beach.

Frequent trains run from Brisbane Central to Varsity Lakes Train Station with connections to Surfside Bus 760 then stops at Gold Coast Airport.

Staying there: 

With easy access to the tram, the beaches, playground and Pacific Fair Shopping centre, Broadbeach is one of the best places to stay on the Gold Coast.

It’s a little more relaxed than Surfers’ Paradise and has great cafes, an incredible beachfront playground area and easy access to bike trails.

Avani Broadbeach Residences has one and two-bedroom apartments that fit up to six people. They also provide baby cots, high chairs, free kids movies and TV channels.

Wake up to incredible views over the Pacific Ocean before you much on a toastie made in your kitchenette.

Escape to Kingscliff

Yes, we know it’s in NSW. But it is so close to Queensland that you could stay on the Gold Coast for a few nights and then make the trip down to Kingscliff. Trust us, this town is worth it. 

Kingscliff is just south of Tweed Heads and it offers a totally different vibe to the action-packed Gold Coast. Kingscliff is a bit of a local secret. Most of the tourists that come here are from Brisbane. It’s one of the best places to enjoy a relaxed beach holiday without the crowds you will find on the Gold Coast or in Byron Bay.

Everything you need is within walking distance. The main road runs parallel to the beach and it’s filled with boutiques, surf shops, cafes and restaurants.

The Kingscliff night market opens on the first Friday of every month from 4pm to 9pm at Lions Park. It’s a great event with food trucks, eclectic stalls and live music. Families also flock to the Kingscliff Beach markets held every second and fourth Saturday of the month at Jack Bayliss Park on Marine Parade. This market is great for finding unique jewellery, craft and artworks.

Getting there :

The easiest way to get to Kingscliff is to drive from the Gold Coast.

If you don’t have a car take the 760 bus to Wharf Street at Tweed Mall and from there take the 601 bus to Kingscliff.

Oaks Casuarina Santai Resort is the best resort if you want to relax, recharge and rejuvenate.

It will make you feel like you’ve escaped to Bali, without the cost of the flights.

 Relax under a leafy cabana by the grand pool and spa, dine at the onsite restaurant ‘The Spice Den’ or pamper yourself at the wellness spa. 

The Resort features one and two-bedroom self-contained apartments with inclusive Wi-FI and Foxtel.

Looking for a short break in NSW instead? Try these NSW short beach holidays within driving distance from Sydney .

Escape to the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is a little more relaxed than the Gold Coast, but just as fun. This is the place to spend long lazy days at the beach and chilling out in a great hotel.

The Sunshine Coast is packed full of gorgeous beaches, the most well-known being Noosa, Sunshine and Caloundra. Kings Beach has a fantastic oceanfront saltwater swimming pool and a kid-friendly water park.

Head out to Australia Zoo to see if you can spot Robert and Bindi coaxing crocs in the Crocoseum.

Take a bushwalk up to Kondalilla Falls. The easy 1.7km Picnic Creek Circuit works best for most families.

While here you can also visit the Big Pineapple to explore the process of pineapple farming from start to factory and finish the day with a fruit-filled sundae.

Teenagers will love kayaking around Bribie Island, surf lessons at Coolum Surfing School and the thrill rides at Aussie World.

The Eumundi Markets  are held on Wednesday and Saturday mornings in Eumundi’s main street, and at the old Butter Factory on Sundays. There are over 250 stalls offering handicrafts, local produce and many other delights.

Getting there:

The Sunshine Coast is one hour drive north of Brisbane airport.

Sun-air bus service operates shuttles to the Sunshine Coast every hour from 4.30am. You can also take the train, or catch a bus.

Holidays with Kids readers voted Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort as one of the best resorts 4 stars and under in Australia . Every feature of this hotel screams kids.

From the water park to the climbing frame, putt-putt golf and pool, the little ones will have a tough time deciding where to go first. And when they’re all done with enjoying the facilities, they’ll eat for free if you’re an Oaks Discovery member.

This hotel has executive family rooms that sleep four, one and two-bedroom apartments and a three-bedroom villa that sleeps six.  The apartments have kitchenettes and the villa has a full kitchen.

Escape to Port Douglas

Fancy a tropical north Queensland escape? Port Douglas is the gateway to the rainforest and the reef. Think lush green mountains and expansive blue ocean views. 

Wander down to Four Mile Beach to explore the clear, shallow rock pools at the northern end. Take a dip in the ocean, but make sure you swim between the flags and inside the stinger net between November and May.

Head out to the Great Barrier Reef on a full-day snorkelling or diving tour. If you’re short on time, book the Reefsprinter tour. This speedboat travels at 80km/h (40 knots) and gets you to  Low Isles  in as little as 15 minutes.

If you want to spend the whole day snorkelling book a Full Day Outer Reef Snorkel Tour with Wavelength. You can view the reef from above during the 90-minute boat ride. This tour visits three sites on the Great Barrier Reef and a snorkel advisor accompanies families on the first two snorkels. 

You can also book a private Great Barrier Reef diving tour on   Blue Dive .

If you want to learn about the rainforest, head out to Rainforestation Nature Park. This eco-friendly park has three unique Australian experiences; Army Duck Rainforest Tours, Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience and Kuranda’s largest Koala & Wildlife Park.

Download a map of the Daintree Food Trail before you go. It highlights the diverse and delicious foods, farm gates and food experiences along the Great Barrier Reef drive from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation.

Getting there: The best way to get to Port Dougals is to fly.

Flights arrive into Cairns, then travellers will need to take a 1-hour car journey along the Captain Cook Highway to beautiful  Port Douglas.

Staying there:

Oaks Port Douglas Resort is the oasis you need. The stunning resort is minutes away from Four Mile Beach.

It features a lagoon-style pool with a swim-up bar, an onsite spa and incredible restaurants.

Families can stay in one or two-bedroom apartments. Choose from garden or pool view rooms. All of the apartments have a separate kitchenette so you can store snacks for kids who are hungry all the time.

This article was produced with content supplied by Oaks Hotels and is a Holidays with Kids digital exclusive. Be the first to see more exclusive online content by subscribing to the enewsletter here .

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Family-friendly accommodation

Browse our selection of great family accommodation options around the world

Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort

Plantation island resort, phuket marriott resort & spa, merlin beach, intercontinental bali resort.

Short Tours from the Fraser Coast

Explore our short trips around the fraser coast and beyond.

Embark on a short trip adventure and explore the stunning landscapes and attractions of the Fraser Coast and beyond. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something new to discover in this beautiful area.

Our Short Trips

Why choose to short break/tour with down under coach tours.

BEAUTY & THE BEAST MUSICAL OVERNIGHTER (2 Days)

TINA TURNER THE MUSICAL OVERNIGHTER (2 DAYS)

BRISBANE EXPLORER (3 Days)

TOOWOOMBA - FLOWERS & GARDENS (3 Days)

WICKED THE MUSICAL OVERNIGHTER (2 Days)

CHRISTMAS ON THE GRANITE BELT (4 Days)

GREASE THE MUSICAL OVERNIGHTER (2 Days)

Pick up & drop off points.

 - Urangan Central Shopping Centre, Urangan

 - Torquay Fountain, Torquay

 - Baycrest (bus stop), Doolong Road,     Kawungan

 - Stocklands Shopping Centre, Hervey Bay

Maryborough

 - McDowell Carpark, Maryborough

 - Stanfast, Tinana

 - 13 River Road (bus stop)

Ask your tour consultant for details.

Frequent Travellers

After travelling on 5 tours (day trips or short breaks) you will receive $10 off your next tour.

Ask your consultant for more details.

Single Travelling Companions Are Welcome

If you are travelling on your own, Down Under Coach Tour crews will warmly welcome you.  You'll soon make many new friends as you share your holiday.

As a single traveller, we will match you up with a room partner of the same gender.  Or you can choose to have an individual room at an additional 'Single Supplement' cost.  If we cannot match you up with another single traveller of the same gender, a single room will be provided at no extra cost.

2 to 4 day tours – a deposit is required within 7 days of booking and final payment is due 3 weeks prior to departure unless otherwise stated.

Payment can be made in person, over the phone with a credit card or through a travel agent.

(If booking/paying through a travel agent, please check the agent’s fees and cancellation policy, as extra charges may apply.

Cancellations

Terms & Conditions—Refund Policy:

Day Tours - Refunds prior to final payment will be subject to any non-refundable costs.  For cancellations after the final payment date any refund will be subject to pre-paid venue cancellation policies.

Concerts/Shows – Deposit paid covers the cost of your ticket.  Cancellation refunds are subject to the resale of your ticket.  For cancellations made after the final payment date refund will be subject to venue cancellation policies.

Short Breaks (2 to 4 Days) - Refunds for cancellations prior to final payment date subject to any non-refundable costs.  Cancellations made after final payment date subject to venue cancellation policies.

Luggage Limits

Luggage space is limited onboard our coaches.  Each passenger is entitled to take one suitcase, the size of which is not to exceed H60cm x L25cm x W40cm, and the weight limit is 20 kilos (44lbs).  Personal items should be carried in a travel bag.

Medical & Dietary

Passengers accept that it is their responsibility to ensure that their health is in a state which allows them to enjoy the tours and successfully complete activities that the tour offers.  It is essential for you to address any medical conditions / dietary requirements with us at the time of booking. 

Persons with limited mobility or those unable to adequately care for themselves are required to be accompanied by a carer.  In particular, hostesses, coach captains, and your fellow passengers will not act as assistants or carers in these circumstances.  Down Under Coach Tours reserves the right to refuse to carry passengers requiring assistance who are not accompanied by a carer.

Enjoy a great day out and meet new friends!

Quick Links

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36 Best Day Trips from Brisbane, Queensland

The Queensland capital has plenty of attractions within the city limits to keep you entertained, but sometimes you just need to get away. Therefore, lets start exploring my best day trips from Brisbane.

I have been a local to the area for over 20 years and know that I have spent many weekends exploring ins and outs of the south east. Trust that I’m giving you my favourite options, along with some variety so you can at least find a couple of things that interest you.

Whether you on vacation, or living here, please read on for my best ideas and start planning your next “must-do” day trip away.

This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Please read my blog disclaimer, terms and conditions & privacy policy here for details.

Day Trips from Brisbane & Map?

I have generated a specially curated map here of all the options below, to help you apply directions from your location. These choices cover the Sunshine Coast, Hinterland, Scenic Rim, Byron Bay, Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. Along with the Gold Coast, UNESCO areas and my favourite National Parks.

1. Tangalooma Resort or Moreton Island

Over the years, I have spent many weekends either day tripping to Moreton Island , or staying over night in the Tangalooma Island Resort . Ferry’s will leave from Eagle Farm or near the Port, but both are a very different experience.

➡  Compare prices for Moreton Tours on HERE on Get Your Guide HERE, or find more options HERE with Viator.

The Barge leaving from the Port if your best way to see and snorkel the Wrecks and hang out on the beach for the day. Apart from that, The Eagle Farm ferry’s will go direct to the resort and you get a casual day pass for all their activities. This includes Quad Bikes, Helicopters, Segway on the beach, parasailing and the famous Dolphin Feeding.

2. Natural Bridge

In the Gold Coast Hinterland, you have several waterfalls to visit, like Natural Bridge , which also has glow worm caves. It’s a well-known waterfall as it can be viewed from above & below, and one of my favourites to visit on the Gold Coast.

➡  Compare prices for Springbrook Tours HERE on Get Your Guide, or find others HERE with Viator.

The walk around is about 1 kilometre, and circles around in a one-way loop. In the evening, you can enter the cave for viewing Glow worms for free , which is an incredible experience and one I would recommend.

3. North Stradbroke Island

Your selection will never be the same after visiting Stradbroke Island . There are so many different things to see and do, like the Point Lookout headland, Brown Lake, and plenty of gorgeous beaches to hang out on. The Island lies 30 kilometres of the coast and takes 45-minutes to get there from Cleveland.

➡  Compare prices for Stradbroke Tours on HERE with Get Your Guide.

Not only that, but with several ferries going throughout the day, it means you can get at least 8 hours fun in for the day. However, seen as it’s the second-largest sand island , consider a tour to get around or look into a scooter or public transport.

4. Lamington National Park

Lamington National Park is in the UNESCO World Heritage Site (The Gondwana Rainforest), located in the Gold Coast Hinterland of Queensland, Australia. Another Free park and is home to more than 900 species of plants and animals, several waterfalls and kilometres of hiking trail.

➡  Compare prices for Lamington Tours HERE with Get your Guide, or HERE with Viator.

Visitors can explore the rainforest on foot via a network of walking trails or take in the views from the O’Reilly’s Treetop walk. This is a suspended bridge that winds its way through the treetops and very family friendly. 

5. Whale Watching Tours(Seasonal from July to October)

If you’re looking to going on a whale watching cruise, there are a few different departure points from which you can choose. Either Redcliffe, Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, offer whale-watching tours that allow you to see these majestic creatures up close.

➡  Compare prices for Whale watching tours HERE on Get your Guide.

While on tour, you’ll also learn about the Humpback Whales that migrate through the area and experience the coast’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature admirer or just looking for a fun day out, a Whale Watching tour will give you an experience you won’t soon forget.

6. Winery Tours

Winery tours are a great way to explore the area and have someone do the driving for you. With that said, the Sunshine and Gold Coast Hinterlands are very similar and are two of the most popular destinations for winery tours.

➡  Compare prices for Wine Tasting Tours HERE with Get Your Guide, or others HERE with Viator.

Both regions offer various tour options, from half-day to full day excursions. Visitors can tour the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and taste some of the region’s finest wines.

7. Adventure Theme Parks

There are several theme parks to choose from, all surrounding the Gold Coast. This includes Dreamworld, Movie World, Sea World. Or if your like me, the waterparks like White Water World and Wet ‘N’ Wild are the most fun!

Your day will be full of excitement as you can see all kinds of animals, raise your heart rate with thrill rides, fill up on carnival snack foods or spend the day in the water. Not only that, but Actors are performing in and around the park for different shows, events, stunts, and tourist entertainment.

8. Purling Brook Falls

Purling Brook Falls is also available in Springbrook National Park and not far from Natural Bridge. This waterfall has a 4 kilometres loop hike on a nicely formed track. It starts at the top, walks down one side of the dense forest canyon to view the waterfall at the bottom, and walks back up the other side.

Purling Brook Falls does have a lookout at the top, so you don’t have to complete the hike to see it. Although, it is best viewed in full at the bottom.

9. Beaches on the Gold Coast

Everyone loves a Beach day right? Well, you can’t get any better than some of the variety down at the Gold Coast. Those beautiful white sandy beaches stretch all the way from Southport, through Surfers Paradise, Tallebudgera, Currumbin, and down to Tweed Heads.

Water activities are on an abundance at the Gold Coast. So, if you’re after surfing, somewhere to paddleboard, or a low ley place for the kids, then the Gold Coast has what you’re after.

10. Jet Boating experience

Jet boating is an extreme sport that is perfect for thrill seekers searching for a gripping and exciting ride. The best part about jet boating is that it is a family-friendly activity and everyone can enjoy.

➡ Compare prices for Jet Boat rides HERE with Get your Guide, or HERE with Viator.

It’s ideal to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Gold Coast while getting an adrenaline rush. The experience is like nothing else and is sure to be a memorable experience for everyone who tries it.

11. Q1 Building Observation Deck & Skypoint Climb

Did you know that the Q1 Building in Surfers Paradise, is one of the tallest residential building in the world. Not only that, but it has one of the fastest elevators taking you to the 77th floor in 42 seconds.

➡  Book your Skypoint Observation deck Tickets HERE

There are two experiences to mention here. First being the Observation deck with 360-degree views, behind glass and overlooking the Gold Coast. Enjoy a coffee, meet up with friends and see this tourist hub from a different perspective.

Alternatively, you have the Skypoint Climb , which is more extreme and stepping outside for a glass-free view. You’re strapped in and guided to walk around the top portion of the Q1 Building. The experience takes about 1.5 hours, including the safety briefing instructions.

12. Jet Ski adventure

There is no need to have a licence to tour the Gold Coast on a Jet Ski , and you can share the cost with a friend and double riding. For our experience, we chose a tour leaving from Main Beach harbour and made our way up to Coran Cove for Breakfast.

You do have a little freedom while on the Jet Ski, although it’s pretty much a “follow the leader” scenario when you don’t have a licence. Therefore, speeds are dependant on your confidence or limited by law through the marina.

13. Mount Tamborine

If you didn’t manage to see the free Glow Worms at the Natural Bridge, then could see the ones at Tamborine Mountain. Bookings are probably a good idea as this place can get pretty busy. However, they have Glow worms all year round (during the day) and you are guaranteed to see them.

Apart from that, Mount Tamborine brings other gems like a free swimming opportunity at places like Cedar Creek Falls. In the summer, you might have to fight through the crowds, but worth it for the several natural waterholes to cool off in.

14. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

This is just one of the Wildlife Zoo’s and an excellent option. The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary might not be as big as Australia Zoo, but I think it does have plenty of variety and still worth visiting.

➡  Compare prices for Currumbin Wildlife Tickets HERE on Get Your Guide.

The one thing I loved about this Park is the personal animal interactions that were included. Animals like Macaws and Lemurs were just wandering around (obviously with a ranger nearby), and you were able to get up close and photograph.

15. Scenic Rim

If you’re looking for a quaint country getaway close to the city, then the Scenic Rim offers a unique blend of old-school architecture and boutique shops. There are also plenty of walking trails like Mount Barney, Mount Lindesay, Mount Maroon, and Mount May.

Some of the more popular towns in the Scenic Rim could be Boonah or Rathdowney, which are known for their small-town charm. There are also plenty of shops and cafes to explore, as well as alpaca, camel, lavender or cheese farms.

16. Queen Mary Falls

The Queen Mary Falls is located just outside Killarney and can be reached by following the Waterfall Way. The trail takes you to the top of Queen Mary Falls, providing stunning views of the surrounding area.

Then, the trail winds its way down to the bottom of the falls, where you view from below. This is all contained within The Gondwana Rainforest (UNESCO World Heritage Listed) and is well worth a visit while you’re near Killarney. 

17. Noosa Heads & the Fairy Pools

Noosa Heads is a beautiful locality and one of the best places you could road trip from the city. Many will visit for the low tide swimming spot known as the Fairy pools , which are natural rock pools that are filled with crystal-clear ocean water.

Make sure you go really early, or at least out of weekends or school holidays. More importantly, this is a low tide activity, and you will need to check that before you go.

18. Caloundra

Known for its sunny weather and endless beaches,  Caloundra  is a top holiday destination when searching for things to do. Kings Beach is patrolled by lifeguards and is a great spot for swimming and surfing. Further around at Bulcock beach, you’ll enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding and some wading areas for the kids.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the famous Coastal Boardwalk pathway runs right through Caloundra and is a beautiful way to take in the sights and sounds of the coast. You’ll pass by rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters along the way.

19. Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo would have to be one of the most popular Zoo’s available in Australia. Today you can see one of the biggest Crocodile feeding and information displays in Australia(apart from Darwin). An Asian animal display, Bird Aviary, Elephants, and an African Safari.

➡  Book your Australia Zoo Tickets & Transfers HERE with Get your Guide, Or HERE with Viator

The park has been opened since the 1970s and has grown over the years. And new animals and new exhibits are being introduced every year.

20. Kondalilla Falls

Kondalilla Falls is another off-beat, free-swimming location and even better, that it’s running almost all year round. There is a 4.7 kilometres loop hike that you can do, as well as stopping off for a swim.

If swimming is your only objective, you can walk to the waterhole and return on the same track for about 2 kilometres. But, be aware there are about 300 stairs, so make sure it’s suitable for your fitness level.

21. Mount Ngungun

If its views your after and a nice hike to take the family, then the Mt Ngungun summit hike is one of my favourites. It’s just less than 3 kilometres return to climb to the summit of this Glass House Mountain. Furthermore, a nicely formed path and hugely popular with the locals on the weekends.

There is a certain level of fitness required as you are climbing a mountain. Personally, I think this just refers to the top section and not the walking path itself. At no time did I feel I was off track or didn’t know where I was going.

22. Booloumba Creek Falls

Booloumba Creek Falls would have to be one of my favourite hikes and waterfalls in the area. It will not disappoint, but you will need a 4 wheel drive vehicle to get here. If your only wanting to visit the falls, then it’s a small 3 kilometre return hike on an easily formed track. There are 2 waterfalls to swim in, with the first more suitable for small children.

The falls are running most of the year-round and several swimming spots, including on top of the waterfall. There is a small amount of room for sitting and bringing along a picnic, but the closest facilities would be at Day-use Area number 2(about 10km away).

23. Buderim Falls

Buderim Falls are surprisingly so close to the Sunshine Coast and a quick stop if you’re looking to fill in some time. These falls have 2 entrances and only a short walk from each. They are fed from the city’s storm water, so not sure it’s a great spot for swimming, but you will find people in there from time to time.

The forest is dense, and it’s very easy to think you’re a long way away from the busy city. There is an easy boardwalk fitted at one end and rock-formed stairs from the other. Also, locals will use this area for their morning exercise and catch up with friends.

24. Gardners Falls

Gardners Falls would have to be one of the quickest places to walk to from the Car park, with only 300 metres. It’s a popular place to visit and plenty of room for a picnic and swimming around the waterhole. The walk actually runs along the creek, and you find people picking a spot anywhere along the Obi Obi Creek.

It’s a deep waterhole, so it might be handy to take along a flotation device or a pool noodle.

25. Settlement Cove Lagoon

Redcliffe is honestly a city on its own with a beachside location, and endless activities and accommodation to choose from. One popular spot is the Settlement Cove Lagoon , which is a free, lifeguarded, man-made lagoon-style pool. The pool is huge, and right beside the beach. This means you can also walk along the boardwalk and take in the beachside views.

26. Mount Mee

Looking for some fun Natural Swimming locations? Head to the beautiful D’Aguilar National Park, just 90 minutes away. This pocket of subtropical rainforest is home to eucalypt woodlands and spectacular wilderness views. Make a pit stop in Dayboro for a delicious pastry before heading to the Gantry to learn about the history of the former sawmill.

Your highlight in the summertime would be the Mount Mee Rocky Hole, which is one of the ideal places to swim near the city . This rocky swimming hole is a popular spot for locals and visitors, with its stunning views and the perfect spot to refuel before heading home.

27. Bribie Island

Bribie Island is still an Island, but one you can get there easy enough by driving over the Bridge to get there. There are so many things to see and do , with the west side of the island holding the main shopping complex and the calmer beaches, suitable for kids.

The west side overlooks the Pacific Ocean and so much room that you’re bound to find a spot on your own. If you have a 4WD, then you can purchase a permit to enter the National Park and drive up the beach to the lagoon or fish/swim of the shores.

28. King Island

King Island is only a small Island, and a popular area for locals to exercise and take the dog for a walk. What makes this spot unique is you can only get to it during a low tide, so please check the tide times before attempting.

The island consists of a small amount of vegetation and few wildlife species. Mangrove surrounds the area, and the boat channel just nearby. Consequently, it takes only 20 mins to walk out and even less time to walk around King Island.

29. Mount Coot-Tha

Mount Coot-tha is only a short distance from the city with about 20 different hikes to complete. One of the popular hikes is the Summit Climb, which takes about 1.5 hours to complete. It starts at the bottom around the JC Slaughter Falls Car Park and wanders up the forest on a nicely formed track.

Mount Coot-tha is open 24 hours, has a café, souvenir store and the views from the Lookout (day or night) are the best.

30. Ipswich

Ipswich is located on the western side of Brisbane with a population of 200,000 people. It’s known as Queensland’s oldest city with a lot of historical buildings (about 6000 that are heritage listed).

When planning a day out with the kids or a group of friends, you might like to visit the Orion Lagoon. Alternatively, you can roam the many cafes, explore the antique centre, take the Cobb & co tourist drive or maybe take things to the extreme with a V8 race car experience.

31. Scuba Diving

Where are all my Scuba Divers out there? There are several different Scuba Diving sites in the area . Although after 200 dives in the area myself, I think the visibility can be a little temperamental, but the variety of animals you can see is amazing.

This Includes anything from Mantas, Stingrays, Leopard Sharks, Grey Nurse Sharks, Nudibranchs, and other Macro creatures. However, depending on the season, there is always a place to discover and even ones you can organise from Tangalooma and Stradbroke Islands.

32. Lady Elliot Island

Lady Elliot Island is a small island just off the coast of Bundaberg in Central Queensland. The entire day will have you leaving from Redcliffe Airport at 715am and have you returning about 4pm. This means you will have about 5 hours on a tropical island, in the snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef .

The biggest drawn card for Lady Elliot Island is the water activities. With snorkelling and the glass bottom boat tours, you’re very likely to swim with turtles, plenty of fish, and sometimes Mantas when they are in season.

33. Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a stunning coastal town in northern New South Wales, Australia. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts and crafts scene. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and sunbathing on the many beaches or explore the shops and cafes in the town centre.

There are also plenty of art galleries and studios to check out and several festivals throughout the year. Byron Bay is also home to the most easterly point in Australia(at the Lighthouse), making it a popular spot for sunrise watching.

34. Stanthorpe

Travel a little further southwest of the city and visit the small town of Stanthorpe. It’s famous for its cheeses, truffles, and apples, so you can imagine it’s a foodie heaven. The Stanthorpe Apple and Flower Festival is a must-see event and is held around February/ March each year.

If you’re a hiking lover, then the amazing  Girraween National Park  is just a short drive away. Both the Pyramid Hike and the Sphinx/Turtle Rock hike are top favourites with visitors and are bound to challenge your fitness.

35. Lake Somerset

You wouldn’t expect Lake Somerset to be on my list today, but a day on the lake is heaps of fun. Depending on where you’re coming from, there is plenty of small towns to go through, for local cafes and new things to try. Towns like Esk and Kilcoy or stopping off for a swim at the Enoggera Reservoir.

Apart from that, Lake Somerset has its own activities like swimming, Boating, Jet Skiing, Paddle boarding, or Fishing. You can pack a picnic and stop for those calming sunset views while sipping champagne.

36. Toowoomba

Toowoomba is one of Queensland’s largest inland city’s with a population of 130,000 people. It’s known for representing colonial times with the Cobb & co Museum, Bunya Mountains National park and the Royal Bull’s Head Inn. Not only that, but tourists will flock to the city in droves to witness the Spring Carnival of Flowers festival.

Where to Stay?

Trying to find an area to stay in Brisbane can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Simply start with the activities or what you want to do, and round down a suburb based on that.

➡ Click to Compare all the Hotel Deals HERE with Booking.com

Next I would filter by you budget, facilities needed or maybe parking. Hopefully, this will get you down to a few options convenient to your situation.

Wrap Up – Day Trips from Brisbane

Thanks for reading todays blog post on day trips from Brisbane and I hope you found the information you were looking for! There is so much variety in South East Queensland, so please check out more Brisbane articles here for planning and inspiration.

Read More Articles:

Brisbane Lookouts & Beyond the City with Map

Is Brisbane Safe to Visit?

Is the Gold Coast Part of Brisbane, in Queensland?

Best Things to do at Southbank Brisbane

Best places to Hike in and around Brisbane

“Hi, travel enthusiasts! I’m Chris Fry, The Aquarius Traveller Blogger. I’ve been exploring the world since 2007, documenting my journeys through the lens of my camera. Having visited over 37 countries (including my home Australia), I’ve gained first-hand experiences that help you plan your adventures.

So, whether you need insider tips, or want to live vicariously through my escapades – You’ll find something to love in my blog.”

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Bucket List Seekers

Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples

Couples Travel , Queensland , Weekend Getaways · September 24, 2021

Romantic Getaways Brisbane: 15 Best Weekend Getaways from Brisbane for Couples

Are you a couple looking for a romantic getaway near Brisbane for a bit of RnR so you can reconnect?

No worries.

Or perhaps you’re an active couple searching for the best weekend getaways from Brisbane that offers an action-packed two day itinerary?

We’ve got you.

There are loads of amazing destinations within driving distance from Brisbane that offer endless opportunities for every type of couple. But no matter what your interests are, we’ve found 15 incredibly romantic getaways Brisbane couples will absolutely adore!

Whether you’re looking for a short trip to  Noosa , the ultimate Sunshine Coast beach getaway, a luxe escape to Spicers Peak, or an adventure-filled weekend on  Moreton Island  – one of our absolute favourite  islands in Queensland . 

The best weekend trips from Brisbane for couples are the ones that leave you both with memories that last a lifetime.  And we’ve found 15 romantic Brisbane getaways that will do just that!

read on for the best Brisbane Weekend Getaways for every type of couple

Planning a romantic vacay? These 13 best destinations in the world for a couples holiday will inspire you to book a trip ASAP!

No time to read this now? Pin it for later!

Did You Know?  We use ads to help pay the bills so we can continue to publish free travel advice. We also have affiliate partnerships, so when you click through and make a purchase or book your stay from one of our blog posts, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting Bucket List Seekers! Read our  Disclosure Policy  for more details.

In This Post:

Map of Romantic Brisbane Getaways

15 of the Best Weekend Getaways from Brisbane

Here’s a quick summary of the 15 places we’ve found for a short break or weekend getaway from Brisbane. Continue reading for more details about each location, plus accommodation recommendations.

• Noosa Heads
• Tangalooma, Moreton Island
• Spicer’s Peak
• Toowoomba & Darling Downs
• Granite Belt
• Mount Tamborine
• Rainbow Beach
• North Stradbroke Islamd
• Tweed Coast
• Sunshine Coast Hinterland
• Bunya Mountains
• Lamington National Park
• Bribie Island
• Coolum Beach

#1 | Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is without a doubt one of the most popular short breaks from Brisbane. Loved by couples and families alike, for decades Brissie locals have flocked to  this popular holiday hotspot  for some sun, sand, surfing, hiking, boating, and good food. It’s the ultimate Australia Bucket List destination!

For foodie couples, Noosa has a ton of amazing cafes and restaurants all in one tiny town. You’ll be spoilt for choice and will probably want to stay a week to try them all. Our  Noosa weekend guide  has you covered with all the best places to eat and drink.

Noosa also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world . Main Beach is the most popular spot to sunbake for the day. But if you’re feeling a little adventurous, take a walk around the National Park and visit some of Noosa’s stunning secluded beaches such as Little Cove Beach, Tea Tree Bay, or Granite Bay.

For those looking for something a little more active, there are endless choices. Why not take a hike around Noosa National Park coastal path, hire a boat and head up the Noosa River, go kayaking in the Noosa Everglades, or hire a SUP on main beach and paddle your way around the headland.

And don’t forget your credit card because the shopping in Noosa is world-class. Hastings Street has loads of quaint boutiques selling swimwear, resort wear, jewellery, artworks, and homewares. And let’s not forget the renowned Eumundi Markets – arguably the best arts and crafts markets in Australia! 

Driving Time from Brisbane:  Approximately 2 hours

Where to Stay:  Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort  |  Maison Noosa  |  Fairshore Noosa

Read Next:   Where to Stay, Eat & Play in Noosa Heads, Australia

#2 | Tangalooma, Moreton Island

For a unique and adventurous weekend away from Brisbane, look no further than Tangalooma on Moreton Island.

Just a short 60-minute ferry ride from Brisbane, you’ll find massive sand dunes, stunning rock pools, and beaches where you can mingle with wild dolphins. 

But the major drawcard of Moreton Island is Tangalooma Wrecks – a collection of fifteen old dredging ships that were deliberately sunk and is now home to scores of reef fish, and other marine life. Tangalooma Wrecks is one of the largest and most spectacular man-made reefs in the southern hemisphere.

For everything you need to know about planning a weekend trip from Brisbane to Moreton Island, we’ve got you covered. Check out our  Moreton Island guide  to help plan your next getaway.

How to Get There from Brisbane:  Catch the Tangalooma Ferry (passengers only) from Holt Street Wharf in Pinkenba, or the Micat Ferry (passengers and vehicles) from Port of Brisbane.

Where to Stay:  Villa 21 Tangalooma  |  Beachfront Villa at Tangalooma  |  Castaways Moreton Island

Read Next:   How to See Tangalooma Wrecks on Moreton Island

#3 | Spicers Peak Lodge, Scenic Rim

If you’re looking for an uber-luxury romantic weekend getaway from Brisbane for a special occasion, then Spicers Peak Lodge is the perfect place. 

Nestled on an escarpment in the stunning Scenic Rim region, rests a large modern architecturally designed mountain lodge with breathtaking views. Spicers Peak Lodge literally feels worlds away from civilization.

The lodge is surrounded by 8000 acres of pristine bushland, where you will hear nothing but the birds, the wind in the trees, and the odd moo-cow. And it’s not uncommon for the local kangaroos and wallabies to sun themselves in the grass right outside your room.

Spicers Peak Lodge  is the premier property of the Spicer Group and offers all-inclusive multi-course gourmet dining, with a selection of fine Australian wines, and exquisite accommodations. 

There’s a range of activities available on the property. For adventurous couples, there are hikes and mountain bike trails, or helicopter flights over the ranges. The staff will even pack you a gourmet picnic lunch to take on your nature-filled adventures. There are also relaxing spa and wellness treatments for those in need of a little me-time. 

With prices starting at $1400 per night (all-inclusive), Spicers Peak Lodge is the epitome of luxury lodges in Australia and offers couples the ultimate Brisbane weekend away that you won’t forget!

Where to Stay:  Spicers Peak Lodge

#4 | Toowoomba & Darling Downs

It’s surprising that Toowoomba is not a more popular choice when it comes to quick getaways from Brisbane. Being just 1 hour and 40 minutes drive away, this charming country town is ideal for a romantic rendezvous.

Known as the ‘Garden City’, Toowoomba’s main attraction is, you guessed it, impressive parks and gardens. There are some great spots for a romantic picnic or leisurely stroll (hand in hand of course). 

Check out Queens Park, Laurel Bank Park, the State Rose Garden, or the Japanese Garden. Time your visit around the annual Carnival of Flowers Festival (held in September) for a real treat. 

Other things to do in Toowoomba include visiting the Cobb + Co Museum, taking in the views from Picnic Point, checking out the Russell Street Historical Walk, or taking a hike up Tabletop Mountain.

Toowoomba has a range of  accommodation options  from modern hotels to quaint country cottages where you can snuggle by the fire with a glass of red – the perfect way to spend a romantic weekend retreat near Brisbane!

Driving Time from Brisbane:  Approximately   1 hour and 40 minutes

Where to Stay:  Bluestone Cottages  |  Vacy Hall Grand Boutique Hotel  |  Potters Toowoomba Hotel

#5 | Granite Belt

One of the most underrated Brisbane weekend trips is the Granite Belt region. Perhaps because it’s a little further to get there. Stanthorpe is approximately 3 hours by car along the New England Highway.

But the beauty of going further afield means fewer crowds. And isn’t that exactly what you want when escaping the hustle and bustle of Brisbane for a romantic weekend getaway?

Nestled on the border of NSW and Queensland, the Granite Belt region comprises a series of towns dotted along the New England Tableland – including Stanthorpe, Glen Aplin, and Ballandean, amongst others. 

The perfect place for a bit of rest and relaxation, the Granite Belt region offers an  array of accommodation styles – from rustic to luxurious.

The Granite Belt is one of the few (good) wine regions in Queensland. And no weekend getaway would be complete without visiting some vineyards on the  Alternative Variety Wine Trail . 

For those couples looking for an active weekend getaway, the Giraween and Sundown National Parks offer endless hiking opportunities. Here you can trek amongst giant granite boulders, or through stunning remote gorges.

The Granite Belt is a great place to visit year-round. From mild summers to stunning blooms in springtime, red and gold colours in autumn, and snow with open-fire lodges in winter. The Granite Belt is the only place in Queensland that sees snow during winter, so it’s the perfect place for a winter weekend away from Brisbane.

Driving Time from Brisbane:  Approximately 3 hours

Where to Stay:  Granite Belt Retreat and Brewery  |  31 The Rocks  |  Diamondvale B&B Cottages

#6 | Mount Tamborine

Recommendation by Melissa of  Queensland Camping

Heading up Mount Tamborine is one of the most popular weekend road trips from Brisbane because it’s so close to the city and the drive there is as stunning as the destination itself.

Being only an hour or so away from Brisbane (depending on where you live), Mt Tamborine offers gorgeous vistas, quaint villages, lovely walks, and  cosy accommodation .

Mt Tamborine has a great climate year-round.  While it does get cooler in the mountains during the winter months, this is the perfect time to get cozy with your partner in front of a warm log fire.  The winter months are a great time for long walks among the rainforest and spending hours browsing the boutiques and quaint villages.

Summers at Mount Tamborine are a little milder due to the cool mountain air. This makes it an ideal time to escape the humidity of the city.  Summer is also a great time to make use of the various rock pools and water holes located throughout the national park. And of course, anytime is great for visiting the local wineries and sampling local food producers.

One of the great things about Mt Tamborine is its ideal for all kinds of budgets and travellers.  You can find great inexpensive  accommodation  in the form of motel rooms and cabins such as  Tall Trees Motel  or  Kidd Street Cottages . There is also some stunning five-star luxury accommodations such as  Songbirds  or  Pethers Rainforest Retreat  – both offer great restaurants too. 

Driving Time from Brisbane:  Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes

Where to Stay:  Songbirds Rainforest Retreat  |  Hampton Estate Wines  |  Escarpment Retreat

#7 | Rainbow Beach

Photo and recommendation by Sharon of Everywhere Australia

If you are looking for a unique and adventurous weekend trip from Brisbane, look no further than  Rainbow Beach . One of the most stunning beaches on the Sunshine Coast , it’s also the most colourful – Rainbow Beach is truly somewhere special. 

Best known for its coloured sands that give the town its name, Rainbow Beach is perfect for adventurous couples that enjoy nature and beautiful scenery.

The area is great for hiking, four-wheel driving, fishing, and water sports. Even if you aren’t much of a hiker, the 10-minute walk to Carlo Sandblow is highly recommended. There’s a viewing platform over the “blow” from which you can see out to sea and possibly spot a whale passing by. Keep walking to the cliff’s edge to view the spectacular coloured sands from above. 

If you have a 4WD, drive along the beach at low tide to see the rainbow-coloured cliffs towering above you. Without a car, you’ll need to walk south from the main town along the beach.

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat in town, try Arcobaleno on the Beach for an Italian fix or The Deck @ Sea Salt for burgers and tapas.

Where to Stay:  Plantation Resort at Rainbow  |  Salty Vibes Retreat  |  Dee’s Retreat Rainbow Beach

#8 | North Stradbroke Island

Photo and recommendation by Chris of The Aquarius Traveller

If you’re looking for a weekend trip from Brisbane that’s so close (yet seems far away) to the city, then we’ve got the perfect place.  North Stradbroke Island  is only 46 kilometres from the city centre, but literally feels a world away from the hustle and bustle.

To get there from Brisbane, it’s a short 45-minute drive to Clevelend, and then another 45 minutes by SeaLink ferry. Whether you choose to travel over as a passenger (there is a public bus to get around the island) or take your own car, you’re sure to find that perfect weekend destination.

With 2000 people permanently living there, North Stradbroke Island has a small selection of shops, cafes, restaurants, and  accommodation . Pick your style, ranging from camping to luxury 5-star comforts, with something to suit everyone’s budget.

Known by its indigenous name – Minjerribah – North Stradbroke boasts endless beaches, animal life, diving, snorkelling, surf breaks, national parks, and epic four-wheel driving tracks. 

Spend your days soaking in the sun or swimming by the beach, riding the waves, or driving down the beaches. Alternatively, you could try jet skiing, search around for local arts and crafts or take one of the many hiking trails to explore freshwater lakes.

Wildlife can be found everywhere on ‘Straddie’, from kangaroos to koalas, many different bird species, and an abundance of marine life. Summer or winter, you’re never going to tire of North Stradbroke Island, as it’s the perfect weekend getaway for everyone.

Driving Time from Brisbane:  Approximately 1.5 hours plus a 30-minute ferry ride

Where to Stay:  Allure Stradbroke Resort  |  23 At The Islander  |  Ahoy Cottage

Read Next:   15 Incredible Islands in Queensland for your Next Vacay

#9 | Tweed Coast

For those looking for some sun, surf, and sand, Tweed Coast is one of the best weekend getaways from Brisbane for you! 

Stretching along the coast from Tweed Heads on the QLD/NSW border to Brunswick Heads in the south, the Tweed boasts some of the best beaches in Australia. The coastline is dotted with quintessential Aussie holiday towns, such as Cabarita Beach, Kingscliff, Final Head, and many more.

These beautiful beach towns make the perfect weekend away from Brisbane for anyone who loves the water. There are heaps of things to do for all types of water-loving couples, from surfing to hiking, kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, and cruising along the Tweed River.

Foodies won’t be disappointed either. The region is home to an abundance of great restaurants, cafes, fruit farms, organic markets, bakeries, and fresh seafood suppliers.

There are some amazing  luxury accommodation options  on the Tweed Coast, that are also perfect for a romantic getaway, as well as tons of more affordable options too. From the uber-luxe  Halcyon House to family-friendly resorts, romantic BnBs, and rustic camping (or glamping) sites.

Driving Time from Brisbane:  Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours

Where to Stay:  Halcyon House  |  Peppers Salt Resort & Spa  |  Greenmount Beach House  |  The Brunswick

#10 | Byron Bay

Photo and recommendation by Raksha of Solo Passport

Although it’s not situated in Queensland, Byron Bay is still one of the most popular romantic getaways near Brisbane.

Just two hours drive away,  Byron Bay  is well-known for its amazing beaches, festivals, and romantic vibes. This ever-popular beach town is perfect for a weekend getaway for couples.

All types of couples are sure to fall in love with Byron Bay, especially those who love adventurous activities. The town is popular with its beaches that are apt for surfing and has a well-known scuba diving site, the Julian Rocks. 

For couples who prefer a bit of RnR, the town offers plenty of massage and spa centres where you can enjoy all kinds of alternative treatments with views of the ocean. 

And for couples who enjoy good music, time your visit around one of the renowned music festivals that are hosted annually in Byron Bay, such as Blues Fest. 

Byron Bay also has several great restaurants and cafes that serve all kinds of cuisine – some of our faves include Bay Leaf, St. Elmo, Miss Margarita, Fish Heads, and the uber-stylish Mez Club.

Where to Stay:  Atlantic Byron Bay  |  28 Degrees Byron Bay  |  Crystalbrook Byron  |  The Water m ark

Read Next:   Top 50 Most Famous Landmarks in Australia to add to your Bucket List

#11 | Sunshine Coast Hinterland

Recommendation by Peta & Jonas of Exit45 Travels

One of the best short trips from Brisbane that offers a little peace and quiet is the cute  towns in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland . To get there from Brisbane, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive north or around 100 kilometres via Steve Irwin Way, and then onto Maleny-Montville Road.

If drinking wine and indulging in long, lazy lunches is your ideal way to spend a romantic weekend, take your pick from the numerous restaurants and vineyards scattered throughout the hinterland – check out Spicers Tamarind, Flame Hill Vineyard, or Spirit House.

Enjoy the local produce on offer from this region by visiting the local farmer’s markets scattered around the area. Some well-known places frequented by locals include the Kenilworth Bakery, Rick’s Garage in Palmwoods, and Copperhead Restaurant and Brewery in Cooroy.

For those couples that love a little adventure, hit one of the many hiking trails in the national parks. You will see breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lush valleys, lakes, waterfalls, forests, and the coastline of the Sunshine Coast.

There are endless  accommodation options  available for all budgets. They range from romantic treehouses hidden within the rainforest, to luxury hilltop retreats with spectacular panoramic views.  Secrets on the Lake  in Montville offers cosy treehouse accommodation with a fireplace and lake views on the shores of Lake Barron.

Driving Time from Brisbane:  Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Where to Stay:  Spicers Tamarind Retreat  |  Spicers Clovelly Estate  |  Scandinavian Cabin  |  Maleny Lodge  |  Secrets on the Lake

#12 | Bunya Mountains

If you’re looking to connect with nature, then the Bunya Mountains in the South Burnett region are one of the most ideal weekend escapes from Brisbane. It’s also totally underrated (in our opinion).

Named after the stunning forest of bunya pines that blanket the mountains, it’s no surprise that the Bunya Mountains are a haven for couples who love hiking. The forest features a vast array of flora and fauna, including native wallabies, pademelons, and hundreds of bird species.

There are plenty of romantic  places to stay  in the Bunya Mountains, from camping to quaint cottages and mountain chalets.

While you’re there, don’t forget to sample one of the local delicacies made from bunya nuts that grow on the trees in the area. Many of the local cafes and restaurants feature this protein-rich nut on their menus – check out The Bunyas Coffee Shop & Tavern.

Where to Stay:  Hillview Cottages  |  Room Motels Kingaroy  |  Mulanah Gardens B&B

#13 | Lamington National Park

A trip to Lamington National Park with your significant other is one of those Brisbane romantic getaways that you won’t forget in a hurry!

The World Heritage-listed national park comprises ancient Gondwana rainforests and is split into two sections – Binna Burra and the Green Mountains. This rugged national gem is home to many species of Australian wildlife and offers spectacular hiking trails, waterfalls, and amazing vistas.

Some of the best hiking trails in the area include The Caves Circuit, which offers stunning views over the Coomera Valley, and Python Rock Lookout, which takes you past the spectacular Moran Falls. The Border Track is the longest trail and will take most people more than a day to complete, but it’s possible to only do some sections of the Border Track.

O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat  is a popular place to stay, as it’s the perfect retreat for couples looking for a romantic interlude. Another popular spot for cashed-up couples is the exclusive  Nightfall  glamping retreat. There are also several more affordable quaint mountain chalets around the national park. 

With most accommodation booked out months in advance, you’ll need to book early. The popularity of Lamington National Park makes it a pretty heavy contender for the best romantic getaways from Brisbane!

Driving Time from Brisbane:  Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Where to Stay:  O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat  |  Wongari Eco Retreat  |  Nightfall  |  Canungra Cottages

#14 | Bribie Island

Reconnect with your loved one and head off on an adventurous romantic weekend away to  Bribie Island . It’s located on the north side of Brisbane and is only a short drive away.

Even though it’s an island, you can drive there. Pumicestone Passage separates Bribie Island from the mainland and takes only a minute to drive over the bridge. Furthermore, this does give more options to get there by public transport or even day tours. 

Bribie Island is known for its relaxed atmosphere. The west side of the island has calm beaches, and you’ll often find boats anchored or adrenalin junkies jet-skiing down the laneway. The east side of the island faces the ocean and is full of surf, holiday houses, and four-wheel driving tracks.

In terms of amenities, Bribie Island has everything you need from cafés, shopping stores, local markets, and groceries. Accommodation can vary from small to large groups and cater to all budgets from camping sites to luxury homes.

Just imagine waking up to the sound of the waves crashing on the beach or watching to sun go down from the shores. Bribie Island has it all and is so close to the city, so don’t pass up this destination for your next Brisbane weekend getaway.

Where to Stay:  The Shack  |  On The Beach Resort Bribie Island  |  Bella Abode on Bribie

#15 | Coolum Beach

Another coastal weekend getaway from Brisbane that beach-loving couples are sure to fall for is Coolum Beach. Less well-known and slightly more relaxed than its Sunshine Coast siblings, Coolum Beach is perfect for beachgoers wanting to escape the crowds.

Aside from spending days lazing on the beach, many visitors who come to Coolum make a point to conquer the aptly named Mount Coolum – the second largest rock in the world after Uluru. 

It’s not a long or arduous hike by any means, but it can be steep in some sections. However, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of the Sunshine Coast beaches , ocean, and hinterland from the top. Sunrise or sunset is a particularly great time to climb.

There is an off-leash dog-friendly beach at Coolum, making it perfect for couples looking to take their pooch along on their weekend getaway from Brisbane.

With its laid-back holiday atmosphere, quaint beachside villages, and great surf breaks, we think Coolum Beach offers one of the most underrated weekend getaways near Brisbane.

Where to Stay:  The Point Coolum  |  The Dome House  |  Coolum At The Beach

Have we missed a spot?  Can you recommend any other great Brisbane weekend getaways for other visitors to check out, let us know in the comments below!

Ready to Book Your Weekend Away from Brisbane?

While Brisbane is an awesome city to live in, sometimes you just need to escape for a weekend of RnR with your significant other. We hope this article has revealed some Brisbane romantic getaway ideas that you hadn’t already considered for your next couples retreat. 

To make the most of your trip, be sure to check out more about these amazing destinations by visiting the  Queensland Tourism website .

If you’re looking for inspiration on places to visit in the sunshine state, we’ve linked a few  articles  about great holiday destinations and short getaways in Queensland below.

Planning a Queensland adventure? Read more:

• The Ultimate Australia Bucket List
• 15 Incredible Queensland Island Holidays & Resorts
• A Guide to Visiting Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays
• 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit the Great Barrier Reef
• The Ultimate LUXE Guide to Hayman Island, Australia
• Noosa Heads: Where to Stay, What to Do + Where to Eat & Drink
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Port Douglas, Australia
• How to See Tangalooma Wrecks on Moreton Island, Australia
• 10 Best Beaches on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
• 50+ Famous Landmarks in Australia to add to your Bucket List

Are you based elsewhere in Australia?  Be sure to check out our  Couples Getaway Guides  from other Australian capital cities such as  Sydney ,  Melbourne ,  Perth ,  Hobart , or  Launceston .

Looking for Somewhere to Stay on your Trip?

Use the search box below to take advantage of the  Booking.com  Best Price Guarantee and get the best rates on accommodation for your next weekend getaway near Brisbane:

Looking to explore further afield?  Here’s a list of Australia’s top  50+ famous Landmarks to add to your bucket list  and inspire you to discover more of this beautiful country!

Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:

• Skyscanner  for the best flight deals
• Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
• HomeAway  for the best price on apartment and home rentals
• Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals
• Luxury Escapes  | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
• Get Your Guide  | Klook | Viator  for booking day tours and attraction tickets
• Tourradar  for a wide selection of multi-day tours
• Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance

Did You Know?  We use ads and affiliate links on this website. When you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you), that helps us pay the bills to keep running this blog as a free resource. We only recommend products we use ourselves. If you’re planning to book a trip soon, please consider clicking through the links above, so that we can continue to provide free travel guides, just like this one! Please see our Disclosure Policy for more details.

About the Author:

Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

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13 Of The Best Day Trips From Brisbane This Autumn

By Urban List Writers

30th Apr 2024

Ready to hit the road? Prepare for a new way to move in the Nissan X-TRAIL e-POWER. Driven by electric, fuelled by petrol—so you’ll never need to plug-in. Click here to explore the range and find out more.

Sick of spending your weekends on your home turf? Time to schedule in one of our favourite day trips from Brisbane and explore more of what our incredible part of the world has to offer. Whether you're after waterfalls and wineries or surf and seafood, you'll find it all within just an hour or two of the city—all you need to do is plan your routes. So fill up the tank and hit the road, here are the best day trips to take from Brisbane.

Lamington National Park 

If we had to pick a favourite of Brisbane's nearby national parks , Lamington would be it. It has it all—stunning waterfalls, tranquil rainforests, stunning Valley views and even a spa for the type who prefer to take it all in from the comfort of a a cedar wood bathtub. On your way in, make sure you stop in Canungra for a slice of cake and a coffee at the local bakery to fuel you up, and on the way out, you can stop in at Mountview Alpaca Farm for a picnic with a friendly alpaca—no doubt you'll have worked up a hunger with all that hiking.

Glass House Mountains 

If you've got a desperate need to stretch your legs, there's plenty of hikes to tackle in the Glass House Mountains, from gentle strolls, to epic scrambles up steep rocky climbs. You've got your pick of mountains—Mt Ngungun, Mt Tibrogargen and Mt Beerwah are the best known and most hiked, and all of them offer absolutely spectacular views from their peak that are well worth the effort. Just be sure to  check the grade  of your chosen walk before you start—some of them require some pretty intense rock scrambling.

Tamborine Mountain

Any drive to Mt Tamborine is guaranteed to be scenic since you’re surrounded by rainforest, but the official circuit is something special. The route will take you past the green pastures of Beechmont, through historical towns and finally lead you to the enchanting rainforests atop Tamborine Mountain. Once you're there, you can visit the region’s wine vineyards and distilleries, check out the local art galleries and hit the trails in Tamborine National Park. Find our road trip guide  here .

Any list of day trips from Brisbane wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the Scenic Rim. Located only an hour’s drive south of the city, this massive area covers everything from lush rainforests and waterfalls to vineyards and antique stores. Start with a hearty brunch at the Scenic Rim Farm Shop and cafe, stop in Kalbar for a spot of antique shopping—we could go on, but really, you can just plan your whole day with our guide here . 

A road trip through Redcliffe ticks all the boxes for the perfect day out—beautiful beaches, good food, and chilled-out vibes. Start your journey by driving over the Ted Smout Bridge, and witness the pelican feeding frenzy at Pelican Park. Pick up some fish and chips to eat out by the water on the Woody Point Jetty, and go for a stroll (or even a dip) along the foreshore at Settlement Cove. Follow the coast line all the way up to Scarborough for some spectacular strolls along the seaside.

Bribie Island

The easiest to access of the all the islands near Brisbane, with no boat trip necessary, Bribie is conveniently found floating between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane. Stroll the beaches, take a dip, or, if you've got the equipment, head out for kayak around the inlet. Once you've worn yourself out, drop in to the Sandstone Point Hotel , where you'll find The Oyster Shed open for seriously good takeaway fish and chips to eat along the grassy shore.

North Stradbroke Island

The picturesque island that is North Stradbroke Island is only a 45-minute drive away from Brisbane—making it the perfect day trip location. Highlights of island life include the stunning North Gorge Walk, Brown Lake and Point Lookout, which serves as an excellent spot to watch the yearly humpback whale migration when winter rolls around. More adventurous weekend wanderers might also want to take a shot at sand-boarding or go for a bike ride along the crisp white stretches of Straddie’s many beaches. 

Samford and Mount Nebo

It takes around 45 minutes or so to get from the heart of Brisbane out to Samford, but it’ll feel like you’re a world away on this perfect day trip. Once there, visit one of the great local cafes or restaurants in the area, then continue the drive to Mount Nebo or Mount Glorious. Stroll through the bushland, have a leisurely afternoon picnic or check out some of the great local shops, selling everything from sweet treats to books, vintage goods and arts and crafts. We've planned an entire itinerary  here .

Moreton Island

The many islands off the coast of SEQ makes for some incredible day trips from Brisbane and none more so arguably than Moreton Island. Just an hour away by ferry the island is almost entirely declared National Park territory, which means it is largely untouched. From pristine blue waters and beaches, lush rainforest, historical lighthouses and famed natural wonders such as Mount Tempest, the world’s largest coastal sand dune structure, and the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks make Moreton Island the perfect day trip or weekend stay-cay for lovers of the outdoors. 

Montville And Maleny

Montville is the quaint gateway to the gorgeous Sunshine Coast Hinterlands area. Combining European-style stores and cafes, Montville more than deserves its reputation as the creative soul of the region. Start your day with brunch at one Montville’s pretty cafes, before taking a hike through Kondalilla National Park—home to a beautiful waterfall and rock pools perfect for swimming. Hop in the car and head south to Baroon Pocket Dam, a beautiful and incredibly peaceful lake tucked between Montville and Maleny that will serve as the perfect picnic spot. Check out more to do here .

Springbrook National Park

Probably one of the best day trips from Brisbane, Springbrook National Park offers you amazing scenery and plenty of places to explore, not to mention the insanely good views. Be sure to visit the Purling Brook Falls, Canyon Lookout, Wunburra Lookout and the amazing Best Of All Lookout. Here you’ll find panoramic views stretching across both Queensland and New South Wales. Finish it all of with lunch, drinks and enjoy your relaxing day spent out in nature, soaking in the fresh air. 

Jump in the car and take the 1.5 hour drive west from Brisbane to Toowoomba. It turns out, Toowoomba has quietly been cultivating an amazing food scene. You’ll find so many great restaurants and cafes, such as The Baker's Duck and their epic baked goods, as well as surprisingly colourful street art scene. Explore the local shops, immerse yourself in stunning views, go for a hike or drive through farmland. Check out our guide h ere .

Lockyer Valley

The Lockyer Valley is probably best known as Australia’s salad bowl—it's home to some of the most fertile soil in Australia—but it also boasts some epic natural beauty and a winery or two well worth the visit. Start your journey with a stop at Cunningham’s Crest Lookout and be treated to breathtaking views across Laidley Plains. Stop in at a local winery along the way or just enjoy the scenery.

Coochiemudlo Island

Hop a ferry from the Victoria Point Jetty to get over to Coochiemudlo; it only takes you 10 minutes to get across to Coochie and should only cost around $4 each way. Once you’re there you can set up camp at one of the beaches, set up a picnic, host your own BBQ or hire a bike and explore the island yourself.

Of course, you could just take a day trip to the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast , both of which are less than 150kms away—in which case we've got you well and truly covered with our sister sites.

Image credit: Urban List Archives

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Queensland Road Trips – 11 BEST Drive Itineraries [2024]

• Last Updated: February 2, 2024

We’ve driven all over the Sunshine State to bring you this epic guide to the best Queensland road trips! If you’re wondering what drives in Queensland you can’t miss, this article is for you!

If you’re the kind of person that loves packing the car and hitting the road on an epic road trip, then chances are you already have driving around Australia on your bucket list.

We have travelled the world searching for the most iconic driving itineraries, yet for some reason we never really had the chance to explore much of our home country.

That all changed in 2020, when we were lucky enough to be able to get up to Queensland on the northeast coast of Australia and travel around in our campervan.

After more than a decade on the road, it takes a lot to impress us. But what we found in the Sunshine State was nothing short of spectacular!

We started in the south exploring the rolling hills and forests of the Hinterland and zig-zagged along the coast all the way to Cooktown.

The further north and west you go the greater the opportunity for some great 4WD Queensland road trips that should not be missed if you have the right vehicle and are prepared for adventure.

If you’re ready to find the best Queensland drives, fill the tank and dive into our latest epic guide!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Table of Contents

Gold Coast Hinterland Road Trip

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Here is our list of Queensland road trips that all people can enjoy.

We’ll start from the south and work up north, as most people fly into Brisbane or the Gold Coast before continuing onwards.

Let’s hit the road!

• Route – Surfers Paradise to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
• Distance – 109km
• Duration – 2 hours 30 minutes
• Vehicle – Any
• Road Conditions – Fully sealed
• Highlights –  Lush rainforest, waterfalls, lakes, valleys and headlands, Tamborine Mountain, Lamington National Park, Springbrook National Park

The Gold Coast Hinterland is an area of stunning natural beauty with ancient national parks peppered throughout the region.

Up here you’ll find plenty of activities for travellers who want some fresh air in their lives, but still prefer to have easy access to the city literally just an hour away.

The Gold Coast Hinterland Tourist Drive boasts plenty of magnificent lookouts out towards the mountains and active volcanic creeks, waterfalls and swimming holes.

This is a short and easy Queensland road trip that starts in Surfers Paradise and heads up towards Toowoomba, making it perfect for a day trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, or a possibility for a weekend away.

After you’ve ticked off all the awesome things to do in the Gold Coast , your itinerary will see you drive up to Tamborine Mountain then back down towards Lamington National Park and Springbrook National Park.

The beautiful Tamborine Mountain offers a variety of hikes through the national park, as well as hang gliding off of the launch site that overlooks an otherworldly valley!

If you’re more into sampling local produce, there are plenty of distilleries, wineries and fruit and vegetable farms all around this scenic mountain town.

After you’ve hiked, ate and drank all throughout the national park, head down to the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area .

This is where you’ll find the gorgeous Springbrook National Park, home to the Hinterland’s most iconic site, the Natural Bridge.

This enchanting waterfall cascades through arches in a basalt cave and is a wonderful place to walk around and practice your photography.

Then wind your way higher along Lamington National Park Road where you can enjoy spotting waterfalls while strolling amidst treetops covered in blossoming flowers.

Finish up your drive at the legendary O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat , where you can take part in a bunch of activities, or spoil yourself by spending the night.

• Route – Brisbane, Ipswich, Toowoomba, Warwick, Barcaldine, Winton and Birdsville
• Distance – 1892km
• Duration – 5 days
• Vehicle – 4WD (Can do in a 2WD. Route below.)
• Road Conditions – Sealed at the beginning then becomes unsealed near the end. You can take another route, see below.
• Highlights – Nindigully Pub, Artesian mud bath, Dig Tree’s history, Cooper Creek, Birdsville Pub

The Big Red Bash Road Trip is popular for those who want a bit of adventure in southern Queensland.

The Queensland outback is the place to go if you want some of the best, authentic experiences in Australia.

The landscape offers rolling hills, endless horizons, and quaint towns that will make for a memorable trip, with the possibility of seeing a lot more wildlife than other tourists!

Start off in Brisbane and then head inland towards Ipswich , past Toowoomba and then up to Warwick and Barcaldine.

If you can, time your trip to be on a Saturday, where there is a fantastic little market at Pittsworth. So make sure you stop by for some great coffee and home made cakes.

Then on your way South you will find open grazing land where you can see cattle or even the odd horse if you’re lucky.

This drive is Southeast Queensland’s own road less travelled. Satisfy your hunger for adventure with a journey to one of the most unique events in Australia.

In the midst of Queensland’s vibrant red desert, you’ll find The Big Red Bash–the world’s most remote music festival.

It is an annual rock concert hosted on sand dunes along Birdsville’s Simpson Desert border and usually takes place in July.

Getting there is all part of this ultimate Australian experience as well—you’re going to be traversing across some incredible scenery both before getting there and once arriving at the destination itself.

So take your time, enjoy everything that surrounds you while making your way out into our nation’s far-flung corners, stopping every so often to catch your breath and take it all in.

If you have a 2WD, go through Roma and Windorah. There is another way from Brisbane to Birdsville for those who have 2WD vehicles. You can travel through Roma and Windorah.

A Route Breakdown

• Brisbane to Nindigully, 501km
• Nindigully to Cunnamulla, 340km
• Cunnamulla to Noccundra, 340km
• Noccundra to Innamincka, 311km
• Innamincka to Birdsville, 400km

• Route – Brisbane up the coast to Cairns
• Distance – 1874km
• Duration – 10 days.
• Road Conditions – the roads are fully sealed the entire route
• Highlights – Sunshine Coast, Noosa, Airlie Beach, Ingham, Mission Beach, Airlie Beach, Magnetic Island, Atherton Tablelands, Cairns

The Pacific Coast Way is a highway that links towns and cities along the east coast of Australia.

The route starts in Sydney, then goes all the way up to Cairns on Queensland’s northeast coast.

Along this path, you’ll find plenty of coastal havens as well as inland hinterland regions with beautiful farming areas – perfect for those looking for an escape from city life!

Keep your eyes open. There are many hidden gems waiting just outside major population centres ready to be discovered off this famous road trip (and they’re worth every kilometre!).

Our favourite side trip took us to Magnetic Island, with which we immediately fell in love! Here’s our day trip to Magnetic Island guide.

READ MORE – Want to learn more about this road trip? Check out our article on Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip .

• Route – Maroochydore, Noosa Heads, Rainbow Beach, Fraser Island, Hervey Bay
• Distance – 419 km
• Duration – 3 – 7 days
• Vehicle – 4WD only
• Road Conditions – Sand Beaches driving. Need to be prepared with rescue gear
• Highlights – Noosa Heads, Double Island Point, Great Sandy National Park, Rainbow Beach, Carlo Sandblow, Fraser Island, 75 Mile Beach, Marcoola Beach

With its endless stretches of coastline here in Queensland, World Heritage listed landscapes and quirky, colourful towns and so many amazing road trips, they don’t come much better than the Great Beach Drive.

This 3-7 day off-the-beaten-track road trip will take you 380km on an adventure from Noosa to Hervey Bay via Fraser Island!

This road trip covers Rainbow Beach, 75 Mile Beach on Fraser Island and Marcoola Beach in Hervey Bay. The Great Beach Drive is full of lots of beach beauty.

This one is only for the 4WD, so bring your own or you can rent one. The four-wheel-drive tracks have beautiful views that are worth seeing on a sunny day.

They also lead to beaches with waves crashing against them in the mornings before sunrise. But also at sunset hours after work for people seeking relaxation or adventure from their everyday lives.

This area has plenty of adorable permanent residents like koalas and kookaburras who live alongside migratory birds too such as pelicans, cormorants and fairy terns which can be seen while fishing off one side or another!

Driving on some of the world’s most stunning beaches and through idyllic National Parks, this road trip also connects to World Heritage listed Fraser Island (K’gari) in Queensland’s Australia Nature Coast region.

There’s no shortage of reasons as to why people love the scenic drive along Fraser Island’s famous 75-mile beach. Another one of Queensland’s pristine stretches of white sands and crystal clear waters, this adventure is like no other.

• Noosa to Rainbow Beach – 70km
• Rainbow Beach to Fraser Island – 157km
• Fraser Island to Hervey Bay – 44km

• Route – Cunnamulla, Blackall, Longreach, Winton, Cloncurry, Karumba
• Distance – 1812km
• Duration – 5 – 8 days
• Highlights – Charleville Cosmos Centre, Longreach museums, Age of Dinosaurs and Lark Quarry stampede site, Karumba.

The Matilda Way is an excellent way to experience rural Australia while travelling 1812 kilometres from the New South Wales border in Tamworth through St George, Charleville, Cunnamulla, Blackall, Mitchell Creek National Park (with over 250 waterfalls), Taroom and eventually Karumba on the Gulf of Carpentaria.

So grab two mates along for this extraordinary journey as well your trusty vehicle.

The Matilda Way road trip is a 1,812km highway that is fully sealed, starting from the New South Wales border at Cunnamulla and runs all the way up to the Gulf of Carpentaria .

This road will lead you on an adventurous trip with different experiences each day!

Here is a rough guide

• Cunnamulla to Charleville – 200km
• Charleville to Blackall – 300km
• Blackall to Longreach – 214km
• Longreach to Winton – 180km
• Winton to Cloncurry – 350km
• Cloncurry to Karumba – 445km

• Route – Townsville, Charters Towers, Hughenden, Richmond, Julia Creek, Cloncurry, Mount Isa, Camooweal
• Distance – 1097km
• Highlights – Historic Charters Towers, Porcupine Gorge, Kronosaurus Korner, Hard Times Mine, Underground Hospital and Camooweal Caves

On your Overlander’s Way road trip, you’ll get to explore untouched natural beauty and dinosaur discoveries while admiring breathtaking landscapes and interacting with rich Indigenous history – without having to take your vacation days from work!

Once only for the 4×4 vehicles, it is now sealed so everyone can explore this part of Queensland.

Along with seeing some amazing natural sights like the Great Barrier Reef and pristine beaches in North Queensland, your journey will also include all sorts of intriguing historic sites such as architecturally rich towns which showcase Australian history.

The road starts near the city of Townsville (check out our guide to all the great things to do in Townsville ), then you head west where the real adventure begins.

From Charters Towers where you will learn all about the gold mining town to learning about dinosaurs in Hughenden at the Flinders Discovery Centre, which are home to some incredible ancient fossil beds with dinosaur footprints preserved by natural forces over time!

You can learn about the cattle drovers at the Drovers’ Camp Museum in  Camooweal Caves National Park , which also has amazing sinkholes dating back 500 million years.

This land is just bursting full-speed ahead into a new future that shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon – even without leaving the bitumen roads behind!

The Overlander’s Way road trip is a Queensland route that will have you fall in love with the country all over again.

This is the inland route for any vehicle to drive. Here is a route guide.

• Townsville to Charters Towers – 137km
• Charters Towers to Hughenden – 248km
• Hughenden to Richmond – 115km
• Richmond to Julia Creek – 149km
• Julia Creek to Cloncurry – 137km
• Cloncurry to Mount Isa – 121km
• Mount Isa to Camooweal – 190km

• Route – Cairns, Ravenshoe, Undara, Forsayth, Cobbold Gorge, Karumba, Boodjamulla
• Distance – 1493km
• Duration – 5 days (2 weeks to do the whole way across to WA)
• Vehicle – Suitable for both 4WD and 2WD vehicles depending on the route chosen
• Road Conditions – Fully sealed but often closed by flooding streams during wet season. Roads can wash away during these times.
• Highlights – Waterfalls in Ravenshoe, Rainforest walks in Atherton, Undara Volcanic National Park, Mt Surprise, Talaroo Hot Springs, Cobbold Gorge, Innot Hot Springs,

The Savannah Way is an amazing route for exploring the tropical savannahs of northern Australia.

The route winds from Cairns, Queensland to Broome in Western Australia and offers a unique opportunity to see some incredible sights along the way including ancient rock art paintings and Australian wildlife.

The Queensland section of Savannah Way goes from Cairns to Hell’s Gate or vice versa.

Your Savannah Way safari starts in Cairns, the crowning jewel of the Queensland coast. Set your sights south toward Millaa Millaa, a drive of about 1.5 hours where you will find stunning waterfalls amidst vibrant green rainforests and waterways that are perfect for swimming at any time during the year!

Once there, make sure to take in not only the well-known waterfall but also Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls before heading on to Ravenshoe.

• Cairns to Mareeba, Atherton Tablelands – 62.5 kms 
• Mareeba to Undara – 229 kms
• Undara to Cobbold Gorge – 229 kms
• Cobbold Gorge to Croydon – 232 kms
• Croydon to Karumba – 226 kms
• Karumba to Burketown – 281 kms
• Burketown to Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park  – 234 kms

• Route – Cairns, Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation, Mossman, Cooktown
• Distance – 256km
• Duration – 3 – 5 days
• Vehicle – 2WD
• Road – Road it sealed the whole way. You do need to take a ferry over to Cape Tribulation
• Highlights – Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, Aboriginal Rock Art, James Cook Museum

If you’ve always wanted to see where the Reef meets the Rainforest, the only place where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites actually meet, this is the road trip for you!

The 327km drive takes four hours and is full of nature, history, and outback characters that will keep your interest for days on end!

You can explore Cooktown’s historical significance as Australia’s first European settlement or enjoy its beautiful harbour with many local attractions in town.

It may not be the most action-packed adventure around – so pack accordingly if you’re looking for some excitement.

But it’ll definitely get your creative juices flowing before heading off into our vast country again!

• Cairns to Port Douglas
• Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation
• Cape Tribulation to Mossman
• Mossman to Cooktown

While Cooktown itself is a bit far to visit as a day trip from Cairns , you can break it up into two days if looking to return back to Cairns.

• Route – Cape Tribulation, Bloomfield, Cooktown
• Distance – 103km
• Duration – 6 – 8 hours
• Vehicle – 4WD only (no caravans or camper trailers)
• Road – Mostly Unsealed. Some areas are sealed. Caution when wet and have had heavy rain. There are river crossings, steep climbs and descends and boggy patches.
• Highlights – Emmagen Creek, Cowie Beach, Bloomfield River and lookout, Bana Yirriji Arts Centre, Wujal Wujal Falls

The Bloomfield Track is one of Queensland’s most scenic short 4WD drives that leads to the coastal town in Wujal-Wujal.

The track passes through a rainforest archway with majestic plants, unexpected wildlife and history.

It was constructed by protestors back in 1983-84 leading up to an important environmental protest known as the “Bloomfield Blockade.”

Nowadays it has become World Heritage protected land thanks to these protesters who were concerned for its natural beauty!

The coast drive from Cooktown down south on Australia’s Northern Territory border all the way beyond Huonbrook Station takes travellers past spectacular views, creek crossings and secluded beaches where they can take some well-deserved rest before continuing their journey inland into more remote areas.

READ MORE: Coming from south of the border? Make the most of the journey with our Sydney to Brisbane road trip itinerary !

With varying conditions and a mixture of gravel, red soil, or wet weather on the road, driving can be tricky.

With its rugged landscape and plenty of natural creek crossings after heavy rainstorms this drive may become impassable at times as well- so make sure you have your 4WD vehicle always ready!

You can do it in one long day or break it up. Here is a rough guide

• Cape Tribulation to Bloomfield – 39km
• Bloomfield to Cooktown – 64km

• Route – Cairns, Cooktown, Cape York
• Distance – 1964km
• Duration – 14 days return
• Vehicle – 4WD
• Road Condition – Can be difficult in areas. Can flood in the wet season
• Highlights – White sand beaches at Portland Roads, northernmost point of the continent, rock art in Laura

No one can claim to have seen all of Australia without going on a long, adventurous road trip.

One such adventure that you should take in your lifetime is the 1000km journey from Cairns straight up to Pajinka (traditional name for the northernmost point of mainland Australia at top of Cape York Peninsula).

Australians have an adventurous spirit that is deeply ingrained in their culture. In Cairns, you can jump into a 4WD and head off on an unforgettable journey to the top of Australia with cooked towns as your stops along the way.

You will experience creek crossings and corrugations, meet interesting people from various communities while encountering relics of wartime history all throughout this life-changing adventure through Cape York !

Along this breathtaking drive, there are natural treasures like national parks with their bird-filled wetlands and rainforests as well as waterfalls, beaches, and Old Telegraph Track which will challenge even the most hardcore adventurer.

Although it’s not easy driving through rough terrain or crossing treacherous waters during the rainy season beware: the rewards never stop coming!

• Cairns to Cooktown – 244km
• Cooktown to Laura – 175km
• Laura to Coen – 220km
• Coen to Lockhart River – 210km
• Lockhart River to Bramwell Station – 154km
• Bramwell Station to Bamaga – 212km
• The Tip – 35km

• Route – Hebel, Roma, Injune, Emerald , Clermont, Charters Tower, Ravenshoe, Atherton, Mareeba, Cairns, Cooktown
• Distance – 1863km
• Duration – 9 days is you choose to start in Hebel to 16 days if you choose to start in Sydney
• Vehicle – 2WD.
• Road Condition – Road is sealed the whole way.
• Highlights – Cobb & Co. Charging Station, Carnarvon Gorge, learn about the gold rush in Charters Towers, Rainforest walks in Atherton Tablelands, Many waterfalls around Atherton, Mareeba and Cairns, Aboriginal experience in Cooktown

Want to go off the beaten track? Then let’s leave the coast and drive inland through Queensland’s outback.

You’ll traverse some of the most uninhabitable landscapes, steep in history with rural towns as well.

Driving up here is a totally different experience than driving along coastal highways since there are fewer service stations.

But it does offer unique experiences for those who want something less travelled that has many tourist attractions such as red sand deserts or gazing at stars under night skies!

The Great Inland Way is a road trip that follows the Australian coast from Sydney to Brisbane.

The Queensland leg of this journey passes through Dirranbandi and St George before detouring off onto some surprisingly flat, sealed roads leading into Surat, Roma and Injune.

Stop for lunch at Nindigully Pub (if you dare!) in Australia’s oldest hotel-turned restaurant which offers up 1.2kg hamburgers called Road Train!

Journey through Queensland’s Outback from the mountains to the coast. Continue along well signed and flat sealed roads to Surat, Roma and Injune en route to sandstone escarpments of Carnarvon National Park.

Stop off at Emerald for a fossicking permit before detouring on Capella, Clermont, Charters Towers or Undara with plenty of stops in between!

Find an authentic Australian experience by visiting Ravenshoe’s highest pub or enjoy gourmet cheeses at Atherton Tablelands’ luxurious resorts after exploring lush rainforest gardens.

Spend time admiring birds-of-paradise and other native flora from Kuranda’s scenic cable car perspective then visit Cairns where you can explore nature above ground as well as below sea level!

Stop off at the gateway to Queensland’s sapphire jewel fields for fossicking permits, detour through the tropical fruit growing area of the Atherton Tablelands for fresh local produce before navigating the Cairns hinterland, Queensland’s largest protected rainforest.

After heading north all the way to Cooktown to explore the outback and the extraordinary Aboriginal rock art.

This road trip is fully-sealed the whole way weaving its way from Sydney to outback NSW and Queensland, the Central Queensland Highlands and then as far north as Cooktown.

• Hebel to St George – 161km
• St George to Roma – 196km
• Roma to Injune – 91km
• Injune to Emerald – 311km
• Emerald to Clermont – 109km
• Clermont to Charters Towers – 374km
• Charters Towers to Ravenshoe – 465km
• Ravenshoe to Atherton – 51km
• Atherton to Mareeba – 33km
• Mareeba to Cairns – 63km
• Cairns to Cooktown – 326km

There are so many great Queensland road trips. We hope this list has given you some ideas for your next road trip.

There is so much beauty to be seen and so many activities and attractions to fill your days.

There are some that are full of adventure that you need a 4WD. And there are some we are yet to do which are all the 4WD ones. But we hope to do them later in the year!

What is your favourite Queensland road trip? Drop a comment below and let us know!

And while you’re at it, check out all these other epic things to do in Queensland !

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Qantas rejects stricken passenger’s ‘compassionate’ grounds for cancelled flight refund

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The former pilot was told his medical certificate did not qualify for Qantas' compassionate fare rules.

A Queensland man whose travel plans were thrown into disarray by a shock diagnosis was told his condition did not qualify for Qantas’ definition of “compassionate” grounds.

Neil Ross, a former pilot from Brisbane, had been travelling to Cairns with his wife, using Qantas flight credit issued during the pandemic.

Having booked the travel through a travel agent, his travel plans were put on hold after he was diagnosed with cancer just two weeks later.

Talking to news.com.au , the 62-year-old said the health scare knocked him down “like a rock”.

After initially being diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy, a short-term paralysis of facial muscles, his doctors discovered an aggressive tumour on the right side of his face. Ross was immediately put on a six-week intensive course of radiotherapy and surgery.

He contacted his travel agent to say he needed to cancel his trip to north Queensland for urgent health reasons, and inquired about a refund.

“As I said to the girl at Flight Centre – ‘look at my face, do you think I want to get a refund for the hell of it? I [would] rather be healthy and go on holiday,” he told news.com.au .

Following the operation to remove the tumour, Ross had been required to undergo plastic surgery to rebuild his right cheek.

While he had been issued flight credit for the trip, which expired on April 22, he explained he would still not be able to travel and asked about a fare refund on compassionate grounds.

However, shortly after he received a message saying his refund was rejected. The email dated April 24 stated that “the attached medical certificate does not fit into the QF guidelines for refund due to compassionate reasons”.

Ross said he had already applied for a refund and was rejected on April 4 due to insufficient detail. After submitting his medical records, he wondered what else the airline wanted as proof of his condition.

“I thought ‘what the hell, what more can I do?’ This has done nothing but cause me a great deal of stress that I don’t need,” he said.

Qantas has detailed information about their compassionate airfares and refunds policy, on its FAQs webpage and glossary of terms.

In the case of a refund requested for compassionate reasons, Qantas says “a waiver of cancellation fees is permitted due to the death or grave illness of a passenger and must be validated by: [either] a Medical Certificate [or] a Death Certificate.”

Following reporting by news.com.au , Qantas has since approached Ross to offer a full refund.

“We apologise to Mr Ross for this experience and have let him know we’re processing a refund for him,” the airline said.

The dispute reportedly arose from medical records not being attached to the earlier refund application.

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I’m a Comfy Shoe Snob, and These Are the 8 Travel Styles I Rotate Through My Suitcase — From $30

From my go-to adventure sandals to the only rain boots worth traveling with, these shoes literally keep me on my toes.

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

I am one of those travelers who would rather walk the 2.5 miles from Saint-Germain-des-Prés to Montmartre than take the metro, just to soak up the feel of every arrondissement and sample a chocolate croissant from any Parisian patisserie I come by along the way. I am a firm believer in exploring on foot, and I’ve had enough trip-shattering blisters and cracks in my heels to know which shoes are cut out for the job and which aren’t.

As a tireless walker , sandal enthusiast, and style-driven comfy shoe snob (truly a restrictive combination), I’ve tried the gamut and narrowed my current rotation to these eight tried-and-true styles.

Chaco Z Sandals

The first time I wore these Chaco Z sandals was on an hour-long hike on varied terrain in the Arizona desert. They gripped the sandstone and provided a cushiony barrier between my feet and the rock. Hiking boots would have been covered in red sand, impossible to clean off, but I threw these Chacos in the sink of my hotel room and voila! They were clean and dry by dinner. I daresay they’re some of the comfiest adventure sandals I’ve ever worn.

Reebok Women's Club C Walking Shoes

A versatile and comfy plain-ish white sneaker is a travel must-have in my book. The Club C Reebok style with over 800 five-star ratings on Amazon is suitable for long city jaunts, but it looks a little cooler than your average athletic shoe. The retro aesthetic goes well with any vintage-inspired denim. My one word of warning: Just don’t get them wet. 

Blundstone Vegan Chelsea Boots

They’re on the pricey side compared to other non-leather Chelsea boots you might find on Amazon, but believe me — your feet will thank you for spending a little extra on quality materials that are soft, breathable, nonrestrictive, shock-absorbing, water-resistant, and everlasting. Mine are three years old now with hardly any signs of wear. I love how comfortable they are and that they move with my feet, even though they aren’t made of genuine leather.

Merrell Moab Speed 2 Hiking Shoes

I’m an avid hiker who’s cycled through several iterations of the now-classic Merrell Moab boot. One of the more recent versions, the Moab Speed 2, is my current go-to. It has all the beloved features of the original Moab but with 30 percent more foam in the midsole and Vibram TC5+ outsole technology for improved traction and debris-shedding. And the fun colors are a major plus.

Hunter Original Play Short Boots

Rain boots are a staple of my wardrobe at home, but I wouldn’t think to travel with them — I mean, considering the size of them … and the weight! — were it not for Hunter’s Play Short style. Hunter-brand wellingtons are known and loved for their durability. I bought my first pair more than 10 years ago and they’re as waterproof now as they were a decade ago, when I was a college student rushing between classes in the rain.

Teva Original Universal Sandal

While I love my Chacos, the Teva Original Universal Sandal was the first adventure sandal to steal my heart when I was a twentysomething backpacking in New Zealand. I wore them so frequently that my feet tanned around the distinctive velcro straps (“Teva tan”). I’m now on my third pair, and many Amazon reviewers agree with me that they’re some of the best sandals to travel in .

Cushionaire Cork Sandals

These Birkenstock lookalikes are super comfy, affordable, and made of vegan materials. They have more than 40,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, making them the No. 1 best-seller in women’s slides. At least one pair is sold every hour, on average. They’re ideal for slipping on and walking around in at the hotel.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoe

A versatile tennis shoe is good to always have in your suitcase. You can go for a morning run through the city, take a cool dance class, squeeze in a session at the hotel gym, or go for a hike in these. I have brought them with me on trips when I’ve been amid marathon training, and they’ve kept my feet strong enough to walk around comfortably even after miles of running.

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How a beach trip in Mexico’s Baja California turned deadly for surfers from Australia and the US

The photos of the foreign surfers who disappeared are placed on the beach in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

Relatives have identified three bodies found in a well as those of two Australian surfers and one American who went missing last weekend, Mexican authorities said Sunday. Baja California state prosecutors said the relatives had viewed the bodies recovered from a remote well about 50 feet (15 meters) deep and recognized them as their loved ones.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday called the recent deaths of two Australian surfers in Mexico a “terrible tragedy.” Albanese said he had requested an opportunity to speak to the brothers’ parents.

The photos of the foreign surfers who disappeared are placed on the beach in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

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Surfers throw flowers during a tribute to 3 missing surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

A man holds flowers during a tribute to 3 missing surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

A demonstrator holding a bodyboard written in Spanish " They just wanted to surf and they were executed” protests the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Mexican authorities said Friday that three bodies were recovered in an area of Baja California near where two Australians and an American went missing last weekend during an apparent camping and surfing trip. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Two Australians and an American were doing what they loved on the stunning, largely isolated stretch of Baja California’s Pacific coast. Their last images on social media showed them sitting and gazing at the waves, contemplating the breaks.

What happened to end their lives may have been as random as a passing pickup truck full of people with ill intent. The surfers were shot in the head, their bodies dumped in a covered well miles away. How it unfolded was the stuff of nightmares.

Brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad had apparently stopped to surf the breaks between Punta San José, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Ensenada, and La Bocana, further north on the coast. They were attacked there on April 28 or 29.

As soon as police arrived at their last known camp site, it was clear that something had gone violently wrong.

There were bloodstains and marks “as if heavy objects had been dragged,” leading to suspicions of an attack, the Baja California state prosecutor’s office said in an attempt to reconstruct the scene.

A demonstrator holding a bodyboard written in Spanish " They just wanted to surf and they were executed” protests the disappearance of foreign surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

Chief state prosecutor María Elena Andrade Ramírez described what likely would have been moments of terror that ended the trip for the three men.

She theorized the killers drove by and saw the foreigners’ pickup truck and tents and wanted to steal the truck’s tires and other parts. But “when (the foreigners) came up and caught them, surely, they resisted.”

She said that’s when the killers would have shot the men. She said they were likely not attacked because they were tourists. “The evidence suggests they (the killers) did not know where they were from.”

Andrade Ramírez said the reconstruction of events was based on the forensic examiner’s reports, noting all three had bullet wounds to the head.

There was a hurried attempt to destroy evidence. The foreigners’ tents were apparently burned. The pickup truck was driven miles away and burned. The assailants’ truck was later found with a gun inside.

Then, at “a site that is extremely hard to get to,” the bodies were dumped into a well about 4 miles (6 kilometers) away. Investigators were surprised when, underneath the bodies of the three foreigners, a fourth body was found that had been there much longer.

“They had to have previous knowledge of it,” Andrade Ramírez said of the attackers, acknowledging the possibility they were behind the previous killing.

The well had been covered with boards. “It was literally almost impossible to find it,” Andrade Ramírez said. It took two hours to winch the bodies out.

A man holds flowers during a tribute to 3 missing surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

Surfers throw flowers during a tribute to 3 missing surfers in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Karen Castaneda)

Prosecutors have said they were questioning three people in the killings. Two were caught with methamphetamines. One of them, a woman, had one of the victims’ cellphones when she was caught. Prosecutors said the two were being held pending drug charges but continue to be suspects in the killings.

A third man was arrested on charges of a crime equivalent to kidnapping, but that was before the bodies were found. It was unclear if he might face more charges.

The third man was believed to have directly participated in the killings. In keeping with Mexican law, prosecutors identified him by his first name, Jesús Gerardo, alias “el Kekas,” a slang word that means quesadillas, or cheese tortillas.

Andrade Ramírez said he had a criminal record that included drug dealing, vehicle theft and domestic violence, adding, “We are certain that more people were involved.”

She emphasized that she could not discuss anything related to the suspects, or their possible statements, because that was not allowed under Mexican law and might prejudice the case against them.

Andrade Ramírez noted that the victims’ families said the brothers and Rhoad had come many times to the seaside spot and never had any problem. This time, however, “there was no way to ask for help when the attackers showed up.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Tuesday he had requested an opportunity to speak to the brothers’ parents Deborah and Martin Robinson.

“This is a terrible tragedy and my heart goes out to them. To identify these wonderful young men and they have been travelling in Mexico. We’ve been dealing with them through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. I’ve indicated that I wish to speak to them at an appropriate time of their choosing,” Albanese told reporters in the Queensland state town of Rockhampton.

Whistleblower who worked for Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems dies after short illness

A whistleblower who worked for Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems died Tuesday. 

Joshua Dean, who lived in Wichita, Kansas and was formerly a quality auditor for company, had an infection that came on suddenly and quickly spread, The Seattle Times reported. He was 45.

Dean’s aunt, Carol Parsons, told the newspaper that he spent two weeks in critical condition. He had gone to the hospital after having trouble breathing and was later intubated and developed pneumonia and MRSA.

Dean was among the first whistleblowers to allege that leaders at Spirit turned a blind eye to deficiencies in Boeing’s 737 MAX. He gave a deposition in a shareholder lawsuit filed late last year and made a complaint with the Federal Aviation Administration.

“Our thoughts are with Josh Dean’s family. This sudden loss is stunning news here at Spirit and for his loved ones,” Spirit told USA TODAY in an emailed statement.

Dean told The Wall Street Journal that he was fired after he pointed out misdrilled holes in fuselages. “It is known at Spirit that if you make too much noise and cause too much trouble, you will be moved,” he said in January.

A Spirit spokesperson told the Journal at the time that the company would defend itself against the lawsuit and disagreed firmly with the allegations.

Another Boeing plane issue?: Don't fall for the headlines

Boeing whistleblower John Barnett, who also had raised concerns about manufacturing practices at the company, was found dead from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound in March.

The news comes as Boeing’s safety culture is under intense scrutiny after a 737 MAX 9 lost a section of fuselage during a January Alaska Airlines flight. Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun recently announced he will step down by the end of the year.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].