The Best of Queensland, Australia: Where the Journey Knows No Limits

Queensland’s vast landscapes range from vibrant reefs to ancient rainforests and thrilling cities, creating adventures limited only by imagination from the mountainous outback to where waves crest the golden Gold Coast.

You might think you know Queensland, but there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant, diverse region. From its world-renowned beaches to its bustling city scenes and mesmerizing outback wilderness, there’s no shortage of unique experiences waiting for you.

• Snorkel the kaleidoscopic Great Barrier Reef Marine Park off the coast
• Hike ancient rainforests to discover thundering waterfalls and breathtaking lookouts
• Sandboard down towering dunes on picture-perfect Moreton Island
• Safari through the bush to spot crocodiles, cassowaries and other exotic wildlife
• Scream down record-breaking waterslides at the iconic Gold Coast theme parks

You’ll get the chance to delve into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, witness the historic beauty of Brisbane, and even embark on a dino-discovery in the expansive Outback.

1. Great Barrier Reef Adventure

Imagine having the chance to explore the Great Barrier Reef Adventure, the world’s largest living structure with over 3,000 coral reefs and 900 islands, teeming with diverse marine life. It’s not just a dream, but a reality you can experience.

The Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland, Australia, is the world’s largest coral reef system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This extraordinary natural wonder spans over 2,300 kilometers, comprising thousands of reefs and hundreds of picturesque islands made of over 600 types of hard and soft coral. It’s a paradise for divers and snorkelers, offering an unparalleled underwater experience with a dazzling array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, sharks, and an incredible variety of coral formations.

Snorkeling excursions dive you into this vibrant underwater world, revealing a kaleidoscope of corals and exotic marine creatures. You don’t just get to see the reef; you get to be part of it.

The Great Barrier Reef is not only a hub for water-based adventures but also a vital ecosystem playing a crucial role in the marine environment. Visitors can explore this vibrant underwater world through guided snorkeling and diving tours, scenic helicopter flights, and glass-bottom boat trips. The reef’s breathtaking beauty and ecological significance make it one of the most sought-after destinations for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

Diving opportunities take you even deeper, immersing you in the reef’s wonder and pristine beauty. It’s more than just a visit; it’s a journey into the heart of the reef.

2. Brisbane’s City Highlights

As you venture into Brisbane’s City Highlights, prepare to be awed by iconic landmarks such as the Story Bridge, where city tours offer panoramic views, and the scenic Brisbane River, adorned with waterfront parks and river cruises.

Don’t miss the Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, offering majestic skyline views and thrilling rock climbing opportunities.

Wander the South Bank Parklands, a haven of lush greenery and world-class eateries located on the river’s southern banks.

Your adventure wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout, a Brisbane icon just 15 minutes from the CBD, providing the best city view.

3. Lake McKenzie’s Turquoise Waters

Lake McKenzie, located on Fraser Island in Queensland, Australia, is a stunning freshwater lake known for its crystal-clear blue waters and pure white silica sand. This perched lake, sitting atop compact sand and organic matter, is a popular destination for its serene beauty and unique ecological environment. Visitors are captivated by the opportunity to swim in its pristine waters, relax on its soft sandy shores, and enjoy the peaceful natural setting.

The lake’s geological formation contributes to its stunningly blue water, which beckons for a refreshing dip. As you plunge into the aquamarine depths, you’ll feel the pristine white silica sand beneath your feet.

The lake is one of Fraser Island’s most iconic natural attractions, offering a refreshing contrast to the island’s rugged coastline and dense rainforests. Its isolated and unspoiled environment provides an idyllic retreat for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature, making Lake McKenzie a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Fraser Island.

The lake’s tranquil setting provides a serene and rejuvenating experience, making it a must-visit spot on Fraser Island. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lake McKenzie holds remarkable beauty and cultural significance.

4. Exploring Tamborine National Park

Tamborine National Park, located in the Gold Coast Hinterland of Queensland, Australia, is a haven of natural beauty and tranquility. Known for its lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and scenic walking trails, the park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore a variety of walking tracks that lead through dense rainforest, revealing stunning flora and fauna, and providing opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Don’t miss out on the Glow worm caves experience. Here, thousands of twinkling lights create a spectacle that’s truly mesmerizing. And when you need a moment to soak it all in, settle down for a peaceful picnic amidst this natural paradise.

One of the park’s highlights is the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk, a spectacular elevated walkway that allows visitors to experience the rainforest canopy up close. The park also features the famous Curtis Falls and numerous lookouts offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Tamborine National Park’s combination of natural beauty and accessible walking trails makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

5. The Wonder of Moreton Island

Moreton Island, located off the coast of Southeast Queensland, Australia, is a picturesque sand island known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities. The island is characterized by its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and large sand dunes, making it a popular spot for activities like swimming, snorkeling, and sandboarding. One of the island’s unique features is the Tangalooma Wrecks, a group of deliberately sunk ships that create a vibrant artificial reef, ideal for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts to explore marine life.

At Tangalooma Resort, you’ll have the unique opportunity for unforgettable dolphin encounters, where you can hand-feed these wild, playful creatures.

Here, exhilarating snorkeling experiences await you, offering a chance to explore the island’s submerged relics and encounter a dazzling array of marine life.

You’ll feel a rush of freedom sandboarding down the island’s immense dunes, a testament to nature’s grandeur.

As the day winds down, take a sunset kayak ride, the serene waters reflecting the breathtaking hues of the sky.

Moreton Island also offers visitors the chance to encounter local wildlife, including dolphins, whales (during migration season), and a variety of bird species. The island’s relatively untouched natural environment provides a tranquil retreat for those seeking a break from the urban setting. Accessible by ferry, Moreton Island is a cherished destination for day-trippers and campers alike, looking for an authentic island adventure close to Brisbane.

6. Noosa Everglades Eco-Adventure

Leaving the sun-drenched shores of Moreton Island behind, your Queensland journey takes you to the tranquil beauty of the Noosa Everglades Eco-Adventure, a captivating wetland experience dubbed the River of Mirrors.

The Noosa Everglades, located within the Noosa Biosphere Reserve in Queensland, Australia, offer a serene and unique natural experience. This pristine wilderness area, one of only two everglade systems in the world, is renowned for its tranquil waterways, abundant wildlife, and lush vegetation. Visitors can explore this peaceful landscape through canoeing, kayaking, or boat tours, gliding along the mirrored water surfaces that reflect the stunning scenery and create a surreal, almost dream-like atmosphere.

The Noosa Everglades are also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with a diverse range of bird species making their home in the wetlands. This tranquil escape provides an opportunity to connect with nature and experience the quiet beauty of one of Australia’s most untouched natural environments, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

This Eco-Adventure is more than just sightseeing, it’s experiencing the freedom and tranquility only found in untamed nature. So come, let the Noosa Everglades be your gateway to a memorable adventure.

7. Mystic Mossman Gorge

Mossman Gorge, located in the southern part of Daintree National Park in Queensland, Australia, is a breathtakingly beautiful area known for its lush rainforest and crystal-clear streams. This gorge is a significant site within the World Heritage-listed old rainforest and offers visitors the chance to explore its ancient landscapes through well-maintained walking tracks that lead to stunning swimming holes and cascading waterfalls.

Here, engaging activities such as zip-lining and horseback riding will allow you to interact closely with nature. You’ll be captivated by the stunning beauty of the gorge as you ride through it, feeling the freedom that only such a pristine environment can provide.

Visitors to Mossman Gorge can also learn about the rich culture and traditions of the local Indigenous Kuku Yalanji people through guided Dreamtime walks, providing deeper insights into the area’s significance and history. The combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Mossman Gorge not just a scenic destination but also an important place for understanding and appreciating the connection between the land and its traditional custodians.

8. Green Island’s Marine Life

Green Island, a coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Cairns, Queensland, Australia, is a tropical paradise renowned for its unique reef and rainforest environment. This small island, accessible by a short boat ride, offers visitors the chance to experience the vibrant underwater world of the reef through snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours. The surrounding coral gardens are teeming with marine life, providing an up-close encounter with a variety of fish, corals, and other sea creatures.

The island’s underwater realm is a haven for freedom seekers like you. Take glass bottom boat tours for a closer look at this underwater spectacle. You’ll marvel at giant clams and intricate coral formations without having to get your feet wet.

But if you’re up for it, plunge into the top snorkeling spots. Here, you’ll feel the thrill of swimming alongside an array of marine creatures, truly a memory to cherish.

Apart from its marine attractions, Green Island also features a lush rainforest, with easy walking tracks allowing visitors to explore its flora and fauna. The island’s combination of pristine beaches, clear waters, and verdant forest provides a unique opportunity to experience both reef and rainforest in one idyllic location, making it a must-visit for those exploring the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.

9. Discover the Undara Lava Tubes

The Undara Lava Tubes, located in the Undara Volcanic National Park in Queensland, Australia, are a remarkable natural phenomenon and a testament to the region’s volcanic history. Formed over 190,000 years ago from a major volcanic eruption, these tubes are among the oldest and largest of their kind in the world. Visitors can explore these ancient tunnels through guided tours, which offer a unique and educational experience into the geological processes that shaped them.

The tours through the Undara Lava Tubes are not only a journey into the Earth’s past but also an opportunity to witness the distinctive ecosystems that have developed in these subterranean environments. The area surrounding the tubes is rich in Australian wildlife and offers various accommodation options, making it an intriguing destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

10. Learn to Surf on the Gold Coast

Learning to surf on the Gold Coast, is a quintessential experience for beach lovers and adventure seekers. The Gold Coast is renowned for its long, sandy beaches and consistent surf breaks, making it an ideal destination for surfers of all levels. Beginners can take advantage of the many surf schools along the coast, where experienced instructors provide lessons on the basics of surfing, ensuring a fun and safe introduction to this exciting sport.

The experience of catching your first wave against the backdrop of the Gold Coast’s stunning scenery is exhilarating and memorable. Besides surfing, the Gold Coast offers a vibrant beach culture, with a range of beachfront cafes, shops, and lively entertainment, making it a perfect spot for both learning to surf and enjoying the laid-back coastal lifestyle.

11. Take a Larc Tour of Seventeen Seventy

Taking a Larc Tour in the town of Seventeen Seventy (Seventeen Seventy, sometimes inaccurately written as 1770 or Town of 1770), located along Queensland’s coast, is a unique and adventurous way to explore this picturesque area. The Larc, an amphibious vehicle, provides a thrilling journey over both land and water, offering a distinctive sightseeing experience. These tours take visitors along the scenic coast and through the pristine estuaries of Seventeen Seventy, showcasing the area’s natural beauty and wildlife.

The tour also includes a visit to the historic Bustard Head Lighthouse, where visitors can learn about the region’s history and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. A Larc Tour in Seventeen Seventy is not just a sightseeing trip; it’s an exciting adventure that combines natural exploration, history, and the novelty of traveling in an amphibious craft, making it a memorable experience for all ages.

12. Walk or Kayak at Cape Tribulation

Walking or kayaking at Cape Tribulation in Queensland offers a unique way to experience this stunning and ecologically significant region, where the rainforest meets the reef. Hiking through the lush, ancient Daintree Rainforest provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the world’s oldest living rainforests, with trails leading to beautiful, secluded beaches and offering chances to spot diverse wildlife. The area’s tranquility and natural beauty are captivating for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Kayaking along the coastline of Cape Tribulation allows for a different perspective, with clear waters offering views of marine life and the chance to explore nearby mangroves. Paddling in this serene environment is not only a peaceful experience but also offers a chance to connect with the area’s unique ecosystems. Whether on foot or by kayak, Cape Tribulation presents an idyllic setting for adventure and exploration in one of Australia’s most picturesque locales.

13. Kangaroo Point Cliffs Experience

Kangaroo Point Cliffs in Brisbane, Queensland, offer a unique urban adventure experience with their striking riverside location. These cliffs are a popular spot for rock climbing and abseiling, catering to various skill levels from beginners to advanced climbers. The activity provides not only an adrenaline rush but also spectacular views of the Brisbane River and the city skyline, making it a memorable outdoor experience within an urban setting.

In addition to the adventurous pursuits, Kangaroo Point Cliffs feature scenic walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and barbecue facilities, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out. The area comes alive in the evenings, with climbers and visitors enjoying the illuminated cityscape. Kangaroo Point Cliffs blend the thrill of outdoor sports with the convenience and beauty of city life, creating an experience that’s both exhilarating and accessible.

Don’t forget to capture these moments through your lens. Each click immerses you further into the beauty of Queensland, making Kangaroo Point Cliffs Experience an absolute must-visit.

14. Daintree Rainforest Expedition

The Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, Australia, is one of the most ancient and ecologically diverse rainforests in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site offers a unique opportunity to explore a living museum of flora and fauna, some of which are found nowhere else on the planet. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rainforest through guided walks, canopy tours, and river cruises, experiencing the lush wilderness and spotting wildlife such as cassowaries and crocodiles.

As you hike through the stunning surroundings, you’ll appreciate the importance of environmental conservation, seeing firsthand how vital these ecosystems are.

The Daintree Rainforest is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a place of great cultural significance, with the indigenous Kuku Yalanji people offering insights into their traditional land and culture. The combination of natural beauty, ecological significance, and cultural richness makes the Daintree Rainforest a truly exceptional destination for anyone looking to connect with nature and learn about ancient ecosystems and cultures.

Thrills at Gold Coast’s Theme Parks

Shift gears from the serenity of the rainforest and get ready to pump up your adrenaline at Gold Coast’s popular theme parks. These must-visit attractions offer the ultimate adrenaline rush, with heart-pounding rides and exhilarating activities that will leave you breathless.

The Gold Coast’s theme parks in Queensland, Australia, are a thrilling destination for families and adventure seekers. Home to some of the country’s most famous parks, including Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, and Dreamworld, the Gold Coast offers a diverse range of attractions and rides. Visitors can experience high-adrenaline roller coasters, interactive movie-themed attractions, aquatic adventures, and wildlife encounters.

Each theme park on the Gold Coast has its unique charm, catering to different interests and age groups. In addition to the rides, these parks host shows, character meet-and-greets, and various entertainment options, making them a full-day experience. The Gold Coast’s theme parks provide not just fun and excitement but also create lasting memories, making them a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the best of Australia’s entertainment and leisure activities.