A Comprehensive Guide to the Best of Queensland

Table of Content

1. Fun & Adventure: Thrills Await in Every Corner of Queensland

2. Untouched Nature: Discover Queensland’s Natural Wonders

3. Australian Wildlife: Up Close with Queensland’s Wild Side

4. Food & Cuisine: Taste the Flavours of Queensland

5. Vibrant Cities: Discover Queensland’s Thriving Urban Life

6. Culture & People: Experience Queensland’s Rich Heritage

Queensland, Australia, is a land of contrasts and diversity, offering everything from thrilling adventures to serene natural landscapes. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, Queensland has something to offer you. 

From the world-famous Great Barrier Reef to the tropical rainforests of the Daintree, Queensland boasts some of the most beautiful natural wonders on Earth. The state is home to dynamic cities like Brisbane, with its thriving cultural scene and modern attractions, as well as the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, which offer pristine beaches and world-class theme parks. 
 

Planning your dream vacation is easy when you book a Queensland holiday package. These packages offer the best of Queensland, Australia, from guided tours of the Great Barrier Reef to excursions in the lush rainforests of the Daintree. If you're a thrill-seeker, you can enjoy the Gold Coast's iconic theme parks like Dreamworld and SeaWorld, or visit the Sunshine Coast for a more relaxed beach holiday.
 

Let’s take you on a journey through Queensland’s iconic cities—Brisbane, Cairns, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Hamilton Island—highlighting the top experiences in each of the following categories: Fun & Adventure, Untouched Nature, Australian Wildlife, Food & Cuisine, Vibrant Cities, and Culture & People.
 

Here are things to explore in Queensland, Australia:
 

1. Fun & Adventure: Thrills Await in Every Corner of Queensland

If you’re looking for heart-pounding activities, Queensland is your playground. From skydiving over pristine beaches to bungee jumping in tropical rainforests, the region offers some of the most exhilarating experiences in the world.
 

• Skydiving in Cairns: For those who crave an adrenaline rush, skydiving in Cairns is an absolute must. Experience the thrill of freefall while taking in panoramic views of the Great Barrier Reef and the lush rainforest below.
   

• Story Bridge Adventure Climb: In Brisbane, conquer the iconic Story Bridge with a guided climb that offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, the Brisbane River, and beyond.
   

• Learn to Surf at the Gold Coast: Queensland’s Gold Coast is renowned for its pristine beaches and excellent surf. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, there’s a spot for you to catch the perfect wave.
   

• Diving in the Great Barrier Reef: No trip to Queensland is complete without exploring the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re diving or snorkelling, the reef offers vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters like nowhere else on Earth.
   

• Whale Watching: Queensland offers incredible whale-watching experiences in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, with humpback whales migrating along the coast from June to November. In Brisbane, Moreton Bay’s calm waters provide the perfect spot to see these majestic creatures up close, with guided tours offering breathtaking views. On the Gold Coast, tours from Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach give you the chance to witness awe-inspiring whale behaviours, like breaching and tail slapping, set against stunning coastal views.
   

• Hot Air Ballooning over the Gold Coast: Experience the Gold Coast like never before with a hot air balloon ride offering breathtaking views of the coastline, hinterland, and beaches. After your ride, enjoy a champagne breakfast to celebrate the unforgettable experience. You’ll also have the chance to meet and walk with alpacas, adding a unique and fun element to your adventure. This is a perfect way to take in Queensland’s stunning landscapes from above, all while enjoying a relaxed and memorable morning.
   

• River Drifting through Ancient Rainforests: For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, try river drifting in the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, the Daintree Rainforest.
   

• Gold Coast Theme Parks: The Gold Coast is home to some of Australia’s best theme parks, including Dreamworld, Sea World, and Warner Bros. Movie World—perfect for families or anyone looking for fun and excitement.
   

To make the most of your Queensland adventure, it’s highly recommended to pre-book activities in Queensland. This ensures you don’t miss out on the region’s top attractions and adrenaline-pumping experiences. 
 

2. Untouched Nature: Discover Queensland’s Natural Wonders

Queensland’s diverse natural landscapes are some of the most stunning in the world. From tropical rainforests to pristine beaches, the region’s beauty is unparalleled.
 

• Great Barrier Reef: The world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Whether you’re diving or snorkelling, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
   

• Glass House Mountains: The Glass House Mountains, located an hour’s drive from north of Brisbane, offer dramatic peaks and valleys that are perfect for hiking and photography.
   

• Whitehaven Beach: Located in the Whitsundays, Whitehaven Beach is known for its stunning white silica sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. You can relax on the soft sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel to discover vibrant marine life, or explore the shoreline by kayak. A short hike to Hill Inlet Lookout rewards you with breathtaking views of swirling sand and water patterns, making it a must-see.
   

• Springbrook National Park Waterfall: A hidden gem in the hinterlands of the Gold Coast, Springbrook National Park is home to breathtaking waterfalls, lush rainforest, and walking trails.
   

• Noosa Everglades: The Noosa Everglades, located in Queensland, are one of the most pristine environments in the world, with tranquil waters, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Activities you can enjoy here include:
  
  - Kayaking: Paddle through the serene waters, exploring the lush, untouched beauty of the everglades and observing local wildlife along the way.
  
  - Eco Safari Rides: Take a guided eco safari ride to immerse yourself in the unique ecosystem, spotting birds, fish, and perhaps even a wild kangaroo.
  
  - Birdwatching: The Everglades are home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching.

• Journey to the Heart: Located in the Whitsundays, the iconic Heart Reef is a stunning heart-shaped coral formation that has become one of the most photographed natural wonders in the world. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the region. Activities to enjoy around Heart Reef include:
  
  - Scenic Flights: Take a helicopter or seaplane tour for a bird's-eye view of the iconic heart-shaped coral formation, offering a breathtaking perspective of this natural beauty.
  
  - Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant marine life in the surrounding Great Barrier Reef waters, home to colorful coral and diverse species of fish.
  
  - Glass-bottom Boat Tours: For a more relaxed view, take a glass-bottom boat ride to see the coral formations and marine life below the surface.
  
  - Diving: For more adventurous travelers, diving offers a chance to explore the reef up close, surrounded by a rich variety of underwater life.
   

• The Daintree Rainforest: The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest living rainforest on Earth, offering a glimpse into a pristine ecosystem filled with unique flora, fauna, and ancient trees. Activities to enjoy in the Daintree Rainforest include:
  
  - Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Glide over the lush canopy of one of the oldest rainforests.. This unique experience provides stunning aerial views of the Barron Gorge water, interactive stops, and a chance to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
  
  - Cape Tribulation: This is where two UNESCO World Heritage sites meet—the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Known for its untouched beauty, it offers serene beaches, lush hiking trails, and vibrant wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

3. Australian Wildlife: Up Close with Queensland’s Wild Side

Queensland, Australia is home to a wide range of native wildlife, and there are plenty of opportunities to get up close to these iconic Australian creatures.
 

• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: Located in Brisbane, Lone Pine is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. Here, you can spend Koality time ‘’Koala’’, hand-feed kangaroos, and meet a variety of other Australian animals.
   

• Cairns Aquarium: Offers an incredible opportunity to explore Queensland's marine life, featuring species from the Great Barrier Reef and surrounding regions, including colourful coral, fish, sharks, and rays. Beyond its stunning exhibits, the aquarium is deeply involved in marine conservation. It helps in restoring endangered species and conducts important research on protecting coral reefs and combating coral bleaching. Visitors can learn about marine life and the ongoing conservation efforts in species protection to preserve the Great Barrier Reef.
   

• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Located on the Gold Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles. It’s a great place for families and animal lovers.
   

• Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures:  Located between Cairns and Port Douglas, Hartley’s offers a thrilling experience where you can get up close with Australia’s largest reptiles, the saltwater crocodiles.
   

• Australia Zoo: Made famous by Steve Irwin, Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast is one of the best places to learn about wildlife conservation and interact with exotic animals.

4. Food & Cuisine: Taste the Flavours of Queensland

Queensland’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering a mix of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and international flavours.
 

• Riverside Dining at Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane: Enjoy a riverside dining experience with views of the Brisbane skyline, where you can indulge in fresh local produce and seafood.
   

• The Prawn Star, Cairns: For a true taste of Queensland, head to The Prawn Star in Cairns, where you can savour the freshest prawns and seafood caught right off the coast.
   

• Burleigh Pavilion, Gold Coast: Enjoy beachfront dining at Burleigh Pavilion, known for its stunning ocean views and delicious, locally sourced dishes.
   

• Dundee’s Restaurant, Cairns: Located on the waterfront, Dundee’s offers a fantastic range of Australian dishes, including kangaroo, crocodile, and fresh seafood.

5. Vibrant Cities: Discover Queensland’s Thriving Urban Life
 

Queensland’s cities are a hub of culture, entertainment, and food. Brisbane, the vibrant capital, is a buzzing metropolis with something for everyone. With such a rich offering of activities—whether you're savouring world-class food at Eat Street, relaxing in the scenic beauty of South Bank, or discovering the creative vibe of Brisbane’s laneways—Queensland’s capital is a destination that caters to every taste and interest. Here are some of the suggestions: 
 

• Eat Street Northshore, Brisbane: This vibrant food market in Brisbane offers a fantastic mix of international street food, live music, and a lively atmosphere.
   

• South Bank Parklands, Brisbane: South Bank Parklands is a vibrant destination in Brisbane, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. 
   

• Brisbane Laneways: Wander through Brisbane’s laneways to discover hidden cafes, boutique stores, and vibrant street art, giving you a taste of the city’s urban charm.
   

If you’re planning to book a hotel in Queensland, you’ll find a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re captivated by Brisbane’s bustling cityscape or the tranquil beaches and stunning natural attractions further afield, Queensland’s cities provide plenty of nearby highlights to make your stay truly memorable.
 

6. Culture & People: Experience Queensland’s Rich Heritage
 

Queensland’s culture is deeply rooted in its indigenous heritage, and the state offers a variety of ways to learn about its rich history and traditions.
 

• Indigenous Cultural Experiences: Queensland offers several immersive Indigenous cultural experiences where you can learn about the history, art, and traditions of Australia’s First Nations people. The Dreamtime Walk experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with Indigenous culture, guided by the natives. You can explore the lush rainforest, hear ancient Dreamtime stories, and learn about traditional practices, creating an enriching and immersive experience.
   

• Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), Brisbane: For art lovers, the Gallery of Modern Art in Brisbane showcases contemporary Australian and international art in a world-class setting.
   

• Tropical Rainforest Indigenous Experiences: Explore the Daintree and other tropical rainforests through Indigenous-led experiences that connect you to the land and its cultural significance.

Conclusion

Queensland, Australia, is a destination that offers something for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking adventure, nature, culture, or food, Queensland’s diverse attractions will leave you with unforgettable memories. Start planning your Queensland adventure today, and immerse yourself in all that this stunning region has to offer!