Find Your Next Queensland Holiday Destination

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy the holiday of a lifetime. The Sunshine State is bursting with epic travel experiences, from snorkelling the world’s largest coral reef to racing on record-breaking rollercoasters.

Whether you seek beaches, cities, rainforests or remote isles, keep reading to find your next Queensland holiday destination.

Gold Coast

Best for: Family holidays

It’s no secret that the Gold Coast is Australia’s favourite family holiday destination. After all, it’s home to five iconic theme parks, filled with excitements like roller coasters, movie characters, water slides, grand shows and, of course, fairy floss. Beyond the theme parks, there’s also wildlife sanctuaries, treetop challenges, mini and top golf, water sports and 70 kilometres of beaches to choose from… and that’s only the beginning. The Gold Coast is the ultimate family playground, regardless of whether you have teens or toddlers in town.

Dreamworld on the Gold coast captures a young girl embraces a koala bear, capturing a heartwarming interaction between a child and the animal.

Whitsundays

Best for: Island relaxation

The Whitsundays offer everything you’d want from a relaxing tropical getaway: calm turquoise waters, soft secluded beaches and world-class luxury accommodations. With 74 idyllic islands to choose from, there’s something for everyone in the Whitsundays. For instance, Daydream Island is great for families, Hayman Island is a luxury lovers dream, and Hamilton Island offers a little bit of everything. No matter which you choose, you’ll be within easy reach of iconic Whitehaven Beach and the Great Barrier Reef. Alternatively, you can base yourself in the laidback mainland town of Airlie Beach, which is just a boat ride away from the magic of the islands.

A woman relaxes on a catamaran, enjoying the sun and ocean view, with a hat beside her and a man's feet visible.

Cairns

Best for: Thrilling adventures

Thrillseekers will never run out of things to do in Cairns. As Australia’s undisputed adventure capital, Cairns is a treasure trove of adrenaline-pumping experiences. Think skydiving over the Great Barrier Reef, rafting world-class rapids, hot air ballooning over the rainforest, abseiling down wild waterfalls and leaping 50 metres from Australia’s only bungy tower. And don’t forget about the endless hiking and biking trails, and the next-level scuba diving opportunities! When you need a break from all the thrills, Cairns Esplanade is lined with divine restaurants and bars, perfect for unwinding over a cool drink and a bite to eat.

A woman stands in front of a cascading waterfall, in Cairns surrounded by lush greenery and mist rising from the water.

Brisbane

Best for: City vibes

If you’re craving a weekend in the city, look no further than Brisbane. Queensland’s capital is a cosmopolitan hub, with something for foodies, culture seekers and adventurers alike. Start your city break in the cultural precinct of South Bank, home to Brisbane’s best museums, art galleries and theatre shows. Nearby is Fish Lane, a hip dining destination lined with restaurants, bars and cafes – perfect for avid foodies. Across the river is Queen Street Mall, a vast shopping hotspot with six major shopping centres and over 500 brands to browse. Meanwhile, more active travellers can climb Story Bridge, kayak along Brisbane River or catch the ferry over to nearby Moreton Island.

Cityscape of Brisbane, Australia at sunset, showing modern skyscrapers, bridges, and the Brisbane River in the foreground.

Port Douglas

Best for: Wildlife encounters

Gateway to two iconic UNESCO World Heritage-listed natural wonders, the wildlife encounters afforded on a Port Douglas holiday are next level. Start by heading into the 180 million year old Daintree Rainforest, which is home to one third of all Australian mammal species and over 430 bird species. Meanwhile, a visit to the Great Barrier Reef offers a chance to snorkel and dive amongst turtles, sharks, whales, dolphins and 1600 species of fish. Plus, Port Douglas is also home to some of Queensland’s best wildlife parks. The whole family will love Wildlife Habitat, an eco-certified sanctuary where you can hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, swim with saltwater crocodiles and even enjoy breakfast with the bird

A sea turtle gracefully swims near colorful coral reefs, while a snorkeler explores the vibrant underwater scene.

Sunshine Coast

Best for: Nature lovers

Exceptional nature experiences abound on the Sunshine Coast. With 100 kilometres of coastline, there are plenty of spots to soak in the sun, surf and sand, although Noosa Heads and Mooloolaba Beach are favourites amongst locals and tourists alike. Then, escape into the hinterland to hike rainforest trails, chase hidden waterfalls and ascend the ancient volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains, before sampling local produce in the picturesque villages of Maleny and Montville. Meanwhile, those seeking something unique can’t miss the Noosa Everglades. One of just two everglades systems on the planet, the Noosa Everglades is a 60 kilometre stretch of pristine waterways and wetlands, best explored on an eco-cruise or in a kayak.

Silhouetted surfers awaiting waves in calm waters at dusk, with a pastel sky reflecting the tranquil evening atmosphere.

Palm Cove

Best for: Spa and wellness

For a holiday filled with R&R, escape to Palm Cove. This tiny beachside village is just 30 minutes north of Cairns, and is lined with boutique hotels, fine-dining restaurants and luxe day spas. In fact, Palm Cove has been dubbed the spa capital of Australia, with many spas offering specialised menus that utilise native Australian ingredients. Continue your wellness journey by staying at the adults-only retreat, The Reef House, which treats guests to a range of experiences, such as beachfront yoga, poolside butler service, mixology classes and daily punch and canapes.

A woman in a sun hat walks along a palm-lined path by the beach, with soft waves and gentle hills in the background.

Townsville

Best for: Surprising experiences

Endless surprises are in store when you choose to holiday in Townsville. So much more than just an army and mining town, Townsville is a burgeoning coastal hub, with cultural events, fine dining restaurants and vibrant street art. Explore the city’s quirky landmarks, like the pink granite monolith of Castle Hill and Australia’s first underwater museum. Plus, Townville offers easy access to the rainforest, the reef and the outback. Consider a day trip to waterfalls and swimming holes of Hinchinbrook, the gold rush town of Charters Towers or the tropical paradise of Magnetic Island, which offers everything from swimming and snorkelling to hiking and wildlife watching.

A couple holds hands while gazing at a scenic coastal view from a mountaintop, overlooking a lush town and serene ocean.

Fraser Coast

Best for: Getting off the beaten path

If you’re looking for somewhere new to travel in Queensland, or are simply seeking a sun-soaked holiday without the crowds, the Fraser Coast is the spot for you. This slice of paradise may be small but it sure packs a punch: base yourself in the sleepy town of Hervey Bay and find yourself within easy reach of both the world’s largest sand island and the world’s first whale heritage area. Intrepid travellers can’t miss a trip to K’gari (Fraser Island), which offers 4WD dune adventures, perched lakes and wild dingos, while a whale watching cruise is an absolute must if visiting during the winter months. You can also swim with manta rays on Lady Elliot Island or check out the heritage architecture in Maryborough, birthplace of P.L. Travers, the author of Mary Poppins.

Rusty shipwreck partially submerged on a sandy beach, with gentle waves lapping and clear skies in the background.

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