Province guides
Australia
Attractions
Queensland is one of Australia's favourite holiday spots, with more than enough to keep any traveller happy. The state is famous for its beautiful beaches and colourful coral reefs, but there's far more to discover, from ancient rainforests and rugged mountains to wide-open outback country. Much-loved destinations include Surfers Paradise, Hamilton Island, Noosa, Port Douglas, Airlie Beach, Burleigh Heads, Mooloolaba, Coolum and the lively capital city, Brisbane.
Queensland is also home to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include K'gari (formerly Fraser Island), the world's largest sand island; the lush Gondwana Rainforests; the incredible Great Barrier Reef; the Australian Fossil Mammal Sites at Riversleigh; and the tropical Wet Tropics of Queensland. Each offers its own unique landscapes and wildlife.
Beyond the big-name attractions, visitors can explore Magnetic Island, glide above the rainforest on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway near Cairns or meet Australia's most iconic animals at Brisbane's Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. The Gold Coast adds even more fun, with its theme parks, long beaches and year-round sunshine. Wherever you go, Queensland serves up a relaxed vibe, spectacular scenery and plenty of reasons to stay just a little longer.
Fraser Island
Fraser Island, or K'gari, is the world's largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993. Located north of Brisbane, it offers towering sand dunes, lush rainforests…
Fraser Island
Fraser Island, or K'gari, is the world's largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993. Located north of Brisbane, it offers towering sand dunes, lush rainforests, sparkling freshwater lakes, and pristine beaches. Visitors can explore over 100 perched lakes with crystal-clear water, encounter dingoes, bats, and more than 350 bird species, or admire giant satinay trees reaching 200 feet (60 metres) high. The island stretches 75 miles (120 km) long and up to 14 miles (22 km) wide, accessible via walking trails or four-wheel-drive vehicles. Eco-sensitive resorts provide accommodation while protecting its unique environment.
Website www.fraserisland.net
Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island lies just five miles (8 km) off the coast of Townsville and is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. It was named by Captain James Cook in 1770 because he bel…
Magnetic Island
Magnetic Island lies just five miles (8 km) off the coast of Townsville and is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. It was named by Captain James Cook in 1770 because he believed the island affected his compass. More than half of the island is protected as National Park, featuring dramatic granite boulders, lush eucalyptus forests, and hoop pines. Visitors can explore 23 beaches and bays, some accessible only by walking trails, and over 12 miles (20km) of scenic paths where wildlife, including the northernmost colony of free-ranging koalas in Australia, can be seen. Art galleries, local markets, wellness retreats, and a range of accommodation offer something for every visitor.
Website www.thisismagneticisland.com.au
The Wet Tropics of Queensland
The Wet Tropics of Queensland, one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests, is a UNESCO World Heritage Area renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and lush, ancient landsca…
The Wet Tropics of Queensland
The Wet Tropics of Queensland, one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests, is a UNESCO World Heritage Area renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and lush, ancient landscapes. Stretching along the coast from just south of Townsville to north of Cooktown, it contains 13 distinct rainforest types, 29 species of mangrove, and countless unique plants and animals. Visitors can wander winding forest trails, discover hidden waterfalls, spot colourful birds, and relax on golden beaches, all within a stunning natural setting. National parks such as Daintree, Barron Gorge, Wooroonooran, and Girringun showcase the rainforest at its most spectacular. About two hours north of Cairns via the Captain Cook Highway, Daintree Village provides an ideal gateway for day trips or weekend escapes into this remarkable tropical wonderland.
Website www.tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/wet-tropics-rainforest/
Great Barrier Reef
One of the world's great natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef stretches across more than 133,000 square miles (344,400 km²) along the Queensland coast and includes over 1,000…
Great Barrier Reef
One of the world's great natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef stretches across more than 133,000 square miles (344,400 km²) along the Queensland coast and includes over 1,000 islands, ranging from tiny sandy cays to lush rainforest isles. Visitors can explore this spectacular underwater world by diving, snorkelling, taking a scenic flight, or viewing it from a glass-bottomed boat.
The Reef has evolved over millions of years, supporting around 7,000 species of plants and animals, including green turtles, loggerhead turtles, and humpback whales, which breed in its waters. Many excursions depart from Cairns or other coastal towns, with options ranging from day trips to liveaboard cruises, making it easy for travellers to experience one of the most extraordinary marine ecosystems on Earth.
Website www.gbrmpa.gov.au
Surfer's Paradise
Formerly a small coastal town, Surfers Paradise has become the vibrant heart of the Queensland Gold Coast. Situated on a narrow coastal strip about 50 miles (78 km) south of Brisba…
Surfer's Paradise
Formerly a small coastal town, Surfers Paradise has become the vibrant heart of the Queensland Gold Coast. Situated on a narrow coastal strip about 50 miles (78 km) south of Brisbane, it lies between the warm Pacific Ocean and the deep blue Nerang River. Known as the holiday capital of Australia, Surfers Paradise draws visitors with bright lights, shops, high-rise resorts, and entertainment. Its main beach averages 492 feet (150m) wide and stretches nearly six miles (10km) along the coast. While famous for its glitzy attractions, it remains a popular surfing spot, though waves can get crowded.
Cape Tribulation
Located within Daintree National Park and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Cape Tribulation is one of Queensland's most pristine and picturesque destinations. Visitors can expe…
Cape Tribulation
Located within Daintree National Park and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Cape Tribulation is one of Queensland's most pristine and picturesque destinations. Visitors can experience the world's oldest tropical rainforest from the treetops on a canopy tour, explore nearby rivers in search of crocodiles, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery. The Great Barrier Reef lies just offshore, offering easy access to world-class snorkelling and diving. Beach lovers can enjoy walks or horseback rides along the spectacular coastline, while accommodation ranges from luxury eco-resorts to self-catering cabins, charming bed and breakfasts, and scenic campsites.