USD
Whatever your vibe, Queensland has it covered. Whether you’re riding waves at world-class beaches, splashing your way through waterparks or exploring vibrant city life, this is Australia’s ultimate playground. Where sunny skies, colourful coral reefs, ancient rainforests and rugged outback live in perfect harmony; dive into the Sunshine State.
Packed with diverse landscapes and experiences, a Queensland holiday promises endless possibilities. Nature enthusiasts will love the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site and its marine life, ideal for snorkelling and diving. The Daintree Rainforest, the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, offers serene walking trails and wildlife sightings.
Bring the whole family along to the Gold Coast’s theme parks including Dreamworld and Sea World for thrilling rides and interactive animal experiences. The state’s buzzing capital, Brisbane, is a great fit for couples or solo travellers with its lively mix of art, live music and world-class dining. Those seeking surf, sun and sea can make for the pristine beaches of the Sunshine Coast.
The Sunshine State isn’t all beaches though: Central Queensland’s rugged Outback landscapes include national parks like Carnarvon Gorge, where hikes and hill station stays are a must. The Granite Belt is a wine lover’s dream. Known for its cool climate and high-altitude wines, it’s perfect for cellar door tastings and winery tours.
The best time to visit Queensland depends on the region you’re exploring. In the tropical north, including Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, the dry season from May to October offers mild temperatures (around 25°C) and low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and reef excursions. The wet season from November to April brings heavy rain and humidity, but if you don’t mind the downpours, you’ll be rewarded with lush rainforests and fewer crowds.
Brisbane and the southern coast enjoy a subtropical climate, making it a year-round destination. Spring (September to November) is a particularly great time to visit, with temperatures between 16°C and 27°C and clear skies. Humpback whales make their annual migration along the Gold Coast from June to October. Summer (December to February) can be hot and sticky, but it’s perfect for beach days.
The best time to visit Central Queensland and the Outback is in the cooler months, from May to August, when temperatures average around 20°C. Summer can reach daily highs above 40°C, so prepare accordingly if you’re planning on visiting then.
Queensland’s national parks are open to adventurers of any kind. Hike the trails of the 180-million-year-old Daintree National Park and encounter diverse ecosystems, spot unique wildlife, and swim in Mossman Gorge. Further west, the towering red cliffs of the Lawn Hill National Park are bisected by flowing rivers and freshwater swimming holes.
Head east to Noosa National Park to take in the coastal scenery of the Noosa Headland, with accessible trails leading to hidden rockpools. Visit between July and November and you may spot a breaching humpback whale.
There are plenty of ways to see the world-famous Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: – get up close and personal by scuba diving or snorkelling, sail leisurely by on a glass-bottomed boat or get a bird’s eye view on a helicopter flight. At the Great Sandy National Park, explore the stunning landscapes of K’gari (Fraser Island), where you can walk along untouched beaches and the world’s largest sand island, discover freshwater lakes and trek through towering eucalyptus forests.
USD
