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Whale-Watching, Waterfalls & Wineries: Surprising Things to Do in Queensland
Written by Felicia Arhontissas
From swimming with minke whales to shucking and eating oysters straight from the sea, Queensland is a treasure trove of unexpected experiences.
Queensland is a beacon for travellers for its perpetual sunshine, blissful beaches and UNESCO World Heritage sites. From rainforest retreats to hiking thunderous, single-drop waterfalls and spotting humpback whales, the lesser-known experiences of Queensland are calling.
Swim with whales, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef in Tropical North Queensland is one of the only places in the world that you can swim alongside dwarf minke whales during migration in June and July. Armed with a snorkel, wetsuit and a rope anchored to your boat, you can float in crystal-clear water and watch as these inquisitive and playful ‘dwarf’ whales glide past (all 5.5 tonnes of them), watching you from the corners of their eyes. Prefer to keep your head above water? Board a whale-watching cruise to try your luck spotting these magnificent mammals breaching, frolicking and playing.
Explore more of the underwater world, Cairns
Can’t get enough of Queensland’s aquatic adventures? Spend a full day splashing in the water and soaking up the sun aboard a pontoon at Moore Reef. You’ll dive, swim and get up-close to some of the reef’s most spectacular residents. There are options for snorkelling and even exploring in a semi-submersible and glass-bottom boats. Plus, the pontoon is kitted with a 30-metre spiral waterslide! For a fun-filled day out on the water, look no further.
Visit Wallaman Falls, Townsville
Did you know the highest permanent single-drop waterfall in Australia is just a 2.5-hour drive from the town of Townsville? Wallaman Falls is surrounded by the world’s oldest rainforest, 150 million years of natural history that lives and breathes around you. Stand at the lookout, perched 268 metres in the air, and take in the cascade from a lofty position. If you’re feeling adventurous, embark on an epic hike to the base of the falls. Follow the 3.2km trek along the Djyinda walk, traversing open forest, rocky gorge and dense rainforest.
Take a scenic flight over Heart Reef, The Whitsundays
It’s no secret the Whitsundays is a treasure trove of natural splendour, with its myriad of idyllic islands scattered across a turquoise sea, each with white, crescent-moon coastlines disappearing into emerald-topped forests. Take it all in from a unique perspective when you soar over The Whitsundays aboard a scenic flight. Admire wow-factor aerial views of the iconic Heart Reef, a striking coral cluster that’s naturally formed into a heart shape over time. It’s practically impossible to snap a bad photo of the reef, so keep your camera at the ready.
Escape to a secluded rainforest retreat in the hinterlands
If you’re looking for a dreamy hideaway in nature, discover a pocket of calm at Tranquil Getaways, a hidden family-run retreat tucked along Obi Obi Creek in Maleny. Perfect for those ready to disconnect, this peaceful escape invites you to start the day with coffee on your private balcony, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the hinterland. Dive into Maleny’s local charm with a stroll through its artisan shops and cafes, or lose yourself in the landscape with a hike or paddle on Baroon Pocket Dam.
Visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed K’gari (Fraser Island), Fraser Coast
Step foot on an island made entirely out of sand and feel the power of beach magic on a grand scale. There are not many places on Earth where you can swim in an essential-oil-infused lake (Lake McKenzie’s waters are naturally steeped with tea tree oil), rip across sugar-white sand in a 4WD and explore old shipwrecks all on one pint-sized island. If you visit between June and October, you might be lucky enough to spot migrating humpback whales and their calves passing through the protected bay.
Take time out for R&R, Noosa Heads
Give yourself time to unwind and recharge on your Queensland escape and book in for a restorative treatment at one of the Sunshine State’s incredible spas. Taking a moment for an indulgent self-care package, from floatation therapy to heavenly pamper treatments, is a great way to make sure you’re rested and refreshed for the remainder of your time exploring Queensland.
Kayak through the Noosa Everglades, Sunshine Coast
The jewel in the Sunshine Coast’s crown, Noosa is a captivating concoction of laidback seaside culture, upscale designer boutiques and destination restaurants. Get to know the natural landscape by hopping on a kayak for a leisurely paddle through the everglades. Glide by bucket-list-worthy wonders including Lake Cootharaba, Kinaba, Fig Tree Lake and the upper Noosa River, before pausing for a delicious lunch and freshly brewed coffee to recharge your batteries.
Champagne and oyster tour, Brisbane
There’s little comparison to knocking back a freshly shucked oyster, lightly spritzed with a lemon wedge and washed down with an effervescent flute of champagne. The promise of ‘the freshest oysters you will ever try’ beckons foodies near and far to take a highspeed boat from Northshore Harbour to Moreton Island, bypassing dolphins, turtles and dugongs en route. On arrival to Moreton Bay, kickstart your tour with a tasting accompanied with fizzing champagne before learning the ins and outs of the farming process.
Hot air balloon ride over the Gold Coast Hinterland
See a different side to this iconic holiday destination and trade the golden beaches and silver city in favour of the natural wonders of the hinterland. The best way to see it? At the crack of dawn on a hot air balloon ride. Watch the ever-changing sunrise paint the hinterland in a rosy hue from your bird’s-eye vantage. Soar over rainforest, waterfalls and national parks, capping off an unforgettable experience with a hearty breakfast at a local winery.
Enjoy a tipple or two in Australia’s highest wine region, Southern Queensland Country
Granite Belt wine country in Southern Queensland Country, just a three-hour drive from Brisbane, is home to over 50 wineries, cideries and breweries. It’s also Queensland’s largest wine region, with rich soil and an impressive output of cool-climate wines. Visit the region’s oldest winery, Ballandean Estate Wines, and try a glass of its malbec alongside a mouthwatering Italian lunch. Cap-it off with a stay at Barrel View Luxury Cabins, a boutique escape with cabins designed to resemble giant oak wine barrels, all offering stunning views right over the Granite Belt.
Discover Queensland
All images are courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.
