Welcome to Queensland, the Sunshine State! From its stunning beaches and rainforests to its vibrant cities and towns, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Australia. Whether you’re looking for a fun family vacation or an adventure-filled escape from the everyday grind, Queensland has it all. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of the best attractions that this amazing state has to offer, we’ve put together a guide outlining 10 things to do in Queensland. From exploring ancient Indigenous cultures and soaking up some sun on world-famous beaches to discovering hidden gems and getting lost in lush national parks – there’s something here for every type of traveler. You’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll share 10 of the best things to see and do in Queensland. So whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer vacation, there’s sure to be something on this list that appeals to you. Let’s get started!
Visit the Great Barrier Reef
Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is an unforgettable experience. With its awe-inspiring beauty and vast biodiversity, it’s a must-see on any Australian itinerary. The reef runs along over 2,000 kilometers of seabed off the northeast coast of Queensland and is home to an incredible array of marine life including colorful coral, sea turtles, whales, and dolphins. With so much to explore, there are countless ways to experience the reef such as scuba diving and snorkeling. Whether you’re a novice or pro in the water sports world, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this natural wonder!
Go on a rainforest safari
Going on a rainforest safari is the perfect way to explore nature and discover its beauty. There are so many incredible sites and sounds that you won’t be able to experience anywhere else – you can see exotic wildlife, stunning waterfalls, bright flowers, and enormous trees that have been standing for centuries. Plus, spending time in the rainforest is a great way to understand environmental conservation issues and learn more about efforts being put in place to protect endangered species. Next time you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, try a rainforest safari – it’s an unforgettable experience!
Take a ride in a hot air balloon
Taking a ride in a hot air balloon is an unforgettable experience. As you drift skyward, your perspective shifts from the everyday to a majestic, awe-inspiring view of the countryside. The colors become more vivid and the sounds of nature, more peaceful. You may find yourself recognizing shapes on the ground below as you catch a glimpse of what animals, plants and people look like from high above. Even if you’ve seen something like it before — such as an airplane ride or standing atop a tall piece of architecture — nothing can match the unique combination of colors and textures found when taking a ride in a hot air balloon. A perfect combination of enjoyment and serenity awaits those who decide to embark on this incredible journey.
Visit the Daintree National Park
Visiting the Daintree National Park is one of the most unique experiences available in Australia. From intriguing wildlife to captivating landscapes, Daintree offers something for everyone. The rainforest itself is an incredible site, and boasts the world’s oldest recorded living plant species – the Fan Palm. Add in several rare species like cassowaries, estuarine crocodiles, and a myriad of unusual birds, and you can see why it’s said going to this remote corner of Far North Queensland is like entering another world. Although there are some amazing guided tours available, exploring on foot will show you sights you wouldn’t even find out on a 4×4 tour. No matter who you are or how much time you have to spare, spending some time in this magical place will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Go white water rafting
White water rafting is an unforgettable experience! Whether you’re gliding through rocky rapids or racing down gentle currents, rafters of every level can enjoy the thrill of tackling these tumultuous whitewater conditions. From breathtaking scenery to the sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering a challenging body of water, this outdoor activity has something for everyone. With its connection to nature and an adrenaline-pumping adventure around every bend, white water rafting is a great way to get your heart pumping while having an exhilaratingly fun time.
Visit the Australia Zoo
A visit to Australia Zoo is an experience like no other. By visiting, you get a chance to up close and personal with some of the planet’s most majestic animals, such as koalas, kangaroos and crocodiles. You’ll also be able to take part in exciting shows that feature some of the zoo’s own wildlife ambassadors – such as clownfish, marines turtles and otters – highlighting their unique characteristics. Set in lush landscapes and beautiful gardens, the zoo provides a stunning backdrop for its many attractions, including an interactive pack-a-pooch learning program, delightful aviary and reptile house. With so much to explore and experience at the Australia Zoo, there’s sure to be something for everyone!
Explore Fraser Island
Fraser Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From the rugged beaches to the lush rainforest, this incredible island provides a variety of activities and attractions that will take your breath away. Go 4-wheeling on its sandy tracks or take a leisurely stroll along one of its numerous walking paths. Enjoy swimming in crystal clear lakes or snorkel in the Great Sandy Strait. Take a scenic drive through the island’s picturesque landscapes and winding tracks, or just relax on its many amazing beaches. With its stunning natural beauty, Fraser Island is an unforgettable destination that no traveler should miss.
Take a trip to the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and exciting attractions. From theme parks to world-class golf courses, this popular holiday destination has something for everyone. Get your heart racing on one of the area’s many thrill rides or discover new marine life while snorkeling around the famous shipwrecked Sea World. For a more relaxed experience, spend your days lounging on one of its beautiful beaches or exploring the region’s many incredible national parks. After the sun sets, head to some of the city’s top clubs and bars for an unforgettable night out. With so much to see and do, the Gold Coast is sure to leave you with happy memories.
Visit the Townsville Strand
The Townsville Strand is a seven-kilometer stretch of beachfront located in the heart of Queensland’s second largest city. The area features stunning views of Cleveland Bay, along with wide pathways and gardens perfect for walking or cycling. The area also contains numerous shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs where locals and visitors alike can enjoy delicious food and drinks. There are also a number of activities to enjoy such as swimming, fishing and kayaking in the Strand’s sparkling waters. With its beautiful beaches, great food and plenty of outdoor activities, the Townsville Strand is sure to provide an unforgettable experience!
Soak up some sun on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most beautiful regions. From its stunning beaches to its lush rainforest, this picturesque region provides plenty of activities and attractions that will take your breath away. Whether you want to relax on one of the many golden sand beaches or explore the area’s rugged coastline by kayak, there is something for everyone here. After dark, explore some of the region’s vibrant bars, pubs and clubs for a great night out. With its stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife and exciting activities, the Sunshine Coast is sure to make for an unforgettable holiday destination.
Go whale watching at Hervey Bay
Hervey Bay is one of Australia’s top destinations for whale watching. Every year from June to November, humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the stunning waters of Hervey Bay. Hop on a whale watching tour and enjoy up-close encounters with these majestic creatures as they pass through the bay. Along with whale watching, visitors can also explore the area’s many beaches, swimming in its crystal clear water or kayaking in search of dolphins and turtles. With its incredible marine life and breathtaking scenery, Hervey Bay is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Discover the Outback
Whether you’re a keen outdoors enthusiast or just looking for something different, the Australian Outback provides plenty of opportunities for exploration. From desert landscapes to rugged gorges, this ancient land offers a variety of unique experiences. Climb ancient sandstone escarpments, explore hidden canyons or take a dip in the refreshing rock pools of Mataranka thermal springs. There are also plenty of activities such as bushwalking, mountain biking, and 4WD adventures to be enjoyed here. With its incredible landscapes and range of activities, the Outback is sure.
Go hiking in the Glass House Mountains
Located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, the Glass House Mountains are an impressive range of volcanic peaks that provide a stunning backdrop to the area. With its dramatic landscapes and lush vegetation, this region is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking. Take a stroll around Mt Ngungun or explore iconic formations like Castle Rock and The Pinnacles.
So, there you have it – Ten + Three unmissable experiences that should be on your Queensland bucket list. Granted, some of them are a little out of the ordinary (a hot air balloon ride anyone?), but isn’t that what bucket lists are all about? If you’re looking for more inspiration And if you have any suggestions of your own, we’d love to hear from you in the comments below.