Brisbane is fast becoming one of Australia’s best cities, not least because it is situated in beautiful Queensland, with some of the country’s best weather and scenery around. If you are visiting Brisbane, or indeed living here for a while, then make sure you explore beyond the city too so that you don’t miss some of the state’s most enchanting surroundings. To give you a few ideas, here are 8 of the best day trips from Brisbane you can take.
8. Noosa
Sitting right at the top of the Sunshine Coast about an hour and a half’s drive from Brisbane is the gorgeous coastal resort of Noosa. With stunning beaches, great surf and a fun lively atmosphere, Noosa is a must-see if you’re staying in or near Brisbane for any length of time. Start your day in Noosa with a walk through the National Park there and try your luck at seeing a koala or echidna, after that why not head to the beach for a surf lesson or Noosa River for a spot of stand-up paddle boarding. Finish your day dining at one of the many great restaurants in this fun little town and you’ll soon see why a visit to Noosa is, without a doubt, one of the best day trips from Brisbane you can take.
7. Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads is one of my favourite spots on the Gold Coast, and many others seem to agree as the place is always packed! The beach is beautiful, there is a great national park and the open green communal spaces are a lovely place to hang out and enjoy a picnic. If that’s not enough, there are also some lovely cafes here to tempt you with excellent coffees. All in all, definitely one of the best day trips from Brisbane you can take.
6. D’Aguilar National Park
Often known as Brisbane’s back garden, this huge national park stretches right from the western boundaries of the city all the way to the bottom of the Sunshine Coast. Enjoy some great walking in D’Aguilar National Park and some stunning lookout views to boot. Alternatively, you can just enjoy driving through this beautiful forestland and perhaps cooling down with a dip in some of the great natural swimming holes. If you do have a bit of time up your sleeve, then you can also camp in D’Aguilar National Park and make a weekend of it, otherwise this is still one of the best day trips from Brisbane if you are short on time.
5. Dreamworld
One of Queensland most entertaining tourist attractions, Dreamworld is a huge hit with tourists and locals alike and is definitely one of the best day trips from Brisbane if you want to let your hair down. Situated on Queensland’s Gold Coast, many of the rides here, including the Tower of Terror and The Giant Drop are sure to get your adrenaline going like nothing else! So why not grab a few mates and drive the short distance south of Brisbane to Dreamworld and put your nerves to the test!
4. Maleny
Situated in the gorgeous Sunshine Coast hinterland, the country town of Maleny is an alternative, little community that boats some wonderful cafes and local produce. Explore the famous Maleny dairy, or the annual real food festival and get a taste of some of the treats made in this area. Otherwise head into town to explore boutique shops, the weekly markets or to try and spot a platypus in the local creek. Driving through the Blackall range to get to Maleny from Brisbane is a wonderful trip in and of itself, so try to pick a clear, sunny day for this day trip and you’ll be rewarded with some stunning views that stretch for miles.
3. Toowoomba
West of Brisbane, the large town of Toowoomba sits right at the top of the Great Dividing Range and, as such, can have a totally different climate to that of lowland Brisbane. Winters can drop below freezing, while summers can be boiling hot, so if you feel like a change of scene, this is a great place to head! Attractions here include weekly markets, the Cobb & Co. Museum, the Japanese Garden and the massive Queen’s Park. Alternatively, Toowoomba is also a great stopover if you are heading further west to places like the Bunya Mountains.
2. Mount Tamborine
If you’re looking to get some peace and quiet away from the city, then a visit to Mount Tamborine is definitely one of the best day trips from Brisbane you can make. Located in the Gold Coast hinterland, this small country community has a real alternative, earthy vibe and boasts many lovely cafes and walks. If you’re really looking to unwind, then why not considering lengthening your trip and even staying a night, the clean air and wonderful starry night skies out here are bound to do you the world of good!
1. Moreton Island
Catching the ferry from Brisbane River out to Moreton Island is a great trip in itself, but that’s only the start. Once you reach this great holiday island, you’ll feel miles away from the city as you hit the fabulous beaches. The Tangalooma Resort is the perfect option on Moreton for day trippers. Simply pay a day fee and enjoy all the best amenities of this great holiday spot including dolphin-feeding. If you’re feeling a bit more active, then you might also like to try your hand at sandboarding whilst on Moreton. Fishing is also popular here.
So those are 8 of the best day trips from Brisbane you can take if you’re looking to explore more of the gorgeous areas that are just beyond the city walls.
