Known as the sunshine state, Queensland is Australia’s north east corner is a traveller mecca. From the incredible marine world of the Great Barrier Reef, to sun-kissed beaches, roaring surf and adventure- filled national parks, its coastline is a feast for sun worshippers and adrenaline seekers alike. So get inspired for your trip to this great part of the land Down Under with these 8 unforgettable destinations on the Queensland coast.
8. Brisbane
The state capital of Brisbane is a wonderful place to start your journey in Queensland. Just off the coast, there are a ton of great things to do here including strolling along the city’s South Bank, riding on the Wheel of Brisbane or checking out the Gallery of Modern Art. You can also relax on the Street Beach, as you gaze at the city skyscrapers glistening above you or head to Fortitude Valley to listen to some great live music and sample some delicious local craft beers.
7. Noosa
Just a few hours north from Brisbane, the gorgeous town of Noosa on the Sunshine Coast certainly is an unforgettable destination on the Queensland coast. There’s so much to do in this gorgeous coastal resort that you could easily spend a week here. From Stand-Up Paddle Boarding on the river to relaxing on the popular Main Beach or walking through Noosa National Park, it certainly is a hard spot to beat!
6. Fraser Island
Filled with amazing natural attractions, I always think Fraser Island is best described as a huge adventure park for adults. As a UNESCO World Heritage site and protected National Park, roaring along the tracks of this huge sand island is an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the crystal-clear lakes of McKenzie and Wabbi and take in the view from Indian Head; spot wild dingoes and photograph the Maheno Shipwreck, all before unrolling your tent and camping under the stars.
5. Agnes Water
The gorgeous haven of Agnes Water might be tiny town at the end of the track, but it’s still one of the most unforgettable destinations on the Queensland coast. With a low-key and relaxed beach atmosphere soak up the rays or try your hand at surfing in this no-shoes, no-worries paradise.
4. Cape Hillsborough
Stopping at Cape Hillsborough National Park is a must if you are travelling the Queensland coast. Just 50km north of the city of Mackay, this national park boasts some amazing beaches, but is most famous for the kangaroos that come to the beach. Each morning at dawn, grey kangaroos and wallabies descend on to the sand here to feast on the mangrove seed pods washed up by the tide. Grabbing a snap of them silhouetted against the red dawn sky is definitely a wonderful and unforgettable experience.
3. Airlie Beach
Despite the amount of alcohol that gets consumed here, the backpacker mecca of Airlie Beach remains unforgettable for many! Famous for being a party town, Airlie is also the main gateway to the Whitsundays. No trip to Queensland’s coast is complete without taking a Whitsundays Sailing Trip, so jump aboard from Airlie Beach and prepare to have the time of your life. From snorkelling and diving in the tropical waters, to visiting some of the world’s whitest and best beaches, this is bound to be an experience you’ll never forget.
2. Magnetic Island
The truly lovely Magnetic Island is only a 20 minute ferry ride from the city of Townsville, but feels like a world away. Hiring a 4wd vehicle is the best way to explore this fab location as it will allow you to take the off road tracks down to the gorgeous bays of Florence and Radical, as well head over to West Point for one of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll see on the Queensland coast.
1. Port Douglas
If you’re looking to experience the Great Barrier Reef at its best, then can I suggest forgetting Cairns and heading to Port Douglas instead for a truly unforgettable time. Relax on the gorgeous beach here or snorkel and scuba dive as part of a boat trip to the wonderful reef. Either way, you’re sure to make memories that last.
So those are my 8 unforgettable destinations on the Queensland coast. Have you visited any? Which was your favourite?
