Queensland · 27 Places · Best June to September
Queensland is Australia's second-largest state, stretching from the subtropical southeast to the tropical north, encompassing the Great Barrier Reef, ancient rainforests, and over 7,000 kilometres of coastline. Known as the Sunshine State, it offers world-class diving, golden beaches, vibrant cities, and extraordinary wildlife experiences.
Queensland is Australia's Sunshine State, home to the Great Barrier Reef — the world's largest coral ecosystem — alongside ancient Daintree Rainforest, the stunning Whitsunday Islands, the cosmopolitan city of Brisbane, and the surf-and-theme-park playground of the Gold Coast. The state offers an unmatched diversity of landscapes, from volcanic tablelands and red-rock gorges to tropical islands and white-sand beaches.
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The 27 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
The world's largest coral reef system stretching over 2,300 km along the Queensland coast, comprising over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. A UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with marine biodiversity including 1,600 species of fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and manta rays.
The world's oldest continuously surviving tropical rainforest, estimated at over 135 million years old and part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland UNESCO World Heritage Area. Home to a remarkable array of endemic plants and animals including the Southern Cassowary.
An archipelago of 74 tropical islands in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island is consistently rated among the world's best beaches, featuring 7 km of pure silica sand swirled with turquoise waters at Hill Inlet lookout.
Australia's glittering playground, offering 57 km of golden beaches, world-class surf breaks, high-rise skyline, and a buzzing entertainment scene. Surfers Paradise Beach is the iconic centre, with Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, and Coolangatta offering quieter alternatives.
The world's largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretching 123 km along Queensland's southeast coast. K'gari features ancient rainforests growing on sand, freshwater perched lakes including the crystal-clear Lake McKenzie, and roaming dingoes.
Brisbane's premier urban parkland stretching 17 hectares along the South Bank of the Brisbane River, built on the site of Expo '88. Features Streets Beach — a man-made lagoon beach in the city centre — lush gardens, galleries, restaurants, and riverside walkways.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Australia's most awarded luxury resort, occupying the northern tip of Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays. All-inclusive pavilions with private plunge pools, two infinity pools, and direct access to the Coral Sea.
Check rates on Booking.comBrisbane's most celebrated luxury hotel occupying a 30-storey tower in the CBD, directly connected to Central Station. Known for exceptional French-inspired service, the Patio bar, and superb city and river views.
Check rates on Booking.comThe Gold Coast's newest luxury beachfront hotel with direct beach access — the first new beachfront hotel built in over 30 years. Features 17 room types, a stunning infinity pool, and the award-winning Supernova restaurant.
Check rates on Booking.comCairns' premier hotel adjacent to the Esplanade lagoon and steps from reef tour departure points. Features a rooftop pool with Coral Sea views, multiple restaurants, and the Reef Casino entertainment complex.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Brisbane's most celebrated fine dining venue on Eagle Street Pier, offering stunning Brisbane River views. Chef Matt Moran's restaurant presents refined Modern Australian cuisine using premium Queensland ingredients.
One of Brisbane's most acclaimed fine dining restaurants, offering a creative degustation menu that pushes boundaries with innovative techniques and exceptional Queensland produce.
Cairns' most iconic restaurant, specialising in native Australian ingredients including crocodile, kangaroo, emu, and local tropical seafood, presented in beautifully crafted contemporary dishes.
Simon Gloftis' acclaimed Greek restaurant at The Calile Hotel on James Street, celebrated for exceptional seafood, wood-fired proteins, and an exceptional wine list focused on Greek varietals.
An elegant waterfront restaurant on the banks of the Brisbane River at South Bank, offering refined Modern Australian cuisine with spectacular river views and a sophisticated bar scene.
Burleigh Heads' most celebrated restaurant overlooking the surf break, combining South East Asian flavours with exceptional Queensland seafood. Consistently rated among Australia's best restaurants.
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Queensland is a vast state and getting around requires planning. Domestic flights are the fastest option between major cities. Within cities, public transport is good in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. A hire car is essential for exploring the hinterland, Whitsundays hinterland, Cape York, and many national parks.
Daily spend by tier in AUD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $30-60 AUD | $100-160 AUD | $250+ AUD |
| Food (per day) | $25-40 AUD | $50-80 AUD | $100+ AUD |
| Transportation | $15-25 AUD | $30-50 AUD | $80+ AUD |
| Activities | $20-30 AUD | $50-80 AUD | $100+ AUD |
| Daily total | $80-120 AUD | $180-280 AUD | $400+ AUD |
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Australia.
Swim only at patrolled beaches between the flags
Use marine stinger suits or enclosures in tropical waters
Apply SPF50+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours
Stay hydrated in Queensland's heat
Be aware of crocodiles in northern waterways
Entry requirements follow Australia rules. Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Queensland is the Australian Dollar (AUD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Queensland: English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
