Queensland Travel Guides
Queensland is a destination of extraordinary scale and diversity, offering everything from tropical islands and world-class beaches to ancient rainforests and vibrant coastal cities. With a coastline stretching more than 7,000km and over 900 islands scattered offshore, there are holiday experiences to suit every type of traveller. Whether you're planning a luxury island escape, family beach holiday, reef adventure or nature-based getaway, Queensland offers an incredible variety of destinations and accommodation options.
Many of Queensland's most iconic experiences are centred around its remarkable natural wonders. The Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, extends more than 2,300km along the coast, while Tropical North Queensland is one of the few places on Earth where two World Heritage-listed wonders meet - the Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, which dates back more than 180 million years.
Visitors can also explore spectacular island destinations, including the Whitsundays and famous Whitehaven Beach, renowned for its dazzling white silica sand and crystal-clear water. With five World Heritage-listed sites and countless natural attractions to discover, Queensland continues to be one of Australia's most rewarding holiday destinations.
Popular Queensland Holidays
Hamilton Island
The most popular and accessible of the Queensland Islands, Hamilton Island sits in the heart of the spectacular Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef. The only island with its own airport, Hamilton combines stunning beaches, family-friendly and luxury accommodation, and iconic natural attractions. Spend your days exploring nearby Whitehaven Beach, cruising the Whitsundays, snorkelling the reef, dining at waterfront restaurants or simply soaking up the island atmosphere from a golf buggy - the quintessential way to get around.
Airlie Beach
Situated on mainland Queensland's picturesque Pacific Coast, Airlie Beach is a vibrant seaside town approximately 1,150km north of Brisbane and 630km south of Cairns. Considered the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef, the tropical peninsula is popular for its lively waterfront, laidback lifestyle and easy access to island cruises, sailing adventures and reef experiences. It's the perfect base for exploring one of Queensland's most iconic holiday regions.
Port Douglas
Located in Queensland's tropical north, just over an hour from Cairns, Port Douglas is nestled between two World Heritage-listed wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. This laidback coastal town offers a unique mix of luxury, nature and coastal charm, with days spent exploring Four Mile Beach, boutique shops, local markets and unforgettable reef experiences.
Gold Coast
Located on Queensland's east coast, approximately one hour south of Brisbane, the Gold Coast is one of Australia's most well-known holiday destinations. From the world-famous beaches and vibrant atmosphere of Surfers Paradise to thrilling theme parks, award-winning dining and luxury accommodation, the Gold Coast offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure and entertainment.
More Queensland Holidays
Queensland Islands
The jewel in the Sunshine State's crown, the Queensland Islands are a region of spectacular natural beauty. Scattered along the coast, each island offers its own unique charm, from beautiful beaches and reef adventures to wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery. From favourites like Hamilton Island, Hayman Island and Daydream Island to eco escapes such as Heron Island and Lady Elliot Island, the islands offer everything from luxury resorts to family holidays in a tropical paradise close to home.
The Whitsundays
One of Australia's most iconic tropical holiday destinations, the Whitsundays is located in the heart of Queensland's stunning Great Barrier Reef region. Comprising 74 idyllic islands and the vibrant mainland hub of Airlie Beach, the region is famous for world-renowned Whitehaven Beach, tropical island resorts, unforgettable reef experiences and mainland adventures.
Tropical North Queensland
Where the reef meets the rainforest. This North Queensland gem brings together two World Heritage-listed wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Stretching along Queensland's tropical coastline, Cairns, Port Douglas, Palm Cove and the Daintree, offer their own unique blend of natural beauty and tropical charm. From reef cruises and rainforest adventures to palm-fringed beaches, TNQ is the perfect place unwind and connect with something special.
Sunshine Coast
Stretching from the boutique coastal village of Noosa in the north to the golden beaches of Mooloolaba in the south, the Sunshine Coast combines scenic hinterland and laidback coastal lifestyle. Perfect for family fun, a romantic escape or outdoor adventure, the region is also famous for Australia Zoo, founded by legendary Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. Visitors can experience one of Australia's most iconic attractions while getting up close with incredible wildlife.
Queensland Holiday Packages
Queensland holiday packages make it easy to experience the very best of the Sunshine State, combining accommodation with added value such as flights, transfers, meals, tours, resort credits and family-friendly inclusions. From tropical island escapes in the Whitsundays and Queensland Islands to beachside getaways on the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Tropical North, Queensland holiday packages offer a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy more for less.
Queensland Accommodation
From tropical islands and reef-fringed coastlines to vibrant beachside cities and laidback coastal escapes, Queensland offers some of Australia's most diverse and sought-after holiday accommodation. Whether you're dreaming of a luxury stay on Hamilton Island, a waterfront resort in Airlie Beach, a tropical retreat in Port Douglas or a family-friendly escape on the Gold Coast, Queensland's accommodation options cater to every traveller.
Discover island resorts scattered throughout the Queensland Islands and Whitsundays, rainforest retreats and beachfront hideaways across Tropical North Queensland, or stylish apartments and holiday resorts along the Sunshine Coast. With easy access to iconic attractions including the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach, the Daintree Rainforest and Australia Zoo, Queensland accommodation provides the perfect base to experience the very best of the Sunshine State.
Fast Facts
- Queensland is home to more than 900 islands, from secluded tropical hideaways to world-famous island resorts.
- The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, stretching more than 2,300km along Queensland's coastline.
- The Daintree Rainforest is considered one of the oldest tropical rainforests on Earth, with origins dating back more than 180 million years.
- Whitehaven Beach is famous for its dazzling white silica sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Queensland is home to five World Heritage-listed sites, showcasing some of Australia's most spectacular natural wonders.
- Tropical North Queensland is one of the few places in the world where ancient rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef.
- Queensland's coastline stretches for more than 7,000km, offering endless opportunities for beach holidays, island hopping and coastal adventures.