Queensland Holidays Guide

Known as "The Sunshine State" for its delightful year-round climate, Queensland has many wonderful attractions, including the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, the tropical rainforests of the Daintree, glorious white beaches, the Whitsunday Islands and the Outback. You'll also find fantastic shopping, dining, and entertainment in the main city of Brisbane and the bustling beach holiday strip of the Gold Coast.

Map of Queensland Australia

Queensland Highlights

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Queensland is located in the north-eastern region of Australia. The capital city of Brisbane is a vibrant place, with many fascinating village-style neighbourhoods to explore. There are great art and music scenes happening here, and the restaurants and bars are world-class. Brisbane is also a great base to explore the southern, sub-tropical areas of the state such as the vibrant 'Gold Coast', with its great surf beaches, theme-parks and shopping; and 'The Sunshine Coast' further north, a more relaxed beach resort area. Both of these attractions are within 1-2 hours drive of Brisbane.

Further north, the Whitsunday Islands and Cairns are the main places to access the tropical wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel or dive on the reef and be astounded at the colourful corals and fish. The Daintree rainforest, a refreshing green tropical oasis containing unique wildlife, is also easily accessed from Cairns or Port Douglas.

The Outback can be accessed from many different points in Queensland and tours of this rugged landscape are readily available. International flights arrive into both Cairns and Brisbane, with road and rail connections to all major tourist areas. Campervan and car-hire are available and many visitors explore the region on self-drive tours. The best time to visit the tropical areas is the Dry Season (May to September), while the beaches in the sub-tropical areas are best during the summer months of November – March.

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Queensland Holidays Planner

Take a second to imagine what a trip the Sunshine State of Australia might be like. Deep sapphire waters, a warm tropical breeze, the energy of a pounding surf. And then there is the Great Barrier Reef. The world's largest coral reef is also its most breathtaking. A brightly coloured disco of vibrant pinks, yellows and reds, it is the perfect accompaniment to the sun-soaked beaches of Queensland. Flaunted as "beautiful one day, perfect the next" it's obvious how Queensland got its well-earned nickname.

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Queensland's incredibly diverse marine life and stunning beaches are the main draws for travellers. Get your diving license at coastal towns like Cairns and witness the spectacular biodiversity of the reef system for yourself. From July through November catch migrating whales on the coast, or help Yapoon Aboriginal researchers tag nesting sea turtles during their hatching season. For families the thrilling rides of Dreamworld will prove equally entertaining. Deeper into the northern tropics is the opportunity to walk through the cool rainforest glades of Daintree National Park or to explore the remote communities of Cape York prove that Queensland's got a bit of something for everyone.

The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast are the most popular tourist destinations with a large number of hotels, beaches and theme parks located here. Brisbane is the lively by relaxed capital of Queensland, and offers a great starting point for travellers looking to explore other parts of the state. Base camps for diving the Great Barrier Reef are found north of Bungaberg with Townsville and the Whitsunday Islands being especially popular locations for advanced divers. The small islands off Port Douglas, Cairns and Bundaberg offer travellers some of the most beautiful reefs, coral gardens and marine life for snorkelling and plenty of great day cruises.

Queensland Accommodation Search

Accommodation ranges from ritzy hotels on the Gold Coast to rainforest retreats in the Daintree and budget hostels and caravan parks in every area. The following Queensland hotels provide some of the best deals for a holiday in Australia – please select an accommodation name for detailed information, prices and availability:

Luxury Accommodation

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Affordable Accommodation

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