Queensland has a strong offering of award-winning restaurants, iconic beaches, and must-see attractions, and is about to become even more enticing as it hosts the upcoming Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast. Whether you’re visiting the region to soak up the atmosphere or looking to escape the crowd, South-East Queensland is an amazing holiday destination with plenty of attractions for both locals and tourists to discover. Short of inspiration? We’ve got you covered with these must-visit destinations…
Experience natural wonders at Tangalooma Island Resort, Moreton Island
A 75-minute ferry ride from Brisbane, Tangalooma Island Resort is an adventurer’s dream complete with quad biking, stand up paddle boarding, desert and sea-scooter safaris, and sand dune tobogganing, to name a few. Snorkelling and diving enthusiasts can explore one of Australia’s most iconic snorkelling hotspots - The Tangalooma Wrecks, while those who prefer to stay dry can opt for a scenic helicopter flight to take in aerial views of crystal clear waters, long stretches of sand, and Moreton Island’s unique land formations. To top it all off, Tangalooma also offers guests the unique opportunity to hand-feed wild dolphins each and every day at dusk – one of only three locations in Australia where this experience is possible!
Photo: Get Forked and Fly.
Indulge your inner foodie with Spirit House Cooking School and Restaurant, Yandina
The team at Spirit House prepare guests to be amazed, and as
a recipient of a myriad of illustrious awards it is easy to see why. Offering a
luxe dining experience, Spirit House is renowned for its modern Southeast Asian
flavours served in a beautifully tranquil setting. Also popular among foodies
is the Spirit House Cooking School which offers tips and tricks to guests with
varying skill levels. Including a mouth-watering lunch or dinner, Spirit House
is a must-do for serious foodies visiting the region!
Rediscover your childhood at one of the Gold Coast theme parks, Coomera
With Dreamworld, White Water World, Wet’n’Wild, and Movie
World all located within a few kilometres of each other, no visit to the Gold
Coast is complete without a visit to at least of one of these popular theme
parks. Movie World has also just opened the tallest, longest, and fastest
HyperCoaster of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere making it perfect for
thrill-seekers!
Toast the weekend at Sirromet Wines, Mt Cotton
Winners of numerous awards, Sirromet Wines is a pillar of the Australian wine industry. A short drive from the Gold Coast, Sirromet offers guests behind-the-scenes tours, premium wine tastings, and a range of dining options showcasing fresh Queensland produce. Complemented by its year-round calendar of events, including the ‘A Day on the Green’ concert series, Sirromet promises new adventures and wonderful new discoveries.
Hunt for treasure at the Eumundi Markets, Eumundi
On the hunt for something different, something handmade, and something special to take home with you? A trip to the Eumundi Markets is exactly what you need! From handmade artworks, sculptures, and jewellery to fresh food, music, and skincare, there’s something for everyone at Australia’s premier artisan market. Rain, hail, or shine, the Eumundi Markets are open every Wednesday and Saturday. Once you’re all shopped out, spend the day exploring Sunshine Coast favourite Noosa or the picturesque Glass House Mountains region.
Photo: Wanderstories.
Lose yourself in nature at Girraween National Park, The Granite Belt
Create the ultimate cruising playlist and head south-west for a road trip with incredible views. Boasting massive granite ridges and balancing boulders, whimsical wildflowers, and fresh water streams, Girraween National Park is awe-inspiring to say the least. Whether you’re up for a relaxing stroll or a serious hike, there are tracks for everyone to enjoy. On the way back, make sure you stop in at Stanthorpe for a bite to eat, wine tasting, and a little more adventure!
Experience a thrill of a lifetime with lions and tigers at Darling Downs Zoo, Pilton
Known as Queensland’s very own Big Sky, the Darling Downs region promises wildlife, adventure, and tranquillity set within its far-reaching horizons. A popular attraction in this region is the Darling Downs Zoo – Queensland’s largest regional zoo. A short drive from Toowoomba, Darling Downs Zoo is famous for its big cat encounters including rare white lions and elusive tigers. Committed to preserving diversity, the Zoo participates in a range of preservation programs and is home to a wide variety of animals for visitors to enjoy, including Queensland’s first meerkats!
