9 Quick Queensland Getaways

Explore the capital and the south-east hot spots only two hours away from Brisbane

Story & images courtesy of: Tourism & Events Queensland

From a relaxing day coupled with fine dining to a view with funfilled outdoor activities—you’ll be spoilt for choice at these nine Queensland destinations.

CALOUNDRA

Only an hour drive from Brisbane, Caloundra is a sun lover's paradise that evokes nostalgic memories of laid back seaside holidays. Walk the 8km headland trail from Golden Beach to Dicky Beach, enjoy fish and chips by the beach, feed the pelicans or cruise, paddle or jetski down the Pumicestone Passage. Meander through the Caloundra Street Fair markets on a Sunday, try surfing at the Caloundra Surf School, visit the Queensland Air Museum or splash about in the saltwater tidal pool at Kings Beach.

Kings Beach

SURFERS PARADISE

Always famous for fun, Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast is a vibrant hub to spend a day by the beach. Dip your toes in the water or sprawl out on the sand to soak up the sun before taking to the waves with a surfing lesson. Next take the adventure sky high for 360 degree views of the Gold Coast coastline at SkyPoint Climb and Observation Deck. Discover a celebration of art and culture at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) then head to Stingray for cocktails at the QT Gold Coast hotel.

HOTA, Home of the Arts

THE SCENIC RIM & LOST WORLD VALLEY

The Scenic Rim and Lost World Valley make for the perfect hideaway from the hustle and bustle, but still within easy reach of major hubs Brisbane and Gold Coast. Escape the crowds and immerse your senses with romantic mountain and country escapes, delectable food experiences and hikes through some of the most stunning mountain ranges and national parks. In Canungra enjoy a picnic with some very different new friends—alpacas! Or take a scenic horse ride in Beechmont with sweeping views of the Gold Coast beaches. Sleep under the stars in ultimate luxury in the Lost World Valley, hike the foothills of Lamington National Park or show the kids a real taste of country life with a farmstay.

Alpacas make great friends in Canungra

TOOWOOMBA

Explore Toowoomba, an elevated mountain city with glorious parks and gardens, beaming with rich history. Toowoomba’s historical showcase starts with its architecture, spearheaded by the beautiful art deco Empire Theatre and the City Hall and Clock Tower. Park your head on a pillow in one of the heritage B&Bs while enjoying the sound of a real fire crackling in the background. Get your 'vintage' on with antique and op-shopping or head off on a walk down Russel 'Heritage' Street past landmarks of fine historic architecture dating back to the 1860s. Pack a picnic and take a short drive out of town to spend a few hours among the flowers at the heritage listed Spring Bluff Railway Station or drop in to check out the spectacular collection of vintage cars at The Barn and Scotty's Garage.

The Empire Theatre

NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND

Refreshing, relaxing, and simply beautiful, North Stradbroke Island (or Straddie) is one of Moreton Bay's best loved getaway spots. Stretches of white sandy beach line the island's ocean side making it ideal for swimming, surfing, and fishing. Try your hand at catching a wave with North Stradbroke Island Surf School or explore the island with Yura Banji Scooters. Learn about the history and culture of the Quandamooka people and keep an eye out for whales during the annual migration from the headland at Point Lookout.

Point Lookout

SUNSHINE COAST HINTERLAND

West of the Bruce Highway, the Blackall Range beckons. Montville, Maleny and the other villages that perch on or behind the escarpment have restaurants, boutique accommodation, wineries and breweries, alternative-style eateries and local producers, art galleries, boutiques and curiosity shops catering for tastes both refined and earthy. It’s the perfect spot to get out and enjoy nature with stunning national park walks and waterfalls, spectacular botanic gardens and animal encounters.

Hinterland streetscape

Maleny

LAKE WIVENHOE

Holding twice as much water as Sydney Harbour, Lake Wivenhoe is the sweet spot for fishermen, boat enthusiasts and campers. The nearby village of Fernvale is well known for its colourful Sunday markets and folks as far afield as Brisbane and Ipswich travel there just to snap up a bargain.

Lake Wivenhoe

NOOSA NORTH SHORE

Across the river from Noosa Heads and Noosaville is Noosa North Shore, a long stretch of white sand, dunes and beautiful coastline, and the gateway to World Heritage-listed K'Gari (Fraser Island) and Great Sandy National Park. A quick and convenient car ferry operates from Tewantin to showcase the region's unspoilt natural assets. Try horse riding, four-wheel driving, swimming, fishing, surfing or go kayaking on Lake Cooroibah. For a nature-filled Noosa North Shore experience camp in style on the shores of Lake Cootharaba and explore the Noosa Everglades (one of only two everglade systems in the world).

Noosa Heads

GOLD COAST HINTERLAND/ MOUNT TAMBORINE

Swap the crashing waves of Surfers Paradise for the rolling hills of the hinterland, home to bushwalks, rainforests, restaurants, health retreats, wineries, breweries and tours that see guests experience the best this region has to offer. Surrounded by Springbrook National Park and Lamington National Park this is nature at its best. If you're looking for a little recharge, stay at one of the region's many chic hilltop retreats including O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, Binna Burra Lodge, Songbirds Rainforest Retreat, The Mouses House or Pethers Rainforest Retreat.

Springbrook National Park