5 Places to Visit in Queensland this Summer Holiday
More than 26 million domestic and international tourists make the trek to visit Queensland every year. Are you planning to join them this summer holiday?
If so, you'll have no shortage of things to do. From the postcard-picture beaches to the charming small towns, the Australian state is replete with culture, nature and adventure alike.
Today, we're taking a closer look at five of our favourite places to visit in Queensland. Use this guide to help plan your itinerary, and you're sure to make the kinds of memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to learn more? Let's take off!
1. Springwood
A suburb of Logan City, Springwood is right at the centre of some of the state's most epic outdoor excursions. Ideal for both casual sightseers and enthusiastic hikers, it's the go-to place to break in your joggers.
Start your trip at the Daisy Hill Conservation Park a few minutes away. Here, you'll find a sprawling network of recreational trails made for walkers, bikers, and even horseriders! While on-site, be sure to check out the Daisy Hill Koala Centre. At this free facility, you can meet the furry animals, as well as learn about different ways the park is conserving their natural habitat. Book your Springwood Accommodation now.
Continue your journey at nearby Springwood Conservation Park, where you'll find well-marked trails and easy hikes. A few miles away, Underwood Park in Priestdale also offers gorgeous views, along with a playground, sports fields, and picnic areas. With so much to do, pack a lunch and plan to stay as long as possible!
2. Caloundra
Looking forward to basking in the rays along Queensland's Sunshine Coast? If so, Caloundra is the place to be.
Featuring award-winning beaches including Kings Beach, Bulcock Beach, Shorncliffe Beach, and Moffat Beach, the town is also home to a thriving coffee and craft beer scene.
Before hitting the water, fuel up for the day at Malarkey Artisan Coffee. Located in a tranquil garden setting, the little shop has amassed a major following thanks to its fresh brews and decadent baked goods. While the area has a festive vibe all year long, it comes alive during the summer, so allow plenty of time to visit.
On Friday evenings, the Bulcock Beach esplanade comes alive with Caloundra Twilight Markets featuring local artisan wares. There's also the Caloundra Music Festival held every October, as well as the Caloundra Chilli Festival in November. Check the local events calendar and Caloundra accommodation as you plan your trip!
3. Toowoomba
Do you appreciate a little culture with your sightseeing? If so, Toowoomba is home to one of the more quirky yet fascinating things to do in Queensland.
Here, you'll find the Cobb+Co Museum, which showcases more than 30 horse-drawn vehicles from the 19th century. Lovingly collected and restored by local transport businessman and philanthropist William Robert Fossey Bolton, these carriages are worthy of a stop. There's even a discovery play area just for the little ones!
During your stay in Toowoomba, make time to visit Queens Park and Crows Nest National Park for an up-close-and-personal look at the area's flora and fauna. Then, head up to Picnic Point Lookout to enjoy a packed lunch al fresco!
4. Cairns
Considered the gateway to Australia's Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is more of a tropical paradise than other nearby areas. While the reef itself is a top tourist destination for snorkelling, swimming, and scuba diving, there are plenty of other places to visit, as well.
To see some of the town's most notable outdoor areas, plan a visit to the Cairns Botanical Gardens, Daintree Rainforest or the seaside village of Palm Cove.
If you'd rather gaze at this beauty while someone else takes the wheel, snag a seat on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Travelling from Cairns to the nearby town of Kuranda, the train passes by jaw-dropping scenery on its journey, including sections of World Heritage-listed forest. Reserve your Cairns stay now with Balaclava Hotel or Edge Hill Tavern.
5. Brisbane
A list of what to do in Queensland wouldn't be complete without a visit to the state's capital! Brisbane is a bustling city with plenty to see and do, so begin your adventure as early in the day as possible.
Start off with a morning cruise along the Brisbane River. Then, follow the towering structure and sparkling lights to the impressive Wheel of Brisbane. Standing 60 metres tall, this iconic landmark is a great way to see the city from a bird's eye view.
If you missed the koalas in Springwood, you'll get another chance, here. The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the largest of its kind, home to more than 130 of the adorable animals! Other must-see outdoor spots include the Mount Coot-Tha Lookout, with views that span from Brisbane City out to Moreton Bay, as well as the South Bank Parklands and City Botanic Gardens.
If you visit during the summertime, you're sure to find plenty of festivals and events in Brisbane, too! These include the Brisbane International Tennis Tournament and KFC Big Bash League in December, the For Shore Music Festival in January and the Laneway Festival in February. Book your Brisbane accommodation now and experience the best of Brisbane!
Explore These Places to Visit in Queensland on Your Trip
Whether your time is Queensland is a once-in-a-lifetime journey or simply a local staycation, it isn't hard to plan a fun day filled to the brim with interesting sights and stops.
While this list isn't exhaustive, these places to visit in Queensland are a great way to begin your planning efforts. Determine which locales are the most feasible for your family and fit into your travel schedule. Then, pack your bag and get ready to fall in love with everything our state has to offer.
One important trip consideration? You'll need a great place to stay during your trip that makes coming "home" a reward.
That's where Nightcap come in!
Our network of accommodations offers a luxurious and top-quality stay that's also comfortable and budget-friendly. Search for a Nightcap hotel in your region and book online today!
