Queensland is known as The Sunshine State after all, so why would you want to holiday anywhere else?
Boasting some of Australia's warmest temperatures and most idyllic beaches, Queensland is an ideal destination for those seeking a beach holiday in our own backyard. With a variety of coastal spots to choose from, you'll have your swimmers packed by the end of this blog, guaranteed.
Gold Coast – the city by the ocean.The Gold Coast
For most, a trip to South East Queensland isn’t complete without a visit to the Gold Coast. With direct flights and an extensive array of accommodation options to suit all budgets, it’s no wonder the Gold Coast is the one of the most popular beach destinations in Queensland.
As the name suggests, Main Beach is the most central stretch of sand on the Gold Coast with travellers eager to get their snap under the Surfers Paradise sign before stretching out on the sand. For 360-degree views of the beach and Gold Coast hinterland, head 77 floors up to SkyPoint, Australia’s only beachside observation deck, located at the top of the Q1 building. Should you want to keep your feet firmly on the ground, the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets are held every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Enjoy an idyllic escape on the Sunshine Coast in Noosa.Noosa
A little under two hours’ drive from Brisbane Airport, the coastal town of Noosa offers the perfect Sunshine Coast escape for couples and families. There are plenty of self-contained apartments for families and groups, as well as hotels and resorts located in the centre of town. Start your day off with a hearty breakfast and coffee on Hastings Street, before checking out the collection of beaches within Noosa National Park. The boardwalk offers multiple lookouts so you can really take in the stunning views of Tea Tree Bay, Alexandria Bay and Granite Bay.
If you’re keen for a dip, a patrolled beach such as Noosa Main Beach is recommended. It's also a perfect spot to try surfing for the first time. Should you have a couple of days up your sleeve, a day at Australia Zoo is a must.
Hamilton Island is a popular stop to visit the Great Barrier Reef.Hamilton Island
With direct flights, an island holiday in Queensland has never been easier. Since the flights are during the day, snag yourself a window seat so you can have a bird’s-eye view of the one of the greatest natural wonders of the world: the Great Barrier Reef. The island is popular among tourists as well as locals, due to the proximity to the reef and its range of holiday homes and hotel packages.
A must-do while holidaying on Hamilton Island is a day trip to one of the world’s most famous stretches of sand: Whitehaven Beach. Take a short walk up to Hill Inlet lookout for the perfect spot to snap a few holiday pics. Whether you sail or take a seaplane, this day trip will be one to remember.
A bird's-eye view of Whitehaven Beach is a stunning sight.Hayman Island
Take a 60-minute luxury boat transfer from the mainland and you'll find yourself stepping onto the private island of Hayman. Since Cyclone Debbie in 2017, the InterContinental Hayman Island has undergone a multi-million dollar refurbishment, which has recently reopened for holidaymakers. Classic and executive rooms are available, as well as three-bedroom suites, which feature a private pool, alfresco area and tropical garden. With a number of bars and restaurants on site, just park yourself in one of the poolside cabanas and enjoy the luxe life.
Sunsets along the beach are spectacular in Tropical North Queensland's Cairns.Cairns
Fly further north to Cairns and you'll soon discover why the seaside city is one of the most popular Queensland destinations. Within 10 minutes of the airport, you’ll find yourself in Cairns’ tourist hub – The Esplanade. A variety of hotels and resorts are dotted along The Esplanade, meaning visitors can lap up the sea view from their hotel room all while having a multitude of bars, restaurants and shops within reach.
For travellers wanting to fill their days with adventurer, book tours of the Skyrail and Kuranda Train, and to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
Where the green meets the blue – beautiful Port Douglas.Port Douglas
Book a transfer or pick up a car from Cairns Airport and drive an hour along the coast to Port Douglas. The tropical oasis has plenty of accommodation to choose from, including self-contained apartments, eco lodges and 5-star resorts with pools that are sure to blow your mind. For those who enjoy long walks on the beach, take a sunrise or sunset stroll along Four Mile Beach. If you're looking to interact with local wildlife, check out Hartley's Crocodile Adventures, where you can get up close and personal with the reptiles. Of course, no trip to Port Douglas is complete without a snorkel, so be sure to book a trip out to the Great Barrier Reef before heading home.
All images: Getty Images
