inland day trips from brisbane

25 of the best day trips from Brisbane

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: August 27, 2018  - Last updated: January 16, 2023

Looking for fun and fabulous day trips from Brisbane. We have 25 top picks here from the beach to the rainforest, lakes and rivers, wildlife, family fun and adventure.

Brisbane is a great city to both live and visit.  It’s casual and laid back but there are options here for culture, great foodie experiences and more.  It doesn’t have to hurt your pocket either. If you’re visiting the city make sure you also see our top ideas for free things to do in Brisbane .

The sub-tropical climate you’ll find in Brisbane is ideal, it doesn’t hit the scorching highs in summer that some parts of the country do but winter is mostly spent in shorts and t-shirts with plenty of beach visits all year round.

The city has it’s own surf patrolled (man made) beach and plenty of parks and attractions but as with any city after a day or two, or a solid 9-5 week, you’re probably going to want to get outside and explore further afield so we’ve put together a list of our 25 best options for day trips from Brisbane.  You’ll find plenty of variety here to suit everyone – couples, friends, families and singles.

Table of Contents

1. Glasshouse Mountains

2. lamington national park, 3. north stradbroke island, 4. moreton island, 5. currumbin wildlife sanctuary, 6. sea world, 7. bribie island, 8. tamborine mountain, 9. springbrook national park, 10. toowoomba, 12. burleigh heads, 13. mooloolaba, 14. south stradbroke island, 15. northern gold coast beaches, 16. whale watching on the gold coast, 17. wivenhoe dam, 18. eumundi, 19. mary cairncross reserve, 20. southern gold coast beaches, 21. obi obi gorge, 22. byron bay, 23. the northern new south wales beaches, 24. currumbin sculpture festival, 25. sand safari, our recommendations for day trips from brisbane.

The Glasshouse mountains are at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast only an hour from the city.  This distinctive National Park includes 12 distinctive peaks that are the remnant cores of 26 million year old volcanos that once towered above the region.

Some of the peaks have paths you can walk up easily such as Wild Horse Mountain where this photo was taken from, other’s require climbing expertise and equipment for those we prefer the walking trails that circumnavigate them from below.  There are a few cafes in the area, our pick is the Lookout Cafe for its gorgeous outlook, then just carry on a few hundred meters further up the mountain for the lookout park with incredible views, walking trails and wildlife.

Use this guide to plan your visit to the Glasshouse Mountains

Heading south of Brisbane to the Gold Coast we are often drawn to the beauty of the Lamington National Park.  There are 2 sections to this park which are accessed in very different ways so make sure you are headed to the right part.  The Green Mountain section is our favorite and commonly known as O’Reillys for the family that originally settled here and a man that carried out an inspiring rescue against the odds when a passenger plane crashed in the area back in 1937.

Today you’ll find a variety of walks many suitable for the whole family in pristine rain forest and some great destinations on these walks such as the Elabana Falls shown above.  There’s car parking, BBQ’s, plenty of picnic space and a shop and cafe here.  If you’re looking for something longer than a day trip there’s a variety of accommodation right at the park entrance from camping to luxe apartments with private outdoor spa’s.  We’ve stayed here a couple of times and if you’re interested this article will give you an idea of whats available and some of the other activities.

If you love Australian wildlife this is a sure spot to see pademelons, a small species in the wallaby and kangaroo family and the bird life is extensive, we’ve seen a huge variety here including the elusive Alberts Lyrebird and rainbow pitta.

Find some of the best walks in the Lamington National Park

Just a 25-minute ferry trip across Moreton Bay is North Stradbroke Island, a laid back island paradise right on the door step of the city.  There’s a lot to love about a day trip to ‘Straddie’ as it’s known locally but for us, it’s a tie between the wildlife, scenery and fabulous beaches.  There’s also a couple of good cafes popped up on the island recently.

You can take a car across on the car ferry but you’ll have just as much fun jumping on the bus that meets the boat and heading up to Point Lookout.  This is where you’ll find stunning surf beaches, the gorge walk, lookouts and more amazing beaches. 

If you visit in the ‘winter’ you can watch the whales passing on their annual migration, pods of dolphins playing in the surf and sea turtles feeding in the gorge.  There’s also a big mob of kangaroos and you’ll usually spot at least some of those.  Surfing and beach days are popular on the island all year round. 

We met one young Kiwi visitor who was so impressed after having dolphins join her on her wave while body surfing that she was making an impromptu decision to turn her day trip into an overnight stay hoping to repeat the experience again the next day.

Read More:  Our tops picks of what to do on North Stradbroke Island

Moreton Island is sometimes referred to as Tangalooma after the major resort on the island.  It’s another top spot for a day trip from Brisbane but there is plenty to see and do out here on the island so it’s also a popular spot to stay a few days. 

The boat runs out here from Brisbane in the morning and after a short stop you can rejoin it during the ‘winter’ months to head out whale watching.  Early in the trip we spotted turtles, dolphins and off the coast of Morton Island is where I saw my very first dugong .  The whales are in transit from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef but they still show a natural curiosity in checking out boats so the sightings were good.

We had lunch on the boat then when you get back to there island there’s time to explore.  There are wrecks offshore that have formed into reefs and provide a home for a good variety of sea life, you can hire a kayak to take a look if you don’t want to snorkel or dive.  You can also hire cycles with sand tires or head out sand tobogganing.  As a day visitor we were able to use the resort facilities and we stayed on into the evening taking the last boat back to see the great sunset and the other special attractions of Tangalooma, the visiting dolphins.

Early in the evening a pod of wild dolphins come into shore and under a special licence you are able to feed them here.  The history of this goes back a long way and led to Nari, one of the dolphins a decade or so back being able to be rescued, healed and returned to his pod after he was badly mauled by a shark (you can read more about Nari in the article below). 

Care is taken to ensure they are given locally caught fish and that what they receive only makes up only a small portion of their daily diet so they eat and play naturally the rest of the time.  Not every dolphin in the pod comes in, and those that do don’t come in every day, trained staff supervise every encounter to ensure it is done in a safe way and of course you must not touch the dolphin.

For more information see:  Whales, dugongs, dolphins and more at Morton Island

While I’ll highlight many spots to encounter Australia’s wildlife in their natural setting near Brisbane in other sections of this post,  visitors may want to include a wildlife sanctuary during their time in Brisbane to see a variety of Australian animals and for the educational aspect.

For that, we’d recommend either Currumbin or the nearby  David Fleay Wildlife Park .  These two have a strong conservation focus, they prioritise local wildlife over exotics their priority is animal welfare, conservation and education.

Read more about the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary |  Check for deals at Currumbin Sanctuary

There are a number of theme parks within easy access of Brisbane that make a great family day trip.  Sea World in Australia is heavily involved in marine rescue and many of the birds and animals here are rescues that were unable to be released back to the wild for various reasons related to their own safety.

Sea World is located on The Spit on the Gold Coast around an hours drive from Brisbane.  It’s also possible to get here with public transport or joining a tour that includes transport but we’d highly recommend driving so you can stop off at some of the stunning beaches in the area.

In addition to the animals there’s also water ski and jet bike shows, thrill rides, a water park and the Nickelodeon area featuring shows and rides for the younger family members.

Read our tips for a day at Sea World Australia   |  Check out deals on Sea World tickets

Another of Queensland’s large sand islands, Bribie, is attached to the mainland by a causeway so you won’t even need a boat to get out here.  On the inland side of the island are calm waters perfect for a day at the beach with the family, on the seaward side there’s some incredible surf.

Bribie has had increased residential development in recent years but most of the island is National Park with no roads so you’ll need a 4-wheel drive, permit and sand driving experience to see more than the southern tip.  That said, the southern tip is beautiful and you don’t need to walk very far from the car parking to find a good stretch of sand to yourself.  The island is also a bird watchers paradise and has some interesting walkways and history to explore.

Read more | Tips on visiting Bribie Island

Mount Tamborine is a relaxed hinterland area halfway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.  It’s only an hours drive to experience this beautiful area of rain forest on the Scenic Rim.  The National Park here is divided into 6 distinct parts containing walking tracks, lookouts, waterfalls and other attractions.  Some popular sections we enjoy are the Witches Falls and Cedar Creek tracks.

On Mount Tamborine, you’ll also find the Gallery Walk with restaurants and interesting shops to explore, a botanic garden, the Skywalk where you can observe the rain forest section from above and within, glow worm caves plus a variety of foodie treats from cheesemakers to wineries.

Another spot on the Scenic Rim with excellent National Park walks and fabulous scenery is the Springbrook National Park.  There’s a whole list of walks and lookout’s we enjoy down here but two I’d highly recommend when visiting are the Twin Falls circuit shown above and the Natural Bridge , click on either link for more visitor information. 

It’s quite possible to do one in the morning, visit another spot such as Goomoolahra Falls for your picnic lunch then complete the other walk in the afternoon.

Toowoomba is a provincial city 125 km inland from Brisbane.  A day trip out here can include the views from the impressive lookout , hiking trails and one of the best Japanese gardens in Australia.

For foodies, you’ll want to check out the farmer’s markets, farm gate sales and cellar doors.  In the city itself, there’s also a thriving cafe culture that’s sprung up in recent years and a fabulous collection of street art murals .

Our comprehensive guide to exploring Toowoomba

At the northern end of the Sunshine Coast, about a 90 minute drive from Brisbane is Noosa.  This popular holiday area also makes a fun and easy day trip from the city.  The main beach of Noosa is popular with surfers and can be quite busy but walk a little way down towards the river and the beach is just as good and almost deserted a lot of the time.  Keep walking and you’ll come to a sheltered calm water swimming beach and the river.  From here is a great place to watch the sunset.

The Noosa National Park has 15 km of walking tracks within the forest, along the cliff top and down on the beaches.  If you do the Coastal Track be aware that Alexandria Bay is illegally used as a nudist beach especially the southern end which you need to pass to rejoin and complete the 10.8 km return walk to Sunshine Beach. There are a number of excellent shorter walking tracks and a variety of wildlife including koala are regularly seen within the park

The Burleigh Heads National park is only 27 hectares but squeezed into this space you will find rainforest habitat, eucalypt forest, groves of distinctive coastal pandanus, tussock grassland, coastal heath, creeks and mangroves, the rocky foreshore and glorious sandy beaches. 

The rainforest circuit where this photo is taken from is 2.3 km return, there’s also an ocean view track which we normally like to take on the return walk.

If you enter from the northern end off of the Gold Coast Highway and turn into Goodwin Terrace you’ll find public parking here and also an excellent selection of local cafes to complete your day trip experience.

Mooloolaba is one of my personal favourites on the Sunshine Coast.  You have a long stretch of gorgeous sandy beach here, a shady boardwalk, many park areas, the river and a break wall between the ocean and the river that’s a popular walk and fishing spot.  You’ll also find Sea Life Sunshine Coast which we’ve reviewed previously and a wide selection of cafes, restaurants and accommodation.

There is so much to see and do in Mooloolaba and it’s only an 80-minute drive from Brisbane and makes an ideal day trip destination.

There are a number of tours that run out to South Stradbroke Island from the Gold Coast, it’s actually only 200 metres off the end of the Spit so it’s a quick trip over then you can spend your day as you wish, enjoy the facilities of the Couran Cove Resort, swim and explore the 22 km of sandy beaches & 1800 hectare conservation park.

For something a bit different you can kayak out to Wavebreak and South Stradbroke Islands  on a full day trip with time to explore, lunch, relaxation and activities on the island.  We’ve kayaked out with a group a few years ago and it was way easier than we expected.

The most famous and longest established of the Gold Coast beaches is Surfers Paradise, it’s still a lovely stretch of sand with a wide promenade and some great cafes, restaurants and accommodation.  Over the years Broadbeach & Mermaid Beach, one beach south, has become our favourite being a little more laid back and home to some of our top picks for cafes on the Gold Coast.

All three are surf beaches with wide expanses of soft white sand and have designated patrolled swimming areas.  Also in the northern group of beaches to explore are Main Beach, the Spit and the Broadwater.

We’ve been whale watching many times along the east coast of Australia.  Our most recent outing was on the Gold Coast.

This migratory group of humpback whales make their way from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef each year.  They are estimated to number over 30,000 based on an annual whale census and their numbers are recovering annually.  This means you have an excellent chance of some good sightings between August and October each year.  We booked for the morning trip as winds and waves tend to increase later in the day and saw a good number of whales, if you’re unlucky and for some reason don’t see a whale you can take a second trip for free.

Check Gold Coast whale watch prices and reviews

The Wivenhoe Dam was built on the Brisbane River in the 1970s to protect the city from floods.  Not only is it now the main water supply for the city but it’s also a great recreational destination for swimming, kayaking and sailing. 

There are a number of recreational parklands around the lake and not all of them allow for water based activities with restrictions for safety reasons around the spill wall.  This one closest to the spillway is one that doesn’t allow direct access to the water but it has an extensive park and picnic areas and it’s a great spot for koala spotting.

The town of Eumundi is well known for the huge and diverse Eumundi market, an ever-growing market encompassing local artists, craft, produce and more.  Originally it was all outdoor stalls but developments in recent years have expanded the market area including some undercover options.

The town has bars and cafes to stop and relax if you want somewhere to stop for a while or grab something from the market itself and you’ll find plenty of places to sit on the grassy banks.  There are regular events here too, one we really enjoyed is the Eumundi body art festival .

Just 15 minutes away is the Noosa Botanical Gardens on the shores of Lake Mackenzie and Eumundi is on the way to Noosa so the two can be easily combined into a day trip,

In the Blackall ranges on the Sunshine Coast, you will find the Mary Cairncross conservation park around 90 km from Brisbane.   There are 55 hectares of sub-tropical rainforest on the mountain here and a well developed walking path and boardwalk in parts.  Despite that it’s an excellent spot from seeing local wildlife including birds, pademelons a small marsupial in the kangaroo family and even the endangered mountain crayfish, a blue coloured found only in a couple of mountain ranges around here above 240 metres.

In addition to the walkway, you’ll find parklands, BBQ and picnic facilities an information centre and cafe.  A visit here is ideal to combine with exploring the mountain villages of Maleny and Montville.

With 66km of stunning Gold Coast beaches, it’s going to take a lot of time to visit them all so it’s necessary to make some choices to narrow it down.  The attraction of the southern Gold Coast beaches including Burleigh, Currumbin, Tugan and Kirra are that they are a little less developed and quieter than the northern beaches.

They are all strikingly beautiful surf beaches with wide white sandy stretches, many have dune areas and others have lagoon, mangrove and creeks heading inland.

The Obi Obi gorge is a diverse natural area on the Sunshine Coast near Maleny.  It’s located next to the Baroon Pocket Dam and from here you can take a 7 km return walk on the Baroon Lookout track, the views from the track are fabulous and you generally see diverse birdlife along the track.  Not far from the car park there’s a detour down to the gorge and swimming hole.  Another alternative is rock-hopping along the gorge but be prepared to get wet in parts.

The are picnic and BBQ facilities nearby at the lake edge and across the dam wall or head back up the road into Maleny for a variety of cafe options.

Byron Bay is a 2-hour drive from Brisbane and I have to admit I do prefer to stay down there for a night or two when we go but we’ve done it as a day trip several times with friends and visitors and if that’s what works for your itinerary then I’d definitely make this trip for the day, you can see and do plenty in that time.

Byron Bay retains it’s laid back surf vibe despite its ever-increasing popularity and while getting a car park can be a challenge some days you are sure to find yourself a wave and space on the sand at one of it’s 9 stunning beaches.  Byron is an iconic Aussie destination and we highly recommend a visit.

Read more about the Byron Bay beaches and other attractions in this article

Around an hour and a half from Brisbane, you’ll reach the northern New South Wales beaches including Fingal Head, Kingscliff and Salt beach.  It’s a popular holiday destination and increasingly growing as a residential subdivision but still relatively quiet.

The beaches here are gorgeous for long relaxed walks, beach days and there’s a wide walking and bike path shaded in part by the casuarina trees along the beach edge at Kingscliff.  From Fingal head and many of the other headlands along here you’ll see whales passing during the migration season and don’t miss the Giants Causeway, an interesting basalt lava rock formation that extends under the water to Cook Island.

Read more | What to see and do around the Northern  NSW beaches

My 2 final suggestions for day trips from Brisbane are annual events. There’s a big range of these and something to suit all interests, these are just 2 examples that make a great addition to your time in the region. 

The Swell Festival has been running for many years during the month of September and includes many local and international artists who create sculptures, often of significant size on the beach and foreshore in Currumbin.  During the festival, you’ll find coffee vans and food trucks offering a variety on top of the local cafes, live music and other entertainment.  The sculptures are also lit at night adding a different way to enjoy them.

Helpful tips for planning a visit to the Swell Festival

The Sand Safari is another annual event, this time in February and held predominantly at Surfers Paradise although related displays pop up around the Gold Coast.  The enormous sandcastles are created by international and local artists along the wide promenade in front of the beach. 

The artworks usually take the shape of fantasy and cartoon characters which are loved by kids and adults alike.  They are made entirely of sand and water then sprayed with an environmentally safe sealant to help them stand up to the elements for the duration of the festival.

During the event you an vote for the one you like the best and there’s an extra-large central display which is worked on by many artists for you to watch the creators at work and ask any questions.  The festival is perfect combined with a day at the beach or exploring Surfers Paradise, the best known of the Gold Coast beaches.

Have you visited one, or all, of these fantastic destinations near Brisbane?  Do you enjoy day trips as a way of exploring a region?  If you have any questions when planning your visit please ask in the comments section below.  For those places you want to add to your itinerary we have in-depth articles full of tips on many of them that we’ve also linked up above.

Interested?  Save these images to Pinterest to find again later

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36 Best Day Trips from Brisbane, Queensland

The Queensland capital has plenty of attractions within the city limits to keep you entertained, but sometimes you just need to get away. Therefore, lets start exploring my best day trips from Brisbane.

I have been a local to the area for over 20 years and know that I have spent many weekends exploring ins and outs of the south east. Trust that I’m giving you my favourite options, along with some variety so you can at least find a couple of things that interest you.

Whether you on vacation, or living here, please read on for my best ideas and start planning your next “must-do” day trip away.

This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Please read my blog disclaimer, terms and conditions & privacy policy here for details.

Day Trips from Brisbane & Map?

I have generated a specially curated map here of all the options below, to help you apply directions from your location. These choices cover the Sunshine Coast, Hinterland, Scenic Rim, Byron Bay, Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. Along with the Gold Coast, UNESCO areas and my favourite National Parks.

1. Tangalooma Resort or Moreton Island

Over the years, I have spent many weekends either day tripping to Moreton Island , or staying over night in the Tangalooma Island Resort . Ferry’s will leave from Eagle Farm or near the Port, but both are a very different experience.

➡  Compare prices for Moreton Tours on HERE on Get Your Guide HERE, or find more options HERE with Viator.

The Barge leaving from the Port if your best way to see and snorkel the Wrecks and hang out on the beach for the day. Apart from that, The Eagle Farm ferry’s will go direct to the resort and you get a casual day pass for all their activities. This includes Quad Bikes, Helicopters, Segway on the beach, parasailing and the famous Dolphin Feeding.

2. Natural Bridge

In the Gold Coast Hinterland, you have several waterfalls to visit, like Natural Bridge , which also has glow worm caves. It’s a well-known waterfall as it can be viewed from above & below, and one of my favourites to visit on the Gold Coast.

➡  Compare prices for Springbrook Tours HERE on Get Your Guide, or find others HERE with Viator.

The walk around is about 1 kilometre, and circles around in a one-way loop. In the evening, you can enter the cave for viewing Glow worms for free , which is an incredible experience and one I would recommend.

3. North Stradbroke Island

Your selection will never be the same after visiting Stradbroke Island . There are so many different things to see and do, like the Point Lookout headland, Brown Lake, and plenty of gorgeous beaches to hang out on. The Island lies 30 kilometres of the coast and takes 45-minutes to get there from Cleveland.

➡  Compare prices for Stradbroke Tours on HERE with Get Your Guide.

Not only that, but with several ferries going throughout the day, it means you can get at least 8 hours fun in for the day. However, seen as it’s the second-largest sand island , consider a tour to get around or look into a scooter or public transport.

4. Lamington National Park

Lamington National Park is in the UNESCO World Heritage Site (The Gondwana Rainforest), located in the Gold Coast Hinterland of Queensland, Australia. Another Free park and is home to more than 900 species of plants and animals, several waterfalls and kilometres of hiking trail.

➡  Compare prices for Lamington Tours HERE with Get your Guide, or HERE with Viator.

Visitors can explore the rainforest on foot via a network of walking trails or take in the views from the O’Reilly’s Treetop walk. This is a suspended bridge that winds its way through the treetops and very family friendly. 

5. Whale Watching Tours(Seasonal from July to October)

If you’re looking to going on a whale watching cruise, there are a few different departure points from which you can choose. Either Redcliffe, Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, offer whale-watching tours that allow you to see these majestic creatures up close.

➡  Compare prices for Whale watching tours HERE on Get your Guide.

While on tour, you’ll also learn about the Humpback Whales that migrate through the area and experience the coast’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature admirer or just looking for a fun day out, a Whale Watching tour will give you an experience you won’t soon forget.

6. Winery Tours

Winery tours are a great way to explore the area and have someone do the driving for you. With that said, the Sunshine and Gold Coast Hinterlands are very similar and are two of the most popular destinations for winery tours.

➡  Compare prices for Wine Tasting Tours HERE with Get Your Guide, or others HERE with Viator.

Both regions offer various tour options, from half-day to full day excursions. Visitors can tour the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and taste some of the region’s finest wines.

7. Adventure Theme Parks

There are several theme parks to choose from, all surrounding the Gold Coast. This includes Dreamworld, Movie World, Sea World. Or if your like me, the waterparks like White Water World and Wet ‘N’ Wild are the most fun!

Your day will be full of excitement as you can see all kinds of animals, raise your heart rate with thrill rides, fill up on carnival snack foods or spend the day in the water. Not only that, but Actors are performing in and around the park for different shows, events, stunts, and tourist entertainment.

8. Purling Brook Falls

Purling Brook Falls is also available in Springbrook National Park and not far from Natural Bridge. This waterfall has a 4 kilometres loop hike on a nicely formed track. It starts at the top, walks down one side of the dense forest canyon to view the waterfall at the bottom, and walks back up the other side.

Purling Brook Falls does have a lookout at the top, so you don’t have to complete the hike to see it. Although, it is best viewed in full at the bottom.

9. Beaches on the Gold Coast

Everyone loves a Beach day right? Well, you can’t get any better than some of the variety down at the Gold Coast. Those beautiful white sandy beaches stretch all the way from Southport, through Surfers Paradise, Tallebudgera, Currumbin, and down to Tweed Heads.

Water activities are on an abundance at the Gold Coast. So, if you’re after surfing, somewhere to paddleboard, or a low ley place for the kids, then the Gold Coast has what you’re after.

10. Jet Boating experience

Jet boating is an extreme sport that is perfect for thrill seekers searching for a gripping and exciting ride. The best part about jet boating is that it is a family-friendly activity and everyone can enjoy.

➡ Compare prices for Jet Boat rides HERE with Get your Guide, or HERE with Viator.

It’s ideal to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Gold Coast while getting an adrenaline rush. The experience is like nothing else and is sure to be a memorable experience for everyone who tries it.

11. Q1 Building Observation Deck & Skypoint Climb

Did you know that the Q1 Building in Surfers Paradise, is one of the tallest residential building in the world. Not only that, but it has one of the fastest elevators taking you to the 77th floor in 42 seconds.

➡  Book your Skypoint Observation deck Tickets HERE

There are two experiences to mention here. First being the Observation deck with 360-degree views, behind glass and overlooking the Gold Coast. Enjoy a coffee, meet up with friends and see this tourist hub from a different perspective.

Alternatively, you have the Skypoint Climb , which is more extreme and stepping outside for a glass-free view. You’re strapped in and guided to walk around the top portion of the Q1 Building. The experience takes about 1.5 hours, including the safety briefing instructions.

12. Jet Ski adventure

There is no need to have a licence to tour the Gold Coast on a Jet Ski , and you can share the cost with a friend and double riding. For our experience, we chose a tour leaving from Main Beach harbour and made our way up to Coran Cove for Breakfast.

You do have a little freedom while on the Jet Ski, although it’s pretty much a “follow the leader” scenario when you don’t have a licence. Therefore, speeds are dependant on your confidence or limited by law through the marina.

13. Mount Tamborine

If you didn’t manage to see the free Glow Worms at the Natural Bridge, then could see the ones at Tamborine Mountain. Bookings are probably a good idea as this place can get pretty busy. However, they have Glow worms all year round (during the day) and you are guaranteed to see them.

Apart from that, Mount Tamborine brings other gems like a free swimming opportunity at places like Cedar Creek Falls. In the summer, you might have to fight through the crowds, but worth it for the several natural waterholes to cool off in.

14. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

This is just one of the Wildlife Zoo’s and an excellent option. The Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary might not be as big as Australia Zoo, but I think it does have plenty of variety and still worth visiting.

➡  Compare prices for Currumbin Wildlife Tickets HERE on Get Your Guide.

The one thing I loved about this Park is the personal animal interactions that were included. Animals like Macaws and Lemurs were just wandering around (obviously with a ranger nearby), and you were able to get up close and photograph.

15. Scenic Rim

If you’re looking for a quaint country getaway close to the city, then the Scenic Rim offers a unique blend of old-school architecture and boutique shops. There are also plenty of walking trails like Mount Barney, Mount Lindesay, Mount Maroon, and Mount May.

Some of the more popular towns in the Scenic Rim could be Boonah or Rathdowney, which are known for their small-town charm. There are also plenty of shops and cafes to explore, as well as alpaca, camel, lavender or cheese farms.

16. Queen Mary Falls

The Queen Mary Falls is located just outside Killarney and can be reached by following the Waterfall Way. The trail takes you to the top of Queen Mary Falls, providing stunning views of the surrounding area.

Then, the trail winds its way down to the bottom of the falls, where you view from below. This is all contained within The Gondwana Rainforest (UNESCO World Heritage Listed) and is well worth a visit while you’re near Killarney. 

17. Noosa Heads & the Fairy Pools

Noosa Heads is a beautiful locality and one of the best places you could road trip from the city. Many will visit for the low tide swimming spot known as the Fairy pools , which are natural rock pools that are filled with crystal-clear ocean water.

Make sure you go really early, or at least out of weekends or school holidays. More importantly, this is a low tide activity, and you will need to check that before you go.

18. Caloundra

Known for its sunny weather and endless beaches,  Caloundra  is a top holiday destination when searching for things to do. Kings Beach is patrolled by lifeguards and is a great spot for swimming and surfing. Further around at Bulcock beach, you’ll enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding and some wading areas for the kids.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the famous Coastal Boardwalk pathway runs right through Caloundra and is a beautiful way to take in the sights and sounds of the coast. You’ll pass by rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters along the way.

19. Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo would have to be one of the most popular Zoo’s available in Australia. Today you can see one of the biggest Crocodile feeding and information displays in Australia(apart from Darwin). An Asian animal display, Bird Aviary, Elephants, and an African Safari.

➡  Book your Australia Zoo Tickets & Transfers HERE with Get your Guide, Or HERE with Viator

The park has been opened since the 1970s and has grown over the years. And new animals and new exhibits are being introduced every year.

20. Kondalilla Falls

Kondalilla Falls is another off-beat, free-swimming location and even better, that it’s running almost all year round. There is a 4.7 kilometres loop hike that you can do, as well as stopping off for a swim.

If swimming is your only objective, you can walk to the waterhole and return on the same track for about 2 kilometres. But, be aware there are about 300 stairs, so make sure it’s suitable for your fitness level.

21. Mount Ngungun

If its views your after and a nice hike to take the family, then the Mt Ngungun summit hike is one of my favourites. It’s just less than 3 kilometres return to climb to the summit of this Glass House Mountain. Furthermore, a nicely formed path and hugely popular with the locals on the weekends.

There is a certain level of fitness required as you are climbing a mountain. Personally, I think this just refers to the top section and not the walking path itself. At no time did I feel I was off track or didn’t know where I was going.

22. Booloumba Creek Falls

Booloumba Creek Falls would have to be one of my favourite hikes and waterfalls in the area. It will not disappoint, but you will need a 4 wheel drive vehicle to get here. If your only wanting to visit the falls, then it’s a small 3 kilometre return hike on an easily formed track. There are 2 waterfalls to swim in, with the first more suitable for small children.

The falls are running most of the year-round and several swimming spots, including on top of the waterfall. There is a small amount of room for sitting and bringing along a picnic, but the closest facilities would be at Day-use Area number 2(about 10km away).

23. Buderim Falls

Buderim Falls are surprisingly so close to the Sunshine Coast and a quick stop if you’re looking to fill in some time. These falls have 2 entrances and only a short walk from each. They are fed from the city’s storm water, so not sure it’s a great spot for swimming, but you will find people in there from time to time.

The forest is dense, and it’s very easy to think you’re a long way away from the busy city. There is an easy boardwalk fitted at one end and rock-formed stairs from the other. Also, locals will use this area for their morning exercise and catch up with friends.

24. Gardners Falls

Gardners Falls would have to be one of the quickest places to walk to from the Car park, with only 300 metres. It’s a popular place to visit and plenty of room for a picnic and swimming around the waterhole. The walk actually runs along the creek, and you find people picking a spot anywhere along the Obi Obi Creek.

It’s a deep waterhole, so it might be handy to take along a flotation device or a pool noodle.

25. Settlement Cove Lagoon

Redcliffe is honestly a city on its own with a beachside location, and endless activities and accommodation to choose from. One popular spot is the Settlement Cove Lagoon , which is a free, lifeguarded, man-made lagoon-style pool. The pool is huge, and right beside the beach. This means you can also walk along the boardwalk and take in the beachside views.

26. Mount Mee

Looking for some fun Natural Swimming locations? Head to the beautiful D’Aguilar National Park, just 90 minutes away. This pocket of subtropical rainforest is home to eucalypt woodlands and spectacular wilderness views. Make a pit stop in Dayboro for a delicious pastry before heading to the Gantry to learn about the history of the former sawmill.

Your highlight in the summertime would be the Mount Mee Rocky Hole, which is one of the ideal places to swim near the city . This rocky swimming hole is a popular spot for locals and visitors, with its stunning views and the perfect spot to refuel before heading home.

27. Bribie Island

Bribie Island is still an Island, but one you can get there easy enough by driving over the Bridge to get there. There are so many things to see and do , with the west side of the island holding the main shopping complex and the calmer beaches, suitable for kids.

The west side overlooks the Pacific Ocean and so much room that you’re bound to find a spot on your own. If you have a 4WD, then you can purchase a permit to enter the National Park and drive up the beach to the lagoon or fish/swim of the shores.

28. King Island

King Island is only a small Island, and a popular area for locals to exercise and take the dog for a walk. What makes this spot unique is you can only get to it during a low tide, so please check the tide times before attempting.

The island consists of a small amount of vegetation and few wildlife species. Mangrove surrounds the area, and the boat channel just nearby. Consequently, it takes only 20 mins to walk out and even less time to walk around King Island.

29. Mount Coot-Tha

Mount Coot-tha is only a short distance from the city with about 20 different hikes to complete. One of the popular hikes is the Summit Climb, which takes about 1.5 hours to complete. It starts at the bottom around the JC Slaughter Falls Car Park and wanders up the forest on a nicely formed track.

Mount Coot-tha is open 24 hours, has a café, souvenir store and the views from the Lookout (day or night) are the best.

30. Ipswich

Ipswich is located on the western side of Brisbane with a population of 200,000 people. It’s known as Queensland’s oldest city with a lot of historical buildings (about 6000 that are heritage listed).

When planning a day out with the kids or a group of friends, you might like to visit the Orion Lagoon. Alternatively, you can roam the many cafes, explore the antique centre, take the Cobb & co tourist drive or maybe take things to the extreme with a V8 race car experience.

31. Scuba Diving

Where are all my Scuba Divers out there? There are several different Scuba Diving sites in the area . Although after 200 dives in the area myself, I think the visibility can be a little temperamental, but the variety of animals you can see is amazing.

This Includes anything from Mantas, Stingrays, Leopard Sharks, Grey Nurse Sharks, Nudibranchs, and other Macro creatures. However, depending on the season, there is always a place to discover and even ones you can organise from Tangalooma and Stradbroke Islands.

32. Lady Elliot Island

Lady Elliot Island is a small island just off the coast of Bundaberg in Central Queensland. The entire day will have you leaving from Redcliffe Airport at 715am and have you returning about 4pm. This means you will have about 5 hours on a tropical island, in the snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef .

The biggest drawn card for Lady Elliot Island is the water activities. With snorkelling and the glass bottom boat tours, you’re very likely to swim with turtles, plenty of fish, and sometimes Mantas when they are in season.

33. Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a stunning coastal town in northern New South Wales, Australia. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts and crafts scene. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and sunbathing on the many beaches or explore the shops and cafes in the town centre.

There are also plenty of art galleries and studios to check out and several festivals throughout the year. Byron Bay is also home to the most easterly point in Australia(at the Lighthouse), making it a popular spot for sunrise watching.

34. Stanthorpe

Travel a little further southwest of the city and visit the small town of Stanthorpe. It’s famous for its cheeses, truffles, and apples, so you can imagine it’s a foodie heaven. The Stanthorpe Apple and Flower Festival is a must-see event and is held around February/ March each year.

If you’re a hiking lover, then the amazing  Girraween National Park  is just a short drive away. Both the Pyramid Hike and the Sphinx/Turtle Rock hike are top favourites with visitors and are bound to challenge your fitness.

35. Lake Somerset

You wouldn’t expect Lake Somerset to be on my list today, but a day on the lake is heaps of fun. Depending on where you’re coming from, there is plenty of small towns to go through, for local cafes and new things to try. Towns like Esk and Kilcoy or stopping off for a swim at the Enoggera Reservoir.

Apart from that, Lake Somerset has its own activities like swimming, Boating, Jet Skiing, Paddle boarding, or Fishing. You can pack a picnic and stop for those calming sunset views while sipping champagne.

36. Toowoomba

Toowoomba is one of Queensland’s largest inland city’s with a population of 130,000 people. It’s known for representing colonial times with the Cobb & co Museum, Bunya Mountains National park and the Royal Bull’s Head Inn. Not only that, but tourists will flock to the city in droves to witness the Spring Carnival of Flowers festival.

Where to Stay?

Trying to find an area to stay in Brisbane can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Simply start with the activities or what you want to do, and round down a suburb based on that.

➡ Click to Compare all the Hotel Deals HERE with Booking.com

Next I would filter by you budget, facilities needed or maybe parking. Hopefully, this will get you down to a few options convenient to your situation.

Wrap Up – Day Trips from Brisbane

Thanks for reading todays blog post on day trips from Brisbane and I hope you found the information you were looking for! There is so much variety in South East Queensland, so please check out more Brisbane articles here for planning and inspiration.

Read More Articles:

Brisbane Lookouts & Beyond the City with Map

Is Brisbane Safe to Visit?

Is the Gold Coast Part of Brisbane, in Queensland?

Best Things to do at Southbank Brisbane

Best places to Hike in and around Brisbane

“Hi, travel enthusiasts! I’m Chris Fry, The Aquarius Traveller Blogger. I’ve been exploring the world since 2007, documenting my journeys through the lens of my camera. Having visited over 37 countries (including my home Australia), I’ve gained first-hand experiences that help you plan your adventures.

So, whether you need insider tips, or want to live vicariously through my escapades – You’ll find something to love in my blog.”

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North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland

The best day trips from Brisbane

The Queensland capital of Brisbane is perfectly positioned for day trips of every kind.

By Katrina Lobley 

Want to get out of town for the day?  Brisbane  is surrounded by fascinating destinations to discover. Take your pick of coastal cities, island getaways and hinterland mountains topped with lush forests.

Where:  80 kilometres (50 miles) south of Brisbane. 

The glitzy  Gold Coast , attracts plenty of pint-sized thrill seekers keen to spend a day at one of its theme parks. But it's not just kids who will enjoy the region. With a thriving food scene, great shopping, pumping nightlife and even a well-established health and wellness offering, it's easy to see why "the Goldie" is a favourite getaway spot. Want to see how Surfers Paradise got its name? Sign up for a surf lesson along the iconic beachfront with  Get Wet Surf School  before relaxing at one of the Gold Coast's best day spas or restaurants .

Bee Gees Way, Redcliffe Queensland © Dominika Lis

Where: 45 minutes north of Brisbane.

Redcliffe , a coastal city between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast , has one big musical claim to fame: it’s where the Gibb brothers, of Bee Gees fame, spent part of their childhood in the 1950s and signed their first music contract. The city pays homage to the stars with  Bee Gees Way , a 70-metre (230-foot) long multimedia walkway that's free and open day and night. The walkway runs between Sutton Street and the waterfront Redcliffe Parade (stroll along the promenade to enjoy views of Moreton Island). Redcliffe is also a spectacular seafood destination. Head to the Moreton Bay Boat Club for casual fare or Tempest for seafood that sizzles on a teppanyaki grill. For something more adventurous, hire a boat or jet ski from Boab Boats for a day cruising the waters of Moreton Bay. If it’s humpback migration season (June to November), hop onto a whale watching cruise to spot the curious whales.

Moreton Island

Did you know?

Guests at Tangalooma Island Resort can join Eco Rangers in hand-feeding wild bottlenose dolphins that visit the shore every evening.

Where:  40 kilometres (25 miles) off the coast of Brisbane. Take the 75-minute ferry to reach the island.

Moreton Island is a favourite day trip for Queenslanders, but don't rule out an overnight adventure. Those who love four-wheel driving can ferry their vehicles to the island and explore the bush and beach tracks. Those who prefer modern comforts can head to Tangalooma Island Resort , which offers a variety of activities, including quad biking, kayaking, parasailing and scenic flights. Snorkelling or diving the partially-submerged Tangalooma Wrecks that lie just offshore is also popular. The island is home to an interior desert with soaring sand dunes offering a hefty dose of adrenaline-inducing activity. Sign up to toboggan the steep dunes, if you dare.

Bribie Island

Bribie Island, Sunshine Coast, Queensland © John Bowden, Tourism and Events Queensland

Where: Located between Redcliffe and the  Sunshine Coast , just under an hour's drive north of Brisbane.

For a beach holiday that's all about the simple things, head to  Bribie Island . Bribie is the only Moreton Bay island you can drive to (shuttles operate from Brisbane Airport, or take a bus from Caboolture train station). Pumicestone Passage, which runs between the island and the mainland, is home to dugongs (similar to manatees) that come to feed on the seagrass, as well as dolphins and turtles.  Ferryman Cruises  offers a range of passage tours while G'day Adventure Tours can take you on a 4WD adventure to spot wildlife before heading inland through forests and wetlands only accessible by 4WD. For surf action, head to the ocean beaches at Woorim .

North Stradbroke Island

North Gorge Walk, North Stradbroke Island, Queensland © Tourism Australia

Where: Drive 45 minutes east to Toondah Harbour to catch the ferry to the island.

Loved for its laid-back lifestyle and aquatic adventures, North Stradbroke Island is the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. ‘Straddie,’ as the locals call it, is home to some stunning beaches - don’t miss Cylinder Beach and Frenchman’s Beach - as well as freshwater lakes you can reach on foot. The island also offers incredible whale watching opportunities from late May to early October. The humpback whales migrate so close to shore that all you need is a pair of binoculars to watch them swim by; a  walk along the headlands is a great place to start your search. Continue your nature discovery from the glamping tents at Adder Rock , where you’ll have a chance to spot resident kangaroos, koalas and kookaburras.

Australia's most beautiful islands

Scenic Rim, Maryvale, Queensland © Mark Clinton, Tourism and Events Queensland

Where: A 1.5-hour drive south-west of Brisbane.

If photogenic mountains are your thing, head to the Scenic Rim in the Gold Coast hinterland . Known as Australia's Green Cauldron, these lush mountains were once a volcanic hotspot. Choose from over a dozen  trails that take you to breathtaking lookouts, rock pools and rainforest gorges. Prefer to see the Scenic Rim from the air? Gold Coast-based  Hot Air  offers hot air balloon rides over the region.

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The Travel Quandary

12 Awesome Day Trips From Brisbane

A winding river through the CBD, close proximity to golden beaches and national parks and regular sunshine all year round.

This is Brisbane, Queensland. 

Our current address and Jasmine’s home town. Sure, it’s taken Bevan a little longer to develop a fondness but over time, his affinity for the Sunshine State has grown. 

As much as we love Brisbane, we also enjoy getting out and exploring her surroundings. What is there to do near Brisbane? Morning strolls along the coastline, hiking through ancient Gondwana rainforests and hunting for gastronomic treasures in quaint cottage towns are all accessible from places near Brisbane.

We’ve compiled a fabulous list of day trips from Brisbane for you to consider when you visit the Sunshine State. There are towns to visit near Brisbane and Gold Coast day trip ideas too. Most of these suggestions are best accessed via car but if you’d prefer a guide, day tours are also an option.

Let us know when you’re in town – we’d love to meet you!

MUST EXPLORE | DAY TRIPS FROM BRISBANE

For the beach goers, moreton island.

Moreton Island is a 37km sand island located off the coast of south-east Queensland. With magnificent coastal sand dunes, unique vegetation and wildlife, a day trip to Moreton Island promises adventure with a side of history.

Moreton Island has a colourful Aboriginal history and played a role in World War II. Relics of the past are dotted around the island.

The famous Tangalooma shipwrecks sit metres from the edge of the beach, perfect for diving and snorkelling. If you prefer to stay on terra firma, take a refreshing dip in the Champagne Pools at North Point or try your hand at sand tobogganing down one of the many sand dunes.

There are plenty of opportunities to view wildlife in their natural habitat. Whale watching is best during their migration season (July – August) while green and loggerhead turtles come to nest on the beaches between November – February.

Passenger ferries run daily to and from Brisbane – it is recommended that you book your tickets in advance online. Alternatively, there are all-inclusive day trip tours from Brisbane. There are no sealed roads on Moreton Island. If you wish to explore the island further than walking distance from the ferry drop off point, you will need a 4WD vehicle. If you do decide to visit Moreton Island without a tour or a vehicle, you will not be able to venture far from the beach and you will need to bring your own food and water.

How far is moreton island from brisbane?

Moreton Island is 40 kilometres east of Brisbane. It is only accessible by ferry or private boat. The ferry journey is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

Interested in booking a tour? This full day tour option includes transportation to and from Brisbane, snorkelling, sand duning, kayaking and 4WDing.

The Gold Coast is not the only place to find bronzed beauties and fitness fanatics. Beautiful Noosa sits at the top end of the Sunshine Coast, approximately two hours north of Brisbane. Fringed by national parks and the Coral Sea, there is no shortage of outdoor activities.

Get the blood pumping with a brisk walk through Noosa National Park, where many of the shaded trails come out at glorious lookouts over the ocean. The Fairy Pools are a popular spot for photographers and from here, you can glimpse surfers trying to catch a break.

If you visit on a Sunday, explore Noosa Farmers Markets in the morning before popping down to FOMO for a spot of breakfast and an easy stroll along Sunshine Beach. On a clear evening, head inland and after a short paved hike, watch the sunset from Mount Tinbeerwah Lookout.

How far is noosa from brisbane?

2 hours drive – 150 kilometres north of Brisbane.

Follow the M1 northbound towards the Sunshine Coast. Take exit 224.

This route includes tolls.

Surfing at the Gold Coast

This beautiful pocket of South East Queensland boasts some of the best golden stretches of sand you’ll find in the Sunshine State.

Faded beach shacks have had to give way to towering skyscrapers and chain restaurants but thankfully, you’ll still find friendly locals and community businesses with laid back vibes synonymous with Aussie beach culture.

One of the surfing meccas on the Gold Coast, Snapper Rocks is where you’ll find bucketloads of surfing enthusiasts carving up waves almost every day of the year.

Sitting on the Queensland and New South Wales border, the Coolangatta area offers a glorious day of sun, surf and sand. Groovy cafes sit a few blocks back from the beach, trendy boutiques welcome sandy-toed holidayers and there are many surf schools around to help aspiring surfers hang ten out on the water.

Other popular surfing spots include Kirra Beach, Currumbin Beach and Burleigh Heads. Check out the surf schools in the area to determine the best spot to pick up a lesson or to paddle with the pros.

How far is the Gold coast from brisbane?

It depends on which part of the Gold Coast you wish to explore!

Surfers Paradise is 60 minutes drive – 78 kilometres south of Brisbane. Follow the M1 southbound towards the Gold Coast. Take exit 69.

Snapper Rocks is 90 minutes drive – 110 kilometres south of Brisbane. Follow the M1 southbound towards the Gold Coast. Take the exit for Gold Coast Highway from M1.

VISITING THE GOLD COAST? CHECK OUT 12 BEST BRUNCH CAFES ON THE GOLD COAST

For the nature enthusiasts, springbrook national park.

Strap on your walking shoes and pack your swimsuit. A day trip to Springbrook National Park is a day immersed in nature.

Spectacular waterfalls, ancient forests, expansive views and unique wildlife make this national park a fabulous spot to enjoy the impressive beauty of the Gold Coast Hinterland. The World Heritage site has several walking trails taking you through lush vegetation to gushing waterfalls, scenic lookouts and cool swimming holes. Top attractions include Natural Bridge (1 kilometre circuit), Purling Brook Falls (4 kilometres circuit) and Twin Falls (4 kilometres circuit).

The hiking trails are all marked and require an average level of fitness. For more information of the trails and circuits, read here to help plan your route. Please ensure that you stay on the marked trails and respect signs to not cause harm to yourself or others, the vegetation and the wildlife.

Whilst there are several cafes at the edge of the park, Springbrook has several designated parking lots, picnic areas and toilet facilities for picnic lunches and rest stops. Don’t forget to take all your rubbish with you.

How far is Springbrook national park from brisbane?

90 minutes drive – 100 kilometres south of Brisbane.

Follow the M1 southbound towards the Gold Coast. Take exit 79 and follow Gold Coast – Springbrook Road from Mudgeeraba.

North Stradbroke Island

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How far is north stradbroke island from brisbane?

2 hours travel time – 60 kilometres east of Brisbane.

Opening Hours

• Monday 6:30am – 4:00pm
• Tuesday 6:30am – 4:00pm
• Wednesday 6:30am – 4:00pm
• Thursday 6:30am – 4:00pm
• Friday 6:30am – 4:00pm
• Saturday 6:30am – 4:00pm
• Sunday 6:30am – 4:00pm
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Glass House Mountains

Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, the craggy peaks of the Glass House Mountains tower over pineapple plantations and pine forests in the Sunshine Coast region. 

The Glass House Mountains offer challenging summit routes and climbing sites for experienced rock climbers and abseilers, and should only be undertaken by those with considerable experience and appropriate equipment. 

For less-experienced hikers, Mount Beerburrum only takes a couple of hours while Mount Ngungun features a marked walking trail with minimal rock scrambling. The latter offers spectacular views of the nearby peaks and surrounding landscape.

Given the distance between the peaks, packing your own food and water is recommended. Don’t forget to practice your hiking etiquette! Alternatively, the small Glass House Mountains township has a few cafes and bakeries.

How far are the glass house mountains from brisbane?

60 minutes drive – 70 kilometres north of Brisbane.

Follow the M1 northbound towards the Sunshine Coast and follow the signs for Steve Irwin Way.

This route has tolls.

Mount Tamborine

For those who prefer a combination of breathtaking scenery and clean mountain air with local culinary delights and artworks, a day trip to Mount Tamborine is the perfect choice and one of the easiest towns to visit near Brisbane.

Start your day trip to Mount Tamborine with a bushwalk through Tamborine National Park. The cascading waterfalls are particularly spectacular after prolonged periods of rain. Native flora and fauna thrive here. Keep an eye out for lyrebirds, scrub turkeys, possums and elusive platypus. Take care where you step as harmless snakes and giant earthworms sometimes appear on tracks. Curtis Falls Walking Track is a short trail that leads to a wooden platform where you can view the pretty waterfall from a safe distance.

With its strong cottage industry, Tamborine Mountain is home to many talented artists and local produce. Boutique wineries and craft breweries invite you in for gastronomic experiences whilst galleries and boutiques along the Gallery Walk offer unique pieces for you to take home. Pop into Truffle Discovery Centre and Angela’s Pantry for homemade jams, chutneys, oils, dukkah and honeys. The Fountain of Juice offers seasonal soul food in the form of vegan and vegetarian pies and dairy free smoothies. You’ll find artisanal homewares in Village Folk and make sure to stop by Fudge Heaven for a free sweet tasting.

How far is Mount Tamborine from brisbane?

60 minutes drive – 70 kilometres south of Brisbane.

Follow the M1 southbound towards the Gold Coast. Take exit 38 from M1. Take Stanmore Rd to Beaudesert Beenleigh Rd/State Route 92 in Wolffdene. Follow Beaudesert Beenleigh Road/State Route 92 and State Route 95 to Curtis Road in Tamborine Mountain.

Interested in booking a tour? This full-day tour option includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Brisbane, a wine & distillery tour plus a 2 course lunch.

FOR THE CULINARY LOVERS

Sirromet wines.

A winery in Queensland you say? How can that be? 

Thanks to a large dose of determination mixed with plenty of ambition. Sirromet was founded by Queensland businessman and entrepreneur, Terry Morris, who set out to prove to his Victorian counterparts that great wine can be produced in Queensland. 

The multi-award winning winery is located in Mount Cotton, approximately 35 minutes drive from Brisbane CBD. Visitors can participate in wine tours or visit the cellar door for tastings. Dining options include fine-dining at Restaurant Lurleen’s (named after Terry’s wife) or Italian fare out on the Tuscan Terrace. For a comfortable night away in the Queensland bush, consider a stay at Sanctuary, Sirromet’s very own on-site glamping accommodation. Sirromet is also a lauded venue for weddings and annual music event, A Day on the Green.

How far is Sirromet wines from brisbane?

35 minutes drive – 30 kilometres south of Brisbane

Interested in booking a tour? Get in touch with Sirromet Wines directly. You will need to drive yourself to Sirromet Wines or organise a taxi/rideshare to and from your Brisbane accommodation.

Alternatively, if you prefer hotel pick up and drop off and a fine-dining lunch menu, this half-day tour option is a solid choice.

Husk Distellers

How far is husk distillers from brisbane.

90 minutes drive – 120 kilometres south of Brisbane.

Follow the M1 southbound towards the Gold Coast and Chinderah. Take the exit for Tweed Valley Way from the M1. Follow Tweed Valley Way to Dulguigan Road in North Tumbulgum.

FOR ADRENALINE SEEKERS

Village roadshow theme parks.

Adrenalin seekers, animal lovers and cartoon enthusiasts – a Village Roadshow Theme Park will be an epic day out for you!

Located on the Gold Coast, Village Roadshow Theme Parks operates six major attractions: Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World, Wet’n’Wild, Paradise Country, Australian Outback Spectacular and TopGolf.

Share hi-fives with Bugs Bunny and Superman at Movie World, learn about the plight of polar bears at Seaworld and hop on an inflatable donut at Wet’n’Wild. You can get up and close with unique Australian wildlife at Paradise Country and learn about the harsh realities of life on the land at Australian Outback Spectacular.

How far is Village Roadshow theme parks from brisbane?

45 minutes drive – 60 kilometres south of Brisbane.

Follow the M1 southbound towards the Gold Coast. Take exit 60.

Another one on the list of Gold Coast day trip ideas, Dreamworld is Australia’s biggest theme park with over 40 rides and attractions.

Thrill rides, family rides and water parks mean that you will have adrenaline coursing through your veins all day. ABC Kids World and the Dreamworks Experience will keep the little ones happy and occupied while Tiger Island is not to be missed. One of the more recent additions is Dreamworld Corroboree, where visitors can explore and appreciate the Australian land, its ancestors, people and native animals.

A place of entertainment and education will make this day trip an unforgettable one!

How far is Dreamworld from brisbane?

40 minutes drive – 55 kilometres south of Brisbane.

Follow the M1 southbound towards the Gold Coast. Take exit 54.

FOR QUAINT TOWNS

The charming township of Montville is located in the Sunshine Coast region and is home to cosy coffee shops, art galleries and bespoke boutiques. Known for producing some delicious fudge dairy delicacies, Montville is popular with city-dwellers looking for a weekend of peace and quiet. The mountain retreat area offers plenty of accommodation ranging from rainforest cabins to hinterland cottages. 

Montville is located close to Kondalilla National Park. ‘Kondalilla’ is an Aboriginal word meaning “rushing waters”, a particularly apt name to describe the dramatic waterfall which gushes beautifully during the summer wet season. The park is a beautiful place for bushwalking and provides an opportunity to see native frogs, reptiles and birds.

Visitors to Montville can also access part of the Sunshine Coast Great Hinterland Walk, a 58 kilometre trail offering panoramic views of the coastline and hinterland.

How far is Montville from brisbane?

90 minutes drive – 90 kilometres north of Brisbane.

Follow the M1 northbound towards the Sunshine Coast and follow the route to Steve Irwin Way. Continue on Steve Irwin Way. Take Landsborough Maleny Road and Maleny – Montville Road to Main Street in Montville.

Australia’s largest inland city (by population) is often overshadowed by the golden beaches of the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. Yet Queensland’s Garden City is one of the best spots to enjoy the beauty of Australia’s native flora and learn about the state’s colonial history.

Situated 130 kilometres west of Brisbane, Toowoomba sits 700 metres above sea level on the edge of the Great Dividing Range. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, celebrating regional flavours, traditional trades and artisanal arts and crafts.

In Spring, Toowoomba comes alive as it hosts the Carnival of Flowers. The ten-day festival features floral exhibitions in the parks and gardens, fireworks, parades and sensational produce from the local region. While in Toowoomba, you’ll come across a number of historic buildings showcasing memorabilia and artworks telling the stories of the history of the Southern Queensland country’s region. The Cobb + Co Museum is the most famous, with the National Carriage collection detailing the importance of horse-drawn vehicles in Queensland’s development. 

For those who prefer the charm of the past combined with a picnic in the park, Toowoomba is a wonderful day trip for you.

How far is Toowoomba from brisbane?

2 hours drive – 130 kilometres west of Brisbane.

Follow the M5 westward and join the Warrego Highway. Follow the signs for Toowoomba Connection Road/A21.

Kooroomba Vineyards and Lavender Farm

If a ticket to Provence, France is proving a tad too expensive, consider a day trip to Kooroomba Vineyards and Lavender Farm instead.

Six types of lavender, varieties hailing from France and Italy, flower almost all year round, meaning you can nab that perfectly symmetrical Insta shot without travelling too far! Visitors can visit the lavender fields and shop lavender products in the gift shop. There is an art studio on-site, a cellar door showcasing wines cultivated from the Mt Alford region and a restaurant, headed up by European trained chef, Daniel Groneberg. 

As Kooroomba Vineyards is a popular functions and wedding venue, it is often closed on weekends. Plan your visit and make a reservation for lunch on a weekday if your itinerary permits.

How far is Kooroomba Vineyards and Lavender farm from brisbane?

90 minutes drive – 100 kilometres south west from Brisbane.

Follow the M5, National Highway 15 and State Route 93 to Mount Alford Road in Dugandan. Continue on Mount Alford Road to your destination in Mount Alford.

WHERE TO HIRE A CAR IN BRISBANE

If you’re arriving to Brisbane via airplane, the most convenient place to hire a car is at Brisbane International Airport or Brisbane Domestic Airport. The well-known agencies, such as Avis, Hertz, Budget and Europcar, also have offices in Brisbane City and key locations.

Check rental availability, select your preferred vehicle and compare rates between car rental agencies below!

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13 Of The Best Day Trips From Brisbane This Autumn

By Urban List Writers

30th Apr 2024

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Sick of spending your weekends on your home turf? Time to schedule in one of our favourite day trips from Brisbane and explore more of what our incredible part of the world has to offer. Whether you're after waterfalls and wineries or surf and seafood, you'll find it all within just an hour or two of the city—all you need to do is plan your routes. So fill up the tank and hit the road, here are the best day trips to take from Brisbane.

Lamington National Park 

If we had to pick a favourite of Brisbane's nearby national parks , Lamington would be it. It has it all—stunning waterfalls, tranquil rainforests, stunning Valley views and even a spa for the type who prefer to take it all in from the comfort of a a cedar wood bathtub. On your way in, make sure you stop in Canungra for a slice of cake and a coffee at the local bakery to fuel you up, and on the way out, you can stop in at Mountview Alpaca Farm for a picnic with a friendly alpaca—no doubt you'll have worked up a hunger with all that hiking.

Glass House Mountains 

If you've got a desperate need to stretch your legs, there's plenty of hikes to tackle in the Glass House Mountains, from gentle strolls, to epic scrambles up steep rocky climbs. You've got your pick of mountains—Mt Ngungun, Mt Tibrogargen and Mt Beerwah are the best known and most hiked, and all of them offer absolutely spectacular views from their peak that are well worth the effort. Just be sure to  check the grade  of your chosen walk before you start—some of them require some pretty intense rock scrambling.

Tamborine Mountain

Any drive to Mt Tamborine is guaranteed to be scenic since you’re surrounded by rainforest, but the official circuit is something special. The route will take you past the green pastures of Beechmont, through historical towns and finally lead you to the enchanting rainforests atop Tamborine Mountain. Once you're there, you can visit the region’s wine vineyards and distilleries, check out the local art galleries and hit the trails in Tamborine National Park. Find our road trip guide  here .

Any list of day trips from Brisbane wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the Scenic Rim. Located only an hour’s drive south of the city, this massive area covers everything from lush rainforests and waterfalls to vineyards and antique stores. Start with a hearty brunch at the Scenic Rim Farm Shop and cafe, stop in Kalbar for a spot of antique shopping—we could go on, but really, you can just plan your whole day with our guide here . 

A road trip through Redcliffe ticks all the boxes for the perfect day out—beautiful beaches, good food, and chilled-out vibes. Start your journey by driving over the Ted Smout Bridge, and witness the pelican feeding frenzy at Pelican Park. Pick up some fish and chips to eat out by the water on the Woody Point Jetty, and go for a stroll (or even a dip) along the foreshore at Settlement Cove. Follow the coast line all the way up to Scarborough for some spectacular strolls along the seaside.

Bribie Island

The easiest to access of the all the islands near Brisbane, with no boat trip necessary, Bribie is conveniently found floating between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane. Stroll the beaches, take a dip, or, if you've got the equipment, head out for kayak around the inlet. Once you've worn yourself out, drop in to the Sandstone Point Hotel , where you'll find The Oyster Shed open for seriously good takeaway fish and chips to eat along the grassy shore.

North Stradbroke Island

The picturesque island that is North Stradbroke Island is only a 45-minute drive away from Brisbane—making it the perfect day trip location. Highlights of island life include the stunning North Gorge Walk, Brown Lake and Point Lookout, which serves as an excellent spot to watch the yearly humpback whale migration when winter rolls around. More adventurous weekend wanderers might also want to take a shot at sand-boarding or go for a bike ride along the crisp white stretches of Straddie’s many beaches. 

Samford and Mount Nebo

It takes around 45 minutes or so to get from the heart of Brisbane out to Samford, but it’ll feel like you’re a world away on this perfect day trip. Once there, visit one of the great local cafes or restaurants in the area, then continue the drive to Mount Nebo or Mount Glorious. Stroll through the bushland, have a leisurely afternoon picnic or check out some of the great local shops, selling everything from sweet treats to books, vintage goods and arts and crafts. We've planned an entire itinerary  here .

Moreton Island

The many islands off the coast of SEQ makes for some incredible day trips from Brisbane and none more so arguably than Moreton Island. Just an hour away by ferry the island is almost entirely declared National Park territory, which means it is largely untouched. From pristine blue waters and beaches, lush rainforest, historical lighthouses and famed natural wonders such as Mount Tempest, the world’s largest coastal sand dune structure, and the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks make Moreton Island the perfect day trip or weekend stay-cay for lovers of the outdoors. 

Montville And Maleny

Montville is the quaint gateway to the gorgeous Sunshine Coast Hinterlands area. Combining European-style stores and cafes, Montville more than deserves its reputation as the creative soul of the region. Start your day with brunch at one Montville’s pretty cafes, before taking a hike through Kondalilla National Park—home to a beautiful waterfall and rock pools perfect for swimming. Hop in the car and head south to Baroon Pocket Dam, a beautiful and incredibly peaceful lake tucked between Montville and Maleny that will serve as the perfect picnic spot. Check out more to do here .

Springbrook National Park

Probably one of the best day trips from Brisbane, Springbrook National Park offers you amazing scenery and plenty of places to explore, not to mention the insanely good views. Be sure to visit the Purling Brook Falls, Canyon Lookout, Wunburra Lookout and the amazing Best Of All Lookout. Here you’ll find panoramic views stretching across both Queensland and New South Wales. Finish it all of with lunch, drinks and enjoy your relaxing day spent out in nature, soaking in the fresh air. 

Jump in the car and take the 1.5 hour drive west from Brisbane to Toowoomba. It turns out, Toowoomba has quietly been cultivating an amazing food scene. You’ll find so many great restaurants and cafes, such as The Baker's Duck and their epic baked goods, as well as surprisingly colourful street art scene. Explore the local shops, immerse yourself in stunning views, go for a hike or drive through farmland. Check out our guide h ere .

Lockyer Valley

The Lockyer Valley is probably best known as Australia’s salad bowl—it's home to some of the most fertile soil in Australia—but it also boasts some epic natural beauty and a winery or two well worth the visit. Start your journey with a stop at Cunningham’s Crest Lookout and be treated to breathtaking views across Laidley Plains. Stop in at a local winery along the way or just enjoy the scenery.

Coochiemudlo Island

Hop a ferry from the Victoria Point Jetty to get over to Coochiemudlo; it only takes you 10 minutes to get across to Coochie and should only cost around $4 each way. Once you’re there you can set up camp at one of the beaches, set up a picnic, host your own BBQ or hire a bike and explore the island yourself.

Of course, you could just take a day trip to the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast , both of which are less than 150kms away—in which case we've got you well and truly covered with our sister sites.

Image credit: Urban List Archives

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6 best day trips from Brisbane this summer

Nov 22, 2021 • 6 min read

Surfers Paradise is known for its nightclubs, but there's a lot more to the Gold Coast © Gary Parker / Stocksy United

Queensland ’s sunny capital finds itself in a rather lucky position. Not only is Brisbane one of Australia ’s fastest-evolving cities in the trend stakes but it’s also within day-tripping distance of some of the state’s best beaches, national parks, and unique townships.

And with the Australia slowly re-opening to visitors from interstate, as well as overseas, Brisbane and the Queensland coast tourism sector has never been more excited to see you. So get ready for a multitude of sunshine-soaked adventures – you may want to consider extending your holiday plans this year – with our pick of the best places to visit near Brisbane.   

Theme parks, surfing and hiking the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast might be one of Australia’s most misunderstood cities. Often pigeonholed as a party town, the Goldie hosts more than 50km of pristine sand so, as logic would suggest, there’s far more to this beach city than just the nightclubs of Surfers Paradise . In the north, thrill seekers can hit the theme parks and families can picnic and play at the waterfront Broadwater Parklands . Further south, surfers can ride competition waves at Snapper Rocks (or anywhere along the coastline really) and nature-lovers can stomp the tracks in Springbrook National Park. 

Don’t be fooled into thinking Gold Coasters are as casual about their food as they are about their lifestyle – gastronomy is serious game and there are plenty of A-grade restaurants to choose from (plus quality beans for coffee aficionados). Hip cafes and watering holes abound, including in bright and buzzy Burleigh Heads, which lays claim to a hatted restaurant (Australian code for best in show) –  Rick Shores – and Burleigh’s lesser-known but no-less-cool neighbour, Palm Beach, which is fast becoming a haven for swanky bars (try Suga or The Scottish Prince ). Busy Broadbeach and chilled-out ‘burbs like Mermaid Beach and Coolangatta are also worth checking out. And do pop into Surfers Paradise – it is a lot of fun. 

How to get to the Gold Coast:  The Gold Coast is just under an hour's drive south of Brisbane. Regular trains depart from Brisbane Central and the journey takes around an hour and 40 minutes.

Unwind from Caloundra to Noosa on the Sunshine Coast 

Like the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast is hard to define, but is a little less zing and a little more calm than its southern counterpart. Noosa is a highlight because of its boutique shopping, trendy cafes and one of the most beautiful national parks you’ll lay eyes on (that turquoise water…), while Mooloolaba and Caloundra offer quieter alternatives (and the latter has an award-winning brewery by the beach ). 

The Sunshine Coast hinterland trades ocean spray for clean mountain air, and Montville and Maleny are two standout locales. Montville is an adorable one-horse town that peters on a mountain ridge. The main street is lined with cafes, galleries and shops, and the nearby Kondalilla National Park is laced with walking trails and waterfalls.

Maleny, 9.3 miles (15km) south, is an equally endearing town that supports a thriving dairy industry. Visit Maleny Dairies and Maleny Cheese to sample the region’s award-winning produce, then stop in at the Maleny Botanic Gardens for views over the Glass House Mountains and to see more than 700 native and exotic birds at Bird World. Duck off the highway to visit Australia Zoo – founded by the late Steve Irwin – or to pick up local handicrafts and snacks at the Eumundi Markets . 

How to get to the Sunshine Coast:  Regular trains depart from Brisbane Central to Nambour, the region's main train station. The journey takes an hour and 50 minutes.

Explore lush Lamington National Park 

Lamington National Park hit the news in 2019 when bushfires swept through the area, but all is not lost. For starters, Lamington is big (more than 20,000 hectares big), and is split into two sections – Green Mountains (also called O’Reilly) and Binna Burra. Sections of the Binna Burra forest were damaged, but much of the park and the businesses within it remain open.

Join a monthly cooking class using regional produce at the Wild Lime Cooking School (which can be topped or tailed with a swim in the Christmas Creek or Lost World rock pools), or enjoy a massage and sweeping valley views at O’Reilly’s Lost World Spa . Nearby hiking options range from easy 30-minute circuits to multi-hour treks through soul-cleansing rainforest. Visit the Queensland Parks and Forest website for up-to-date trail information. 

How to get to Lamington National Park:  The park is 68 miles (110km) south of Brisbane, which equates to about a two-hour drive.

Iconic Byron Bay mixes beaches with boutique shopping

Byron Bay is a two-hour drive from Brisbane, crossing the state border into New South Wales . Arguably one of Australia’s most popular and well-known beach towns, Byron is old-school hippie and modern-age hipster rolled into one. Here, shoes are optional and bathers are commonplace within the compact town centre, but there’s an air of sophistication about the place. Boutique shops stock stylish local handicrafts and fashion labels, the dining is on-trend, and if you fancy staying overnight, Byron Bay accommodation spans a spectrum from backpacker to chic. 

The town itself hums with energy for much of the day and night (Byron manages to wake up early after partying into the wee hours), but it’s easy to escape into nature. Follow the Cape Byron Walking Track to the lighthouse – the most easterly point of mainland Australia – or take a dip in the crystalline waters of Wategos beach , where dolphins frolic and waves gently spill over a wide sand bar. 

How to get to Byron Bay:  The trip takes two hours by car (102 miles). Coaches are available from Brisbane Roma St Bus Stop to Byron Bay daily and the journey takes a little over two and a half hours.

The easiest day trip from Brisbane: North Stradbroke Island 

Stradbroke Island (or ‘Straddie’ to the locals) is split into north and south. North Stradbroke is the most easily accessible of our favorite day trips from Brisbane via a 30-minute boat ride from Cleveland. Hire a 4WD for ultimate freedom (including beach cruising potential) or buy a daily bus pass to get between the hubs of Point Lookout, Dunwich and Amity. 

Main Beach has a powerful swell and is popular with surfers and body boarders , while Cylinder Beach is a calmer, patrolled cove better suited to families and lazy afternoons. The more secluded Deadman’s and Frenchman’s beaches are dotted with rock pools, and inland there’s a freshwater lake system. This includes Blue Lake, referred to as the ‘deep silent pool’ in the local indigenous language, and Brown Lake , tinged by the colour of native tea trees. Whale watching is a popular pastime on Straddie, with migrating humpback whales a common sight between June and November.  

How to get to North Stradbroke Island: Ferries depart daily from the Brisbane suburb of Cleveland and take around 30 minutes. You can travel as a foot passenger or bring your own vehicle.

Rainforest and glow worm caves await on Tamborine Mountain 

Tamborine Mountain sits between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. It’s another of Queensland’s magnificent hinterlands strewn with rainforest, criss-crossed by walking trails and peppered with cute shops and eateries. The Gallery Walk on Long Road has more than 50 cafes, restaurants and stores selling handicrafts and knick-knacks, then there are a number of wineries and breweries nearby, plus the Tamborine Mountain Distillery , which has a trophy cabinet laden with more than 300 awards. 

Tamborine is also known for its glow worms glittering in a purpose-built cave . Guided tours run throughout the day. 

How to get to Tamborine Mountain:  It's just an hour's drive south of Brisbane (45 miles).

Produced by Lonely Planet for American Airlines. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.`

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33 of The Best Day Trips from Brisbane

Are you looking for some of the best day trips from Brisbane?  Awesome because in this guide we have put together some of our favourite Brisbane day trips.  This guide on the best Brisbane day trips as been complied with some help from some other travel bloggers, who were only too happy to share with me their favourite day trips out of Brisbane.

We love living in Brisbane and when we’re not travelling the globe we love to get out and about and do as many day trips around Brisbane as we can.  Living in Brisbane we are spoiled for choice as we can easily access the Sunshine Coast attractions as well as the Gold Coast attractions within an hour or so drive, and of course there plenty of great Brisbane tourist attractions to explore too.

In this Brisbane day trips guide you will find a vast range of Brisbane attractions, from the exciting theme parks, to stunning Queensland beaches, to wonderful animal encounters and the gorgeous National Parks.  So whether you’re local looking for some Brisbane day trips ideas or you are coming to Brisbane for a holiday and looking for tips on the best tourist places in Brisbane and the surrounding area, you’re sure to find plenty of great ideas from this guide.

Planning a trip to Queensland? Have any questions? Join our Queensland Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Page Contents

• 1.1.1 1. North Stradbroke Island Day Trip from Brisbane
• 1.1.2 2. Moreton Island
• 1.1.3 3. Tangalooma Day Trip from Brisbane
• 1.2.1 4. Movie World
• 1.2.2 5. Sea World
• 1.2.3 6. Dreamworld and White-Water World
• 1.2.4 7. Wet n Wild
• 1.2.5 8. Aussie World
• 1.3.1 9. Paradise Country 
• 1.3.2 10. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
• 1.3.3 11. Australia Zoo
• 1.3.4 12. Lone Pine
• 1.4.1 13. Redcliffe Lagoon (Settlement Cove)
• 1.4.2 14. South Bank Parklands
• 1.4.3 15. Broadwater Parklands
• 1.5.1 16. Tamborine Mountain
• 1.5.2 17. Springbrook National Park
• 1.5.3 18. Lamington National Park
• 1.5.4 19. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
• 1.6.1 20. Noosa
• 1.6.2 21. Coolum
• 1.6.3 22. Caloundra
• 1.6.4 23. Surfers Paradise
• 1.6.5 24. Broadbeach
• 1.6.6 25. Tallebudgera Creek
• 1.6.7 26. Palm Beach
• 1.6.8 27. Currumbin
• 1.6.9 28. Coolangatta
• 1.7.1 29. Tropical Fruit World
• 1.7.2 30. The Ginger Factory
• 1.8.1 31. Maleny
• 1.8.2 32. Toowoomba
• 1.9.1 33. Eumundi Markets

33 of the Best Day Trips from Brisbane  

Island day trips from brisbane  .

If you’re not from  Brisbane  you may be surprised to learn that there are some stunning island day trips from Brisbane.  Whilst many of these Brisbane islands are best explored over a few days, those short on time can nevertheless explore the island’s highlights in a day.

Whilst you can often catch a passenger ferry to the various islands and explore on your own, quite often one of the Brisbane island tours is your best bet for an island day trip.

1. North Stradbroke Island Day Trip from Brisbane

Stradbroke Island is the world’s second largest sand island, being 38 kilometres long and 11 kilometres wide and is located only 30 kilometres southeast of Brisbane. 

As well as it’s stunning beaches, North Stradbroke has some great opportunities for wildlife spotting.  Keep an eye out for koalas and kangaroos on the mainland and dolphins, whales, turtles and pelicans in ocean.  You can also visit stunning lookouts and swim in the gorgeous Brown Lake (yes despite it’s less than glamorous name, it is gorgeous!).

You can either take a passenger ferry across to the island, but you will need a vehicle to get around and explore.  Whilst it’s possible to take your own vehicle across it is very expensive for a day trip and may work out better to join a North Stradbroke Island day trip from Brisbane.  Click here to see a range of tours that leave Brisbane.

For more information on North Stradbroke Island, click here for my full guide.  

2. Moreton Island

Moreton Island is the world’s third largest sand island and is located just off the coast only 40 kms north east of Brisbane.  On Moreton Island you will find stunning beaches, amazing scenery and absolutely massive sand dunes – perfect for sandboarding!

Moreton Island is just stunning and perhaps most well known for the Tangalooma Wrecks.  Around these purposely sunk ships you will find gorgeous coral and fish.  Other marine life you can see around Moreton Island include dolphins, whales and dungeons.

There are no roads on Moreton Island, it is completely sand, so the only way to get around is by 4WD.  You can come across on a barge with a 4WD, but it can be pricey so a Moreton Island day tour from Brisbane is often your best option.  A range of Moreton Island day trips from Brisbane exist – you can read our guide here on tours to Moreton Island.  

3. Tangalooma Day Trip from Brisbane

Whilst Tangalooma Island Resort is in fact located on Moreton Island, the resort is massive and so I thought it was worth listing it separately.  You can easily reach Tangalooma Island Resort by passenger ferry and be there within 75 minutes.  Given it is so close to the CBD, a Tangalooma day trip from Brisbane is the perfect outing.

During a Tangalooma Island day trip you can enjoy a range of activities including snorkeling the Tangalooma Wrecks, sandboarding, parasailing, glass bottom boat rides, dolphin feeding and more.  During a day trip you also have access to all the resorts facilities such as their swimming pools, playground and food outlets.

You can’t access Tangalooma Island Resort on your own and must join a day trip or stay in their accommodation to access their facilities and activities.  Click here to see a range of Tangalooma Island Day tours  

Click here for my full guide on visiting Tangalooma Island Resort  

Theme Parks  

When it comes to Gold Coast and Brisbane attractions, many tourists flock to South East Queensland for the theme parks!!!  Whether you want to see your favourite movie characters come to life at Warner Bros. Movie World or get your heart pumping on the thrilling rides at Dreamworld there is something for everyone.  Theme Parks certainly make one of the best family day trips from Brisbane.

4. Movie World

Contributed by Christina from Travel 2 Next

Movie World is a great one day trip from Brisbane – particularly if you’re visiting with kids.  This theme park has 28 attractions and a range of rides suitable for younger children. Toddlers and pre-school-aged children will love riding the Looney Tunes Carousel, driving around on the mini cars at Speedy Gonzales’ Tijuana Taxis and the thrill of Sylvester’s Pounce ‘N Bounce.

For family fun, the Scooby Doo Spooky Coaster is a wild indoor roller coaster in the dark. It has a height requirement that riders must be 120cm tall or 110cm tall if riding with an adult. Adrenalin junkies will love the big roller coasters and there’s a programme of shows to entertain the entire family. 

Warner Bros Movie World is an easy 50 minute drive from the Brisbane CBD and public transport is also available by train (to Coomera Station) and by bus on the TX7 route every 15 minutes.

Warner Bros Movie World is open all year round from 9:30AM to 5PM (rides operate from 10:00AM to 5PM). The park is closed on ANZAC Day and Christmas Day. Ticket prices for a single day pass are $95 (adult), $89 (children aged 3 to 13 and pensioners).

If you are on holiday in Brisbane, you can book Movie World tickets that also include transportation from the CBD.   If you’re planning to visit other theme parks such as Sea World and / or Wet’n’Wild, it’s recommended you purchase one of the Gold Coast theme park deals to save money.  Click here to book your cheap Movie World tickets .

5. Sea World

Another one of the top day trips from Brisbane is a visit to Sea World.  Located in Main Beach, Sea World is an hour’s drive south of the Brisbane CBD and is one of the Gold Coast theme parks that the whole family to enjoy. 

At Sea World you will see some of Australia’s most beautiful marine life including Polar Bears, Stingrays, Dolphins and Penguins.   There are rides and shows as well as educational presentations and an interactive splash zone for the little ones, hands down one of the best things to do in Gold Coast with the kids.

Whilst this Queensland theme park does seem to cater best to families with young children, there are a few thrill rides that the older kids will love and come on who doesn’t love seeing a cute Polar Bear!  Older kids will love rides such as Jet Rescue and the Storm Coaster, whilst little ones will love seeing Dora the Explorer and Spongebob.

One day Sea World tickets start from $79 per adult and $69 per child with children under 3 free.  If you plan on visiting other theme parks such as Movie World and / or Wet’n’Wild, it’s recommended you purchase one of the combined Gold Coast attraction deals to save money.  Click here to book your discounted Sea World Movie World Pass.

6. Dreamworld and White-Water World

Dreamworld is one of my personal favourites when it comes to awesome day trips from Brisbane with kids.  Dreamworld offers some of the most exciting rides on the Gold Coast and is home to the Big 9 Thrill Rides including the BuzzSaw, the Giant Drop and the Tower of Terror II.  But there is plenty for the little kids too including ABC Kids World and Tiger Island.

Also right next door to Dreamworld is their water park which is called White Water World.  Your Dreamworld entry ticket includes entry to the water park.  Here you will find water slides and activities suitable for all ages so the whole family can enjoy the day.  From Wiggle Bay for the little ones to the Triple Voretex for the older thrill seekers, whilst the entire family will love the massive wave pool.

At the time of publishing one day Dreamworld tickets start from $95 per adult and $85 per child with children under 3 free.  You really do need a full day at both Dreamworld and WhiteWater World though, so if you do this its best to get a multi-day pass which starts at $109 for adults and $89 for children with under 3 free.  Click here to book your tickets.

Dreamworld is a 50 minute drive south of the Brisbane CBD and is located on the Pacific Highway (M1) at Coomera. It is much easier to drive yourself, however there is the option of public transport.  Alternatively, you can book theme park tickets which include transfers – click here for more information.

Dreamworld is one of the Gold Coast top attractions and is open 7 days a week between the hours of 10 am to 5 pm.  

7. Wet n Wild

Located right next door to Movie World, if you’re visiting during the peak of Summer a visit to Wet’n’Wild is an absolute must!  This Gold Coast water park is suitable for families with children of all ages you will find some of the tallest and fastest waterslides as well as the Wet’n’Wild Junior area and family favourites such as the Wave Pool and Calypso Beach.

One day Wet’n’Wild tickets start from $74 per adult and $69 per child with children under 3 free.  If you plan on visiting other theme parks such as Movie World and / or Sea World, it’s recommended you purchase combined Gold Coast theme park tickets to save money.  Passes for the 3 parks start at $129 per person at the gate or buy online from Experience Oz and save $10 per ticket.   Click here to book your discounted tickets .

Wet’n’Wild is open 7 days from 10 am and closing at 5 pm during the warmer months.  At other times of the year it closes at 3.30 pm or 4 pm.

8. Aussie World

Whilst much smaller than the Gold Coast theme parks, Aussie World – Sunshine Coast certainly makes up for this in the fun to be had, no queue lines and ticket prices are much cheaper!  Located 1 hour and 15 minutes from the Brisbane CBD on the Bruce Highway at Palmview, families are guaranteed to have a fantastic day at Aussie World.  As they say “fun is our thing”, and they are not lying!

There are over 18 Aussie World rides and attractions spread out over 15 acres.  All your family favourite rides are here including chair plane, Ferris wheel, dodgems, giant slides, swimming ship, carousel and tea cups.  There are also a few thrill rides for the older rides and gentle rides for the tiny tots.

As well as rides there is roving entertainers, Professor Bogglesworth’s Illusionarium, horror house ( must be over 12 yo), water play area (bring swimmers and towels), mini golf, sideshow alley, crazy mirrors and arcade games.   

Aussie World opening hours are 10 am to 5 pm daily (except Christmas Day and Anzac Day).  Aussie World tickets are $40 per person, under 3s are free and discounted family passes are available.  

Animal Encounters  

Whether you want to cuddle a koala, feed a kangaroo or see one of the fearsome crocodiles made famous by Steve Irwin you can experience it all in the various zoos and animals’ sanctuaries all accessible from Brisbane.

9. Paradise Country  

Paradise Country is full of animals and shows that the whole family will enjoy. There are a variety of farm animals you can come face to face with as well as a range of glorious Australian Wildlife that you are able to get up close with. You can also see the very cute babies in the Animal Nursery, one of the best kid friendly activities Gold Coast has.

The cost of getting into Paradise Country for admission is $27 per adult and $17 per child or you can select the option of having lunch included which makes the prices $39 per adult and $29 per child. 

The park is open from 9.30am to 4.30pm daily and is located on Production Drive in Oxenford in South East Queensland, which is around a 55 minutes’ drive south of the Brisbane CBD.  

10. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the favourite Gold Coast attractions for families who love Australian wildlife is the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.  Located a 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from south of the Brisbane CBD, at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary you get the opportunity to get up close with a range of animals.

Arrive by 8 am so you can join in the lorikeet feeding where you may be lucky enough to have a lorikeet or two sit on your arm whilst they eat breakfast.  Then wander through the park checking out a range of Australian wildlife as well as other exotic animals from across the globe.

Of course the Australian favourites are here including the cute and cuddly koalas as well as kangaroos and emus.  You can even hand feed the kangaroos and emus, a Gold Coast must do!

There are a range of shows throughout the day where you can learn more about the animals.  Shows include the pelican and eel feeding, snakes, crocodiles, birds, Australian show (see sheep shearing) and the Blinky Bill show.  One of the best shows would have to be the bird show.  It fantastic seeing a range of different birds as they fly right above the heads of the audience.  So close in fact that the wedge tail eagle had its tail feathers brush across my head!

At the time of publishing tickets at the gate were $49.95 per adult, $39.95 per child and $149.95 for a family pass (2A+2C).  Kids under 4 are free.  You save by purchasing your tickets online from Experience Oz.  Online tickets are $39 per adult, $39 per child and $125.93 per family pass.   Click here to book your discounted tickets.

11. Australia Zoo

Contributed by Sophie from Baby, Toddler and Kids

Australia Zoo is just over an hour away from Brisbane by car, so it’s not so far that the kids will get cranky on the drive. If you don’t feel like driving you could book a transfer through a tour operator or catch the train to Beerwah and there is a free courtesy coach from the station.

Whilst exploring the park, there are loads of great opportunities to get up close and personal with some of the animals. You will be able to stroke a koala and take a walk through the kangaroo enclosure to give them a feed. The world famous wildlife warriors show is sure to thrill the kids, with birds swooping overhead, a crocodile feeding display and tons more.

 As well as all the incredible animal species to learn about, there are various play parks dotted throughout the zoo, including a great water splash park for the kids to cool off at whilst parents take a rest on the grass nearby.

Kids under 3 go free, an adult ticket is $59 and a child ticket $35 – click here to book tickets online . If you’re staying in the Brisbane CBD you can also book tickets which include bus transfers – click here to book these tickets .

With the park open 9am to 5pm every day, except Christmas Day, there are plenty of chances to miss the busy periods. Next time you are stuck for ideas to entertain the kids, definitely consider a trip to Australia Zoo!

12. Lone Pine

Contributed by James from Travel Collecting

A day out at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is one of the perfect Brisbane day trips with kids.  There are dozens of koalas (mostly sleeping) and you can get your photo taken with them (for an additional fee).  There is also a large lawn with kangaroos.  You can purchase food from the gift shop to feed them. 

Other Aussie animals you can see include dingoes, platypuses, Tasmanian Devils, wombats and enormous monitor lizards.  Each day there are special shows including a sheepdog demonstration and birds of prey show, as well as keeper talks where you can learn more about snakes, platypuses, Tasmanian Devils and koalas. 

The sanctuary is in a suburb of northern Brisbane and you can drive there easily.  However for people staying in the Brisbane CBD, the easiest way to get there is by boat.  Lone Pine is right on the river, and a boat leaves daily at 10:00am from the city center and returns at 2:15pm, taking 1.25 hours each way.   

The boat costs $80 return for adults and $48 return for children, but this incudes entry to Lone Pine – click here to book your tickets .  Entry to Lone Pine only costs $38 for adults and $22 for kids – click here to book your tickets without boat transfers . The sanctuary is open daily 9:00am – 5:00pm.

Lone Pine is easily on of the Brisbane top attractions and well worth a visit.

Parklands  

One of the fun day trips Brisbane offers is without a doubt a visit to one of the various parklands.  These parkland’s are fantastic for families with plenty of play equipment, walking trails and quite often swimming areas.  Bring a picnic lunch and stay all day – one of the best day trips around Brisbane and its free!  

13. Redcliffe Lagoon (Settlement Cove)

Contributed by Alex from Get Out With Kids

Redcliffe Lagoon, also known as Settlement Cove, is a man-made lagoon located in Redcliffe on Marine Parade and is one of the best Brisbane attractions for families. It hosts a large pool (lagoon) for older children, and a small paddling pool for little kids. If you haven’t been, you’re really missing out on heaps of fun for the entire family. We like to have our Australia Day breakfast there, as the lagoon hosts quite a few barbeques.

The lagoon is on the beachfront, although I like to stick to the pool. The lagoon is under watch of lifeguards and has some man-made island looking mounds in the centre of the lagoon. You can’t jump off from the islands though, as tempting as it looks. If you don’t feel like swimming or want to get some exercise in a different way, there are also walking tracks along the foreshore in both directions.

Our family would happily swim at this lagoon for a full day out. There is also a huge playground near the lagoon with a sandpit and pirate ship, cafes and restaurants on Marine Parade and plenty of BBQ’s and picnic areas. Pack your suncream and make a day trip to Redcliffe Lagoon.

The Redcliffe Lagoon is located around a 40 minutes drive from the Brisbane CBD and is one of the awesome attractions near Brisbane CBD for families.  

And if you happen to visit on a Friday – stay a little longer for the Dolphin Wild Island Sunset Cruise.

14. South Bank Parklands

Without a doubt one of the best Brisbane city attractions is the South Bank parklands.  Located right in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, you could easily spend your entire day at here. 

In the hotter months you can’t beat a swim in the man-made Street’s Beach as well as the surrounding rock pools.  For the kids there are also playgrounds and everyone will love the Brisbane Wheel.  Other things to do in South Bank include dining at the various food outlets, cafes and restaurants, see a movie or shopping at the markets.

Click here for my full guide on things to do at South Bank.

If you’re looking for the best Brisbane City tourist attractions – you will find them all here at South Bank.

15. Broadwater Parklands

Located on the Gold Coast (about an hour’s drive south of the Brisbane CBD), the Broadwater Parklands a fantastic for families with young children given the large lagoon like body of water here is calm.  The Parklands also include the most innovative and imaginative kid’s playground that you have ever seen and the Rockpools which is a great water park for small children. 

If you’re looking for a day trip to Gold Coast from Brisbane with the kids – make sure you stop in here at the Broadwater Parklands.

National Parks  

From Brisbane you are spoiled for choice when it comes to National Parks as you easily access both the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast National Parks.  The National Parks have a range of different walking trails from easy to difficult and all levels in between.  The walking trails take you through thick lush tropical rainforest, where you can see waterfalls, spot a native animal and enjoy the local fauna.  

16. Tamborine Mountain

Contributed by Holly from Four Around the World

One of our favourite family day trips from Brisbane is Tamborine Mountain and the Gold Coast Hinterland. It takes around an hour from Brisbane by car or bus and there is plenty to do for the whole family.

If you are looking for a family friendly place to explore the great outdoors, Mount Tamborine has plenty of opportunities for rainforest walks, wildlife spotting and waterfall views. Visit Tamborine National Park to enjoy getting close to nature. The Cedar Creek Falls walking track is a good option for younger children as it is an easier option and under 1KM return. 

For a bit more adventure and fun, the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk is a popular family attraction, taking you over bridges and walkways high in the rainforest for a different perspective. Entry is $49 for a family of four. 

Big kids will love the TreeTop Challenge at Thunderbird Park with Australia’s longest zipline. There are plenty of other things to do for the whole family too, including a rope climbing adventure park, fossicking and crystal mining, horse riding and mini golf, just to name a few. Check their website for pricing packages and times.

Otherwise simply enjoy a stroll along Gallery Walk, stop for an ice cream or enjoy yummy food at one of the many restaurants in Tamborine Mountain. 

If you’re looking for good day trips from Brisbane that will keep the whole family entertained, you can’t beat a day out at Mount Tamborine.

Read our complete guide to Mt Tamborine here.

17. Springbrook National Park

The Springbrook National Park is a stunning region where you can take various walks to see beautiful water falls, rock pools, lush rainforest and some of the oldest trees in Australia.

Some of the must see in Springbrook National Park include:

• Natural Bridge – Springbrook National Park: Located in the western part of the Springbrook National Park it is a little isolated from the other attractions but well worth the drive.  It is an easy 30 minute return walk to see the Natural Bridge rock arch.
• Purling Brook Falls – Springbrook National Park: This is an easy waterfall view from the lookout just a few minutes’ walk from the car park.
• Canyon Look Out – Springbrook National Park: Gorgeous views across the valley towards Surfers Paradise.  This is also the start of the Twin Falls walk.
• Twin Falls Circuit – Springbrook National Park: Its a short 30-minute walk to see these waterfalls.  Here you can see lush rainforest, rockpools and waterfalls.
• Best Lookout of all – Springbrook National Park: Fantastic view across the southern edge of the Springbrook Plateau – the lookout is located an easy 350m walk from the carpark.

The Springbrook National Park is around 1.5 hours’ drive from the Brisbane CBD.

18. Lamington National Park

Lamington National Park is made up of two different sections, the Green Mountain which is located on the western side and includes the area called O’Reilly’s (see below) and the Binna Burra section.

Across the Lamington National Park visitors can enjoy a range of walking tracks which will take you through rainforest and past creeks and waterfalls.  You can also find some fantastic views across the region at the look outs.

One of my favourite things to do in the park is to visit Picnic Rock and Elabana Falls.  The falls are set deep in the Green Mountains section and surrounded by lush rainforest with water gushing down shiny rocks make it a stunning sight.  It is 3.3 kms each way to reach the picnic area and a total of 7.6 km to Elabana falls.

The Lamington National Park is around 1.5 hours’ drive from the Brisbane CBD.

19. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

Contributed by Karen from Smart Steps to Australia

O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat is a resort in the Gold Coast hinterland. Set within Lamington National Park, two hours south of Brisbane, it makes a great family day trip from the city.

The road to O’Reilly’s is long and winding, so be prepared with travel sickness preventatives (and sick bags!) if any of your little ones are prone to being travel sick. The journey is well worth it though, so don’t let that put you off.

There are a wide range of paid activities on offer – booking ahead is a good idea if you’re only visiting for the day, especially during school holidays. These include the Birds of Prey Show, Wildlife Encounters, a Flying Fox Adventure, a Segway Safari and – our personal favourite – the Glow Worm Experience (although as this takes place at night you really need to be staying over to take part in this one as you wouldn’t want to do the mountain drive back home after dark).

Prices range from $8 upwards per person, with many activities offering a family price. You can also do the free Tree Top Walk, watch the daily bird feeding and explore the walking tracks so you can mix in some free time in between paid activities.  

O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat is a great weekend retreat with kids but even if you don’t have that much time, you can still get a lot out of a full day experience there as there is so much to see and do. 

If you are holidaying in Brisbane and don’t have a car, you can join a tour which includes bus transfers from Brisbane and a range of other activities.  Click here for more information.

Queensland Beaches  

You will find all the best beaches from Brisbane either on the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast and I might be a little bias here, but Queensland has some of the best beaches in the entire world!  Not only that but Queensland has some of the best weather to make the most of these gorgeous beaches too. 

Don’t come to Brisbane without spending a day or two exploring the gorgeous South East Queensland beaches.

Here is a short list of some of my favourite beaches accessible from Brisbane in a day trip.  

Contributed by Sophie from Remote Rainforest Mum

One of our favourite day trips from Brisbane has to be a trip to Noosa! We are a real outdoors, beach bum family and Noosa just has everything we need for a great day out.

It’s about a 90-minute drive away from Brisbane, so not to epic of a journey for young kids and if you’re not keen on driving there are tour operators who offer full day tours with transfers.

The great thing about Noosa is you can have a whole day there and spend next to no money at all. The main beach is very popular with surfers so it can get a little crowded but if you walk down towards the river the beach becomes much quieter and is still just as beautiful. The surf club looks out over the main beach and is a great spot to grab some lunch looking at the ocean.

There are a ton of walks around the forests, clifftops and beaches of the National Park so plenty of space to get some fresh air and burn off some energy.

Next time you need a day away from the city, I’d definitely recommend a trip to Noosa to explore everything it has to offer!

Click here for our full guide on things to do in Noosa with kids.

Contributed by Jan from Budget Travel Talk

Coolum Beach is a laid-back surfing town 1.5 hours by road north of Brisbane in Queensland. Whether you love the beach life, chilling in a Café or climbing Mount Coolum, Coolum Beach makes a great day trip from Brisbane.

Fit families with 1.5 hours to spare, make a pilgrimage of Mount Coolum just 3.5 km south of Coolum Beach.  At 208 metres tall, the 360° views from Double Island Point in the north to Caloundra are breathtaking, but don’t forget water bottles and snacks for the summit.

Australian Professional Surfer Julian Wilson, is a Coolum boy and even if only day tripping, learning to surf is great thing to do with kids or the whole family. Coolum Surf School has daily 2 hour beginner lessons from 10 am to 12 noon, with another in the afternoon during peak times. Price $60.

For watery fun minus the waves, Blast Aqua Park Coolum has a variety of fun inflatables in a fresh water lake. Sessions or all day passes can be booked on line and are suitable for the whole family 3 years and over. Prices range from $20 p.p. for 50 minutes to $55 for an All Day Pass. Spectactors are free. BYO food and non-alcoholic drinks and enjoy the free BBQ’s.

Coolum Surf Club overlooks the patrolled beach with a family friendly outdoor deck with amazing views. Try their gourmet pizzas or wood fired steaks and kids eat free on Mondays from 5.30 pm till 7 p.m.

22. Caloundra

Caloundra is such a great area to visit for a family day out.  There are numerous beaches to choose from, multiple kids playgrounds and some lovely casual family dining options – including the classic fish and chips on the beach.

Some of the best beaches in Caloundra for kids are Bullock Beach and Golden Beach with their calm waters backing on to Bribie Island.  Currimundi Lake is another excellent one too as is the free pool at Kings Beach.

Another great thing to do is to stroll the Caloundra section of the Coastal Pathway for some great views.  The Caloundra section is 9 kms, but you can choose where you start and finish.

Caloundra is located 1.25 hours’ drive from the Brisbane CBD.

Click here to read my full guide on everything there is to do in Caloundra.  

23. Surfers Paradise

The main tourist spot on the Gold Coast is Surfers Paradise.  Here not only will you find a gorgeous stretch of swimming, but you will also find the largest amount of family friendly attractions on the Gold Coast.  From putt putt golf, to massive gaming arcades, interactive cinemas, thrill rides and more.

Surfers Paradise is located a 1 hours drive from the Brisbane CBD or you can take the train also.

Click here to read my full guide on everything there is to do in Surfers Paradise.

24. Broadbeach

Similar to Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach is a very popular area for tourists.  Home to the Broadbeach Mall full of shops, restaurants and family friendly hotels as well as Jupiter’s Casino, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre and Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, the largest shopping precinct on the Gold Coast.  There is also an excellent swimming and surf beach at Broadbeach with a fantastic playground, one of the best kids’ playground, Gold Coast has.

Broadbeach is located an 1 hours’ drive from the Brisbane CBD or you can take the train also.

25. Tallebudgera Creek

In my view one of the best kid friendly beaches, Gold Coast to offer and one of my all-time favourite places to swim on the Gold Coast.  In fact, not technically a beach but a creek, although don’t let the word “creek” put you off, this creek is absolutely stunning with bright turquoise coloured calm water, perfect for little ones.  This is a popular spot for SUP and kayaking.

Tallebudgera Creek is located 1 hour and 15 minutes’ drive from the Brisbane CBD.

26. Palm Beach

Another great choice if you’re looking for the best beach for kids Gold Coast has is Palm Beach, also another personal favourite.  Palm Beach has the benefit of having both a surf beach as well as being situated on one side of the Currumbin Creek.  Currumbin Creek is perfect for the kids as the water is calm.  Whilst a fairly quiet area in terms of shops and restaurants, there are plenty of great family apartments available as well as an excellent playground, another one of our favourite kids parks, Gold Coast has on offer.

Palm Beach is located 1 hour and 15 minutes’ drive from the Brisbane CBD.

27. Currumbin

Similar to Palm Beach, Currumbin has the advantage of having both a surf beach and the stunning Currumbin Creek, yep you guessed it another one of my favourites!  This is a popular spot for families to enjoy a variety of water sports such as surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking.

There’s not a great deal of accommodation here, but what is here is certainly family friendly and there are a few cafes sprinkled throughout the area.

Also a 15 minute drive inland you will find the gorgeous Currumbin Rock Pools.  There are varying pool depths, rope swings, rock slides and ledges to jump off providing plenty of fun for the whole family.

Currumbin Beach is located 1 hour and 15 minutes’ drive from the Brisbane CBD.

28. Coolangatta

Another fantastic spot for families that want to be in a central location to shops, restaurants, gorgeous beach and playgrounds is Coolangatta.  This stretch of beach is 800 metres long, north facing and also protected by the headland. This beach is generally safe and has low waves making it fun for the whole family to enjoy.

Included in Coolangatta are the two smaller beaches of Greenmount and Rainbow Bay – both absolutely stunning beaches and my favourite stretch of beach on the entire Gold Coast, Rainbow Bay.  As well as plenty of family friendly accommodation and a shopping centre there is also a lovely walking trail that wraps around Greenmount Hill.  You can walk right up to the New South Wales border here.

Coolangatta is located 1 hour and 15 minutes’ drive from the Brisbane CBD.  

Food Related Attractions  

Queensland has the perfect climate for growing a range of produce and some of the best attractions to visit are based around food!  Come for some fun whilst getting the opportunity to try some delicious Queensland grown local produce.  

29. Tropical Fruit World

Tropical Fruit World is great attraction for the family which is located just over the New South Wales border in the gorgeous Tweed Valley.

At Tropical Fruit World families get the opportunity to taste a range of different tropical fruits from around the world.  I hadn’t even heard of most of these fruits – including Black Sapote which is basically chocolate mousse in a fruit!

Entry into the attraction also includes a tractor tour around the gorgeous property, where along the way your guide will share interesting facts about the various fruits as well.  It isn’t all about fruit either, here are some great family friendly activities including cracking macadamia nuts straight from the tree, patting the animals at Old McDonald’s Farm, riding the miniature train around Treasure Island as well as taking a boat cruise down the property’s stunning river.

The fruit tasting, and tractor tour takes 2.5 hours, but you’re quite welcome to spend as long as you like at the property. 

Located on Duranbah Road, Duranbah you will need a car to get to Tropical Fruit World.  The attraction is open daily from 10 am to 4pm.  Entry into Tropical Fruit World is $47 per adult, $25 per child and $115 for a family pass (2A+2C).   Click here if you wish to purchase your tickets online.  

Tropical Fruit World is located 1 hour and 30  minutes’ drive from the Brisbane CBD.

30. The Ginger Factory

Contributed by Sharee from Inspire Family Travel

Around an hour and a half north of Brisbane is one of the most family-friendly places to visit on the Sunshine Coast. The Ginger Factory has everything from great food, fun activities, exciting tours all surrounded by sub-tropical gardens.

Open everyday entry is free which allows you to visit as often as you like to enjoy the children’s play area, rainforest walk, ice creamery, and café.

There are three paid attractions and major drawcards a the Ginger Factory. Moreton is a 116-year-old retired sugar cane train that you can ride around the 9 hectares of gardens and factory grounds. From train to boat join the gingerbread man on the overboard ride as you float around the magical world where puppets come alive to animation and music. It has similarities to the Disneyland attraction it’s a small world and lots of fun as you try to name all the countries along the way. Sweet tooths will enjoy the live bee show and tasting the different variety of honey. If you are going to partake in at least two of these tours, they have a bundle ticket option to save money. 

The Ginger Factory is a 1 hour and 15 minutes drive from the Brisbane CBD and prices for activities vary.  Click here to book your tickets online.

Cities  

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Brisbane CBD, there are various little quaint towns and cities you can easily explore as a day trip from Brisbane.  

Contributed by Ngaire from Brisbane Kids

Maleny is a relaxing day trip adventure for Brisbane families looking to escape the city for a day. Located just one and a half hour’s drive from the Brisbane CBD, Maleny is nestled atop the rolling green hills of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. 

The Maleny Botanic Gardens, featuring Bird World is the perfect midmorning pitstop for some Devonshire tea and a chat to some local parrots.  For those families keen for a country experience, take the kids on a farm tour at Maleny Dairies, feed the animals and take a tractor ride. 

To cool off after your farm experience head to Kondalilla Falls or Gardner Falls and enjoy a cool dip in a rainforest waterhole. Both are best experienced after some seasonable rains, with Kondalilla Falls more suited to older kids and Gardner Falls more suited to younger ones looking to splash in the shallows.  For those interested in local food options, book a lunch at King Ludwigs German Restaurant and finish the day with a gelato at Maleny Food Co.   

32. Toowoomba

Contributed by Stacey from Adventure By 3  

A visit to the ‘Garden City’ of Toowoomba is perfect for a family day trip from Brisbane. In just a 90 minute drive west of Brisbane via the Warrego Highway, you will find yourself perched high on top of the Great Dividing Range. 

Toowoomba is home to a range of family-friendly attractions and activities. With over 150 parks and public gardens such as Queens Park, there is plenty of wide-open, green spaces for the kids to explore, play or to enjoy a picnic lunch in. Best of all, they are free to visit! 

Follow up with an excursion into history at one of the many historical attractions in Toowoomba. The Cobb+Co Museum is home to Australia’s National Carriage Collection (entry fees start from $12.50 for adults and $10.00 for kids). See Toowoomba’s railway history preserved at DownsSteam Tourist Railway and Museum (entry by donation) or Australia’s only road-building museum at The Transport and Main Roads Heritage Museum ($2 entry fee).

For more adventures, go searching for the hidden alleyways and cute coffee shops that boast amazing street art, or hike to the top of nearby Tabletop Mountain for panoramic views.

Markets  

If you feel like combining some shopping with your Brisbane day trip, go find a market!  There are some fantastic markets around Brisbane all offering a great range of items (quite often made locally), local produce and entertainment.  

33. Eumundi Markets

Contributed by Sinead from Map Made Memories

Shopping with kids is always an unpredictable gamble and not an activity that usually features on our family travel to do list! But we were surprised how much we all enjoyed our day spent at Eumundi markets.

The free to enter markets are held every Saturday 7 am – 2 pm and Wednesday 8.00 am – 1.30 pm in the rural, inland town of Eumundi around a 1 1/2 hour easy drive north of Brisbane. They are a very popular attraction for both tourists and locals.

The market contains hundreds of stalls covering an enormous site. There are food and drink stalls (both farmers and artisans), clothing, jewellery, ceramics, wellness and even furniture stalls. There is a diverse range of high-quality handmade crafts for sale, many of which we had not seen elsewhere on our travels through Australia. You won’t leave empty handed!

There is live music which helps to create a buzzing, lively atmosphere, plus a playground as an escape from shopping. Our kids were kept engaged and entertained by the many free samples of food and drink and by the range of unique and unusual toys on offer. Their favourite purchase was a fabric beach ball that you use with balloons – great for travelling families! 

Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that should make any bookings using my links, I may be paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.  This allows me to provide this information free of charge – thank you for supporting our website.

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Day Trips From Brisband

The Top 13 Day Trips From Brisbane

Surrounded by rainforests, beaches, mountains, and quaint country towns, Brisbane is an ideal base for exploring all that Queensland has to offer. As you get to know this diverse state, you will also encounter the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have lived across the continent now known as Australia for over 60,000 years. Brisbane itself is located on the lands of the Yuggera people. To the north, the traditional custodians are the Waka Waka and Gubbi Gubbi peoples, while to the south you'll find yourself on Bundjalung Country.

Whether you're stopping by on your way to the Great Barrier Reef or spending some time to get to know the city, don't miss these top day trips from Brisbane.

Ipswich: Historic Buildings and Great Food

Matthew Murray / Getty Images

This settlement was founded in the early 1800s as a coal mining town. It is home to some of Queensland's oldest and best-preserved heritage buildings and is the location of a modern foodie renaissance. In the part of Brisbane Street known as Top of Town (between Ellenborough and Waghorn Streets), you'll find vintage stores, fashion and homewares boutiques, and quirky cafes. We recommend Rafter & Rose for coffee and cakes and Fourthchild for something more substantial.

Getting There: Less than an hour south-west of Brisbane, Ipswich can be reached by car or train.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the beautiful gardens and parks of Ipswich, including Kholo Gardens , Ipswich Nature Centre , and Nerima Japanese Gardens .

Lamington National Park: Ancient Landscapes

Thurtell / Getty Images

This popular national park covers a section of the Gondwana Rainforests in the Gold Coast hinterland. This is a World Heritage Area that protects the remnants of the ancient landscape that once covered Australia. The mountains are known as Woonoongoora in the Yugambeh language and have spiritual significance to local First Nations groups.

The park is located on the southern edge of the Scenic Rim—a chain of mountains running inland from the coast—and offers camping, picnic areas, lookouts, and hiking trails.

Getting There: Around an hour and a half south of Brisbane, you'll need a car for your trip to Lamington National Park. The roads in the park can be narrow and winding, so be sure to drive carefully.

Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for rare flora and fauna like the spotted-tailed quoll and Albert's lyrebird, as well as ancient Antarctic beech trees and hoop pines.

Lockyer Valley: Farms, Museums, and Wineries

 Pobblebonk / Getty Images

The rolling hills of the Lockyer Valley rise between Ipswich and the regional city of Toowoomba. This is a traditional farming region, packed with chances to sample the local produce and experience quirky country attractions. You can visit a lavender farm , learn about organic and sustainable farming , eat at a retro garage , check out the Queensland Transport Museum , and finish your day out at Preston Peak Wines .

Getting There: Public transport connections are available, including via the Brisbane to Toowoomba bus and the train to Rosewood. If you'd rather drive, the Lockyer Valley is an hour and a half west of Brisbane.

Travel Tip: If you've got a few days spare in your itinerary, take the chance to immerse yourself in the agricultural lifestyle of the Lockyer Valley at a local farm stay like the one at Fordsdale Farmstay .

Caloundra: Gateway to the Sunshine Coast

James Bartram / EyeEm / Getty Images

Brisbane is sandwiched between two iconic Aussie vacation destinations, with the Sunshine Coast to the north and the Gold Coast to the south. Caloundra is the gateway to the Sunshine Coast. This relaxed beach town has a family-friendly atmosphere thanks to the many protected beaches along Pumicestone Passage that offer respite from the East Coast's notoriously wild surf. In the hinterland, the picturesque Glass House Mountains dominate the landscape.

Getting There: Caloundra is located just an hour and a half's drive from Brisbane. You can also take the train to Landsborough and change onto a bus to Caloundra. The public transport trip will take around two hours.

Travel Tip: Stop by Pocket Espresso Bar at Moffat Beach or White Picket Fence at Bulcock Beach for brunch while you're in town.

Shorncliffe: A Quiet Seaside Suburb

Colin Baker / Getty Images

The bayside suburbs of Shorncliffe, Sandgate and Brighton in Brisbane's north-east make a refreshing escape from the city. Here, life moves at a slower pace, whether you're watching the sunrise, grabbing a coffee from a local cafe or sharing fish and chips on the waterfront. The heritage houses that line the waterfront make for a pleasant stroll, while Shorncliffe pier is one of the city's most iconic landscapes.

Getting There: It'll take you 40 minutes to reach Shorncliffe by car or 50 minutes on the train from Brisbane.

Travel Tip: The protected water of the bay are ideal for paddle boarding, sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing. Contact Surf Connect for all the details.

Moreton Island: Hiking, Snorkeling, and Swimming

Jules Ingall / Getty Images 

Moreton is a sand island known for its beaches, hiking trails, sand dunes, snorkeling, diving, and plentiful wildlife. Most of the island is covered by a national park , but beachside camping is available, as well as more traditional accommodation options.

There is plenty to do and see within walking distance of Tangalooma Resort, where the ferry from Brisbane drops off passengers, but if you want to venture further afield you will need to book a tour or bring your own car on the ferry .

Getting There: The pedestrian ferry journey to Tangalooma Resort takes 75 minutes, with multiple departures daily from the Holt Street Wharf.

Travel Tip: The Traditional Custodians of Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) are the Quandamooka people and there are many cultural sites on the island, including shell middens and a stone quarry. If you come across one of these sites, be careful not to disturb it.

Dayboro: The Ideal Roadtrip Destination

The town of Dayboro is another quaint road trip destination. With a population of only around 2,000 people, it punches well above its weight thanks to venues like the Dayboro Art Gallery , Ocean View Estates winery and restaurant , and the nearby Mount Mee. The mountain's main attraction is Dahmongah Lookout Park , with views over the Glass House Mountains, Caloundra, and Moreton Bay.

Getting There: Northwest of Brisbane, Dayboro can be reached by car from Brisbane in just under an hour.

Travel Tip: Half an hour further north, the town of Woodford is home to a garden cafe and a classic local pub .

The Gold Coast: A Glitzy Resort City

 Mike Mackinven / Getty Images

The Gold Coast stands out as Australia's most traditional resort city, with theme parks, nightlife, and high-rise hotels on the beach. With 35 miles of beaches (including the famous stretch at Surfer's Paradise and local favorite Burleigh Heads), the Gold Coast is a great place to take some surfing lessons, go snorkeling, or even try skydiving.

Refuel at Elk Espresso or Bam Bam Bakehouse before shopping for a new swimsuit at Pacific Fair or browsing the weekend markets. If you've got a few days to spare, you can stay at the luxurious Palazzo Versace (yes, that Versace) or boutique gem the Island .

Getting There: The Gold Coast is an hour's drive south of Brisbane and can also be reached by train in around the same amount of time.

Travel Tip: If you're celebrating a special occasion, be sure to treat yourself to a meal at Yamagen or Social Eating House .

Springbrook National Park: Rainforest, Waterfalls, and More

Masahiro Noguchi / Getty Images

Springbrook National Park is located in the Gold Coast hinterland. Like Lamington National Park, Springbrook is part of the  Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area . The main attraction is the Natural Bridge, where water pours through a hole in the roof of the cave. At night, especially between December and March, sparkling glowworms light up the cave.

Getting There: Springbrook is just under two hours' drive south of Brisbane.

Travel Tip: Lucky visitors may encounter pademelons (a type of rainforest wallaby) on the way to the Best of All lookout .

Tambourine Mountain: Marvel at the Glowworms

RobertDowner / Getty Images

At Tambourine Mountain, you can see glow worms all year round in an artificial cave . This area is packed with adventurous activities for families, including the Tambourine Rainforest Skywalk , Botanic Gardens , Thunderbird Park , and the Treetop Challenge . There are plenty of waterfalls and hiking trails on the mountain itself, which is mostly a part of a national park. Start with the Curtis Falls and Cedar Creek Falls walks. There are plenty of accommodation options in town, ranging from camping to boutique hotels.

Getting There: Tambourine Mountain is an hour's drive south of Brisbane.

Travel Tip: For the adults, Fortitude Brewery and Tambourine Mountain Distillery offer tastings of beer and spirits respectively.

North Stradbroke Island: Watersports and Whale Watching

Hakan Deliç / Getty Images

Arguably Brisbane's most popular day-trip destination, North Stradbroke Island is the world’s second-largest sand island. (The largest, Fraser Island, can be found further north in Queensland.) Stradbroke has something for everyone, with SUPing, surfing, snorkeling, fishing, and hiking, as well as whale watching between June and October. Buses and taxis are in service on the island, which also has lots of accommodation options.

Getting There: Ferries and water taxis regularly depart from Cleveland (40 minutes by car or train from Brisbane city center) and take around 50 minutes to reach North Stradbroke Island.

Travel Tip: The island is known as Straddie for short, or Minjerribah to the Traditional Custodians, the Quandamooka people.

Coochiemudlo Island: Relax by the Beach

mvaligursky / Getty Images

Coochiemudlo Island is protected from the open sea by North Stradbroke Island on its eastern side, with deserted beaches and calm waters for SUPing, kayaking, and fishing. Depending on the time of year, you may be able to spot dolphins, dugongs, turtles, and whales from the shore. The permanent population is only around 700 people and you can easily get around on foot, although boat and bicycle hire is available.

Getting There: This little island paradise is not far away, just a 10-minute ferry ride from Victoria Coast south-west of Brisbane.

Travel Tip: If you're traveling on a budget, you can pack a picnic and make the most of the free barbecue areas. There are no grocery stores on the island, but you can also dine in at the beach kiosk, cafe, or hotel restaurant.

Byron Bay: Surf, Shop, and Party

TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon

Initially developing as a hippie and surfer hub during the 1960s and '70s, today Byron is one of Australia's hottest beach destinations with world-famous hotels , restaurants , and boutiques. Of course, the real drawcard is the beaches, known for their incredible surf and postcard-perfect settings. Head to Main Beach to be in the center of the action or Wategos for a bit more solitude.

Getting There: Byron is a two-hour drive south of Brisbane or around three hours on the bus.

Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for humpback whales between June and November and beware of the crowds in late December and early January.

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18 Best Road Trips from Brisbane

Home of the Lamington, Brisbane is an urban metropolis whose strongest suit is its proximity to so many more stunning Australian cities, parks, forests and beaches that are perfect to tackle on a day-long, weekend-long or even week-long road trip.

Choose from these 18 road trips from Brisbane and discover the beauty that this beautiful country has to offer. From bustling cities and coastal escapes to unique inland experiences and gorgeous tropical islands, there's sure to be a trip for you.

Take the plunge and keep reading to discover our favourite road trips from Brisbane, organised from the nearest to furthest.

Best road trips from Brisbane: a quick overview

Day trips from Brisbane (under 3 hours each way)

1. Stradbroke Island and Moreton Island (via MICAT Car Ferry)

45 minutes from Brisbane (60 km)

Why you should visit: The closest road trip on this list, this trip takes you right across Moreton Bay to Stradbroke Island and Moreton Islands, two gorgeous spaces perfect for a day's trip. You basically don't even have to leave the city to enjoy the picturesque vistas found on these two islands.

These heavenly islands are a wonderful and laidback day's escape from Brisbane, boasting rich Indigenous culture, diverse wildlife and tons of outdoor activities in the waters of the Coral Sea.

How to get there: To get to Stradbroke Island, direct yourself towards Cleveland, about an hour away from downtown Brisbane. From there, you can take a water taxi or car ferry across to North Stradbroke.

To get to Moreton Island, take the MICAT Car Ferry, a 90-minute journey. The ferry departs from the Port of Brisbane and operates on a demand-based timetable, meaning that on a quieter day you should expect fewer journeys to choose from.

Our highlights: While Stradbroke is busier and offers dining and shopping options, Moreton Island, which is entirely made up of sand, is more park-like and secluded.

You'll be able to spot dolphins, manta rays, turtles, and whales from the shores, and can admire koalas and kangaroos passing through the camping and park grounds.

Looking for a dose of history? Enjoy a historical walk along the Goompi trail on Stradbroke Island with a local Aboriginal guide to discover the rich culture of the people that have inhabited this island for millennia.

There's no better way to understand and appreciate this culture than to get in touch with the natural beauty that is so central to it.

We hope you've packed your walking shoes, as so much of Stradbroke and Moreton is best discovered on foot; the North Gorge Walk on Stradbroke Island is one of this island's most beautiful trails, taking you along the beautiful blue waters along the sea-facing coast.

There's no shortage of views on the islands, but we think the best one of is at the top of Moreton's tallest mountain. With a peak of just over 286 meters, you're sure to find breathtaking views of the sea and Gold Coast. Perfect for a photo op or to enjoy an unbeatable sunset.

Bonus: The original name of Stradbroke Island is Minjerribah; the island is still home to a large community of the Quandamooka People, the original caretakers of this land.

Our travel tips: We recommend booking your ferries in advance to ensure your spot, as well as your vehicles'. Keep in mind that ferry frequency changes depending on how high the demand is; while some days have ferries on the half-hour, others may just have one or two a day.

These gorgeous islands offer many outdoor activities; make sure to pack accordingly, including sunscreen, a bathing suit and a hat to protect you from the sun.

2. Lamington and Springbrook National Parks

Via canungra and tamborine mountain.

1 hour 30 minutes from Brisbane (110 km)

Why you should visit: Get a two-for-one deal on this road trip that takes you to Springbrook and Lamington National Parks, two of this region's most lush green spaces that boast lush forests, creeks, waterfalls, and dramatic lookouts.

You'll also have the chance to view an extremely rare marsupial, the Australian native and carnivorous quoll, indigenous to this region.

How to get there: These parks are located just south of Brisbane. To get there, exit the city via the M3, then get yourself to the M1. Tamborine Mountain is located about halfway to the National Parks, just off the M1. Once you've thoroughly explored Tamborine Mountain, you'll find Canungra about 10 kilometres away, and the two National Parks are easily reachable via State Routes 90, 99 and 97.

Our highlights: Take the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk to discover this beautiful region's natural offerings. This hour-long walk features a stop at the Rainforest Eco Gallery, which explores Tamborine Mountain's local and Indigenous History.

While there are tons of ways to discover Lamington and Springbrook National Park (including several guided tours), we think that there is no better option than exploring these stunning natural parks by yourself along one of many walking trails. Lace up your sneakers and get ready for a relaxing walk through some of Australia's most beautiful forests.

Looking for a dose of furry cuteness? Mountview Alpaca Farm is located just a few minutes' drive from Canungra; here, you'll be able to interact with and feed this docile and playful animal. This farm also boasts a wonderful gift shop.

If you're looking for a place to shop, the Gallery Walk on Tamborine Mountain is the spot for you, boasting over sixty art, craft, gift and knick-knack shops. You'll also be able to find tons of delicious locally made treats, including cheeses, chocolates, and signature wines.

Bonus: These two parks are quite different when it comes to size: while Lamington National Park, covers over 51,000 acres of land, Springbrook National Park is significantly smaller, at just over 15,000 acres.

Our travel tips: Make sure to check the national park's websites before planning your trip; depending on the season and precipitation levels, the park's trails may be closed.

3. Sunshine Coast

Via caloundra.

1 hour 20 minutes from Brisbane (120 km)

Why you should visit: There's nothing on this list quite like the Sunshine Coast, the nearest region of coastal beaches and relaxing towns that boast blinding white sands and crystal-clear waters, as well as Heritage-listed national parks and charming historic villages.

Discover secluded beaches and luxurious dining experiences on the Sunshine Coast, stopping along the way in Caloundra, the “southern belle” of this region that boasts a rich surf culture and lots of outdoor adventuring. It's the perfect combination of relaxation and outdoor fun.

How to get there: The Sunshine Coast is a region just north of Brisbane; to get there, take the M1 from Brisbane to Glenview. Then, take exit 188 to Caloundra, and in minutes you'll have arrived in this sunny destination.

Once you're finished with Caloundra, follow State Route 6 to the Sunshine Coast, which stretches more than 60 kilometres, meaning there are plenty of options for places to stop and take a swim in Australia's beautiful waters.

Our highlights: Being so close to the bountiful Coral Sea means you're sure to find some tasty and fresh meals, and true to form, this region is celebrated for its delicious seafood offerings.

For the gastronomes out there, make sure to grab a bite at one of the many restaurants along the coastline; there you'll be able to enjoy a wonderful meal and an even better view.

One of the Sunshine Coast's most popular attractions, the Australia Zoo is home to tons of native animals as well as the world-renowned Wildlife Animal Hospital. Take a break from the water to check out the many animals that call Australia home.

Health culture is super big in Australia, and there's no better way to get a taste of it than by checking out the Ginger Factory at Yandina, which offers free admission to its gardens, shopping facilities, walking trails and 120-year-old ginger train. You can also stop in at this factory's café where you can indulge in tastings of this delicious and healthy root.

Looking for a dose of cardio? There's no better way to get your heart pumping than by taking the 2-hour climb up Mount Coolum, a 25-million-year-old volcanic dome that offers unparalleled views of the surrounding National Parks and coast.

Bonus: Did you know that from 1962 to 1983, Mudjimba Island just off the Sunshine Coast was owned by 007 himself, the late great Sean Connery?

Our travel tips: The Sunshine Coast boasts over 60 kilometres of beaches, which means that with a little exploration you'll definitely be able to find the right beach for you.

Looking for something secluded? Try further north! Looking for something closer to restaurants and bustling with activity? Try a beach further south, near Caloundra.

4. Mt Barney National Park and Scenic Rim

Via wyaralong dam and boonah.

1 hour 50 minutes from Brisbane (130 km)

Why you should visit: The Scenic Rim was recently named one of Lonely Planet's Top 10 Regions, Best in Travel 2022, and we think this road trip offers unparalleled opportunities for nature exploration within its many forested mountains.

Take a trip to Mount Barney National Park and the greater Scenic Rim, a quick drive from Brisbane and boasting vibrant art galleries, craft breweries, and boutique vineries in its many small towns.

Stop at the massive Wyaralong Dam along the way, or visit the charming town of Boonah, whose scenery has been characterised as “Switzerland without the snow.”

How to get there: Take the M3 out of Brisbane, then continue along the M5 and State Route 93 towards Scenic Dam. Then, exit onto State Route 90 towards Wyaralong for a stop at this world-famous dam.

Return to State Route 93, and within a few minutes you'll have reached the exit to Boonah. From Boonah, the Burnett Creek Road towards Mount Barney National Park, which is within the Scenic Rim region.

Our highlights: Mount Barney is a stunning national park, offering valleys, caves, rockpools and woodland forests, and we think that the best way to discover this wonderful attraction is by exploring it on foot. You'll have tons of trails to choose from, and you can even pack yourself a picnic to enjoy along the way.

Something unique about Mount Barney is that it's host to seven peaks above 1000m, which means you'll have tons of opportunities for mountain climbing and hiking through gorgeous forests. A great workout that ends with unparalleled views of this park!

For the particularly adventurous, we recommend the Discover Scenic Rim Adventure Park. This 680-acre property offers a host of activities that'll be sure to get your adrenaline flowing, including four-wheel driving, mountain biking, walking trails and several mazes.

Locals will tell you that the best way to get an idea of the Scenic Rim's sheer scale is through a unique and unforgettable hot air balloon ride across the region. You can choose from a variety of pickup locations, including Nerang and Canungra, as well as several operating companies.

Our travel tips: Just like with the other National Parks on this list, we recommend checking the Queensland Government website which will tell you about any closures or inclement weather warnings.

This road trip offers tons of locations that are perfect to explore by foot; pack a comfortable pair of shoes and be prepared to get a little workout in, especially at the national park.

5. Toowoomba and Darling Downs Region

Via ipswich.

1 hour 30 minutes from Brisbane (150 km)

Why you should visit: Coffee and wine anyone? This road trip takes you to Toowoomba, the largest inland city in Queensland which boasts a growing urban coffee culture; from there, you can explore the Darling Down region, celebrated for its award-winning vineyards.

Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, Toowoomba is a garden-filled city that is bursting with culture and fun activities. Pass through Ipswich on the way, Queensland's oldest provincial city that offers over 6000 heritage-listed sites. History and fun, all in one.

How to get there: This wine-forward region is easily accessible from Brisbane. First, get on the M3 and then the M5 out of Brisbane. Then, take the M7, M2 and Warrego Highway towards Ipswich, located along State Route 38.

Once you've enjoyed this town's many historical sites, get on the M2, then take the Warrego Highway to East Toowoomba. The Darling Down region is located just west of Toowoomba; the best way to discover the wineries in this region is to take a tour or choose a specific winery and make your way there.

Our highlights: Toowoomba is known for its stunning gardens; make sure to check out one of its several parks, including Laurel Banks, Queens Park and the Japanese Gardens. If visiting in the spring, you can also catch the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, the longest-running floral event of its kind in Australia.

While there are lots of museums to choose from in Toowomba, our favourite is the Cobb+Co Museum, home of Australia's national horse-drawn carriage collection and boasting unique exhibits which explore the region's heritage.

This town is known for its rising contemporary art scene, and the best part is that much of it is available for free! Follow the Laneway Street Art Crawl to take in the colorful graffiti in this area or visit the Toowoomba Gallery which boasts tons of works by Australian and Indigenous artists.

Did somebody say wine? This isn't the first destination on this list which boasts a rich wine culture, however, it's definitely the closest.

While there are tons of wineries to choose from in this area, Ballandean Estate Wines is the oldest winery on the Granite Belt and a great starting point on your journey to becoming a sommelier.

Bonus: Ever heard of the Australian “Lamington”? While Brisbane may now be home to this delicious treat, it was supposedly first made in Toowoomba by a cook improvising on an existing cake recipe for Lord Lamington, who visited this town in 1886.

Our travel tips: To avoid confusion, remember that Toowoomba refers to the region in which this city is found in, as well as the region itself.

Regarding visiting wineries, it's good to note that different vineyards will have different protocols for those looking to indulge in tastings. While some will offer tours and tastings for free or at a reasonable price-per-head, others may only offer bottles for purchase.

6. Gold Coast and Byron Bay

2 hours 10 minutes from Brisbane (170 km)

Why you should visit: This is the place to go if you're looking for a combination of nightlife, family fun, and stunning beaches. While other destinations on this list may offer beautiful beaches or wild nightlife, none combine the two quite like Byron Bay and the Gold Coast.

Byron Bay is a unique destination on this list, a coastal town in the state of New South Wales that's known for its lively nightlife and gorgeous beaches. The Gold Coast is just north of Byron Bay, stretching along the Coral Sea. It boasts tons of amusement and theme parks, luxurious hotels and opportunities for water sports and beach fun.

How to get there: Byron Bay and the Gold Coast are basically one coastal drive down from Brisbane. Exit the city via the M1 Southbound, then take exit 69 from the M1, and soon you'll have reached the Gold Coast.

Continue exploring the coastline, or get back on the M1, which you can follow until you've reached Byron Bay.

Our highlights: Explore Dreamworld, one of Australia's favourite theme parks on the Gold Coast boasting a variety of rides and attractions, tons of on-site restaurants and a wildlife conservation park.

Make sure to check out Tiger Island, the only place on the Gold Coast where you can view these majestic animals up close.

If you're looking for a bit of history, make sure to check out the Byron Bay Lighthouse, built in 1901 and standing on the east-most point of the Australian mainland. You'll have to take a short climb to get there, but we're sure that you'll find the view to be worth it.

Take a trip to the silver screen at Warner Bros. Movie World. This is Australia's only film-related theme park and the oldest Warner Bros Park in the world. A visit here will allow you to discover tons of film memorabilia and film-related rides.

If that isn't enough, Warner Bros. Movie World also boasts tons of restaurants and on-site food options sure to satisfy any craving.

Before Byron Bay became the fun haven it is today, it was mostly covered by swamps! While most of the swamplands have been covered or built over, you can always walk the Cumbebin Wetland Sanctuary Boardwalk, which takes you back to Byron Bay's swampy beginnings.

Bonus: Craving a Big Mac? You'll have to be prepared for a drive out of the city as you won't find a Mcdonald's anywhere in Byron Bay, a result of protests from locals in the 1990s who kept out multi-national fast-food chains in favour of small businesses.

Our travel tips: Byron Bay is a small city in the larger Byron Shire. When booking accommodations, make sure to check that your room is located within the city itself and not somewhere in the suburbs.

Try to avoid visiting Byron Bay in the summer, which can get quite rainy and tends to be busy with tourists, opting for the autumn or spring instead.

7. Noosa and Great Sandy National Park

2 hours 20 minutes from Brisbane (180 km)

Why you should visit: Relaxed and luxurious, this road trip to Noosa and Great Sandy National Park is the perfect trip for a day or weekend getaway to somewhere fabulous and bougie.

Visit Noosa if you're looking for someplace to unwind and luxuriate; explore boutique accommodations and shops in this city, known for its fashion and food scene. If that wasn't enough, nearby Great Sandy National Park offers stunning sandy beaches and brilliantly coloured sands.

How to get there: Noosa is at the North-most point of the Sunshine Coast. To get there, exit Brisbane via the M1 then continue towards the Sunshine Coast. You'll pass most of the Sunshine Coast before reaching Noosa; from there, Great Sandy National Park is a quick 20-minute drive.

Our highlights: Is there anything better than getting luxuriously pampered while staying in a tropical paradise? During your stay in Noosa, we recommend visiting one of the four nearby spas, offering tons of services including massage, exfoliation, and hydro/aqua therapy.

There's no shopping district on the Sunshine Coast quite like Hastings Street, offering dozens of independent boutiques where you'll find everything from clothing to homewares. Just make sure you don't buy more than you can fit in your car, or you'll have a tough time getting back to Brisbane.

Whether you're a yoga novice or an expert in sun salutations, we think you're sure to enjoy catching a gorgeous sunrise during a morning beachside yoga class. There are a few different companies and types of yoga to choose from, and you may have to do a bit of research to find the option that's perfect for your level.

Explore Great Sandy National Park on foot or by four-wheel drive, depending on what kind of adventure experience you're looking for. This park is known for its colourful sands and many lighthouses, so keep an eye out for those during your exploratory walk or drive.

Bonus: The name “Noosa” comes from the local Aboriginal word “Noothera” or “Gnuthuru” which means shadow or shady place in the Kabi Kabi language.

Our travel tips: Noosa is a slightly more upscale beach town along the Sunshine Coast, so be prepared for pricier accommodation and attractions prices. We definitely think that the somewhat higher prices are worth it, given all the beauty that this destination has to offer.

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Weekend trips from Brisbane (3-5 hours each way)

8. Stanthorpe and Girraween National Park

3 hours 10 minutes from Brisbane (250 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip takes you to Stanthorpe, the biggest city in the Granite Belt which is celebrated for its wine production. Nearby Girraween National Park boasts tons of hiking trails and unique rock formations.

This inland escape is centred around Stanthorpe, known for its many wineries and home to a variety of delicious restaurants, chic cafes, boutique stores and galleries.

Outside of Stanthorpe, you'll find lush landscapes, picturesque vineyards and the stunning Girraween National Park, full of unique rock formations.

How to get there: To get to Stanthorpe, take the M3 out of Brisbane, then follow the M5 to merge onto National Highway 15. Follow this route all the way to Stanthorpe. To get to Girraween National Park, get back onto National Highway 15, then turn left onto Pyramids Road; within minutes you'll find yourself at the entrance to this beautiful park.

Our highlights: Iconic of Girraween National Park is Balancing Rock, a massive formation that hangs in the air and which is a favourite selfie spot for the Girraween's many visitors. As they say: if you didn't take a picture, did it even happen?

Calling all wine lovers! As we've already established, the Granite Belt has some of the most delicious wines in the world; we think there's no better way to discover this region's many vineyards than through a bicycle tour.

Choose from either a self-guided or host-led to discover the fruits of this beautiful region.

For the foodies out there, we highly recommend taking a tour of the Truffle Discovery Centre in Stanthorpe, where you'll have the opportunity to pick up a range of truffle products.

Stanthorpe is actually one of the few places in the world where the rare French Black Perigord Truffle is available all year, so it's the perfect spot to stock up on this coveted fungus.

Our travel tips: While the colder climate and elevation is to thank for Stanthorpe's wine and food offerings, there's no denying that it can get quite cold in the winter. If visiting during the colder months, make sure to pack warm layers.

9. South Burnett

Via glass house mountains.

3 hours 50 minutes from Brisbane (270 km)

Why you should visit: The South Burnett region is an ideal weekend escape destination, boasting tons of wineries throughout Queensland's newest wine region as well as hiking and biking trails.

This road trip is truly for the lovers of agritourism and natural attractions; discover tons of vineyards, learn about this region's historical peanut industry, or take in the beautiful surrounding mountains and lake regions.

How to get there: To get to South Burnett, exit Brisbane via the M1, which you can follow all the way to the Glass House Mountains. From there, take Coonowrin Road, Glass House Woodford Road and Beerburrum Road until you reach D'Aguilar Highway.

Take D'Aguilar Highway for about 130 kilometres, then get onto Memerambi Gordonbrook Road which will take you into the centre of the South Burnett region.

Our highlights: This road trip takes you to this fabulous destination via the Glass House Mountains, a collection of rocky peaks that are the favourites amongst mountain climbers.

If you're in the mood for relaxation along the water, we recommend taking a trip to Lake Boondooma. There, you'll have the opportunity to swim or sail in tranquil waters or enjoy a picnic along this serene body of water's peaceful shores.

South Burnett is a wine lovers' paradise; we recommend creating your own path through this region's famous wineries, many of which offer free tastings. Just make sure to call in advance to let them know you're coming and check opening/closing hours.

Discover the Kingaroy Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the town's agricultural history before enjoying a trip to Kingaroy's Peanut Van. This factory's heritage-listed peanut silos have been housing this delicious nut since 1969 and are a signature monument in this region.

Take a journey through the remains of an ancient volcano on your visit to the Bunya Mountains, the second oldest national park in Queensland. This area features over 35 kilometres of walking trails as well as a summit 1100m over sea level, guaranteed to get your blood pumping.

Our travel tips: South Burnett enjoys a warm and subtropical climate, but its nights tend to be quite cool (this is one of the reasons why grapes grow so well here.). Be sure to pack something warm to wear in the evening regardless of the season.

Long weekend trips from Brisbane (5-8 hours each way)

10. Fraser Island

6 hours from Brisbane (350 km)

Why you should visit: Fraser Island (K'Gari) is an incredibly unique ecosystem, unparalleled by any other island in the world. A World Heritage Listed site, this stunning island is the only place in the world where a rainforest has been known to grow from sand.

It's also host to over 100 freshwater lakes (despite being surrounded by saltwater), forty of which are entirely made up of rainwater. This road trip is the ideal long weekend trip, and a must-see for nature lovers who are looking to experience a unique natural world.

How to get there: Just a 6-hour drive away, Fraser Island is easy to reach. Take the M1 out of Brisbane and follow it for several hours, until you reach State Route 57. Then, follow this road until you reach River Heads – Fraser Island.

From here, you can take a car ferry to Fraser Island.

Our highlights: Fraser Island is host to numerous gorgeous landscapes and natural wonders, which you can explore on foot or via four-wheel drive. You'll be able to see subtropical rainforests, wild beaches, towering sand dunes and turquoise lakes on this magnificent island.

Discover the stunning wildlife native to this land, which includes dingoes, kangaroos, sugar gliders and brushtail possums; gaze into the blue waters to catch a glimpse of whales, dolphins and dugongs (aka sea cows).

Take a drive along the 75-mile beach along the east coast of Fraser Island, where you can get a look at some of the island's biggest attractions including the Maheno shipwreck and the bubbly rock pools, called Champagne Pools.

One of the most interesting ways to discover this island's beauty is by plane; take a 15-minute tour of Fraser Island through a company called Air Fraser Island, the only tour company operating flights through this tropical paradise.

Bonus: Did you know that Fraser Island is the world's largest sand island?

Our travel tips: If taking the 75-mile beach drive, make sure to follow the speed limit (80 km/h) and make sure to keep an eye on the tides to avoid getting caught in a slippery situation.

11. Rockhampton and Yeppoon

8 hours from Brisbane (680 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip pairs Rockhampton, a busy commercial centre, with Yeppoon , a secluded beach, striking an ideal balance of metropolitan attractions and a retreat into nature.

Nicknamed ‘The Beef City', Rockhampton is the commercial centre of Central Queensland, boasting beautiful Victorian architecture and a historical past. Nearby Yeppoon is considered a hidden secret of this region for its secluded waters and proximity to the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

How to get there: To get to Rockhampton, take the M1 out of Brisbane. Then, merge onto Bruce Hwy/A1 and follow it directly to Rockhampton.

If looking to explore Yeppoon, simply hop onto Yeppoon Road which will take you to this gorgeous beach.

Our highlights: Discover the Capricorn Caves, a unique system of above-ground caves in a limestone ridge located 23 kilometres north of Rockhampton; one of the largest privately owned cave systems in Australia.

Looking to get a taste of history? Take a walk and explore Rockhampton's historic centre, where you'll find tons of Victoria-era buildings as well as the famous six statues of bovines dedicated to this city's steady beef industry.

We highly recommend a visit to the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens, widely regarded as one of the best in regional Australia and boasting guided tours through its 33-hectare property.

Rockhampton Heritage Village is the perfect place to discover and get in touch with this city's rich history; here, you'll find memorabilia and artefacts dating as far back as the 1850s as well as an entire village complete with a school, fire station, cottages and more.

Bonus: Did you know that Rockhampton was once in the running to become Australia's capital city? The honour eventually went to Canberra, ACT, which you'll find further along this list.

Our travel tips: Accommodation and activity prices for this city tend to be higher during the summer months and weekends, so make sure to book according to your budget.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Brisbane to Rockhampton

Longer trips from Brisbane (Over 8 hours each way)

Via Myall Lakes National Park and Newcastle

9 hours 40 minutes from Brisbane (950 km)

Why you should visit: This epic road trip will take you from Brisbane to iconic Sydney , Australia's most recognizable and largest city; discover beautiful Myall Lakes National Park and Newcastle along the way.

Sydney offers countless opportunities for exciting adventures and cultural experiences. It's the perfect road trip destination for those looking to enjoy a big city and discover an arts scene that's truly unrivalled by the rest of Australia.

How to get there: Take the M1 out of Brisbane, then continue along the Pacific Highway; this highway will take you along Australia's Eastern Coast towards Sydney. Along the way, you'll have the option of stopping at Myall Lakes National Park and Newcastle.

Our highlights: There's no building in Australia as iconic as the stunning Sydney Opera House, designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon. This multi-venue performing arts centre sitting in Sydney Harbour is a must-see for any visitor making the trek out to this bustling city.

Bondi Beach is a busy and historic beach, easily reachable from Sydney's centre via public transport or personal vehicle. This beach is known for the trendy bars, cafes and boutique shops that surround it.

Take a stroll through Sydney's famous Royal Botanic Gardens, Australia's oldest living scientific institution and the place to find tons of rare plant species native to the country. The best part about this attraction is that there is no entrance fee.

For the art-heads, the Art Gallery of New South Wales boasts a rich collection of Australian, European, and Asian art. This gallery is located just a minutes' walk from the Botanic Gardens, so you could definitely tackle both in a day.

Bonus: Did you know that the Sydney Opera House was first formally opened by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 1973?

Our travel tips: Bondi Beach can get quite crowded during the peak swimming season; to avoid crowds, try to visit during the shoulder seasons or early in the morning when people will be fewer. Also, make sure to pack sunscreen; the sun in Sydney is particularly strong.

Finally, traffic in Sydney is known to be quite bad; the best move to see the city is to leave your car at the hotel and explore by foot/public transit.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Brisbane to Sydney

13. Airlie Beach and The Whitsundays

12 hours 30 minutes from Brisbane (1,110 km)

Why you should visit: This is the road trip for those looking to discover the Southern Great Barrier Reef , the world's largest coral reef. You'll also have the chance to stop at Airlie Beach on your way to the islands, a resort town where you'll find crystal clear waters and sandy beaches.

Discover the Great Barrier Reef in a variety of different ways, including by snorkel or by boat, or cruise through the 70+ islands that make up The Whitsundays.

How to get there: Getting to the Whitsundays is relatively simple: first, take the M1 out of Brisbane, and then follow the A1 towards Airlie Beach. Take State Route 59 to arrive at the resort town, then easily continue to The Whitsundays, just a few minutes away by car.

Our highlights: One of the top-rated beaches in all of Australia, Whitehaven Beach is a must-see for anyone looking to get the best out of the Whitsundays. Explore the stunning reef by snorkel or enjoy a hike up to the Hill Inlet lookout to see this paradise from above.

There's no better way to discover the seventy-plus islands that make up the Whitsundays than by cruise. There are several services that offer tours; you can choose from luxurious boat cruises to adventurous multi-day kayaking adventures.

While visiting Airlie Beach, make sure to take a dip in the pristine waters of the Airlie Beach Lagoon, a stunning freshwater oasis right by the beach which offers an opportunity to relax in the mellow waters of this man-made pool.

We can't think of anything more relaxing than heading towards the Whitsundays' many stunning beaches for a picnic. If you're looking for a taste of something local, head down to the Whitsunday Markets, which are open Saturdays and boast tons of fresh produce, food stalls and massage tents.

Bonus: Did you know that the Great Barrier Reef, which the Whitsundays are a part of, is the largest living ecosystem in the world?

Our travel tips: If you're looking to stay near the Whitsunday Islands, opt for accommodation on Airlie Beach, which is nearby and which will be more affordable than the opulent resorts on the islands themselves.

Be prepared for a good number of tourists if you're visiting during the peak season; Whitehaven Beach is, after all, rated as one of if not the best in Australia.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Brisbane to Airlie Beach

14. Canberra

12 hours 20 minutes from Brisbane (1,270 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip will take you to Australia's capital city of Canberra. While you may think that other, more renowned cities such as Melbourne or Sydney might have been chosen as the capital, it's actually Canberra that won the prestigious title.

Visit Canberra via the historical city of Orange to discover a capital brimming with arts and culture; and just outside the city, you'll find beautiful natural reserves and stunning mountain ranges that are certainly worth exploring.

How to get there: To get to Canberra, take the M3 out of Brisbane. Then, get yourself onto Warrego Highway then A39 and Newell Highway for just over 700 kilometres until you reach Mendooran Road.

From there, take Mitchell Highway and continue until you've reached Orange, then get onto Barton Highway which you can follow to Canberra.

Our highlights: We recommend checking out Australia's new Parliament House in downtown Canberra, a gorgeous contemporary building that is open to the public for tours and educational exhibits.

Also downtown in Canberra's centre, you'll find Lake Burley Griffin which is surrounded by galleries, museums, cafes, restaurants, and parks, as well as cycling and walking paths. There's no better way to discover Canberra than by taking a walk through its downtown core, starting at this famous lake.

Discover the National Gallery of Australia in this bustling city, which is the custodian of the world's largest and most outstanding collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. Here you'll find touring and permanent exhibitions featuring works by some of the greats and new artists.

For the foodies, visit Orange along the way to discover some of Australia's best fine-dining restaurants and vineyards. Orange is the ultimate foodie dream.

Bonus: Canberra is one of the few capital cities that were built exclusively with the purpose of being a capital city. Some other examples include New Delhi, Washington DC and Ankara.

Our travel tips: If you're considering visiting the Australian parliament, keep in mind that opening hours may vary—make sure to check online before heading over.

15. Melbourne

18 hours 10 minutes from Brisbane (1,790 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip takes you to two of the largest metropolitan cities in all of Australia: Melbourne and Sydney. It's the perfect trip for those who are more interested in Australia's cosmopolitan rather than natural offerings.

Melbourne is one of Australia's main cultural capitals, full to the brim with delicious food, amazing music venues, inspiring art galleries and multicultural festivals.

How to get there: Take the M3 out of Brisbane, then follow the Pacific Highway for several hundred kilometres until you've reached Sydney. From Sydney, get onto the M5, and follow the M5 until you've reached the M31, which you can follow through Victoria until you reach Melbourne.

Our highlights: There are an endless number of art museums and galleries in the city of Melbourne; one of the standouts is the National Gallery of Victoria, founded in 1861. This is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, boasting a wonderful collection from both local artists and recognized greats.

A major landmark in Melbourne's business district, Queen Victoria Market covers over seven hectares and is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Take a morning to shop around this massive space, where you'll find everything from rare Australian fruits to wonderful souvenirs.

There's no view of Melbourne that can quite compare to the one you'll get if you climb the Melbourne Skydeck. Located at the top of one of Melbourne's tallest skyscrapers, this enclosed viewing deck is the ideal place to see the city in its entirety from above.

Discover the beautiful architecture and a lively cultural hub at Federation Square, a venue for arts, culture and public events that sits right on the edge of Melbourne's central business district.

Featuring cafes and bars around a large and paved square, this district is the perfect place to let loose and enjoy Melbourne's distinct artistic culture.

Bonus: Did you know that Melbourne has the largest tram system outside of Europe, as well as the fourth largest in the world overall?

Our travel tips: There are tons of festivals taking place in Melbourne year-round – if you're looking for an extra good time, try to plan your trip to coincide with one of this city's many popular events.

Also, make sure to purchase your public transport pass at a station or retail outlet, as they aren't available for purchase on the trams themselves.

16. Cairns and Daintree Rainforest

22 hours from Brisbane (1,820 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip is for those looking to discover two unique ecosystems: the Great Barrier Reef and the Australian Rainforest. This road trip from Brisbane to Cairns is also the northmost out of the ones on this list.

Cairns is a unique city in Australia, boasting laid-back vibes and uniquely beautiful natural spaces. Take a snorkel dive into the world's largest ecosystem or relax in one of this city's many trendy cafes and bars.

On the other hand, the Daintree Rainforest offers an unparalleled experience, with its emerald-green foliage and fascinating wildlife.

How to get there: Take State Route 15 out of Brisbane, then follow the M1 to Bruce Hwy/A1 which will pretty much take you straight to Cairns City. When you're ready to explore nearby Daintree Forest, follow National Route 1 and Captain Cook Hwy northbound. You'll have to take a ferry across the Daintree River to reach this beautiful tropical paradise.

Our highlights: If the offerings of the Great Barrier Reef aren't enough to satisfy your hunger for discovering marine life, we recommend checking out the Cairns Aquarium which connects you with 16,000 species of animals across 10 different ecosystems and 71 different exhibits.

Take a walk (or a run) along the Cairns Esplanade, one of the most scenic workout spots in Australia which overlooks the Coral Sea.

If you're visiting Cairns, you absolutely must take the time to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. The world's largest living ecosystem and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning underwater paradise spans over 350,000 square kilometres up the coastline and is positively brimming with marine life.

The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest in the world, dating back over 135 million years. It's an absolute must-see on this list, boasting a complex ecosystem and stunning vistas.

There are several ways to discover this paradise, including two and four-hour walking tours as well as self-guided walking trails.

Bonus: The Great Barrier Reef is home to innumerable species including 6 species of turtles, 215 species of birds, 17 species of sea snakes and more than 1500 species of fish!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Brisbane to Cairns

17. Adelaide

Via murray-sunset national park.

22 hours from Brisbane (2,070 km)

Why you should visit: If you're looking for a taste of the outback as well as something metropolitan, then this road trip is for you, taking you through Murray Sunset National Park before arriving at the bustling centre of Adelaide.

Visit Adelaide if you're looking for lush green parks, historic buildings and wonderful cultural offerings; the Murray-Sunset National Park is Victoria's premiere protected natural space, offerings tons of opportunities for outdoor fun and is famous for its pink lakes.

How to get there: Adelaide is quite the drive from Brisbane , but luckily it takes you through some beautiful passages in outback Australia. First, exit Brisbane via the M3. Then, take Warrego Highway in the direction of Adelaide through central New South Wales.

Follow the Sturt Highway/A20 and Hattah-Robinvale until you've reached Murray-Sunset; from there, follow Mallee Highway then National Highway M1 until you've reached Adelaide.

Our highlights: If you're looking for a combination of the natural and the historic, look no further than the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, a 51-hectare public garden that was opened in 1857 and where you can discover Australia's most fascinating plant species.

One of the oldest fresh food markets in Australia, the Adelaide Central Market is the ideal spot to shop for fresh produce or dine in one of several cafes and eateries.

Grab some cash (certain vendors may not accept card payment) and fill up on delicious goodies before heading over to one of Adelaide's many parks for a picnic.

Feeling up to a bit of culture? The Art Gallery of South Australia is a historic art museum that boasts the second-largest state art collection of Australia, including some works by Monet, Pissarro, and Renoir.

Murray Sunset National Park is host to a slew of natural wonders and gorgeous sights, though none are as famous as this park's pink lakes. These stunning bodies of water are unique to this region, and a must-see if stopping by Murray Sunset.

Our travel tips: If you want to catch the pink lakes while they're at their most pink, try to visit during late summer, when the water salinity level is such that the lakes will be the perfect bright bubble-gum pink.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Brisbane to Adelaide

18. Uluru and Alice Springs

32 hours from Brisbane (3,220 km)

Why you should visit: This road trip takes you right into the middle of the Australian outback , complete with stunning desert vistas and arid landscapes. If you're looking for something different than a beachy town or tropical forest, this trip is the one for you.

Discover Alice Springs, nicknamed the “Capital of the Outback”, where you'll find arid desert landscapes, beautiful gardens and Uluru, an Indigenous sacred site that will take your breath away.

How to get there: This is the furthest road trip on our list, but it's totally worth the drive. Take the M3 out of Brisbane, then follow the Warrego Highway, A39 and B76 to Castlereagh Highway.

From there, take the Stuart Highway until you've reached Uluru. Alice Springs is located about an hour's drive from this stunning monolith.

Our highlights: An ancient sandstone monolith located within the centre of arid Australia, Uluru is estimated to be around 600 million years old and is an incredibly significant Aboriginal sacred site and one of the country's most visited attractions.

Alice Springs is a popular outback destination for those looking to escape into Australia's red deserts. There are tons of art galleries to choose from in this town, many of which feature the works of local Indigenous artists.

There's no better way to explore Australia's Outback than by bike, which you can rent within Alice Springs. This is a popular form of transport because of how flat Alice Springs is, making it an easy terrain to traverse on two wheels.

Because Alice Springs is so secluded, there is very little light pollution in the night sky, meaning that it's one of the best places in the country to stargaze and catch a beautiful sunset.

Our travel tips: While visitors are no longer allowed to climb Uluru, you can still see this stunning attraction from various viewpoints.

Alice Springs is relatively small; expect chill and laidback vibes, and make sure to wear your sunscreen and hydrate.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Brisbane to Alice Springs

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The Best Road Trips From Brisbane: The Ultimate List

Nothing beats a good road trip and Brisbane has heaps to choose from. Including easy day trips to multi-week expeditions here’s our round-up of the absolute best road trips from Brisbane, Queensland.

It’s no secret, Brisbanites are outdoor people. With superb weather year-round and some of the world’s most spectacular natural attractions right on the city’s doorstep, it’s little wonder why.

When the opportunity presents itself, there’s nothing locals like more than loading up the car with friends, family, and the esky* before hitting the road for a day, a weekend, or even a couple of weeks.

*cooler, ice chest, chilly bin

After spending the last six months driving Queensland south to north , and then south again, we have discovered some of the best road trips from Brisbane.

If you’re familiar with our blog you’ll probably know that for us it’s all about unique experiences, nature, food, and getting off the beaten path, if that sounds like your kind of road trip then we’ve got something for you.

Read on to discover the best road trips from Brisbane.

Thinking about a Brisbane road trip? Find the perfect vehicle!

Best road trips from brisbane: 1 day – 1 week, brisbane to the sunshine coast road trip, 1 day road trip from brisbane: 300km return.

The drop-dead gorgeous Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s best stretches of coastline, and it’s right on Brisbane’s doorstep. Less developed than the Gold Coast, many people (like us) prefer it for its laid-back atmosphere and skyscraper-free beaches.

Leaving from Brisbane make your way north up the Bruce Highway. An easy drive takes you out of Brisbane through the hinterland of Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast.

Get an early start and make the Glass House Mountains your first stop for an opportunity to hike these iconic landmarks before it gets too warm.

Back on the Bruce Highway, head toward the Sunshine Coasts’ southern beaches, beginning at the relaxed Caloundra. Cool off with a swim at Kings Beach. Stop by the Mooloolaba Spit for prawns fresh off the trawler. Grab a coffee on the esplanade. Surf at Alexandra Headlands. Paddle at Lake Currumundi. There is more than enough to do here for a day and you’ll certainly leave wanting more.

To extend this road trip consider carrying onto the Sunshine Coast’s beautiful northern beaches Peregian, Sunshine, and Noosa. Or take your time to explore the gorgeous hinterland towns behind the Sunshine Coast such as Eumundi, Montville, or Maleny.

Pro-tip: To beat the traffic avoid this road trip during busy weekends and during the school holidays.

Brisbane to Stanthorpe Road Trip

2 day road trip from brisbane: 400 km return.

Two hundred kilometers southwest of Brisbane, Stanthorp e is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Located on a cool plateau, Stanthorpe offers a point of difference (not to mention a respite from the heat) from the many coastal experiences that Queensland is famous for.

Stanthorpe is Queensland’s premium wine-producing area and Stanthorpe’s wineries are now developing a reputation on the national and international scene. No trip to Stanthorpe would be complete without visiting a few vineyards here. Our favorite wineries in the area include Symphony Hill Winery for unique and interesting white varietals and Boireann Winery for delicious red varietals!

Wine isn’t all there is to do here, check out these other ideas for things to do in Stanthorpe .

If you’re are looking to extend this road trip, there is lots more to see and do in the wider Southern Darling Downs region.

Brisbane to Yamba Road Trip

3 day road trip from brisbane: 550 km return.

Byron Bay has been played out. Now home to Hollywood movie stars and Instagram influencers, there’s no longer anything authentic about this hippie-themed tourist trap. For a genuine beach-town getaway keep on rolling past Byron toward the beautiful and unspoiled Yamba.

Perfectly situated for a weekend getaway Yamba has great beaches, surfing, fishing, camping, a beautiful headland, a variety of cafes and restaurants, and a great beach town vibe.

Stay at the iconic Pacific Hotel . Set high on the cliffs above Yamba’s main beach, you cannot beat the views from this picturesque hotel. Wake up to the sun rising over the ocean and the waves crashing on the beach below.

From Yamba, you are perfectly situated to visit Angourie, another of Australia’s quintessential surf towns. Alternatively, grab a tent and head to the Yuraygir National Park for absolute beachfront camping. On your way home stop off at some of the stunning beaches the Northern Rivers region has to offer like Kingscliffe and Cabarita.

Brisbane to Fraser Island / K’gari Road Trip

4 day road trip from brisbane: 800 km return.

Fraser Island, known for a longer time as K’gari by the traditional landowners, is a largely undeveloped island off the coast north of Brisbane.

More of an ‘off’ road trip you will need a high clearance four-wheel drive to explore the world’s largest sand island. But for those prepared to leave the bitumen behind, this trip offers one of Queensland’s hero destinations and one of the best national parks in Queensland . Discover 166,000 hectares of national park featuring freshwater lakes and creeks, rock pools, ancient rainforests, shipwrecks, and kilometers and kilometers of unspoiled beaches.

You’ll need to drive three hours north of Brisbane to Inskip Point to catch the ferry to the southern point of Fraser Island. On the island, beach driving and a series of sandy tracks allow you to navigate the island. Highlights of Fraser Island include the crystal clear Eli Creek, the Champagne Rockpools, the stunning white sand of Lake Mackenzie, the dense interior rainforest, Orchid Beach, fishing, and watching the sunset over Harvey Bay on the western side of the island.

Fraser can be done over four days but you could easily spend a week or more exploring the great sand island.

If you are looking for an island experience but would prefer to drive on the road. Stradbroke Island is another huge sand island near Brisbane but with the added luxury of roads, accommodation options, and shops.

Brisbane to The Town of 1770 Agnes Water Road Trip

5 day road trip from brisbane: 1000km return.

The Town of 1770 and Agnes Water is an iconic Queensland destination and makes for one of the best road trips from Brisbane. Two neighboring towns often referred to in tandem offer two unique experiences. Calm and picturesque 1770 with its shimmering turquoise inlet and the exposed Agnes Water, bordered by untamed national park and surf beaches.

The road trip from Brisbane takes travelers past the Sunshine Coast, Fraser Island, and Bundaberg . Once you arrive in 1770 it’s time to kick back and enjoy the slower pace of life in this historic seaside town. Explore the inlets and estuaries, walk along the wild exposed beaches of Agnes Water, enjoy fish and chips in the breezy Endeaour park, take a trip out to see the Great Barrier Reef and Lady Musgrave Island, or camp in the national parks Erimnbula or Deep Water to the north and south of the towns.

Whatever you do, you are sure to enjoy the shimmering beauty and relaxed lifestyle of this remote coastal destination.

Best Road Trips From Brisbane 1 – 2 Weeks

Brisbane to carnarvon gorge road trip, 8 day road trip from brisbane 1450km return.

One of Queensland’s unsung wonders, this off-the-beaten-path destination is perfect for the outdoor adventurer and bushwalking enthusiast. Forged over millennia, this natural gorge is a sight to behold. An important gathering place for indigenous Australians, people have made the pilgrimage here for thousands and thousands of years. An oasis in the middle of the arid outback, the cool shady gorge is home to an ancient forest of palm trees, ferns and cycads.

We recommend camping at Big Bend, the campsite located at the end of the Main Gorge Track for a unique experience camping under the stars in the shadows of the gorge walls. But if hike-in, hike-out camping is not for you, Carnarvon Gorge can easily be explored in a few days by the Main Gorge Track and the connecting sidetracks to the many attractions within the gorge.

On the road trip from Brisbane to Carnarvon Gorge to stop off at outback destinations like Toowoomba and Roma.

Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip

14 day road trip from brisbane 3400 km return.

No list of the best road trips from Brisbane would be complete without mentioning the journey to Queensland’s Tropical North. Passing many of Queensland’s most famous landmarks and destinations, everyone should have a go at this epic Queensland adventure at least once.

While 14 days is enough time to get up to Far North Queensland and back again, you could spend months exploring everything this route has to offer. From the reef to the rainforest, you’ll see islands and hinterlands. Beaches and farmland. Small coastal communities and dusty outback towns. Feast on the freshest seafood and farm-to-table dining from the heart of one of Queensland’s most fertile farming regions.

Featuring the world heritage-listed wet tropics, the Daintree, the Atherton Tablelands , Mission Beach, and countless other world-famous destinations, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding on things to do along the way.

Best Road Trips From Brisbane: 2 Week +

Brisbane to melbourne road trip, 21 day road trip from brisbane 3500 km return.

An iconic, 3,500 km return road trip that takes in many of Australia’s most famous attractions, the journey can be made in many ways.

Following the coastal highway that runs between Brisbane and Sydney take in many of the world’s best beaches and sleepy surf-towns. Visit the world-famous landmarks of Australia’s most well-known city. Explore the Blue Mountains National Park. Take a pit stop in the nation’s capital Canberra. Discover the Snowy Mountains, the country’s most impressive alpine region. Experience, Victoria’s impressive Gippsland and spectacular Wilson Promontory. Spend a few days soaking up the world’s most livable city in Melbourne.

Return to Brisbane via the interior Newell Highway taking in the Australian bush, expansive pastoral lands, and iconic outback towns. Alternatively, extend this epic adventure by continuing on from Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road or drive aboard the Spirit of Tasmania car ferry, to continue your road trip through Australia’s southern isle .

Brisbane to Cape York Road Trip

28 day road trip from brisbane 5400 km return.

The ultimate east coast adventure, a road trip from Brisbane to Cape York is a truly epic undertaking that should be on every Queensland bucket list. After taking in the epic coastal adventure that is Brisbane to Cairns you can continue on to one of Queensland’s final frontiers. Stop a couple of days i n Cairns to prepare for the trip of a lifetime to the Cape York Peninsula.

This trip, however, is not for the faint of heart. Rugged 4WD tracks, limited cell service, and apex predators will test even veteran road trippers. But the reward is a vast wilderness mostly untouched by humans. It is a road trip to remember and one for which careful preparation should be undertaken.

Along the way see Captain Billy’s Landing, do some fishing at the tip, wash the dust off under Fruit Bat Falls, test your four-wheel driving skills on the harrowing Old Telegraph Track, and chow down at the roadhouses along the way.

What do you think of our list of the best road trips from Brisbane? Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments below!

Looking for more adventures on Queensland’s coast, check out these other fantastic Queensland destinations !

Want to save this article on the best road trips from Brisbane for later? Pin it!

Out of a love of travel we met in a hostel in Estonia, one snowy Christmas night. Eighteen months later, we quit our day jobs in search of a more nomadic life style together.

Five years later, we are still traveling. Between us we have explored more than 80 countries, undertaken countless #vanlife adventures in more than 12 countries on 4 different continents. Most recently we have been learning to sail on our little boat whisper in the Mediterranean, falling in love with sailing and the live aboard lifestyle. While we travel and work work remotely as digital nomads.

Through this website and our vlog we hope to share some of the things we learn about the off-the-beaten path destinations we visit, about van life, sail life and working remotely from the road.

We are the Vanabonds, these are our tales.

Eddie & Kelli

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Food & Drink

Arts & entertainment, design & style, travel & leisure, search concrete playground, six queensland country towns worth a day trip from brisbane.

Picture perfect shopfronts, country pubs and apple pies to die for.

Oi, don't be an inner-city brat. If it's been a while since you left the lights of Brissie, it's time to go out and discover the great outdoors outside of your usual metropolitan orbit. Check out your own backyard. Get the fresh air inya. Make John Williamson proud, see it for yourself — and so on and so forth.

Queensland is home to some of Australia's most beautiful country towns, brimming with A+ parmigianas, out-of-this-world views and even the trendy café or two. Australia wouldn't survive without these little plots, so go out, say thanks and learn for yourself that this state extends beyond Queen Street Mall. Here are six country towns perfect for a day trip from Brisbane.

Bluebird Kitchen.

Something exciting is going on in this little rural pocket, and if you've got a stomach (and the appetite) for brisket, you'll want to take the trek southwest for a bite. We wouldn't go as far as to call Warwick culinary crux of regional Australia, but hoo boy is it showing off some strong game. Bluebird Kitchen  is the newest edition to an already solid cafe scene in Warwick, and they're going above and beyond to produce food worth making a day trip for. Potato hash and brisket, homemade bagels, brioche French toast, pasture eggs and beans — their menu compares to (and beats) some of Brisbane's best. They're combining local produce with American-style cooking to produce plates that'll have you checking out the local rental scene.

Road trip time: two hours. 

Queens Park. Image credit: Tatters via Flickr

Quite honestly, Toowoomba has spent a good deal of time on Queensland's grubbiest list (I can say it, I grew up here), but in the last decade or so Toowoomba has done a 360. It's embraced the fact it's a) beautiful, b) a viable tourist hotspot, and c) homes some of the richest people in Queensland who don't mind putting a bit of coin back into the town. Toowoomba is known for its gardens and flowers, so be sure to check out all the parks in the area; Laurel Bank, Queens Park and Picnic Point are the top three.  Ground Up Espresso is king of the café scene, showing off an insane eggs Benedict and Toby's Estate coffee. The Spotted Cow is the top pick for a craft beer or Saturday night gig.

Road trip time: one and a half hours. 

Apple pie at Sutton's Farm. Image credit: fujitake95 via Instagram.

Stanthorpe is a like the Wholefoods version of a small town. The main street — and even the highway leading in to town — is littered with delis, fresh fruit barns and coffee shops. There's a vineyard on pretty much every corner and apple trees seem to grow on the street. Go to a café and you'll be spending over $15 for a bowl of muesli, but it will be the damn freshest muesli you've ever tasted as everything is sourced from within a five-kilometre radius. Sutton's Farm  boasts the best apple pie around — and when we say 'around', we mean on a national scale. The property is accessed by a slightly hidden turnoff from the New England Highway, and you'll have to venture into the creepy looking shed to find their café. They make their own apple juice and cider, so just order anything and everything with apple in it.

Road trip time: two and a half hours. 

bertknot via Flickr.

Besides a lake filled with really friendly turtles, this 1700-person town doesn't offer much else... except the best bakery in Queensland! We're not talking artisan sourdoughs, cronuts or macarons here. Coff & Co is a real bakery that is known for (and gets away with) boasting the best pies in Queensland — and offers up a pretty mean lamington to boot. You won't always have to wait in a line, but be prepared to join the queue because this is a popular little spot. And tomato sauce doesn't cost extra, so how's that for real Aussie service? Kilcoy also claims to home a Yowie. Read up on it here .

Mary's Commercial Hotel. Photo credit: Matt via Flickr.

Once upon a time Dalby used to be the town you wouldn't even thing to stop at, locking your doors and looking straight ahead as you drove through. But now it has all the trappings of a bustling country town — a Stella Ross, a Coffee Club and three Indian restaurants — and holds its own on the Queensland tourism map. Check out Dalby for it's pub scene (there's close to a dozen of them), as well as Katty Cakes , which is home to some of the best cupcakes in the Western Downs. Maybe have a feed in Dalby, then check out some of the cute, little towns that surround it — Warra, Jandowae and Brigalow all home at least one heritage-listed something. And if none of that wows you, just go for the wild parakeets, cockatiels and cockatoos.

Road trip time: three and a half hours. 

Crows Nest Falls. Image credit: Tatters via Flickr.

This is one you may not have heard of. It's an offshoot of Toowoomba of sorts, but homes some of the most majestic forestry and water habitats in Queensland. Lake Cressbrook offers fishing, canoeing, sailing and swimming for anyone who is game. Most spectacular of all though is Crows Nest Falls . It's a tucked away secret that's frequented mostly by locals on the weekend, rather than the usual hoards of tourists. It's beautiful. Let's just say, it's the kind of untouched, rarely populated scenery that would have Baz Luhrmann in a frenzy.

Road trip time: two hours. 

Top image: bertknot via Flickr. 

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12 Ultimate Weekend Getaways from Brisbane [updated 2024]

If you’re itching for a weekend getaway from the bustling streets of Brisbane, you’ve come to the right place.

And who better to guide you through these incredible escapes than Olivia from Defining Decade , a true-blue Aussie, born and bred in Brisbane?

In this blog post, she is going to take you on a journey through the eyes of a local, exploring the best weekend getaways from Brisbane.

Whether you’re seeking coastal adventures or hinterland hideaways this insider’s guide will help you plan the perfect weekend escape from the heart of Queensland’s capital.

This post may contain affiliate links.  Please see our disclosure for more information.

Table of Contents

12 Weekend Getaways from Brisbane

Let’s dive into the best weekend getaways from Brisbane.

K’gari Island (formerly Fraser Island) – a great Brisbane weekend trip

K’gari Island, located off the coast of Queensland, is a pristine and captivating destination that’s earned its spot as the world’s largest sand island.

The island is renowned for its unique landscapes, including the stunning Lake McKenzie with its crystal-clear two-toned waters, the rusted remains of the SS Maheno shipwreck on the beach, and the breathtaking Champagne Pools where you can take a refreshing dip.

K’gari Island’s rainforests are home to diverse native wildlife, including dingoes, a variety of birds, and echidnas.

One of the island’s highlights is its sand tracks, perfect for 4WD adventures. You can explore the island at your own pace, from driving along the sandy beaches to through the rainforest. If you’re a fan of looking up at the stars, Fraser Island’s dark skies make it an ideal spot to observe the Milky Way and other celestial wonders.

The island also offers a range of accommodation options, from camping under the stars for budget Aussie travellers to eco-friendly resorts, ensuring there’s a place for every type of traveller. Whether you’re camping by the beach, exploring the island’s unique landscapes, or simply unwinding in the natural beauty of Fraser Island, it promises a wonderful weekend getaway from Brisbane.

Latest accommodation deals available on Fraser Island

Top tour on Fraser Island – 4-Hour Eco Sailing Adventure

North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island, known as “Straddie” to us locals, is undeniably one of the best weekend getaways from Brisbane. Just a short ferry ride away from the mainland, Straddie feels like a world apart.

As an Aussie who grew up in Brisbane, I can vouch for its allure. First off, the island is a paradise for beach lovers. From the pristine white sands of Main Beach to the rugged beauty of Cylinder Beach, you’ll find plenty of gorgeous stretches of coastline. Whether you’re keen on swimming, surfing, or simply sunbaking, Straddie has you covered.

But it’s not just about the beaches. Stradbroke boasts an abundance of wildlife, including dolphins, kangaroos, and even humpback whales during migration season.

Take a scenic walk along the North Gorge Walk for incredible ocean views and wildlife sightings.

Plus, you can explore the island’s rich Aboriginal heritage at the North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum .

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, North Stradbroke Island has that laid-back, beachy vibe that makes it a quintessential weekend getaway from Brisbane.

Latest accommodation deals on North Stradbroke Island

Moreton Island – the perfect weekend escape from Brisbane

Moreton Island is another hidden gem for a weekend getaway from Brisbane. I can’t recommend it enough as someone who’s explored this natural wonder countless times.

Located just a hop, skip, and a ferry ride away from the city, Moreton Island is a tropical paradise on Brisbane’s doorstep.

One of the standout features is the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks, where you can snorkel among sunken ships and vibrant marine life.

The island’s crystal-clear waters are also perfect for dolphin-feeding experiences at the Tangalooma Island Resort . That’s right get up close and personal with dolphins as you feed them in the shallows!

Don’t miss sand tobogganing on the island’s massive sand dunes, where you can slide down the slopes for a truly unique, yet epic experience.

There are also numerous hiking trails, including the trek to the stunning Cape Moreton Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the island. And let’s not forget about the mesmerizing Champagne Pools and the tranquil Blue Lagoon, both perfect for unwinding and enjoying the island’s natural beauty.

Top Tour on Moreton Island – Dolphin and Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise

Bunya Mountains

The Bunya Mountains , located in the heart of Queensland, is a pristine wilderness that’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a tranquil weekend getaway from Brisbane.

One of the highlights of a visit here is the opportunity to explore an ancient rainforest ecosystem that’s unlike any other in Australia. Hike through a range of scenic trails that lead you through dense forests, past cascading waterfalls, and mesmerizing lookout points.

Keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife and wildlife, including loads of wallabies, that call the Bunya Mountains home.

And, of course, you can’t visit without participating in a quintessential bunya nut festival if your timing aligns with this traditional Indigenous event. It’s a rare chance to connect with the cultural history of the area.

The Bunya Mountains offer a serene and captivating escape that’s perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature, all just a short drive from Brisbane.

Latest accommodation deals at the Bunya Mountain Tavern

Mt Tambourine

Just a stone’s throw away from Brisbane, Mount Tamborine is a beloved weekend retreat that holds a special place in the hearts of locals. It’s a place where the pace of life slows down, and nature’s beauty takes centre stage.

At Mount Tamborine, you’ll discover rainforest walks, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic lookout points. Stroll through the canopy of towering trees in the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk or embark on a hiking adventure to reach the mesmerizing Curtis Falls.

Plus, the vibrant Gallery Walk is a charming strip of art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes, making it a delightful spot to explore. And don’t forget to stop in at the local fudge shop for some free tastings!

Wine lovers take note: Tamborine is known for its boutique wineries and distilleries, so a tasting session or two is an absolute must.

Whether you’re hiking through the tranquil rainforest, sipping local wines, or simply savouring the fresh mountain air, Mount Tamborine offers a wonderful escape that’s just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Brisbane.

Latest accommodation deals in Mount Tamborine

Enjoy a half-day winery Tour From Mount Tambourine

Twin Waters

Twin Waters, located on the picturesque Sunshine Coast of Queensland, is a coastal paradise that is nothing short of spectacular.

The centrepiece of Twin Waters is its stunning waterfront location, with the tranquil Maroochy River on one side and the pristine Mudjimba Beach on the other. You can spend your days kayaking along the river, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply basking in the sun on the sandy shores. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the challenging Twin Waters Golf Club.

One of the standout features of Twin Waters is the Novotel Twin Waters Resort, which offers a wide range of amenities, including a restaurant and bar, and a range of pools. The resort is an ideal base for exploring the region, whether you want to visit the nearby Australia Zoo, go hiking in the nearby national parks, or simply relax and enjoy the coastal ambience.

And, Twin Waters Resort is home to kangaroos and wallabies or bask in the beautiful scenery, particularly as the sun begins to set so make sure to keep your eyes peeled.

Top tour : Private Maroochy River Eco Cruise With Lunch

Noosa – weekend getaways for couples

Noosa, located on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is a coastal gem that captivates the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Noosa’s charm is defined by its pristine beaches, national parks, and vibrant dining scene.

The main draw of Noosa is its stunning Main Beach, a perfect spot for swimming and surfing, and the iconic Noosa National Park, where you can explore scenic coastal trails and may even spot dolphins or koalas.

The bustling Hastings Street is a hub of activity with its boutique shops, art galleries, and world-class restaurants, making it an excellent place to unwind at the end of the day. Noosa also offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, from paddleboarding on the Noosa River to kayaking in the serene Everglades .

Noosa’s laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, makes it a top choice for a weekend getaway from Brisbane.

Latest accommodation deals in Noosa

Stanthorpe – a country getaway from Brisbane

Stanthorpe, located in the Granite Belt region of Queensland, is a charming and picturesque town that offers a great escape from the Brisbane city buzz. As someone who has spent several family getaways in the area, I can vouch for Stanthorpe’s unique appeal, especially for those seeking a tranquil countryside retreat.

The town is renowned for its vineyards and wineries, producing some of Australia’s finest cool-climate wines. A visit to Stanthorpe isn’t complete without exploring the Granite Belt Wine Country, where you can enjoy wine tastings, cellar door experiences, and even cheese platters amid the vineyard landscapes.

The region also has delicious fresh produce that you can sample including, apples, olives, and artisan cheeses at the various farmers’ markets and boutique stores.

The town itself is filled with quaint cafes, art galleries, and cosy accommodation options, making it a perfect base.

Girraween National Park is a must, for exploring its unique granite formations and tackling the stunning hiking trails.

Latest accommodation deals in Stanthorpe

Gold Coast – weekend away from Brisbane for all the family

The Gold Coast, located over an hour’s drive from Brisbane, is an iconic destination in Australia. It’s a place where stunning beaches, thrilling theme parks, and a bustling city scene come together.

The Gold Coast is known for its golden sands and world-famous surf breaks. Whether you’re catching waves at Surfers Paradise, exploring the quieter beaches of Burleigh Heads, or simply sunbaking along the coastline, there’s no shortage of beachside fun. For thrill-seekers, the Gold Coast boasts some of the best theme parks in Australia , including Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Wet’n’Wild, offering a dose of adrenaline and family-friendly fun.

But the Gold Coast is more than just its beaches and theme parks. It’s also a cultural hub with a thriving dining and nightlife scene. Explore the trendy cafes and restaurants of Broadbeach, or hit the iconic Cavill Avenue in Surfers Paradise for a night out.

The Gold Coast provides the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement for weekend getaways from Brisbane.

Best Gold Coast Theme Park Accommodation

Latest accommodation deals in the Gold Coast

Bryon Bay – Brisbane weekend getaway for friends

Byron Bay, situated in northern New South Wales, is an iconic coastal destination drawing people from all over the world, including Zac Efron and Chris Hemsworth.

Byron is renowned for its pristine beaches, including the famous Main Beach, Clarkes Beach, and the more secluded Tallow Beach. Whether you’re into surfing, relaxing with a good book, or simply strolling along the shores, Byron Bay’s beaches offer the perfect setting. The Cape Byron Lighthouse, perched atop the easternmost point of Australia, provides breathtaking panoramic views and the chance to spot migrating whales during the season.

Byron Bay’s vibrant arts and cultural scene are also worth exploring. The town boasts a thriving community of artists, musicians, and creatives, creating a lively atmosphere filled with art galleries, live music venues, and eclectic markets. The town’s bustling heart along Jonson Street offers a variety of boutique shops, health-conscious eateries, and cafes serving locally sourced cuisine.

For nature enthusiasts, a hike in the nearby rainforests of Nightcap National Park or a visit to the hinterland to explore gorgeous waterfalls are a must.

Byron Bay offers a unique blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal weekend getaway from Brisbane, just a 2-hour drive away.

Top Tour : Sunset Eco Rainforest River Cruise

Latest accommodation deals in Byron Bay

You may be interested in reading Things To Do in Lennox Head just 20 minutes away

Montville – a romantic escape from Brisbane

Montville is a gem in the Sunshine Coast hinterlands that offers a charming and picturesque village, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.

This quaint village is home to stunning scenery, with rolling green hills, rainforests, and panoramic views that stretch out to the Sunny Coast coastline. The main street of Montville is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cosy cafes. Stroll along the main street and explore the unique offerings, from handcrafted goods to locally made fudge.

The surrounding natural beauty provides ample opportunities for outdoor lovers. The nearby Kondalilla National Park offers a network of walking trails leading to the magnificent Kondalilla Falls, where you can cool off in the freshwater rock pool.

If you’re looking for a romantic escape, Montville’s luxury cottages and bed-and-breakfasts provide a tranquil retreat. Montville and its surrounding region are also known for their boutique wineries, where you can enjoy wine-tasting sessions. Sip on award-winning wines and savour the flavours of the Sunshine Coast while taking in picturesque vineyard settings.

Latest accommodation deals in Montville

Bribie Island

Bribie Island, located off the coast of Queensland, is a spot that offers an unspoiled escape for those seeking a weekend getaway from Brisbane.

One of the island’s main draws is its stunning beaches. Bribie Island boasts both calm, family-friendly beaches along the Pumicestone Passage and the rugged, surf-worthy waves of Woorim Beach on the eastern side. It draws water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and even fishing.

The Bribie Island National Park covers a significant portion of the island and is home to diverse wildlife and ecosystems. You can take a walk along the hiking tracks or explore the wilderness on a 4WD adventure. Keep an eye out for the island’s resident kangaroos, wallabies, and a wide variety of bird species.

Bribie Island also offers an array of outdoor activities, including golfing, boating, and birdwatching. You can visit the Bribie Island Seaside Museum to learn about the island’s history and its unique natural environment.

Latest accommodation deals Bribie Island

Author Bio:

Olivia is an accomplished Australian travel blogger in her 20s on a mission to seize every opportunity, one destination at a time. Her blog  Defining Decade  is here to be your trusty travel sidekick, your go-to for inspiration, and your roadmap for making the most of this pivotal chapter in your life. Every adventure lays the foundation for the amazing paths that lie ahead, let’s create memories that your future self will truly envy.

Travel Information for Brisbane Weekend Getaways

Brisbane Airport

Brisbane Airport is located 14 km from the CBD.

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Brisbane Airport Transfers

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Car Rental from Brisbane Airport

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Travel insurance offers protection when things go wrong before or during your travels, that is why we highly recommend that you take out travel insurance. For the latest quote click here

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Queensland Road Trips – 11 BEST Drive Itineraries [2024]

• Last Updated: February 2, 2024

We’ve driven all over the Sunshine State to bring you this epic guide to the best Queensland road trips! If you’re wondering what drives in Queensland you can’t miss, this article is for you!

If you’re the kind of person that loves packing the car and hitting the road on an epic road trip, then chances are you already have driving around Australia on your bucket list.

We have travelled the world searching for the most iconic driving itineraries, yet for some reason we never really had the chance to explore much of our home country.

That all changed in 2020, when we were lucky enough to be able to get up to Queensland on the northeast coast of Australia and travel around in our campervan.

After more than a decade on the road, it takes a lot to impress us. But what we found in the Sunshine State was nothing short of spectacular!

We started in the south exploring the rolling hills and forests of the Hinterland and zig-zagged along the coast all the way to Cooktown.

The further north and west you go the greater the opportunity for some great 4WD Queensland road trips that should not be missed if you have the right vehicle and are prepared for adventure.

If you’re ready to find the best Queensland drives, fill the tank and dive into our latest epic guide!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Table of Contents

Gold Coast Hinterland Road Trip

Big red bash road trip, pacific coast way road trip, great beach drive road trip, matilda way road trip, overlander’s way road trip, savannah way road trip – queensland section, cairns to cooktown road trip – inland route, the bloomfield track road trip, cairns to cape york road trip, great inland way road trip – queensland section, what are your favourite queensland road trips, the best road trips in queensland – itineraries, highlights, conditions and distances.

Here is our list of Queensland road trips that all people can enjoy.

We’ll start from the south and work up north, as most people fly into Brisbane or the Gold Coast before continuing onwards.

Let’s hit the road!

• Route – Surfers Paradise to O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
• Distance – 109km
• Duration – 2 hours 30 minutes
• Vehicle – Any
• Road Conditions – Fully sealed
• Highlights –  Lush rainforest, waterfalls, lakes, valleys and headlands, Tamborine Mountain, Lamington National Park, Springbrook National Park

The Gold Coast Hinterland is an area of stunning natural beauty with ancient national parks peppered throughout the region.

Up here you’ll find plenty of activities for travellers who want some fresh air in their lives, but still prefer to have easy access to the city literally just an hour away.

The Gold Coast Hinterland Tourist Drive boasts plenty of magnificent lookouts out towards the mountains and active volcanic creeks, waterfalls and swimming holes.

This is a short and easy Queensland road trip that starts in Surfers Paradise and heads up towards Toowoomba, making it perfect for a day trip from Brisbane or the Gold Coast, or a possibility for a weekend away.

After you’ve ticked off all the awesome things to do in the Gold Coast , your itinerary will see you drive up to Tamborine Mountain then back down towards Lamington National Park and Springbrook National Park.

The beautiful Tamborine Mountain offers a variety of hikes through the national park, as well as hang gliding off of the launch site that overlooks an otherworldly valley!

If you’re more into sampling local produce, there are plenty of distilleries, wineries and fruit and vegetable farms all around this scenic mountain town.

After you’ve hiked, ate and drank all throughout the national park, head down to the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area .

This is where you’ll find the gorgeous Springbrook National Park, home to the Hinterland’s most iconic site, the Natural Bridge.

This enchanting waterfall cascades through arches in a basalt cave and is a wonderful place to walk around and practice your photography.

Then wind your way higher along Lamington National Park Road where you can enjoy spotting waterfalls while strolling amidst treetops covered in blossoming flowers.

Finish up your drive at the legendary O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat , where you can take part in a bunch of activities, or spoil yourself by spending the night.

• Route – Brisbane, Ipswich, Toowoomba, Warwick, Barcaldine, Winton and Birdsville
• Distance – 1892km
• Duration – 5 days
• Vehicle – 4WD (Can do in a 2WD. Route below.)
• Road Conditions – Sealed at the beginning then becomes unsealed near the end. You can take another route, see below.
• Highlights – Nindigully Pub, Artesian mud bath, Dig Tree’s history, Cooper Creek, Birdsville Pub

The Big Red Bash Road Trip is popular for those who want a bit of adventure in southern Queensland.

The Queensland outback is the place to go if you want some of the best, authentic experiences in Australia.

The landscape offers rolling hills, endless horizons, and quaint towns that will make for a memorable trip, with the possibility of seeing a lot more wildlife than other tourists!

Start off in Brisbane and then head inland towards Ipswich , past Toowoomba and then up to Warwick and Barcaldine.

If you can, time your trip to be on a Saturday, where there is a fantastic little market at Pittsworth. So make sure you stop by for some great coffee and home made cakes.

Then on your way South you will find open grazing land where you can see cattle or even the odd horse if you’re lucky.

This drive is Southeast Queensland’s own road less travelled. Satisfy your hunger for adventure with a journey to one of the most unique events in Australia.

In the midst of Queensland’s vibrant red desert, you’ll find The Big Red Bash–the world’s most remote music festival.

It is an annual rock concert hosted on sand dunes along Birdsville’s Simpson Desert border and usually takes place in July.

Getting there is all part of this ultimate Australian experience as well—you’re going to be traversing across some incredible scenery both before getting there and once arriving at the destination itself.

So take your time, enjoy everything that surrounds you while making your way out into our nation’s far-flung corners, stopping every so often to catch your breath and take it all in.

If you have a 2WD, go through Roma and Windorah. There is another way from Brisbane to Birdsville for those who have 2WD vehicles. You can travel through Roma and Windorah.

A Route Breakdown

• Brisbane to Nindigully, 501km
• Nindigully to Cunnamulla, 340km
• Cunnamulla to Noccundra, 340km
• Noccundra to Innamincka, 311km
• Innamincka to Birdsville, 400km

• Route – Brisbane up the coast to Cairns
• Distance – 1874km
• Duration – 10 days.
• Road Conditions – the roads are fully sealed the entire route
• Highlights – Sunshine Coast, Noosa, Airlie Beach, Ingham, Mission Beach, Airlie Beach, Magnetic Island, Atherton Tablelands, Cairns

The Pacific Coast Way is a highway that links towns and cities along the east coast of Australia.

The route starts in Sydney, then goes all the way up to Cairns on Queensland’s northeast coast.

Along this path, you’ll find plenty of coastal havens as well as inland hinterland regions with beautiful farming areas – perfect for those looking for an escape from city life!

Keep your eyes open. There are many hidden gems waiting just outside major population centres ready to be discovered off this famous road trip (and they’re worth every kilometre!).

Our favourite side trip took us to Magnetic Island, with which we immediately fell in love! Here’s our day trip to Magnetic Island guide.

READ MORE – Want to learn more about this road trip? Check out our article on Brisbane to Cairns Road Trip .

• Route – Maroochydore, Noosa Heads, Rainbow Beach, Fraser Island, Hervey Bay
• Distance – 419 km
• Duration – 3 – 7 days
• Vehicle – 4WD only
• Road Conditions – Sand Beaches driving. Need to be prepared with rescue gear
• Highlights – Noosa Heads, Double Island Point, Great Sandy National Park, Rainbow Beach, Carlo Sandblow, Fraser Island, 75 Mile Beach, Marcoola Beach

With its endless stretches of coastline here in Queensland, World Heritage listed landscapes and quirky, colourful towns and so many amazing road trips, they don’t come much better than the Great Beach Drive.

This 3-7 day off-the-beaten-track road trip will take you 380km on an adventure from Noosa to Hervey Bay via Fraser Island!

This road trip covers Rainbow Beach, 75 Mile Beach on Fraser Island and Marcoola Beach in Hervey Bay. The Great Beach Drive is full of lots of beach beauty.

This one is only for the 4WD, so bring your own or you can rent one. The four-wheel-drive tracks have beautiful views that are worth seeing on a sunny day.

They also lead to beaches with waves crashing against them in the mornings before sunrise. But also at sunset hours after work for people seeking relaxation or adventure from their everyday lives.

This area has plenty of adorable permanent residents like koalas and kookaburras who live alongside migratory birds too such as pelicans, cormorants and fairy terns which can be seen while fishing off one side or another!

Driving on some of the world’s most stunning beaches and through idyllic National Parks, this road trip also connects to World Heritage listed Fraser Island (K’gari) in Queensland’s Australia Nature Coast region.

There’s no shortage of reasons as to why people love the scenic drive along Fraser Island’s famous 75-mile beach. Another one of Queensland’s pristine stretches of white sands and crystal clear waters, this adventure is like no other.

• Noosa to Rainbow Beach – 70km
• Rainbow Beach to Fraser Island – 157km
• Fraser Island to Hervey Bay – 44km

• Route – Cunnamulla, Blackall, Longreach, Winton, Cloncurry, Karumba
• Distance – 1812km
• Duration – 5 – 8 days
• Highlights – Charleville Cosmos Centre, Longreach museums, Age of Dinosaurs and Lark Quarry stampede site, Karumba.

The Matilda Way is an excellent way to experience rural Australia while travelling 1812 kilometres from the New South Wales border in Tamworth through St George, Charleville, Cunnamulla, Blackall, Mitchell Creek National Park (with over 250 waterfalls), Taroom and eventually Karumba on the Gulf of Carpentaria.

So grab two mates along for this extraordinary journey as well your trusty vehicle.

The Matilda Way road trip is a 1,812km highway that is fully sealed, starting from the New South Wales border at Cunnamulla and runs all the way up to the Gulf of Carpentaria .

This road will lead you on an adventurous trip with different experiences each day!

Here is a rough guide

• Cunnamulla to Charleville – 200km
• Charleville to Blackall – 300km
• Blackall to Longreach – 214km
• Longreach to Winton – 180km
• Winton to Cloncurry – 350km
• Cloncurry to Karumba – 445km

• Route – Townsville, Charters Towers, Hughenden, Richmond, Julia Creek, Cloncurry, Mount Isa, Camooweal
• Distance – 1097km
• Highlights – Historic Charters Towers, Porcupine Gorge, Kronosaurus Korner, Hard Times Mine, Underground Hospital and Camooweal Caves

On your Overlander’s Way road trip, you’ll get to explore untouched natural beauty and dinosaur discoveries while admiring breathtaking landscapes and interacting with rich Indigenous history – without having to take your vacation days from work!

Once only for the 4×4 vehicles, it is now sealed so everyone can explore this part of Queensland.

Along with seeing some amazing natural sights like the Great Barrier Reef and pristine beaches in North Queensland, your journey will also include all sorts of intriguing historic sites such as architecturally rich towns which showcase Australian history.

The road starts near the city of Townsville (check out our guide to all the great things to do in Townsville ), then you head west where the real adventure begins.

From Charters Towers where you will learn all about the gold mining town to learning about dinosaurs in Hughenden at the Flinders Discovery Centre, which are home to some incredible ancient fossil beds with dinosaur footprints preserved by natural forces over time!

You can learn about the cattle drovers at the Drovers’ Camp Museum in  Camooweal Caves National Park , which also has amazing sinkholes dating back 500 million years.

This land is just bursting full-speed ahead into a new future that shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon – even without leaving the bitumen roads behind!

The Overlander’s Way road trip is a Queensland route that will have you fall in love with the country all over again.

This is the inland route for any vehicle to drive. Here is a route guide.

• Townsville to Charters Towers – 137km
• Charters Towers to Hughenden – 248km
• Hughenden to Richmond – 115km
• Richmond to Julia Creek – 149km
• Julia Creek to Cloncurry – 137km
• Cloncurry to Mount Isa – 121km
• Mount Isa to Camooweal – 190km

• Route – Cairns, Ravenshoe, Undara, Forsayth, Cobbold Gorge, Karumba, Boodjamulla
• Distance – 1493km
• Duration – 5 days (2 weeks to do the whole way across to WA)
• Vehicle – Suitable for both 4WD and 2WD vehicles depending on the route chosen
• Road Conditions – Fully sealed but often closed by flooding streams during wet season. Roads can wash away during these times.
• Highlights – Waterfalls in Ravenshoe, Rainforest walks in Atherton, Undara Volcanic National Park, Mt Surprise, Talaroo Hot Springs, Cobbold Gorge, Innot Hot Springs,

The Savannah Way is an amazing route for exploring the tropical savannahs of northern Australia.

The route winds from Cairns, Queensland to Broome in Western Australia and offers a unique opportunity to see some incredible sights along the way including ancient rock art paintings and Australian wildlife.

The Queensland section of Savannah Way goes from Cairns to Hell’s Gate or vice versa.

Your Savannah Way safari starts in Cairns, the crowning jewel of the Queensland coast. Set your sights south toward Millaa Millaa, a drive of about 1.5 hours where you will find stunning waterfalls amidst vibrant green rainforests and waterways that are perfect for swimming at any time during the year!

Once there, make sure to take in not only the well-known waterfall but also Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls before heading on to Ravenshoe.

• Cairns to Mareeba, Atherton Tablelands – 62.5 kms 
• Mareeba to Undara – 229 kms
• Undara to Cobbold Gorge – 229 kms
• Cobbold Gorge to Croydon – 232 kms
• Croydon to Karumba – 226 kms
• Karumba to Burketown – 281 kms
• Burketown to Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park  – 234 kms

• Route – Cairns, Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation, Mossman, Cooktown
• Distance – 256km
• Duration – 3 – 5 days
• Vehicle – 2WD
• Road – Road it sealed the whole way. You do need to take a ferry over to Cape Tribulation
• Highlights – Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, Aboriginal Rock Art, James Cook Museum

If you’ve always wanted to see where the Reef meets the Rainforest, the only place where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites actually meet, this is the road trip for you!

The 327km drive takes four hours and is full of nature, history, and outback characters that will keep your interest for days on end!

You can explore Cooktown’s historical significance as Australia’s first European settlement or enjoy its beautiful harbour with many local attractions in town.

It may not be the most action-packed adventure around – so pack accordingly if you’re looking for some excitement.

But it’ll definitely get your creative juices flowing before heading off into our vast country again!

• Cairns to Port Douglas
• Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation
• Cape Tribulation to Mossman
• Mossman to Cooktown

While Cooktown itself is a bit far to visit as a day trip from Cairns , you can break it up into two days if looking to return back to Cairns.

• Route – Cape Tribulation, Bloomfield, Cooktown
• Distance – 103km
• Duration – 6 – 8 hours
• Vehicle – 4WD only (no caravans or camper trailers)
• Road – Mostly Unsealed. Some areas are sealed. Caution when wet and have had heavy rain. There are river crossings, steep climbs and descends and boggy patches.
• Highlights – Emmagen Creek, Cowie Beach, Bloomfield River and lookout, Bana Yirriji Arts Centre, Wujal Wujal Falls

The Bloomfield Track is one of Queensland’s most scenic short 4WD drives that leads to the coastal town in Wujal-Wujal.

The track passes through a rainforest archway with majestic plants, unexpected wildlife and history.

It was constructed by protestors back in 1983-84 leading up to an important environmental protest known as the “Bloomfield Blockade.”

Nowadays it has become World Heritage protected land thanks to these protesters who were concerned for its natural beauty!

The coast drive from Cooktown down south on Australia’s Northern Territory border all the way beyond Huonbrook Station takes travellers past spectacular views, creek crossings and secluded beaches where they can take some well-deserved rest before continuing their journey inland into more remote areas.

READ MORE: Coming from south of the border? Make the most of the journey with our Sydney to Brisbane road trip itinerary !

With varying conditions and a mixture of gravel, red soil, or wet weather on the road, driving can be tricky.

With its rugged landscape and plenty of natural creek crossings after heavy rainstorms this drive may become impassable at times as well- so make sure you have your 4WD vehicle always ready!

You can do it in one long day or break it up. Here is a rough guide

• Cape Tribulation to Bloomfield – 39km
• Bloomfield to Cooktown – 64km

• Route – Cairns, Cooktown, Cape York
• Distance – 1964km
• Duration – 14 days return
• Vehicle – 4WD
• Road Condition – Can be difficult in areas. Can flood in the wet season
• Highlights – White sand beaches at Portland Roads, northernmost point of the continent, rock art in Laura

No one can claim to have seen all of Australia without going on a long, adventurous road trip.

One such adventure that you should take in your lifetime is the 1000km journey from Cairns straight up to Pajinka (traditional name for the northernmost point of mainland Australia at top of Cape York Peninsula).

Australians have an adventurous spirit that is deeply ingrained in their culture. In Cairns, you can jump into a 4WD and head off on an unforgettable journey to the top of Australia with cooked towns as your stops along the way.

You will experience creek crossings and corrugations, meet interesting people from various communities while encountering relics of wartime history all throughout this life-changing adventure through Cape York !

Along this breathtaking drive, there are natural treasures like national parks with their bird-filled wetlands and rainforests as well as waterfalls, beaches, and Old Telegraph Track which will challenge even the most hardcore adventurer.

Although it’s not easy driving through rough terrain or crossing treacherous waters during the rainy season beware: the rewards never stop coming!

• Cairns to Cooktown – 244km
• Cooktown to Laura – 175km
• Laura to Coen – 220km
• Coen to Lockhart River – 210km
• Lockhart River to Bramwell Station – 154km
• Bramwell Station to Bamaga – 212km
• The Tip – 35km

• Route – Hebel, Roma, Injune, Emerald , Clermont, Charters Tower, Ravenshoe, Atherton, Mareeba, Cairns, Cooktown
• Distance – 1863km
• Duration – 9 days is you choose to start in Hebel to 16 days if you choose to start in Sydney
• Vehicle – 2WD.
• Road Condition – Road is sealed the whole way.
• Highlights – Cobb & Co. Charging Station, Carnarvon Gorge, learn about the gold rush in Charters Towers, Rainforest walks in Atherton Tablelands, Many waterfalls around Atherton, Mareeba and Cairns, Aboriginal experience in Cooktown

Want to go off the beaten track? Then let’s leave the coast and drive inland through Queensland’s outback.

You’ll traverse some of the most uninhabitable landscapes, steep in history with rural towns as well.

Driving up here is a totally different experience than driving along coastal highways since there are fewer service stations.

But it does offer unique experiences for those who want something less travelled that has many tourist attractions such as red sand deserts or gazing at stars under night skies!

The Great Inland Way is a road trip that follows the Australian coast from Sydney to Brisbane.

The Queensland leg of this journey passes through Dirranbandi and St George before detouring off onto some surprisingly flat, sealed roads leading into Surat, Roma and Injune.

Stop for lunch at Nindigully Pub (if you dare!) in Australia’s oldest hotel-turned restaurant which offers up 1.2kg hamburgers called Road Train!

Journey through Queensland’s Outback from the mountains to the coast. Continue along well signed and flat sealed roads to Surat, Roma and Injune en route to sandstone escarpments of Carnarvon National Park.

Stop off at Emerald for a fossicking permit before detouring on Capella, Clermont, Charters Towers or Undara with plenty of stops in between!

Find an authentic Australian experience by visiting Ravenshoe’s highest pub or enjoy gourmet cheeses at Atherton Tablelands’ luxurious resorts after exploring lush rainforest gardens.

Spend time admiring birds-of-paradise and other native flora from Kuranda’s scenic cable car perspective then visit Cairns where you can explore nature above ground as well as below sea level!

Stop off at the gateway to Queensland’s sapphire jewel fields for fossicking permits, detour through the tropical fruit growing area of the Atherton Tablelands for fresh local produce before navigating the Cairns hinterland, Queensland’s largest protected rainforest.

After heading north all the way to Cooktown to explore the outback and the extraordinary Aboriginal rock art.

This road trip is fully-sealed the whole way weaving its way from Sydney to outback NSW and Queensland, the Central Queensland Highlands and then as far north as Cooktown.

• Hebel to St George – 161km
• St George to Roma – 196km
• Roma to Injune – 91km
• Injune to Emerald – 311km
• Emerald to Clermont – 109km
• Clermont to Charters Towers – 374km
• Charters Towers to Ravenshoe – 465km
• Ravenshoe to Atherton – 51km
• Atherton to Mareeba – 33km
• Mareeba to Cairns – 63km
• Cairns to Cooktown – 326km

There are so many great Queensland road trips. We hope this list has given you some ideas for your next road trip.

There is so much beauty to be seen and so many activities and attractions to fill your days.

There are some that are full of adventure that you need a 4WD. And there are some we are yet to do which are all the 4WD ones. But we hope to do them later in the year!

What is your favourite Queensland road trip? Drop a comment below and let us know!

And while you’re at it, check out all these other epic things to do in Queensland !

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Best Day Trips from San Jose (CA)

15 Best Day Trips from San Jose (CA)

One of the most significant technological and cultural hubs in the country, San Jose, California, is a hotbed of urban prowess, entertainment and of course, has its stunning Mediterranean-like climate and topography, delivering warm, dry and sunny weather all year round.

One of the best things about San Jose is its convenient location, within arm’s reach of a number of beautiful places that are ideal for day trips.

Thanks to Northern California’s diverse landscape, you can go from surfing the waves under the hot sun to standing on a mountain peak above the clouds within the same day.

Check out this handy guide outlining some of the best day trip destinations from Silicon Valley’s San Jose.

1. Santa Cruz

The epitome of a Californian beach town and still one of the nation’s favourite destinations because of the perpetual summer vibe that can be found here, Santa Cruz is best known for its sun, beach and famous Boardwalk.

The majority of visitors will spend most of their time on the buzzing promenade enjoying the rides and games, however, Santa Cruz also has a wealth of cultural and natural attractions to offer.

The historic mission church is a fascinating and spectacular sight to behold, while destinations like Wilder Ranch State Park offer enchanting and unspoiled hiking spots, perfect for soaking up some truly unmissable views.

The town of Alameda can be found close to downtown San Jose and has strong historical and cultural roots that are apparent when wandering its charming streets full of mid-century architecture and signage.

There’s also a huge antiquing culture here, which gives the streets and shops a vintage feel that is enchanting to be immersed in, the hub of this being Park Avenue.

Here you’ll find everything from vintage clothing and apparel to fascinating trinkets from all over the world.

For a real treat, head down to the old naval base on the first Sunday of each month to visit the Alameda Antiques Faire in search of something truly unique to take home.

The true epitome of wine country and a nationwide favourite destination, Napa can be reached in less than two hours from San Jose.

It is home to some of the finest wining and dining in California.

With a vast number of tours operating in the area, it has never been easier to learn about Napa’s rich history in winemaking and sample some of the delicious end products.

Napa also offers some truly breath-taking hiking destinations due to its gently rolling foothills and orchards, and offers endless great spots for a stroll and a picnic.

4. Half Moon Bay

Another immediately recognisable and iconic Californian coastal destination is the town of Half Moon Bay; charming and quaint in equal measure, and a popular alternative to raucous Santa Cruz.

Only an hour northwest of San Jose, you’ll find this water sport haven, where kayaking in the bay and surfing in the Pacific are two of the most popular pastimes.

With many surf schools offering lessons, it’s a great place to learn during the summer, though beginners may want to take a back seat in winter as the waves grow to monstrous sizes exceeding 50-feet in height.

5. San Francisco

The iconic and classic “Golden Gate City” should be on the bucket-list of anyone visiting the states, let alone California.

Easily reachable from San Jose even without a car, thanks to the world-class public transport connecting the two, San Francisco can be the perfect day trip if you know what you want to do when you arrive.

Popular favourites are the Golden Gate Bridge, Mission Dolores and Lombard Street, but if you want to head off the beaten track, head over to Haight-Ashbury and wander the colourful streets covered in murals and exuding a heavy dose of flower-power.

A world-class destination when it comes to indulgence, Gilroy is a self-proclaimed foodie and retail haven, only half an hour to the south of San Jose.

The aptly named garlic capital of the world plays host to the Annual Gilroy Garlic Festival, where you can enjoy every garlic-based dish and snack imaginable, including their world-famous garlic fries and even garlic ice cream.

You’ll also find one of the country’s premium shopping malls in Gilroy, housing over 140 stores and boasting the accolade of having the largest collection of designer stores in Northern California.

7. Livermore

Perfect for wine lovers who are looking for an alternative to the popular Napa Valley, Livermore is a thriving community of wineries that comprise an up-and-coming wine industry.

Many have been producing critically acclaimed wines since the time of the San Francisco Mission.

A mere 30 minutes from San Jose in Alameda, the town has a long history of ranching and agriculture as well as the grape farming, and is a wonderful place to explore on foot.

8. Sausalito

At the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge you’ll find the enchanting beachside community known as Sausalito that has visitors falling in love with it within minutes of arriving.

The small town is a former shipbuilding hub that has transformed into a wealthy and picturesque artist’s hideaway with a wealth of hidden gems to discover.

Home to a great number of pop-up restaurants serving progressive seasonal menus, garnished with gorgeous views across the bay, Sausalito is an ideal day trip to grab a bite to eat and explore one of San Francisco’s numerous attractive suburbs.

9. Silicon Valley

An eye-opening and insightful day trip that can actually be within the city limits, depending on where you go, a day out in Silicon Valley will leave you curious and hungry for more.

Of the many technological landmarks found here, some of the most popular are the Apple Headquarters in Cupertino or the famed HP garage in Palo Alto.

Visitors can experience the pioneering force behind many of the world’s social media and online powerhouses like Google and Facebook, and marvel at the quirky and sometimes bizarre office spaces they operate from.

10. Carmel by the Sea

A great number of San Joseans regularly make the trip to this romantic coastal resort with its spectacularly sandy beach and irresistible small-town ambience.

You’ll find the gorgeous beach in the long cove curling around Carmel Bay, where secluded spots and picturesque sunsets are plentiful.

Heading further into town, you’ll quickly become accustomed to the lack of numbered street addresses and find that meandering around is the norm here, and discovering hidden gems around every corner is commonplace.

Expect to stumble across art galleries, charming artisan boutiques and some truly world-class dining options.

11. Muir Woods

One of the last remaining redwood forests in the San Francisco Bay area, the Muir Woods are only a couple of hours from San Jose and will transport you to another world.

The trip itself by car is wonderfully picturesque, taking you across the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headland, but once you arrive at the Muir Woods, the scenery will take your breath away.

Monumentally large trees tower above visitors on all sides and you can hike towards the ocean or up into the mountains.

Be sure to pack plenty of water and a lunch, as shops are few and far between in the forest.

12. West Cliff Drive

A six-mile path that hugs the coast, West Cliff Drive is a favourite amongst walkers and cyclists who want to leisurely explore this beautiful stretch of rocky coastline and headlands.

Part of Monterey Bay, the route is also popular with surfers chasing the perfect Pacific breaks.

You can even find the world’s first surf museum here, commemorating one of the nation’s most celebrated sports and resulting cultures.

Appropriately located in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, you can learn about the surfers braving the crashing waves while enjoying excellent views of them doing just that.

13. Monterey

The perfect day trip for those looking to learn about California’s colonial past whilst enjoying spectacular coastal and mountain views, Monterey has a little something for everyone.

The gorgeous “Monterey’s 17-Mile Drive” is a scenic route featuring beaches, cliffs, headlands, and the world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Course.

Seal Rock Picnic Area is also a popular stop-off on the coast where you can see wild birds, seals and sea lions in their natural habitat.

For a dose of culture, head over to the Monterey Museum of Art, and for a foodie experience, try one of the many mouthwatering downtown eateries.

14. Berkeley

This famous university town north of San Francisco is as rich in history and culture as it is in academic knowledge.

Art lovers, foodies and shoppers all regularly take a trip here to make the most of the diverse range of activities and entertainment on offer.

A visit to the famed university itself is worthwhile, if only to see the beautiful grounds.

Downtown is a great place to try new things, whether it’s window shopping at quirky stores or browsing through the fresh produce at the absolutely enormous market, the Berkeley Bowl.

15. Pescadero

Another charmingly quaint seaside town that offers both entertainment and exceptionally beautiful natural reserves is the area known as Pescadero.

About an hour away from San Jose, it is home to sandy beaches and blustery, rocky headlands where wild birds seasonally come and nest.

Home to endless hiking trails around the coast and further inland past coastal scrub and eucalyptus groves, Pescadero is exceedingly popular with hikers.

End your day at one of the many cafes or restaurants in town while you watch the sun set over the ocean.

15 Best Day Trips from San Jose (CA):

• Half Moon Bay
• San Francisco
• Silicon Valley
• Carmel by the Sea
• West Cliff Drive

Flights to Vanuatu cancelled after Aussie island neighbour rocked by 6.2 magnitude earthquake

Flights from Australia to one of its island neighbours have been cancelled after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake was recorded.

Major airline enters voluntary liquidation

New China threat emerges next door

Bizarre moment at Anzac Day service

A 6.2 magnitude earthquake has rocked Vanuatu, an island nation about 3600km off the coast of northeastern Australia.

Air Vanuatu has cancelled flights scheduled to leave from Brisbane on Thursday and Friday after the quake was recorded.

“Passengers scheduled to fly with Air Vanuatu today or tomorrow should not travel to the airport,” a post from Brisbane Airport on X (formerly Twitter) states.

“Please contact Air Vanuatu Customer Support & stay alert for updates.”

📣 PSA: We are aware Air Vanuatu has cancelled its Brisbane flights for today & tomorrow. Passengers scheduled to fly with Air Vanuatu today or tomorrow should not travel to the airport. Please contact Air Vanuatu Customer Support & stay alert for updates. pic.twitter.com/IIGmJMLpUe — Brisbane Airport ✈️ (@BrisbaneAirport) May 9, 2024

The earthquake struck about 95km from Luganville about 7.24pm (AEST) on Wednesday, according to Geoscience Australia.

The island nation is 3600km off the coast of northeastern Queensland and is home to about 340,000 people.

The bureau has assured Australians there is no threat of a tsunami hitting anywhere along the nation’s coastline.

Customers have been left stranded after a major airline entered voluntary liquidation, cancelling all flights.

One of Australia’s neighbours has elected a new prime minister, and it could have major consequences for the entire region.

Footage has emerged showing the moment attendees at an Anzac Day service in New Zealand joined together to pull off a bruising feat.