Often cited as the most beautiful state in Australia, Queensland has a lot to offer the visitor looking for both natural attractions and bustling city life. From underwater adventures to pristine beaches to clubs, shopping, and more cuisine than you can shake a stick at, you’re going to find everything you’re looking for in a vacation when you travel to Queensland. So if you’re seeking some fun in the Southern Hemisphere, book your trip today and be sure to check out some of these amazing locales.
1. Great Barrier Reef. Australia boasts some of the finest waters in the world for snorkeling and scuba diving, but the best of the best can be found off the coast of Queensland. Check in with tourist outlet Passions of Paradise to secure entry to secluded and protected Michaelmas Cay, a bird-nesting sanctuary that features warm, shallow waters, white sand, and easy access to all the amazing marine life you can handle. This company can also get you to Paradise Reef, a gorgeous and remote section of the Outer Great Barrier Reef.
2. Daintree Rainforest. Tours of this ancient tropical rainforest will take you from stunning panoramic views of the coast (Alexandra Lookout, Cape Tribulation) to an inlet frequented by saltwater crocodiles (Cooper Inlet) to a hike under the canopy of ages-old trees. You can even enjoy a swim in a natural waterhole in the heart of the rainforest. If you’re looking to commune with nature, it really doesn’t get any better than this World Heritage site.
3. Dreamworld. This playground for adults and children, located on the Gold Coast, has more to offer than your typical theme park. With thirteen “worlds” to try out, you can free-fall on the Giant Drop, go backwards at 161 km/hr on the Tower of Terror II, or get turned upside down and inside out on “the tallest, high-speed gravity rollercoaster in the Southern Hemisphere”, also known as The Cyclone (don’t worry, there are family-friendly rides, too). But that’s not nearly all; you’ll also find laser shows, virtual racing, a complete water park, wacky live performances, 3D cinema, and even after-dark events. It could be better than Disney World and Universal Studios combined.
4. Whitsundays. This island chain north of Brisbane consists of 74 sun-drenched isles, eight of which are inhabited and almost all of which have attained National Park status. Two of the must-visit sites in this string of islands are Whitehaven Beach, which offers five miles of virtually untouched white sand and warm, clear water; and Hamilton Island, which claims the prestigious title of the largest island resort in the South Pacific, packed with enough amenities and entertainment to keep any traveler busy for days. Also big are sailing trips and cruises through the islands. Jump aboard a boat to see even more of the amazing Whitsundays.
5. Brisbane. The Brizee City is the most populous in the state, and it has plenty to attract the visitor seeking the best of Queensland. From the Story Bridge to the Shrine of Remembrance to the city skyline as seen from the water, there are definitely some awe-inspiring sights to behold. But there are also museums, restaurants, concerts, and shopping galore to entertain and delight any traveler (be sure to check out the Queen Street Mall for a day of rampant consumerism, or upscale Edward St., which is comparable to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills).
Shirley Simpson writes for cheap holiday deals where you can plan your next exciting vacation.