13 things to do in Queensland

Did you know if Queensland were its own country, it would rank as the 17th largest in the world? That’s a lot of room for and memory-making.

Queensland isn't just Australia's second-largest state – it's an adventure playground for every type of traveller. Whether you're road-tripping in a van, planning a romantic getaway, or seeking family fun, this diverse state offers experiences that will exceed your expectations.

To help you plan your Queensland holiday, we’ve rounded up 13 of the best adventures and tips on where to stay while you Do It All.

1. Hervey Bay

From July to November, Hervey Bay becomes a natural amphitheatre for humpback whales as they rest and play in its sheltered waters. A wide range of tour operators offer whale watching experiences, so you can spot mothers with calves, listen to whale songs, and experience close encounters you’ll never forget.

Stay nearby: Discovery Parks - Fraser Street, Hervey Bay offers glamping tents, cabins, and sites – the perfect base for a marine adventure.

2. Townsville

With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Townsville is a top pick for families. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, then back on land, explore Reef HQ Aquarium to learn more about this incredible ecosystem. Hike up Castle Hill for panoramic views of the city and the ocean, and then head to The Strand for your pick of cafes and dining, or relax in the Rockpool.

Stay nearby: Discovery Parks - Townsville – complete with cabins, camping, and a kid-approved splash park.

_{Discovery Parks - Townsville Deluxe 2 Bedroom Cabin}

3. Brisbane

Brisbane, Brissie, The River City…whatever you call it, it’s hard not to love Queensland’s buzzing capital. South Bank Parklands is a must for families, with gardens, trails, and a man-made beach. Don’t miss the City Botanic Gardens, Queensland Museum and Gallery of Modern Art or a city cruise along the Brisbane River. You might also catch a free show at the outdoor amphitheater.

Tip: Jump on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour to make exploring easy.

2 people strolling through South Bank Parkland

_{South Bank Parkland. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

4. Daintree Rainforest

The Daintree Rainforest is another of Queensland’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and one of the oldest rainforests in the world…even older than the Amazon! It's home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, including many species found nowhere else on Earth. One of the best ways to experience this habitat is with the Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk guided tour. Spot cassowaries, swim in the crystal clear waters of Mossman Gorge, and learn about Indigenous culture at the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre.

2 people on bridge walkway through Daintree Rainforest

_{Daintree Discovery Centre. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

5. Yeppoon

Take the family to Yeppoon Lagoon, a free resort-style pool on the foreshore, and bonus points – it’s free! The adjacent parklands with barbecues and picnic areas, Main Beach and Keppel Bay Marina with its range of shops, cafes and restaurants are all fun things to do. Visit the Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary or switch on your lamp and tour Capricorn Caves through Zig Zag passage… and for the more daring, Fat Man’s Misery caving experience.

Stay nearby: Discovery Parks - Coolwaters, Yeppoon offers deluxe cabins big enough for the whole crew.

_{Discovery Parks - Coolwaters, Yeppoon Deluxe 3 Bedroom Cabin}

6. Australia Zoo

There’s fun at every turn at Australia Zoo - just be prepared to get up close and interactive with the animals. Located on the Sunshine Coast, it’s home to over 1,200 animals from around the world, including the Crocoseum where you can watch hungry crocs being fed and learn about conservation efforts. Don’t miss Elephantasia, the Laughing Frog Lolly Shop and Water Park, and the chance to watch tigers underwater - they love to swim!

2 people sitting at Australia Zoo holding an echidna

_{Australia Zoo. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

7. Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Chill at the Airlie Beach Lagoon, a family favourite, with its children's pool, lap pool, plenty of space, and BBQ and picnic areas nearby, or head to Airlie Beach Esplanade, a vibrant strip lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. Take a day trip out to the Whitsunday Islands and explore the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters or go snorkelling or diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Keen for a thrill? Take a scenic flight over the famous Heart Reef.

Stay nearby: Discovery Parks - Airlie Beach puts you in the heart of the action (and don’t miss the Airlie Beach Festival of Music in November).

_{Airlie Beach Lagoon. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

8. Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s headline acts. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it stretches over 2,300km along the coast of Queensland and is home to an incredible diversity of marine life. Snorkel, dive, or sail your way through and explore 1,500 species of fish and 400 types of coral. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeller, the reef offers something for everyone to marvel at and enjoy.

2 people snorkelling towards coral with small fish surrounding them

_{Great Barrier Reef. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

9. Gold Coast

Some of the best beaches on the Gold Coast include Surfers Paradise, Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta. Surfers Paradise is the most iconic, with its bustling atmosphere and world-class surfing. Burleigh Heads offers a more laid-back vibe, with beautiful headland walks and great cafés. Coolangatta is a favourite among locals, with its wide swathes of sand and excellent swimming conditions. Away from the beach, thrill-seekers can hit Dreamworld, Movie World, or Sea World for rollercoasters and family fun.

_{Kirra Beach, Coolangatta. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

10. Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

Take your adventure to new heights and experience the rainforest from a different perspective. The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk on the Gold Coast hinterland is a walkway that takes visitors through the lush canopy of the rainforest. It’s designed to be accessible for all ages and fitness levels. Surprise, surprise, it’s a huge hit with kids! Look out for colourful birds, butterflies and even an elusive platypus in the streams below.

1 person on viewing platform of Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

_{Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

11. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Another Gold Coast attraction that offers an “immersive” experience, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is always a favourite with families. It’s home to a diverse array of native Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and crocs. A highlight for kids and adults alike is the daily lorikeet feeding. Take the behind-the-scenes tour, where the kids will get to learn while having loads of fun.

3 children petting Koala at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

_{Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

12. Undara Lava Tubes

‘Flying under the radar’ are the Undara Lava Tubes, a unique geological wonder located in the Undara Volcanic National Park in North Queensland. The tunnels were formed over 190,000 years ago when a massive volcano erupted, sending lava flowing across the land. As the lava cooled and hardened, it created a network of underground tubes that are now open for guided tours. There are different options to suit to a range of fitness levels.

Stay: Discovery Resorts – Undara is open from May to October. Take a guided tour, then spend the night in a restored railway carriage.

_{Explore the Undara Lava Tubes at Discovery Resorts - Undara}

13. Tannum Sands

Cast a line at Lake Awoonga, explore Cooberrie Park, or escape to the Twin Islands when you holiday in Tannum Sands. It’s the perfect spot for fishing, boating and relaxation. See who in your family can catch the largest barra, saratoga, sea mullet or mangrove jack. Enjoy stunning views, waterfalls and family-friendly amenities like walking paths, tennis and a great swimming pool. If you are a family, book ahead so you can stay in the Deluxe 2 Bedroom Cabin with its open-plan kitchen, lounge and dining area, and reverse-cycle air-conditioning. You also get to enjoy a spacious balcony, complete with an outdoor setting. It’s very Queensland!

Stay nearby: Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands is dog-friendly and perfect for families, with a pool, tennis courts, and cabins with plenty of space.

Insider tip: If you are a family, book ahead so you can stay in the Deluxe 2 Bedroom Cabin with its open-plan kitchen, lounge and dining area, reverse-cycle air-conditioning and a spacious balcony, complete with an outdoor setting. It’s very Queensland!