Things to do in Queensland

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All about Queensland

When to visit

There’s a reason that Queensland is called the Sunshine State, and you can expect the sun to shine through all four seasons. Summer temperatures are hot and humid, with average temperatures around 85°F (30°C) and high rainfall, especially in the tropical north. Stick to the state’s southern beach resorts in summer, then head north during the dry winter months. May through October is the best season for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, with lower water levels and higher visibility.

Getting around

As Australia’s second-largest state, there’s a lot of ground to cover in Queensland. Most travelers touch down in Brisbane or Cairns, where long-distance buses, tourist shuttles, and ferries will whisk you between the coastal resorts and islands. Queensland’s public transport network is well-developed, but you’ll still find it quicker and easier to get around with a car, especially if you’re exploring the Hinterlands and national parks.

Traveler tips

Queensland is home to one of only two everglades in the world (the other one is in Florida). Part of the Great Sandy National Park, you can explore the wild waterways of the Noosa Everglades by boat or kayak, cool off with a swim in croc-free waterholes, and spot some 40% of Australia’s bird species.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most breathtaking place in Queensland?

Queensland has no shortage of awe-inspiring natural wonders, most notably its two UNESCO sites—the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Magnificent beaches and sweeping ocean views await on Fraser Island and The Whitsundays islands, while photo opportunities abound in the Wooroonooran, Lamington, and Glass House Mountains national parks.

What is Queensland best known for?

Queensland is renowned for its year-round sunshine, golden beaches, and natural wonders. Once you’ve explored the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest and snorkeled the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, take your pick of beach resorts along the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast, or cruise out to Fraser Island or The Whitsundays.

Why do tourists visit Queensland?

Tourists visit Queensland to swim, surf, and sunbathe at the sandy beaches of the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, snorkel and scuba dive along the Great Barrier Reef, or hike through the UNESCO-listed Daintree Rainforest. The state is also renowned for its many family theme parks, national parks, and natural wonders.

What can you enjoy in Queensland?

Queensland is all about getting outdoors. Enjoy swimming, surfing, and water sports along the beaches, snorkeling or scuba diving along the Great Barrier Reef, or hiking amid canyons, waterfalls, and rainforests. Or get your adrenaline pumping at a theme park, sandboarding on Fraser Island, or visit Australia Zoo.

What is the best month to go to Queensland?

Summer is peak season along the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, but expect hot, humid, and wet weather, especially in the state’s north. Alternatively, the warm, dry winter months (June through October) are ideal for exploring the tropical north and visiting the Great Barrier Reef.

Why is the Gold Coast so famous?

The Gold Coast is renowned for its year-round sunshine, beautiful golden beaches, and many theme parks. Encompassing towns such as Surfer’s Paradise, Miami Beach, and Broadbeach, it’s one of Australia’s most popular family beach destinations, where you can surf, shop, golf, whale-watch, or bushwalk and food-taste in the Hinterlands.

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