The best LGBTQIA+ friendly accommodation in Queensland

Just like our weather in Queensland, we’re known for being warm and welcoming. Whether you’re here for a good time, a long time, or everything in between, there’s plenty of LGBTQIA+ friendly accommodation on offer. 

Cairns and Great Barrier Reef

With the world’s oldest surviving rainforest in its front yard and the Great Barrier Reef in the back, Tropical North Queensland’s accommodation brings the outdoors in. 

Venture an hour north of Cairns, you’ll find Port Douglas, known for its sophisticated dining, shopping and sprawling untouched beaches. Recently awarded a world-first Ecotourism Australia ECO Destination Certification, the region has over 80% of its land protected under World Heritage listing. It’s here you’ll find Australia’s only adults-only LGBTQIA+ exclusive accommodation, Turtle Cove Beach Resort. This secluded beachfront beauty not only overlooks the Great Barrier Reef but also offers a full bar and restaurant, health spa, and 30 rooms with different styles to cater to anyone’s tastes. 

Ever slept in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef? Well, a stay at luxury resort Lizard Island will certainly make up for lost time. Accessible by a scenic one-hour flight from Cairns, 40 rooms and 24 powdery-white private beaches await. You don’t even need to venture far to explore – strap on a snorkel to see the clam gardens, coral and marine life in the fringing reefs right off the beach. If that isn’t enough to get you booking, did we mention the food? With menus changing each day, you can enjoy fresh, local produce on a secluded beach picnic or a degustation dinner for two at sunset in Saltwater Restaurant. 

Inspired? There’s plenty to do in Queensland's north.  

The Whitsundays

With over 70 neighbouring tropical islands, Hamilton Island is one of the most popular bases from which to explore the Whitsundays. A gateway to the iconic Heart Reef, Hill Inlet, and Whitehaven Beach, if you want to do and see it all, then you’ve come to the right place.

Choose from the revered qualia, the beachfront luxury of the Beach Club, or the sweeping views at The Reef View Hotel. You can’t go wrong with the Palm Bungalows or the  Whitsunday Apartments Hamilton Island which are ideal for families or groups. 

K'gari (Fraser Island)

The world’s largest sand island, K'gari (Fraser Island) offers freshwater lakes, colorful sandy patches, rainforest, and more. With so much on offer, spending time here is easy. 

Kingsfisher Bay Resort is perched on the edge of the Great Sandy Strait with a view of the ocean in front. The resort offers Bush Tucker Talk and Taste classes, where you’ll learn about the many bush foods that can be eaten and how to use them to make bush tucker. Book a 4WD or boat tour to see the incredible island from all angles.

Sunshine Coast

Home to hinterland hideaways and beachfront beauties, the Sunshine Coast has plenty of LGBTQIA+ friendly accommodation options to rest your head. 

In the past, Noosa was an LGBTQIA+ haven for Mardi Gras. While the party scene has faded over the years in favour of a slower pace, the popular coastal town remains just as welcoming and inclusive. When you’re not busy exploring, you can check in to Peppers Noosa Resort and Villas. Designed with two unique and beautiful accommodation concepts, there is the resort which is ideal for families, or a beautiful, airy penthouse or apartment where you’ll be accommodated in style. Nestled in the scenic Noosa National Park, you can spend your days here lazing by the pool, shopping, and dining in the Hasting Street hub (only a 10–minute walk away), or catching a wave at some of the best surf breaks on the east coast. 

If your mind, body, and heart is wanting to disconnect from the hustle and reconnect with nature, Blue Summit Cottages in Maleny has your name on it. Perched high in the mountains your private, spacious cottage overlooks 80 acres of rolling hinterland and is equipped with all the luxe trimmings (like a king bed, double spa bath, and a private deck). 

Venture over to Montville and find Secrets on the Lake. Here you’ll find 10 secluded treehouse retreats nestled high in the rainforest overlooks Lake Baroon. Or, stay amongst the iconic Glass House Mountains on Glass by Glasshouse. Warning: you won’t be able to look away from the view.  

Brisbane

Queensland’s capital has a lively queer scene, so come prepared to explore the many attractions and events in and near the city. While there’s so much do, where you stay is just as important and Brisbane’s inner-city suburbs offer plenty of LGBTQIA+-friendly accommodation.

Within both walking distance to the city and Fortitude Valley, the Fantauzzo on Howard Smith Wharves is ideal for first-time visitors. Not only is this six-storey hotel located in the center of all the action, but it’s also surrounded by some of Brisbane’s best restaurants and bars. Catering to both couples and families, you’ll enjoy waking up to Australian artist Vincent Fantauzzo’s artwork which lines the walls. 

Located nearby in the middle of the James Street precinct is The Calile Hotel. Known for its contemporary design (think Palm Springs vibes), this hotel is so easy on the eye that you could easily spend your entire stay shopping in the local boutiques on the ground floor, soaking up the sun near the pool or dining at celebrity hot spot Hellenika, one of Brisbane’s best Greek restaurants. 

If you’re looking to escape the bustle of the city while in the city, look no further then Spicers Balfour in New Farm. This chic renovated Queenslander makes for a bed and breakfast style getaway within walking distance of Fortitude Valley and Howard Smith Wharves.  

Want more? Make sure you check out our LGBTQIA+ travel guide to Brisbane.