Which Queensland holiday is perfect for you?

Guide

By Jemma Fletcher

They say it doesn't matter where you're going, it's who you have beside you – but why not have both?

There's an incredible Queensland destination to suit every traveller, and there's a chance you already know exactly what you want. Whether your wanderlust preference is exploring an urban metropolis, escaping to the remote wilderness or relaxing on a tropical island, here's how to have your perfect Days Like This.

City break in Brisbane 

City breaks are sorely underrated. As well as brimming with opportunities to discover diverse arts, culture and dining, they're convenient and compact (not to mention a great way to use public holidays) leaving you more time to explore the sparkle of the city.

More than just a concrete jungle, Brisbane firmly wears the crown for city stays in Queensland. Here you can immerse yourself in culture and heritage at Birrunga Gallery and Dining (Brisbane's only Indigenous-owned Indigenous art gallery), indulge in one of the growing number of sophisticated dining venues or marvel at the incredible European Masterpieces exhibition

How to get there

Brisbane Airport is only a 15-minute drive from the city centre or you can stop in along the Pacific Coast Way.

Where to stay

Designed to provide a serene escape with feel-good vibes, a stay at The Calile Hotel is relaxed and refined. With poolside lounging, an array of restaurants and bars, a luxury wellness spa, and boutique shopping, it's the ideal location to further explore the city's character. There's so many incredible places to stay across the city, you can check out our full guide here. 

Where to eat

For an inner-city paddock-to-plate dining experience paired with artisan wines, head to City Winery Brisbane in Fortitude Valley. Or for a moody, industrial-style ambience with incredible wood-fired cooking (courtesy of acclaimed chef Ben Williamson), book a table at Agnes Restaurant.

The beauty of a city break in Brisbane means you're absolutely spoilt for choice so treat yourself to the best fine dining restaurants in Brisbane

Lifelong memories in the Outback

How does a five-day 70km trek across the North West, camping along the way with that special someone sound? On a Trek West adventure in Outback Queensland, refresh your body and mind with warm conversation, gourmet food and gentle exertion, while taking in the iconic Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park (currently closed). 

This journey explores the 'backyard' of Herbertvale Station, with hidden springs, giant gorges you can paddleboard through, and incredible limestone formations. 

How to get there

Herbertvale Station is the home of Trek West, outside of Camooweal near the Riversleigh World Heritage region. The best way to get here is a flight to Mount Isa Airport or drive 12 hours from Cairns along the Savannah Way.

Where to stay

After a campfire beneath the canopy of stars, retire to your twin share spacious bell style glamping tent. This is not a rough-and-ready Outback experience, this is the holiday where you can enjoy simple luxuries in the most incredible landscape. 

Where to eat

On the Stock Camp Hike, you can expect to enjoy included meals throughout the itinerary, as well as wine and cheese at sundown each evening.

Be floored by nature on K'Gari (Fraser Island)

Want to spark your sense of adventure with a side of nature on your next escape? Fraser Island (K'gari) is the destination for you. At the world's largest sand island, you can soak in the natural spa at Champagne Pools, 4WD along 75 miles of beach and feel dwarfed by nature with a walk through the ancient Valley of the Giants.

How to get there

Catch the ferry from Hervey Bay (50 minutes) or Rainbow Beach (15 minutes). By car Hervey Bay is just under four hours from Brisbane, or a short plain ride from the Queensland capital. 

Where to stay

Whether you want to dial-up the romance by a resort-style pool, camp under the stars on white sand, or relax in an eco-lodge, there's plenty to choose from. Check out the ultimate Fraser Island accommodation guide

Where to eat

With three restaurants to choose from at Kingfisher Bay Resort, fresh local produce options dotted around the island, and of course, a tailor fishing season that promises plenty of catches, you won't be disappointed. 

Read to explore this slide of paradise? Check out this couples holiday guide to Fraser Island (K'gari).

Tropical seclusion on Pumpkin Island

Refreshingly simple, escape to Pumpkin Island and disconnect from the everyday. Just 14 kilometres off the coast of Yeppoon, this eco-friendly getaway is the stuff of deserted island dreams with the Southern Great Barrier Reef right on your doorstep. Here you can stroll along the island’s nature boardwalk, explore spectacular snorkel spots and enjoy a beach bonfire long into the evening.

How to get there

Travelling to Pumpkin Island is drama-free – just climb aboard a boat transfer in Keppel Bay Marina in Rosslyn Bay and you’ll be on island time within the hour. 

Where to stay

Whether you rent an eco-friendly cabin (entirely wind and solar-powered) or hire the entire island, you'll be spoilt for choice with private decks and barbeques overlooking the sunset.

Where to eat

As a self-catering island, you can BYO or organise gourmet meal catering from the award-winning Waterline Restaurant to be delivered to your ferry transfer. There’s also a pizza oven available for guest use, and if you really want to take it easy, you can even arrange for a private chef to cater and cook all your meals.

Here you can do as much or as little as you like but if you're looking for suggestions, here's how to spend three days on Pumpkin Island

Looking for more holiday ideas? Queensland isn't short on things to do – check out this list

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