13 unforgettable things to do in Queensland

There’s more to Queensland than theme parks – but of course your kids might disagree!

In fact, did you know that if Queensland was a country, it would rank as the 17th largest in the world? That means there’s endless adventure and places to explore that your entire family will enjoy.

Here are 13 of our favourite things to see and do in Queensland, as well as several accommodation recommendations.

1. Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay is a stunning destination on the Fraser Coast, known for its incredible whale watching opportunities. Every year from July to November, thousands of humpback whales migrate along the coast, use the sheltered waters of Hervey Bay as a resting place on their journey south to the Antarctic. A wide range of tour operators offer whale watching experiences. Imagine witnessing the incredible sight of mothers nursing their calves and males competing for the attention of females. It’s a sight to behold! Stay and play at Discovery Parks – Fraser Street, Hervey Bay where you make the most of glamping tents, cabins and sites.

Deluxe Safari Tents at Fraser Street, Hervey Bay

_{Deluxe Safari Tents at Discovery Parks Fraser Street, Hervey Bay}

2. Townsville

With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Townsville lives up to its family fun reputation in every way! Take a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef, where you can blissfully snorkel among the world-famous coral and marine life. Back on land, visit the Reef HQ Aquarium to learn more about this incredible ecosystem. Then hike up Castle Hill, a massive granite monolith that offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean. The Strand is the place to go for cafes and dining, or relax in the Rockpool, a free saltwater swimming lagoon. If you’re on a road trip, be sure to stay at Discovery Parks – Townsville. It has a great splash park for the kids (and if your family loves splash parks, here are some more ideas we think you’ll love).

_{Discovery Parks - Townsville Deluxe 2 Bedroom Cabin}

3. Brisbane

Brisbane – also known as Brissie and the River City - is the capital of Queensland. Families love the South Bank Parklands, a beautiful riverfront park that features gardens, walking trails and an artificial beach. You might also catch a free show at the outdoor amphitheater. Other must-visit attractions in Brisbane are the City Botanic Gardens, the Queensland Museum and the Gallery of Modern Art. A clever way to get around is the hop-on, hop-off tours of the city, with the added bonus of onboard commentary.

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. 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 on a guided tour because it lets you to truly appreciate all of the flora and fauna, as well as the area's rich Indigenous history. Keep an eye out for cassowaries, the large flightless birds that call the rainforest home. Another Daintree experience allows you to swim in the crystal clear waters of Mossman Gorge, a 20-minute drive north of Port Douglas. To learn about the Gorge, Daintree Forest and the Indigenous culture of the region, your first stop has to be the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. From there you can explore on your own or take a guided tour - the Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk.

2 people on bridge walkway through Daintree Rainforest

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

5. Yeppoon

Yeppoon is a tropical haven where you will quickly leave your cares behind. 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. Yeppoon Lagoon is a massive resort-style pool area on the foreshore at Yeppoon – and 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. So, too, is a boat cruise to Great Keppel Island. For Queensland accommodation that has you located among the palm trees of the Southern Great Barrier Reef, Discovery Parks – Coolwaters, Yeppoon has brilliant Deluxe 3 Bedroom Cabins. They have air-con, a kitchenette and sleep up to eight people.

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

6. Australia Zoo

There’s fun at every turn at Australia Zoo, the internationally renowned attraction made famous by the late Steve “Crocodile Hunter” Irwin. 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. That includes 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. Find your “chill” on the beaches or at the lagoon, a human-made swimming area on the waterfront. It’s a family favourite, with its children's pool, lap pool, plenty of space, and BBQ and picnic areas nearby. Also close by is 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. You can also take a scenic flight over the islands for a bird's eye view of this stunning region. Why not stay at Discovery Parks - Airlie Beach and experience the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, where live music meets the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland’s Whitsundays from 8-10 November 2024.

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

8. Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier 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. There are many ways to experience the Reef, from snorkelling and diving to glass-bottom boat tours and scenic flights. Popular tour options include day trips from Airlie Beach. The Reef is home to over 1,500 species of fish – including clownfish and sea turtles - and 400 species of hard 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. The beaches are pristine and you’re never far from a café. In short, it’s an all-round family-friendly destination. The Gold Coast also boasts an impressive array of theme parks to choose from. Endless excitement awaits the whole family and with options to suit every age and interest. For example, Dreamworld is Australia's largest theme park, with over 40 rides and attractions, including the famous Tower of Terror II and the Giant Drop. Movieworld brings Hollywood to life with movie-themed rides, shows and characters, while Seaworld offers a unique blend of animal encounters, rides and educational experiences.

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

10. Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk

Treetop walking has never been so much fun! The Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk on the Gold Coast hinterland is a walkway that takes visitors through the lush canopy of the rainforest. The skywalk consists of a series of elevated bridges and platforms, allowing you to walk among the treetops and experience the rainforest from a different perspective. 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 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; it’s slightly crazy with thousands of colourful lorikeets filling the air. Another activity well worth the time and cost is the behind-the-scenes tour, where your children get to learn about animal care and conservation efforts, 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. They are some of the longest lava tubes in the world. There are different options to suit to a range of fitness levels. Discovery Resorts – Undara is open from May to October and you can stay in a a beautifully restored railway carriage.

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

13. Tannum Sands

Our final recommendation is a popular vacation spot that lets you experience Cooberrie Park, the Twin Island Escape and the wonders of Lake Awoonga from your dog-friendly base at Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands. It’s the perfect spot for fishing, boating and relaxation. Cast a line and compete to 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!