Explore the Queensland Coast

Brisbane is the third-largest city in Australia and is the capital of Queensland, the "Sunshine State". It is set along the Brisbane River and was the traditional home to the Jagera and Turrbal Aboriginal mobs before Europeans founded a convict colony in what is now the central business district in 1824.
Modern-day Brisbane is one of the fastest-growing cities in Australia and has a rich, culturally diverse population. There is no shortage of attractions to visit and explore. Across the river from the CBD, South Bank is home to the city's Cultural Centre with world-class galleries and entertainment. Just an hour from the city, discover Brisbane’s stunning natural surrounds including the Scenic Rim and Somerset World Heritage rainforests, lookouts and majestic mountain peaks, while Moreton Island and Redlands Coast offer pristine waters, wildlife experiences, diving and snorkelling.

Brisbane is a hub of activities and attractions. With its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, Brisbane offers something for everybody. Starting the day early, one could begin by exploring the South Bank Parklands, a sprawling riverside precinct filled with lush gardens, walking paths, and stunning views of the city skyline. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Brisbane River, visit the iconic Wheel of Brisbane for a panoramic view, or enjoy a relaxing breakfast at one of the charming riverside cafes. Next, consider delving into the cultural scene by visiting the Queensland Cultural Centre, which houses the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). Art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a diverse range of local and international artworks, while history buffs can explore the Queensland Museum or the Museum of Brisbane. For a taste of the city's history, a visit to the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park is a must. The Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers breathtaking views of the city from its summit, and the Kangaroo Point Cliffs provide a perfect spot for picnics. Afterwards, make your way to the vibrant Fortitude Valley, known for its trendy boutiques, bustling markets, and eclectic mix of cafes and restaurants. Explore the Brunswick Street Mall, discover unique fashion finds, and indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the local eateries. To complete the day, a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is highly recommended. As the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary, visitors can cuddle koalas, hand-feed kangaroos, and get up close to a variety of Australian wildlife.

Australia Zoo, one hour north of Brisbane on the Sunshine Coast, was made famous by the Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin. The 110-acre zoo is the most interactive conservation destination on the planet where you can get up close to animals including koalas, wombats, and kangaroos! Watch a saltwater crocodile strike from the water’s edge in the daily Wildlife Warriors show, and explore the world’s busiest Wildlife Hospital, where you can watch vets saving endangered Australian animals.

Cruising along the beautiful Brisbane River, sit back and relax as your skipper takes you along the calm waterways. Aboard the boat, you will get a complimentary Devonshire tea, with a tea or coffee to enjoy along the ride. Throughout your tour enjoy the sights of the city including the Riverside precincts, Kangaroo Point, homes of the rich and famous, historical landmarks, and much much more.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city, avoid the traffic of going up or down the coast and just enjoy the relaxed tropical island lifestyle for the day - this really is the best Moreton Island day trip. Plus, enjoy full guest access to resort facilities including a heap of free land-based activities, pool tables, swimming pools, restaurants, bars and more. So close to Brisbane, yet you'll feel worlds away.

The Spirit of Queensland combines modern seating and entertainment options with the charm of long-distance rail travel. It redefines the modern rail travel experience with a comfortable and convenient way to access some of Queensland's most spectacular holiday destinations, allowing you to indulge in ultimate relaxation on your journey to Maryborough West.

Departing on the ferry from River Heads, enjoy three days on the world's largest sand island, K'gari (previously Fraser Island). Home to rare and uncommon species such as dingoes, humpback whales, black cockatoos, white-bellied sea eagles and swamp wallabies, K'gari is bustling with wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Experience four-wheel driving down a white-sand beach, swimming in turquoise water and walking along the many paths near your accommodation. With World Heritage wilderness to explore, spectacular sunsets across the bay and a delicious restaurant onsite, Kingfisher Bay Resort is the perfect place to stay and unwind. During your time on K'gari, explore the island on the Beauty Spots Tour where you will visit top natural attractions learn more about the natural and cultural history of K'gari.

On your second day on K'gari you will enjoy an early breakfast at the Sand & Wood Restaurant before getting picked up from reception for the Beauty Spots Tours. Travel around K'gari and visit the top natural attractions on this epic full day tour. Departing from your Kingfisher Bay accommodation, you will first learn about the natural and cultural history of K'gari, before visiting Lake McKenzie, and its crystal-clear, blue waters. At Central Station, walk along Wanggoolba Creek, flowing silently through the rainforest, and marvel at the trees of Pine Valley before driving along the Seventy-Five Mile Beach. Stop at Eli Creek which spills 80 mega litres of water into the ocean every day and visit Maheno Shipwreck and the coloured sands of The Pinnacles. You will also watch on as an ancient forest is uncovered by the Stonetool Sand Blow. You will return to your accommodation around 16:30. In the evening, you may wish to explore the resort and make the most of the facilities such as the tennis court or swimming pool. 

Today you will check out of your accommodation at Kingfisher Bay Resort and return to River Heads with the Sealink K'gari Ferry. Enjoy your final breakfast at Sand & Wood and a relaxing final morning around the resort if time permits. Join a complimentary guided walk with a Resort Ranger or self-discover the many trails around K'Gari including the Beerillbee Trail where you may find trees inhabited by sugar gliders, cockatoos or forest kingfishers. On a one-hour segway tour along the Great Sandy Strait, reach speeds of up to 10km an hour or jump in a canoe and paddle with an experienced Ranger from the jetty to Dundonga Creek. Stay close to the resort and borrow a couple of wickets from Reception for a game of beach cricket or head to the tennis court for a leisurely hit. The ferry back to River Heads takes 50 minutes.

The Spirit of Queensland combines modern seating and entertainment options with the charm of long-distance rail travel. It redefines the modern rail travel experience with a comfortable and convenient way to access some of Queensland's most spectacular holiday destinations, allowing you to indulge in ultimate relaxation on your journey to Airlie Beach. .

Considered the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach provides a picturesque mainland base from which to explore the natural wonders of the area. There is a 15-minute walk from the main point and check out the Airlie Beach craft markets. On your way to the boardwalk is a nice little walk to the Lagoon town centre and a great place to swim. A wonderful sunset stroll on the Bicentennial walk would definitely make your night. The Airlie Beach Lagoon is situated right in the heart of Airlie Beach and has become a focal point and favourite local hang-out. The beachfront parks, palm-lined beaches, al fresco restaurants and lively seaside markets entertain on land, while the crystal-clear blue sea and soft white sand beaches lend themselves to snorkelling, diving, swimming, and sailing. For boat lovers must visit the coral sea marina and enjoy some magnificent views. The Airlie  Beach Bicentennial Walkway provides a nearly 4 km waterfront walk, showcasing spectacular coastal views, with plenty of opportunities for food and drink along the way, and keen observers might even spot marine life such as fish and turtles during their stroll.

Experience the pure exhilaration of your helicopter flight as it takes you on a journey over the most spectacular landmarks of the Whitsunday's, Whitehaven Beach and always picture-perfect Hill Inlet! Fly a little further and see the world class Hayman Island Resort and many other islands and fringing reef systems.

The Whitsunday Islands, often referred to simply as The Whitsundays, are a cluster of 74 islands stretching across the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. The majority of these islands are untouched national parks, however a few offer all-inclusive resort accommodation and activities so that you can soak up the tropical island paradise. Daydream Island is one of the most accessible islands only 30 minutes from the mainland, while Whitsunday Island further out hosts the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. For a more low-key island experience, Camp Island in the northern Whitsundays is available as your very own private island - the perfect place to unplug and immerse yourself in the natural wonder of the Great Barrier Reef. Traveling around the islands is easily accomplished through charter cruises, water taxis, or even seaplane. Whether you're chasing ultimate relaxation, or unforgettable outdoor adventure, the Whitsundays has it all.

Experience small group sailing adventures in the Whitsundays with Prima. Specifically designed for Whitsunday charters, Prima offers a comfortable and meticulously presented environment with ample seating. The spacious saloon and dining area can accommodate all 12 guests at once. The deck features a shaded canopy over the helm, providing plenty of seating, as well as a cushioned area for sunbathing. Feel free to bring your own drinks and conveniently store them in the guest fridge. Each trip is unique as you are transported to carefully chosen, picturesque island destinations, ensuring an idyllic experience at every stop.

Begin the second day of your Prima Adventure with a satisfying breakfast, accompanied by the picturesque scenery of the surrounding island landscape. Set sail towards the next bay, where you can indulge in another refreshing swim or snorkel, immersing yourself in the mesmerizing fringing coral reef and the marine life beneath the surface. For added adventure, consider venturing across to another beach or island, offering new landscapes to explore and discover. As the wind fills the sails, embark on a leisurely journey back to Airlie Beach. Relax on deck, basking in the warm sun and relishing the gentle ocean breeze. Take in the stunning coastal views as you approach your destination, arriving at Airlie Beach and disembarking at approximately 4:00 pm.

The Spirit of Queensland combines modern seating and entertainment options with the charm of long-distance rail travel. The Spirit of Queensland redefines the modern rail travel experience with a comfortable and convenient way to access some of Queensland's most spectacular holiday destinations.

Cairns is known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and Queensland's tropical north. It is a laid-back town with a relaxed way of life, ideal for people who enjoy the outdoors and tropical nature. Have a stroll along Cairns esplanade, discover open-air markets, and grab a coffee in one of the brilliant al fresco cafes. After that, you can cool off in the sparkling Esplanade Lagoon. This saltwater pool is lined with parks, shady banyan trees, boardwalks, and barbeques. If you feel active and energised, you can join free outdoor exercise classes, such as yoga, zumba, pilates, or beach volleyball, held six mornings a week along the Esplanade. In the afternoon, you can visit Cairns Botanic Gardens, with their spectacular plant collection. The gardens feature rainforest vegetation and many interesting species of flowers. You can bring your own snacks for the picnic or grab a snack in the cafeteria. You should also explore the Cairns Aquarium, which is dedicated to local species and habitats, with over 16,000 specimens on display. It is home to incredible sea creatures, from sharks to snakes. In the evening, enjoy fresh seafood in one of the gourmet restaurants or a refreshing cocktail i a waterfront bar with its amazing ocean views and great vibes.

Immerse yourself in a full-day Aboriginal Arts and Culture experience at Janbal Aboriginal Art Gallery, protected by the Tiki people. Learn skills from Brian 'Binna' Swindley and listen to his stories, passed down through generations, leaving you inspired and with an understanding of connections to Country. Translate your own story into a piece of artwork to take home, a lovely reminder of your travels through the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest.
Enjoy lunch at Mayi Cafe and Restaurant, operated by the local community within Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. You will then be taken on a scenic drive through the Shannonvale Valley, where your guide will share stories of living in the area and the resourcefulness of the paper bark tree.

A full day cruise departing Cairns for Green Island, one of the Great Barriers reefs most popular island filled with beautiful coral cay, white sandy beaches, vibrant national park and clear blue ocean. Spend the day exploring what the island has to offer being as active as you like, or sit back and relax and indulge in the beauty! Spending 5.5 hours on the island, take your pick one of the wonderful activities available take a tour on the glass bottom boat, exploring the turquoise water or hop in the water and get close and personal to the sea-life with a snorkel tour-  or there are plenty of other activities to choose from on the island!

Experience this scenic journey in the original Kuranda Scenic Railway Heritage Class carriages, which offer the old-world charm of travelling in authentic timber carriages, some of which are up to 100 years old. Your day begins in Cairns as you board the train for a 9:30am departure and travel to Kuranda village in the Queensland rainforest. This stunning journey provides unsurpassed views of World Heritage-listed rainforest and waterfalls, including Stoney Creek Falls and the breathtaking Barron Gorge. You will wind your way through 15 tunnels and over 37 bridges on your journey before reaching Kuranda, where you will have several hours to explore the village. In the afternoon, sit back and enjoy the informative commentary on your return journey back to Cairns.

You will be picked up from your Cairns accommodation and taken to the Cairns Airport.