Queensland Travel Guide

Residing in the north-east, ‘Sunshine State’, or Queensland, as it’s more commonly known, is the second largest state in Australia. As a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the state attracts thrill seekers and explorers throughout the year. For backpackers, the changeable weather here means that Queensland is one of the few places in Australia that remains warm in August. The state has a great ability to balance a peaceful, chilled- out area, with an abundance of action-packed things to do. We’ve collated a list of some unique accommodation, sassy bars, adrenaline-pumping activities and majestic panoramic views that this part of Australia has to offer.

Sunshine Coast

With highs of 22°F during the generally chilly month of August, it’s no surprise that Sunshine Coast has earnt such a happy-clappy title. What’s more, the abundance of sugar cane and pineapples emphasise the fairytale-esque nature of the surroundings, it is easy to see why Sunshine Coast has become a favoured holiday destination, with its unbroken coastline and incredible Glass House Mountains towering above.

By far, the best view of the Sunshine Coast is from the air, skydiving is imperative if you’re travelling here and want to take in the full extent of its beauty. With Sunshine Coast Skydivers, you will get an adrenaline pumping adventure in the sky, with a dash of amusement and action. You might even catch a glance at a whale during the whale watching season. Try a jump at 6,000, 10,000, 14,000 or 15,000 feet and have an unforgettable experience whilst capturing the splendour of the Sunshine Coast.

Nearby, you’ll find Dolphins Beach House, next to the Noosa River, this classic backpackers’ accommodation is run by a well-travelled and friendly family who have carefully decorated the house with exotic artefacts from India and Thailand. The Guatemalan architecture has been painted with funky pink walls and furnished with bright yellow banana-shaped sun loungers. This is the best place to stay for The Noosa Festival of Surfing, this annual event includes live bands, film screenings, and some seriously well-tanned surfers. You will find it easy to slip into the beach bum lifestyle once you’ve been here for a few days.

Most of the nightlife on the Sunshine Coast happens in the Noosa area, so head there for a drink, dance and a mingle. Red on Thomas is a well recommended bar by the locals, with a great outside area, where you can sit by the river and enjoy the breath-taking sunset. Open seven days a week, this funky bar is the perfect place to catch up with friends and meet new people over a happy hour drink. Another place to meet like-minded travellers is The Reef Hotel, the themed nights here are a big hit with the backpackers. If you’re into sports, then Saturdays here are a must, they even have a free BBQ on the deck from 3pm.

For dinner with friends, try the incredibly popular Spice Bar in Mooloolaba. Inspired by Australian and Asian flavours, this award-winning restaurant has gained its reputation quickly through word of mouth. Intricately decorated paper cranes hang from the ceiling above as you taste their chocolate mandarin sherbet praline, or sip on an ‘apple ginger tingle’ cocktail with pink pineapple glaze and coconut foam. If you don’t fancy breaking the bank, head to Surf Club Mooloolaba for live music and fantastic floor-to-ceiling beach views.

Airlie Beach

Further up the coast, Airlie Beach is a sailor’s paradise. Take a trip on one of the countless boats to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Don’t forget to take advantage of the Airlie Beach tandem skydive site, with drops of up to 14,000 feet. Venture through the Porserpine River wetlands to catch a sighting of the streamlined body and long jaw of the infamous saltwater crocodile.

As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, you can’t really come here without heading out to explore one of the world’s most natural beauties. Whether you’re a first timer or a scuba pro, this reef will not fail to amaze and inspire you. Off the Whitsunday Coast, it’s about a two-hour boat trip to the reef.

Located in the heart of Airlie Beach’s rainforest, you’ll find Magnum’s, a lively backpacker’s hub, offering cheap champagne and bargain beds from $19 a night. This crazy bar and hostel is a great place to meet other travellers, with a range of boozy beverages to choose from and dorm shares of up to eight people, enjoy your stay in a tropical garden setting. There’s definitely a young vibe here, with live music five days a week and endless parties. This accommodation hosts some fun activities that will get you interacting with other guests. The dodgeball tournament is the perfect way to meet new friends whilst battling it out for the prize fund.

For somewhere to stay that’s a bit more upmarket and comfortable, try the Club Crocodile Resort, which is an award winning tropical spot and a perfect escape for affordable prices. Every room has an ocean or pool view and you can get lost in the surroundings of waterfalls edged with rock gardens and pandanus palms. The resort is a haven retreat and has an island feeling with a beautiful mainland location. Prices start from around $155 for a standard room with a pool view.

Magnetic Island

Heading north again, you’ll hit Magnetic Island, so called for the mysterious magnetic force the island appeared to have on James Cook’s compass. Flying with Red Baron Seaplanes is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Flights from Horeshoe Bay circumnavigate the island, flying over Hoop Pine trees, coral reefs and the inaccessible five beach bay. Whale sightings are likely from now until October, the island is recognised as being one of the best locations to catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures.

The greatest way to explore the island is off the beaten track, so get a scooter, bicycle or jump on a boat to discover how picturesque the island really is. To travel in serious style, why not hire a topless car? Costing around $65 per day, these funky motors will get the heads turning when you’re cruising through the island. Magnetic Island’s annual Great Tropical Jazz Party in August is seen as a ‘getaway’ for musicians. This three day festival brings together musicians from all over the country in a personal tropical setting. This party offers the perfect opportunity to listen to some good quality jazz music with friends.

If that’s not wild enough, hit the debut of ‘IslandLife’, a week-end long, sun-filled, party paradise which has evolved from Base Backpackers notorious Full Moon Party. It’s going to be a damn good time with two massive parties featuring huge international and local DJ’s, amazing food and an abundance of cold ones to quench your thirst.

For a place to stay that’s a little more chilled-out, Bungalow Bay Koala Village is a perfect stepping stone to view some of the local wildlife. The eco-friendly resort is located in the heart of the national park and is the only resort with resident koalas. Here, you’ll get the rare chance to hold a crocodile or a koala, experience a front-row seat to the wildlife of Australia. Specially designed for the eco travellers out there, stay in one of the bungalows and get the chance to interact with nature and wildlife in their own habitat. On top of this, they have funky deck bar with daily drinks specials. When the mangoes are in season, the mango daiquiri is a must.