Residing in the north-east, Queensland is more commonly known as the ‘Sunshine State’, it 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. 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 emphasis the fairytale-esque nature of the surroundings, it is easy to see why Sunshine Coast has become a popular holiday destination, with its unbroken coastline and incredible Glass House Mountains towering above. The state has a great ability to balance a peaceful, chilled- out vibe, with an abundance of activities to keep you busy.
Great Barrier Reef
With 1500 species of fish and 360 species of coral, Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s richest marine environments. The largest living thing on Earth, you will be hard pressed to become bored of this place.
Whether it’s the turtles and sharks in the outer reefs that keep you coming back, or the manta rays in the southern section – there is something for everyone here.
Whitsunday Islands
The Whitsundays are made up of 74 Island Wonders, on the beautiful tropical coast of Queensland, Australia right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
The Great Barrier Reef protects the islands from large swells, making them ideal for sailing, swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on secluded beaches and in hidden bays.
Whitehaven Beach is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach on earth. Its sand is 98 per cent silica, and so white that it can appear unreal. It is on the uninhabited Whitsunday Island, and only accessible by seaplane, helicopter or boat.
Fraser Island
Fraser Island is east coast Australia at its best, with something for everyone, from thrill seekers, to families and couples wanting a romantic break away from it all. The world’s largest island made entirely of sand, with tall rainforests, sandy dunes and over 1000 lakes.Fraser Island is an ever changing landscape, meaning that no two visits will ever be the same. In fact, this island changes so much that the place you arrived at in the morning will be completely different by the time you leave.
Noosa nightlife on the Sunshine Coast
Most of the nightlife on the Sunshine Coast happens in the Noosa area, so head there for a drink, dance and a mingle. In the evenings Noosa comes alive, to a certain extent, bringing you an ample amount of fun and entertainment to reach your every need.
Not only are there a vast selection of lively bars and restaurants on offer, there’s accommodation with bars that transform into a music haven later on which is set to have you dancing till your drop.
Airlie Beach sailor’s paradise
Further up the coast, Airlie Beach is a sailor’s paradise and one of the biggest reasons backpackers are scrambling for East Coast Australia Tours. 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.
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. Magnetic Island sits within the World Heritage-listed , but the landscape here is different to the usual tropical rainforest found on many of the Great Barrier Reef islands.
Magnetic Island has less rainfall than the Wet Tropics to the north and the to the south. Its climate is typical of the dry tropics and it is covered with eucalypt woodlands.
The main areas of Magnetic Island are Horseshoe Bay, Arcadia Bay, Nelly Bay, Picnic Bay and West Point. And getting there is easier than you think, since the 25 minutes ferry ride from Townsville to Magnetic Island departs regularly throughout the day. There’s also a regular car ferry.
Cape Tribulation home to Daintree Rainforest
Located at the end of a sealed road, Cape Tribulation is home to some amazing tourist attractions. There are scenic landscapes, remote beaches and rainforests surrounded by lush, clear water.
The main beach – Cape Tribulation Beach is located on the northern side of the headland and is covered in white sand and backed by the Daintree Rainforest and National Park.
It’s the most sheltered location on the island, meaning if you want to escape the winds that can blow around this is the place to head for. At low tide, you can explore the fringing reef which is home to some amazing wildlife and fantastic coral.
Mission Beach gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
Mission Beach is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and a perfect base for visiting nearby Dunk, Bedarra and Hinchinbrook islands.
Connected by the palm-fringed beach, from Kennedy Bay in the south to Garners Beach in the north, Mission Beach is made up of four villages: South Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach, North Mission Beach and Bingil Bay.
Here are no chain stores or traffic lights in Mission Beach – you’ll slow down and enjoy the simple life here.
Note: October to June is stinger season. Only swim inside the stinger nets during these months as marine stingers such as the box jellyfish have toxic stings that can be fatal.
Guide to Queensland
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Queensland Featured Destinations
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Queensland Tours
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