Queensland: Your Guide for a Luxurious Vacation

A montage of Australia’s vibrant natural colours, Queensland plates a piece of paradise to travellers of all sorts, and if you will, with an enticing slice of luxury! With a cerulean sky and pleasant weather, the ‘Sunshine State’ is a destination that flaunts white-sand beaches kissed by turquoise waters with breath-taking landscapes in the backdrop. This north-eastern state of Australia is home to various species of exotic wildlife and boasts 5 World Natural Heritage Areas, including the famous Great Barrier Reef. Naturally, when a treasure such as Queensland awaits, it is the best to go prepared. And, we are here to help you with this ultimate Queensland travel guide for a luxurious vacay!

Must-Have Experiences

1. Explore the Grandeur of Great Barrier Reef

Behold the magnificence of this biosphere, which is the world’s only natural wonder visible from space. Listed as a World Heritage Site, the Great Barrier Reef consists of close to 3,000 individual reefs, 900 islands and coral cays (small sandy isles). Some of the best ways to explore the wonder include an enthralling helicopter or seaplane ride encapsulating the vastness of the world’s largest coral reef system. To further get a taste of luxury, get on-board the chic Cruise Michaelmas Cay or other private cruises. You can also indulge in scuba dives and snorkel among turtles and fishes, or witness the marvels of the underwater world from the glass-bottomed cruise, and soak some sun on loungers at the deck. 

2. Reconnect with Nature at the Daintree Rainforest

A collection of picturesque gorges, tumbling rivers and lush mountains form the Daintree Rainforest. Being the oldest rainforest in the world, Daintree Rainforest will surprise you with the variety of experiences it has to offer in terms of unmatched beauty and extraordinary biodiversity. The area is best explored by signing up for the private tours, guided by experts. A number of properties established in the green premise will offer you the opportunity to experience life amidst the nature. Relish a stay at the ecological resorts or villas here, where the silence is broken only by the bird songs and the sounds of the streams flowing nearby.

3. Dine at Noosa National Park

Savour the local flavours of fresh seafood, tropical fruits and delicious wine amidst plush settings, available at various sites of the Noosa National Park. Noosa is famous for its lively and rich culinary scene, and if you are a foodie at heart, a meal at Noosa is a must! It is home to many famous restaurants like Wasabi and Noosa Beach House, that offer a luxury dining experience with a fine blend of Japanese, Italian and local cuisines. You can also enjoy the view of the Noosa River while savouring exquisite dishes at the Noosa waterfront restaurant. The beach, not far from these restaurants serve ideally for a post-meal leisurely walk. ​

4. Watch the Whales at Hervey Bay

Your trip to Queensland is incomplete without witnessing the mighty humpback whales. Hervey Bay, near Fraser Island in Queensland is popular as Australia’s whale-watching capital. The humpback whales reach Hervey Bay around late July, and remain until November. This is when you can see them frolicking, breaching and playing off the mid-Queensland coast. 

From a number of packages that are available for the enthralling experience, the best way is to book a cruise and stay in either Hervey Bay or Fraser Island. Opt for a luxurious cruise ship offering tours for a whole day and indulge in exquisite local cuisines apart from water-level viewing of the humpback whales. If you wish to enhance the experience, take a peek at whales from the glass-bottom boats, or snorkel for a closer look. 

5. Book Your Stay at a Private Island

Queensland offers the most ostentatious options for those who seek! Move beyond luxurious cruises and up the ante with your stay at a private island. Of the various alternatives available, our pick for you is the heart-shaped Makepeace Island located amidst the Noosa River, on the picturesque Sunshine coast. The resort operating here maintains extravagant settings that includes individually decorated rooms, recreation sites, swimming pools, spa & massage centres along with the ultimate food experience provided by exclusively curated menus at lavish on-site restaurants. Begin the day on a high with multiple water sports here, and relish the sunset tours with a glass of champagne.

Must-Try Food

Seafood

Queensland is known for its fresh and strong sea food culture. Indulge in fresh mud crabs, Mereton Bay Bugs, prawns, various types of fish and sea scallops.

Local Fruits

The variety of fruits here will delight you! Get your fill of mangoes, pawpaws, avocados and strawberries.

Macadamia Nuts

Native macadamia nuts are a favourite in all of Australia, and Queensland offers a wide selection of food items that use it. Try Macadamia salads, baked goods and some of the most delicious desserts that use these yummy nuts.

Best Time to Go

May to October: This is the best time to plan a trip to Queensland because the temperatures, sunshine, and the safety of the beaches – everything is perfect. This is Queensland’s dry season, with temperatures ranging from 26 - 18°C, with low humidity.

November to April: This is the wet season, and is usually very humid. The temperatures are often above 31°C and you can expect torrential rains as well as tropical thunderstorms. Most beaches are not accessible during this time.

Getting Around

Bus/Train/Ferry: Queensland’s extensive public transport network allows for easy movement for travellers, and every city and town is well connected via buses, trains and even ferries. 
Tram: The new Gold Coast Rapid Transit tram links 16 stops over a stretch of 13 km between Southport and Broad beach.​

What to Pack:

1. Cotton clothes for summers and a rain jacket for the occasional rains - if you're travelling in the dry season. Warm clothes and socks for the wet season.

2. Sunglasses and sunblock.

3. Swim wear and other beach gear (cover-ups, hats)

4. Comfortable walking shoes and flip flops

Book Your Flight to Queensland Now!