Welcome to the Jersey Gypsy column, where our resident travel reporter, Valentina, roams the globe in pursuit of stories.
There’s something truly magical about Queensland. The moment I stepped off the plane, I could see why it’s called the “Sunshine State.” The warm breeze and the clear skies – it was everything I hoped for and more.
Queensland is the kind of place that has it all. Whether you’re drawn to its world-famous beaches, ancient rainforests, or cities full of energy, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Today, I have decided to take you through the highlights of my journey, sharing the places that left the biggest impression and the moments that made me fall in love with this incredible state.
Best Destinations to Explore in Queensland
It’s no exaggeration to say that Queensland has countless beautiful spots to explore. But here are my recommended destinations based on my recent trip:
Great Barrier Reef
Visiting the Great Barrier Reef was one of the highlights of my trip to Queensland. As a World Heritage site and one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this part of Australia.
To make things easier, I decided to join a snorkeling group, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience.
The beautiful colors of the coral and marine life were unlike anything I’d ever seen. Beneath the surface, the reef is full of life, filled with schools of fish, giant clams, and even some sea turtles.
For me, this experience was more than nature, though – it was my first dive, so I also had to step out of my comfort zone. Overall, it’s a great experience – whether you decide to dive or simply take a boat tour, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-see when visiting Queensland.
Brisbane
Although my time in Brisbane was brief, it left a lasting impression. As the capital city of Queensland, it’s known for its clear year-round skies and unique cultural scene. The streets are filled with lively bars, cafes, restaurants, and food stalls. The nature is equally remarkable. I had the chance to visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where I met these cute, tiny koalas and even cuddled a few of them.
To cap off my Brisbane trip, I hopped aboard the famous Ghan train, which takes you from Brisbane to Adelaide. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me as I watched breathtaking views of lush green fields slowly transforming into arid deserts while the Ghan moved swiftly along its tracks.
Sunshine Coast Hinterland
After all the hustle and bustle of Brisbane, I wanted a calm and comfortable escape. Sunshine Coast Hinterland proved to be exactly what I needed.
This region is full of small country towns, beautiful rainforests, and breathtaking views. One of the biggest highlights was the Kondalilla National Park. The name “Kondalilla,” which means “running water” in the Aboriginal language, perfectly describes the park’s stunning waterfalls and unique nature.
Another memorable stop was Mapleton, a small village with coastal views and lush forests. I spent some time at a hilltop café in Mapleton, and it was a perfect experience.
Daintree Rainforest
For nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, the Daintree Rainforest is a destination that shouldn’t be missed. Located near Cairns, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s oldest lowland rainforest and offers a unique blend of stunning waterfalls, dense forests, winding trails, and an incredible array of wildlife.
For safety reasons, I highly recommend visiting this place with a local guide. Many of the rivers here are home to saltwater crocodiles. From a safe distance, I spotted a few of these impressive creatures basking on the riverbanks, a sight that I can only describe as thrilling.
In addition to crocodiles, I encountered frogs, bats, insects, skinks, and several animals (whose names I unfortunately don’t know) along the trails.
Fraser Island
K’gari, also known as Fraser Island, is a vast sand island about 300 kilometers north of Brisbane and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. I spent three unforgettable days here, exploring its unique landscapes and discovering some of its most iconic attractions.
The highlight of my visit was definitely Lake McKenzie (Boorangoora), a stunning freshwater lake known for its turquoise waters and soft, brilliant white sand that felt cool underfoot. It felt like a hidden paradise!
Another must-see was the Pinnacles Coloured Sands, a natural formation of colorful sand cliffs along the island’s eastern beach. Due to iron-enriched minerals within the clay and sand, the cliffs feature unique shades of yellow, red, and orange. Seeing them up close felt surreal, almost as if I had been transported to a high-quality desktop wallpaper.
On my final day, I visited the popular SS Maheno Shipwreck. This colossal ocean liner was washed ashore on Fraser Island in 1935 and has been slowly disintegrating ever since. I learned that the ship had been towed to Japan for scrapping when it encountered rough seas and was driven ashore.
1770
The town of 1770 is as unique as its name. It’s the only place in the world named after a number, commemorating the year Captain James Cook first landed in the area. Originally called Round Hill, the town adopted its current name to reflect its historical significance – and let’s be honest, “1770” definitely has a cooler ring to it.
This town wasn’t originally on my itinerary, but a friend’s recommendation convinced me to make the trip.
We joined a group of tourists and rode a bright pink tour bus called LARC. The bus took us along a trail of sandy beaches while the guide shared some fun historical facts.
Townsville
My Queensland trip came full circle as the last spot I visited was Townsville, a major gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
One of the standout experiences here was visiting the Museum of Underwater Art. As far as I know, this is the only art gallery on the planet where you can swim and view art exhibits. My favorite was Jason deCaires Taylor’s “Ocean Sentinel,” a series of sculptures blending human and marine life.
For a change of pace, I spent some time at Centenary Park in Charters Towers. The park features landscaped gardens, shaded picnic areas, and walking paths, making it ideal for leisurely strolls or family outings.
For a change of pace, I spent some time at Centenary Park in Charters Towers. The beaches here are absolutely gorgeous, with clear waters lapping against sun-kissed sand. Many dive and snorkel here, but I only had time to swim in the cool waters and relax under the swaying palm trees.
Want to find out more about my trip to Australia? Make sure to check out this page for my favorite places in Australia!
Exploring the Sunshine State of Australia
That’s it! My journey through the beautiful state of Queensland was definitely one for the books.
It was a complete package of marvelous nature trips, exciting outdoor adventures, and fascinating history lessons along the way. I will surely visit Queensland again in the future, as it has already captured a special place in my heart.
Best Places in Queensland – FAQs
What Are the Must-Visit Destinations in Queensland?
Queensland’s must-visit destinations include the Great Barrier Reef, the town of 1770, and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. These are wonderful spots that travelers will certainly love.
What is the Best Time To Visit Queensland?
The best time to visit Queensland is from March to May when the weather is typically warm and sunny. September to November is also a great time, as it’s usually spring or autumn during these months.
What is Queensland Best Known For?
For many people, Queensland is known for the Great Barrier Reef. However, this state offers a wide variety of destinations for nature lovers and adventure-seekers, such as the Daintree Rainforest and Fraser Island.
