Queensland is referred to as the Sunshine State, and for us, it’s one of the most beautiful and diverse parts of Australia.
Its scenery is everchanging, inland you can experience tropical rainforests in the north, world-famous beaches to the south, and to the west, the landscape transitions back into the rugged outback. Meanwhile, at sea, you can surf world-class waves of Snapper Rocks or float peacefully over the most famous coral reef on the planet.
Most travellers head here for The Great Barrier Reef, Queensland’s crown jewel and one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. Stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the coast, this UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the very best from the underwater world. For those who prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boat tours offer a unique way to see the reef without getting wet.
Cairns, is a relaxed tropical city where the jungle meets the sea, and its often the go-to base for backpackers wanting to visit the Great Barrier Reef. It’s a popular hub for backpackers, with its lively hostel scene, night markets, and a lagoon-style pool perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat. Beyond the well-known trips to the reef, Cairns is the starting point for adventures into the Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. Here, you can walk among ancient trees, spot exotic wildlife, and even take a cruise on the Daintree River, where you often see crocodiles basking on the banks.
Beyond the reef, Cairns is the starting point for adventures into the Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. Here, you can walk among ancient trees, spot exotic wildlife, and even take a cruise on the Daintree River, where you might see crocodiles basking on the banks.
Further south, the Whitsunday Islands offer the closest thing to paradise we have ever experienced. As travel writers we mention blue waters and white sands millions of times in millions of ways, but these are special, the hues and shades of these colours are up there with the brightest we have seen. Whitehaven Beach in particular with its pure silica sand, is often ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches. Sailing around the Whitsundays is a must-do. Even if our backpacker budget can’t afford the luxury yachts there are budget-friendly catamarans to choose from that are well worth splashing out for.
Brisbane, Queensland’s capital, is a vibrant city that combines urban charm with outdoor living. The city’s South Bank area is a favorite among locals and backpackers alike with its man-made beach, riverside walkways, and cultural precinct that includes galleries, museums, and theaters. Brisbane’s mild climate makes it an ideal place to enjoy outdoor activities year-round, from cycling along the Brisbane River to hiking in nearby national parks like the Glass House Mountains.
Heading further south you’ll find the Gold Coast, arguably the most popular backpacker destination in the world. With its stunning beaches, endless sunshine and surf, and thriving hostel scene, it’s no wonder backpackers have flocked here for generations. The crowds may be mad in places like Surfers Paradise, with its high-rise skyline and bustling nightlife, but quieter spots like Burleigh Heads offer a more laid-back vibe you might be after.
There is an energy to this place that never seems to fade, no matter where you are based. You can feel it pulsing through the nightclubs and bars of Surfers Paradise, in the shoals of fish swimming over the reef. It lives alongside the Brisbane River, where kayakers paddle and locals gather at riverside markets and in the waves, as surfers carve through the ocean with effortless grace. The place is just pure joy.
