There’s more to explore in South East Queensland
From ancient rain forests, stunning beaches to breathtaking mountains and incredible countryside, the south-east corner of Queensland (and northern New South Wales) has so much to offer.
We’ve created a list of favourite destinations, each of which makes a comfortable day trip from Brisbane. However, why not pack up and make a real holiday of it? Make it a multi-day roadtrip north to Harvey Bay, west to Kingaroy, south to Stanthorpe and east to Byron Bay. Spend one day in each location or spend several to really soak up the atmosphere!
Noosa
This trendy destination is popular for good reason. Noosa is surrounded by stunning beaches, lakes, and the lush hinterland of Noosa National Park. And forget Florida in the USA, you can explore the only other everglades in the world. The Noosa everglades is home to an abundance of birdlife (and no alligators or crocodiles!). The region also boasts unique shopping and world-class dining experiences too.
Hervey Bay
Hervey Bay is the gateway to the World Heritage-listed K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island). Arrive at the right time of year and experience a whale watching tour or head over to K’gari to enjoy the wonders of the world’s largest sand island. Hervey Bay itself is a charming coastal city and a great place to relax, kick off your shoes and walk along the sand or throw in a line for a spot of fishing.
Kingaroy
Go nuts in Kingaroy. The peanut capital of Australia has plenty to discover. In addition to peanuts and peanut butter, the region also has other wine and food experiences to try. All produce is grown locally from the rich, red volcanic soil.
Explore the fascinating history of the area at the Kingaroy Heritage Museum, take in stargazing at the Kingaroy Astronomical Observatory, or enjoy the artwork in the Kingaroy Regional Gallery. Bjelke-Petersen Dam (named for Queensland’s longest serving Premier Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen) is a great place to set up your camper or caravan.
Toowoomba
Drive up the range for a visit to Toowoomba. Famous for its Carnival of Flowers in September, it’s well worth seeing at any time of year. As Queensland’s largest inland city, Toowoomba has impressive heritage buildings, including the fully restored Empire Theatre.
While you’re there, stop at the Cobb and Co Museum, home to the National Carriage Collection. If you’re staying for a few days, you can book a spot to learn heritage crafts including silversmithing, blacksmithing, leatherwork, and stained-glass lead lighting.
Warwick
Head to the Southern Downs to the country city of Warwick, famed for its sandstone buildings, roses, and rodeos. It is also a festival capital too, including the Jumpers and Jazz festival each winter, the Historic Racing Car Club Queensland Historic race event, and Celtic Fest that celebrates the region’s rich Irish and Scottish heritage.
Stanthorpe
Linger in wine country in Stanthorpe. Home to the highest vineyards in Australia at 1000 metres above sea level, the region is known for its fruit and berry production too. Put together your own picnic with locally-made produce, including flavoursome cheeses and explore vineyards, cellar doors, distilleries and take in the breathtaking granite formations at Girraween National Park and at Donnelly’s Castle.
Now it’s time to head east. You can head down the Mt Lindsay Highway through Kyogle or travel into New South Wales via the Bruxner Highway, past historical Tenterfield and Casino to get to our final road trip destination of Byron Bay.
Byron Bay
A trendy retreat for Hollywood stars as well as backpackers, Byron Bay is on Australia’s most easterly point. A walk up to Byron’s iconic lighthouse is a must, as is a walk along its beautiful beaches. Discover interesting artwork and meet the quirky locals. Byron Bay has no shortage of fascinating things to see and do.
